Konstanz Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Konstanz. This comprehensive travel guide includes a week-long itinerary, hiking and biking routes, food and drink recommendations, safety tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Konstanz

Discover the hidden gem of Germany’s southwestern region, Konstanz, situated in the picturesque Bodensee (Lake Constance) Region. This charming town is located within the state of Baden-Württemberg, near the borders of Switzerland and Austria, offering visitors a unique blend of German, Swiss, and Austrian cultures.

Strategically positioned at the point where the Rhine River flows into Lake Constance, Konstanz has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. The town’s central location also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and charming villages.

List of Places to Visit in Konstanz

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Konstanz boasts a rich cultural heritage that can be experienced through the various museums and historical landmarks in the town. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Konstanz Münster: This 600-year-old cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a symbol of the town’s religious heritage.

  • Rosgarten Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of exhibits showcasing Konstanz’s history and cultural background.

  • Archaeological Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of Roman and Celtic artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.

  • Council Building and Museum: The former council building is now home to the Konstanz Stadt Museum, which showcases the history of the town during the Middle Ages, including the famous Council of Konstanz.

  • Petershausen Abbey: This beautifully preserved medieval abbey is now home to the university library and a conference center.

Natural Attractions of Konstanz: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Konstanz’s natural surroundings offer visitors endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions:

  • Lake Constance: This vast body of water is located between three countries and boasts crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Mainau Island: Often referred to as the “Island of Flowers,” Mainau is a botanical paradise featuring over 1,000 varieties of exotic plants and flowers.

  • Bodensee-Radweg: This scenic 260-kilometer bike path surrounds Lake Constance and offers stunning views of the Alps and the lake.

  • Pfänder: This 1,064-meter mountain offers panoramic views of Lake Constance, the Rhine Valley, and the surrounding Alpine peaks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Konstanz

Konstanz is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its well-maintained hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the most popular routes in the area:

  • Bodensee-Radweg: This 260-kilometer bike path is one of the most popular in Europe, circling the entire Lake Constance region and offering stunning views of the Alps and the lake.

  • Swiss Border Trail: This 50-kilometer trail offers scenic views of the Swiss Alps and Lake Constance, as well as the opportunity to cross the Swiss border.

  • Blumeninsel Mainau Tour: This hiking trail guides visitors through the botanical paradise of Mainau Island, passing by the gardens, castle, and lakefront.

  • Überlinger See Panorama: This 11-kilometer hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the Überlinger See, a smaller lake in the Bodensee region.

Best Things to Do in Konstanz: Activities and Tours

Konstanz offers visitors a wide range of activities and tours to help them make the most of their stay. Here are some of the best things to do in Konstanz:

  • Old Town Walking Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through the charming Old Town of Konstanz, showcasing the town’s rich history and culture.

  • Gondola Ride: Take a romantic gondola ride on Lake Constance to see the stunning views of the Alps and the lake from a new perspective.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour: Visit the three historic sites in the Bodensee region that are on the UNESCO World Heritage List: the Reichenau Island, the Monastic Island of Reichenau, and St. Gallen Abbey.

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Explore the local vineyards and taste some of the region’s best wines with a guided wine tasting tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Konstanz

If you’re planning a longer stay in Konstanz, here is a sample week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

  • Day 1: Arrive and explore the Old Town of Konstanz.
  • Day 2: Visit the Konstanz Münster and the Rosgarten Museum.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Mainau Island and explore its stunning botanical gardens.
  • Day 4: Take a guided wine tasting tour and explore the local vineyards.
  • Day 5: Visit the Council Building and Museum and the Petershausen Abbey.
  • Day 6: Explore the Bodensee-Radweg bike path or hike the Swiss Border Trail.
  • Day 7: Relax with a gondola ride on Lake Constance and enjoy the stunning views.

Food and Drink Scene of Konstanz

Konstanz offers a diverse food and drink scene, drawing inspiration from the town’s German, Swiss, and Austrian heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Käsespätzle: This hearty dish is a Swabian specialty of homemade noodles and cheese, often served with fried onions.

  • Schnitzel: A classic Austrian dish of lightly breaded and fried meat served with a side of potatoes or cabbage.

  • Bodensee Whitefish: This local specialty is a freshwater fish grilled to perfection and served with a side of potatoes or vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Bodensee wine: This local wine is produced in the vineyards surrounding Konstanz and is known for its fruity and crisp flavor.

  • Bodensee beer: This locally brewed beer is a popular choice among visitors and is known for its refreshing taste.

Where to Stay in Konstanz: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Konstanz offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit any traveler’s budget and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in Konstanz:

  • Steigenberger Inselhotel: This five-star hotel is located on a private island in the Lake Constance and boasts luxurious amenities and stunning lake views.

  • Hotel Augustiner Tor: This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Old Town and offers comfortable rooms and a gourmet restaurant.

  • Backpacker Hostel Konstanz: This budget-friendly hostel offers affordable accommodation and a central location next to the Old Town.

What to Buy in Konstanz: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Konstanz offers a variety of unique and locally made products that make for great souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of the best things to buy in Konstanz:

  • Handmade leather goods: Konstanz is renowned for its high-quality, locally made leather products, including bags, wallets, and belts.

  • Bodensee wine: Take home a bottle of locally produced wine to share with friends and family.

  • Handcrafted jewelry: Konstanz’s talented artisans create beautiful and unique jewelry pieces, often featuring locally sourced gemstones like garnet or amethyst.

Local Culture and Customs of Konstanz

Konstanz’s cultural diversity provides visitors with an exciting and enriching experience. However, it is essential to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some tips to help you navigate Konstanz’s unique culture:

  • Dress modestly when visiting cultural landmarks and religious sites.
  • Greet locals with a smile and a polite “Guten Tag” or “Grüß Gott.”
  • Tipping is not very common in Germany, but rounding up the bill is customary.
  • Avoid making a noise during quiet hours (usually between 10 pm and 6 am).

Best Time to Visit Konstanz

Konstanz is a year-round destination, with each season providing visitors with a unique experience. However, the weather and crowds can vary significantly depending on when you visit. Here is a breakdown of the best times to visit Konstanz:

  • Spring (March-May): Shoulder season with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Summer (June-August): Peak season with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and crowds.
  • Fall (September-November): Shoulder season with pleasant weather and beautiful autumn foliage.
  • Winter (December-February): Off-peak season with colder temperatures and occasional snowfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Konstanz

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in Konstanz, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for exploring the Old Town and natural attractions.
  • Do take cash, as many small shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack weather-appropriate clothing and gear.
  • Don’t ignore the quiet hours in residential areas.
  • Don’t cross the street before the pedestrian traffic light turns green.
  • Don’t litter or smoke in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Konstanz is generally a safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates and well-maintained infrastructure. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and health during your trip:

Safety in Konstanz

  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.
  • Stay alert while walking or biking near traffic.
  • Only use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services.
  • Be mindful of your personal belongings in crowded places.

Health in Konstanz

  • The town has excellent medical facilities, including the hospital Konstanz.
  • Water from the tap is safe to drink and of good quality.

Getting to Konstanz: Transportation Options and Logistics

Konstanz is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including air, train, and bus. Here are some of the transportation options:

Airports Near Konstanz

  • Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH): 24 kilometers northwest of Konstanz, with direct flights from major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Konstanz

  • Konstanz Station: The main bus station in the town, with connections to cities and towns in the region.
  • ZOB Konstanz: This bus station is located just south of the Old Town and features connections to international destinations.

Other Options

  • Train: Konstanz can be reached via train from major German cities and neighboring Switzerland.
  • Car: Visitors can arrive via highway A81 that connects Stuttgart and Konstanz.

How to Get Around in Konstanz

Konstanz is a compact town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. However, if you prefer public transportation, the town has an excellent network of buses and trains. Here are your options:

  • Walking: This is the best way to explore the Old Town and natural attractions.
  • Biking: Konstanz has an extensive network of bike paths and bike rentals available throughout the town.
  • Public Transportation: The town’s public transportation consists of a network of buses and trains that connect Konstanz to surrounding towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Konstanz: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Konstanz’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding towns, cities, and natural attractions. Here are some of the best nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Meersburg: This picturesque town is located just across the lake from Konstanz and boasts an impressive castle and charming Old Town.

  • St. Gallen: Located just across the Swiss border, this historic town is home to the famous St. Gallen Abbey and a beautiful Old Town.

  • Rhine Falls: This impressive waterfall is located just a short drive from Konstanz and is one of the largest waterfalls in Europe.

Conclusion

Konstanz offers visitors a unique blend of German, Swiss, and Austrian cultures, stunning natural attractions, and charming Old Town. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, or a romantic getaway, Konstanz has something to offer. With this comprehensive travel guide in hand, you can make the most of your stay and discover why this hidden gem is one of Germany’s best-kept secrets.

View from the Munster Cathedral tower View from the Munster Cathedral tower