Lake Constance is one of the most important and evocative lakes in Central Europe. Although it is always referred to in the singular, it is actually a complex of three Alpine lakes, located at the exact point where the borders of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria intersect. Lake Obersee—the largest, oval-shaped lake—is divided among the three countries, while Lake Untersee is divided between Germany and Switzerland, as is Lake Seerhein (which is actually a sort of canal created by a widening of the Rhine River – both the inflow outflow river). It is a place characterized by spectacular natural landscapes, historic cities, and numerous tourist activities. Thanks to its location and beauty, the lake is visited every year by countless tourists who prefer it especially during this late summer period.
A lake divided in three…in every sense
Lake Constance, also known as Bodensee, is divided in three in every sense. Three bodies of water, three countries, and three distinct landscapes (mountains, wooded hills, and beaches). Its shores offer vastly different environments and, above all, the ability to easily travel from one location to another. Getting around the lake is easy with excellent local public transportation, rental cars—which is why we invite you to take advantage of our transfers with local drivers, who will also be your guides—and boats.
The closest airport is the regional airport in St. Gallen, but many prefer to land at Zurich International Airport (ZRH) (about an hour and a half’s drive from the lake) or Stuttgart Airport (STR) (two-hour drive away). So, there are three airports serving it, too! Finally… Lake Constance is an important meeting point for nature, culture, and tourism. Three more features to add to the list.
Lake Constance: three-day itinerary
Lake Constance offers historic cities, natural landscapes, islands, and splendid views of the Alps within just a few kilometers. A three-day vacation already allows you to see a lot without overexerting yourself. If you have a car or a chauffeur-driven transfer, it will be convenient and easy to explore the surrounding area—or reach the boat docks, if necessary.
The journey can begin in the city of Konstanz, the main city, which gives its name to the entire lake. Stroll through the historic quarter, among colorful houses, squares, and medieval alleys, and reach the port, which offers beautiful views of the lake. Don’t miss Konstanz Cathedral and the Niederburg district, the oldest in the city. In the afternoon, spend a few hours on the island of Mainau, famous for its gardens and numerous varieties of flowers and plants. The island is particularly spectacular in spring and summer. It’s also an ideal destination for those traveling with children, thanks to its green spaces and family-friendly attractions.
On your second day, treat yourself to a boat trip and cross the lake to the town of Meersburg, one of the most picturesque. The town sits on a hill overlooking the lake and is characterized by steep streets, historic buildings, and panoramic terraces. The medieval castle and the new castle, as well as the lakeside promenade, are worth a visit. Lindau is also picturesque, with its historic center secluded on an island and truly spectacular sunset views.
On your last day, you could cross the border into Austria and spend a few carefree hours in Bregenz, the capital of Vorarlberg. If you have the chance, climb the Pfänder, the mountain overlooking the city. From the summit, which can also be reached by cable car, you can enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the lake and the Alps. After your descent, you can stroll along Bregenz’s lakeside promenade or relax in one of its parks.
Seven-day itinerary
What if you have more time available… so, not a weekend or three days, but at least a week? How could you plan your itinerary along the shores of this lake?
You could dedicate the first day to the lake’s most iconic cities: Constance, for starters. Strolling through the historic center, you can admire the Münster, the ancient medieval houses, and the harbor. A stroll along the lakeside at sunset is not to be missed. From there, you can easily reach Meersburg, one of the region’s most picturesque villages. Then, in the afternoon, head to the cities of Lindau and Bregenz, about 50 km from there, on the Austrian shore. And end the day back in Switzerland, with dinner in the historic area of St. Gallen.
Dedicate the second day to Lake Untersee. Around the smaller part of the lake complex, you can admire: Arenenberg Castle, a historic residence that houses the Napoleon Museum; the medieval village of Stein am Rhein; the German town of Radolfzell, with its Gothic cathedral overlooking the lake; and the villages of Steckborn and Mammern, also on the German side. It’s also worth taking the boat to explore the island of Reichenau, famous for its UNESCO-listed Romanesque churches.
You could dedicate your third day to the Wollmatinger Nature Reserve. This large protected area of reed beds and wetlands on the German side is ideal for bird watching and hiking or biking. Less than an hour’s drive from here takes you to another stunning natural area, the Rhine Falls. On your fourth day, head to neighboring Liechtenstein and enjoy a day immersed in medieval fairytale landscapes, including castles, villages, and charming ancient churches. Your fifth day can be entirely dedicated to Zurich, which is just an hour and a half’s drive away.
You could spend your weekend at the beaches and spas that surround Lake Constance, which welcome bathers and tourists well into autumn. The most famous beaches are on the German shore, in places such as Langenargen and Naturstrandbad Kressbronn (family-friendly), Moos (in the heart of a nature reserve, perfect for athletes), or Wasserburg… but also on the other shores, such as Mili Bregenz (Austria) and Arborn and Rosmanshorn (Switzerland). The most famous spas on the lake are almost all located in Constance and Lindau.
What else will you love about Lake Constance?
The other itinerary to explore on Lake Constance is the wine route. The vineyards in this area produce abundant fruit, especially on the German shore (to the north) and on some Swiss and Austrian mountain plateaus. From Hagnau to Meersburg, from the shores of the Swiss Untersee to the vineyards of St. Gallen and, in Austria, to Vorarlberg, the wineries are countless, and tastings allow you to sample various varieties, especially fresh, highly aromatic white wines.
The experience is often rounded out with regional gastronomic specialties, such as cheeses, cured meats, and traditional dishes. A vineyard tour on Lake Constance is therefore not just a journey of wine discovery, but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and local culture, enjoying a relaxing and flavorful experience.
