Things To Do
in Konstanz
Konstanz is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Constance in southern Germany. It is known for its well-preserved medieval old town, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes. The town is also home to the University of Konstanz, making it a vibrant hub for students and academics.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and boat trips on the lake while taking in the stunning views of the Swiss Alps in the distance.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $12 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing boat tour on Lake Constance, offering spectacular views of the Alps. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at a lakeside cafe afterward.
Visit the Mainau Island, known for its beautiful gardens and butterfly house. Spend your afternoon enjoying a picnic under the lush greenery.
Head back to Konstanz and enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lake. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores as the sun sets.
Visit the Konstanz Cathedral, an impressive structure with stunning architecture. Take some time to explore the surrounding old town, rich with history.
Explore the Rosgartenmuseum to learn more about the region's history. Don't miss a stop at one of the local bakeries for a taste of traditional German pastries.
Enjoy a dinner at a local German restaurant and try some regional dishes. Wrap up your day with a walk down the charming streets, soaking in the atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful location on Lake Constance with stunning views and recreational activities.
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Vibrant university town with a lively student population and numerous cultural events.
- Excellent public transportation and connectivity to other European cities.
- High quality of life with good healthcare and education systems.
- Cost of living can be relatively high compared to other German cities.
- Tourism can lead to crowded areas, especially in peak seasons.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and rainy days.
- Limited job opportunities in certain specialized fields outside of academia.
- Language barrier for non-German speakers, as most locals speak German primarily.
Best Activities in Konstanz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic bike ride around Lake Constance and take in the beautiful views of the water and surrounding countryside.
Explore the nature reserve with its varied landscape of forests, meadows, and wetlands, and discover the diverse plant and animal life.
Take a boat tour to experience the beauty of Lake Constance from the water and visit charming lakeside towns along the way.
Relax and enjoy a picnic in the tranquil setting of Seepark, surrounded by green spaces, gardens, and a lake.
Try stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Constance for a fun and active way to explore the water and enjoy the outdoors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Konstanz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Konstanz
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of Lake Constance.
Offers a picturesque setting with views of the historic cathedral and surrounding buildings.
A historic tower offering panoramic views over the city and lake.
Food in Konstanz
Konstanz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This delicious dish features the fresh-water whitefish sourced from Lake Constance. It is often lightly seasoned and traditionally pan-fried to perfection. Try it at Fischmarkt Konstanz or the Seerestaurant Litzelstetten for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
A local specialty dessert, Hegauer Kirsch is a cherry-infused treat that perfectly captures the flavors of the region. Sample it at traditional bakeries like Bäckerei-Konditorei Hafner for a sweet taste of Konstanz.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Konstanz better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Tuesday and Thursday, the Konstanzer Wochenmarkt offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, local cheeses, bread, and cured meats. Among the stalls, you can also find regional snacks like Flammkuchen (thin-crust pizza) and hearty Leberkäse (meatloaf).
In the summer months, Seestraße comes alive with various food stalls offering grilled fish, bratwurst, and delicious crepes. This bustling street food scene is perfect for grabbing a quick, tasty bite as you explore.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Konstanz, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is considered respectful to address others with their titles and last names, especially in formal settings.
Germans value punctuality, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Konstanz.
Germans, including those in Konstanz, generally appreciate a sense of personal space. It's important to refrain from standing too close or touching others without permission.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Konstanz with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Konstanz
Ensure a smooth experience
In Konstanz, Germany, tipping is generally not mandatory, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tipping for other services such as taxi rides and hotel housekeeping is also appreciated but not obligatory.
In Konstanz, Germany, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases and at smaller establishments. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Konstanz.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Konstanz, as the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. You can expect pleasant temperatures and a lively atmosphere as the city comes to life after the winter months.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Konstanz, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities available. The city is bustling with events, festivals, and lake-related activities, making it an exciting time to visit.
Autumn in Konstanz brings beautiful foliage and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy harvest festivals and cultural events during this time.
Winter in Konstanz is quieter, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. While the weather is colder, the city is still charming, and you can experience Christmas markets and other seasonal festivities.
Konstanz at Night
Hiking in Konstanz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail beside the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with beautiful views and easy access to various walking paths.
A stunning island known for its gardens and parks, accessible by boat, offers picturesque hiking routes with views of the lake.
A charming town with numerous hiking trails along the waterfront and through the surrounding forested areas.
Historic stilt houses near the lake, with adjacent hiking trails that provide insights into cultural heritage while enjoying nature.
A short drive from Konstanz, this area offers more challenging hikes with panoramic views of the Bodensee and the Alps.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Konstanz through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Konstanz by plane.
The largest international airport in Switzerland, located about 70 km from Konstanz. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
An international airport located near Basel in Switzerland, about 100 km from Konstanz. It serves multiple cities in the tri-national area of France, Germany, and Switzerland.
One of the largest airports in Germany, located approximately 250 km from Konstanz. It is a major hub for international flights.
Located roughly 180 km from Konstanz, this airport serves as a major gateway to southern Germany and offers a variety of international flights.
A smaller regional airport located about 30 km from Konstanz, offering flights mainly within Europe and to some holiday destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic, comprising individuals who hold German citizenship and identify as ethnic Germans.
Includes residents from other countries, with significant populations from EU nations and other parts of the world.
A large demographic group, primarily due to the presence of the University of Konstanz and other educational institutions.
Older adults, reflecting the aging population trend in various regions of Germany.
Individuals in the early stages of their careers, often attracted by job opportunities in education and tourism.
Households with children, contributing to the demographic diversity in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Konstanz, with many local clubs and community events.
Handball has a strong following in Konstanz, supported by several amateur teams and youth programs.
Volleyball is widely played in Konstanz, both indoors and on the beach along the shores of Lake Constance.
Cycling is popular due to the scenic routes around Lake Constance, attracting both recreational cyclists and sports enthusiasts.
Rowing clubs are active on Lake Constance, making this sport popular among locals who enjoy water sports.
Running is favored by many in Konstanz, with numerous parks and trails providing ideal conditions for runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Konstanz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Konstanz offer a good selection of vegetarian dishes, and many also provide vegan alternatives. Standout eateries for veg-friendly options include Fischstube for creative vegetarian dishes and Sonnenbühl Café for delicious vegan cakes and snacks.
Visitors with gluten intolerance will find accommodating options at restaurants like Il Boccone, which offers gluten-free pasta and carefully labeled menu items. Additionally, many establishments are open to customizing dishes to cater to dietary needs upon request.