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

day 1
Explore Lake Constance
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

Visit the Mainau Island, known for its beautiful gardens and butterfly house. Spend your afternoon enjoying a picnic under the lush greenery.

evening
:

Head back to Konstanz and enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lake. Take a leisurely stroll along the shores as the sun sets.

day 2
Historical Konstanz
morning
:

Visit the Konstanz Cathedral, an impressive structure with stunning architecture. Take some time to explore the surrounding old town, rich with history.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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!

Biking around Lake Constance

Enjoy a scenic bike ride around Lake Constance and take in the beautiful views of the water and surrounding countryside.

Hiking in the Bodensee-Therme Nature Reserve

Explore the nature reserve with its varied landscape of forests, meadows, and wetlands, and discover the diverse plant and animal life.

Boat tour on Lake Constance

Take a boat tour to experience the beauty of Lake Constance from the water and visit charming lakeside towns along the way.

Picnic in the Seepark

Relax and enjoy a picnic in the tranquil setting of Seepark, surrounded by green spaces, gardens, and a lake.

Stand-up paddleboarding

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.

Mainau Island

Known for its beautiful gardens and stunning views of Lake Constance.

Münsterplatz

Offers a picturesque setting with views of the historic cathedral and surrounding buildings.

Rheintorturm

A historic tower offering panoramic views over the city and lake.

Food in Konstanz

Konstanz, located in southern Germany at the shores of Lake Constance, offers a delightful mix of German, Swiss, and regional cuisines. The local cuisine is characterized by fresh ingredients, hearty flavors, and a wide variety of dishes showcasing the influence of the region's agricultural traditions and proximity to the lake.

Konstanz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bodensee-Felchen

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!

Hegauer Kirsch

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

Konstanzer Wochenmarkt (Weekly Market)

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).

Seestraße (Lake Street)

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

Located by the shores of Lake Constance, the climate in this region is characterized as oceanic, influenced by both the nearby lake and the mountain ranges to the south. Winters tend to be relatively mild compared to other areas at similar latitudes, with average temperatures hovering just above freezing. Snowfall is possible but usually not heavy. In contrast, summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures climbing to around 25°C (77°F) during the day. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but late spring and summer months may experience slightly higher precipitation. This combination of a moderating lake effect and a temperate climate makes it a favorable location for agriculture and outdoor activities, contributing to the lush greenery and vibrant scenery in and around the city. Additionally, the area experiences a fair amount of sunshine, particularly in the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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.

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Konstanz.

Respecting Personal Space

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

Located beside the scenic Lake Constance and near the borders of Switzerland and Austria, the city is known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history. Safety in this area is generally regarded as high, with low crime rates compared to larger urban centers. Residents and visitors can typically enjoy walking around the city, including its historic old town, without major concerns for personal safety. The community is known for being friendly and welcoming, which contributes to a secure environment. However, like in any urban area, it's advisable to practice basic safety precautions, such as being aware of personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night. Public transportation is generally safe and reliable, making it easy to travel around the city and surrounding regions. Overall, the safety record, combined with the city's charm and amenities, makes it an appealing destination for tourists and a comfortable place for locals.

Tipping in Konstanz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

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.

Payment

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

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

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

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

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

The nightlife in Konstanz offers a vibrant array of activities that cater to various tastes and preferences. For those who enjoy a lively bar scene, the city boasts numerous pubs and cocktail bars where you can savor local brews and expertly mixed drinks. Locations like "Hörnle" and "Zum Teufel" are popular choices for a relaxed evening with friends, offering a cozy atmosphere and a good selection of beverages. For music enthusiasts, Konstanz presents opportunities to enjoy live performances and DJ sets. Clubs such as "Berry's Club" and "Blechnerei" host a range of musical acts, from techno to house, ensuring that partygoers can dance long into the night. The presence of the University of Konstanz also means that there are plenty of student events, including themed parties and special nights out, which add to the dynamic nightlife scene. In addition to bars and clubs, the city offers cultural experiences such as late-night exhibitions at the main museums, or nighttime boat tours on Lake Constance, providing a scenic and serene experience under the stars. Overall, the nightlife in Konstanz is characterized by its diverse options, catering to those looking for a vibrant party atmosphere as well as those seeking a more laid-back, cultural evening.

Hiking in Konstanz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kreuzlingen

A scenic trail beside the Bodensee (Lake Constance) with beautiful views and easy access to various walking paths.

Mainau Island

A stunning island known for its gardens and parks, accessible by boat, offers picturesque hiking routes with views of the lake.

Ueberlingen

A charming town with numerous hiking trails along the waterfront and through the surrounding forested areas.

Pfahlbauten Unteruhldingen

Historic stilt houses near the lake, with adjacent hiking trails that provide insights into cultural heritage while enjoying nature.

Höhronen Mountain

A short drive from Konstanz, this area offers more challenging hikes with panoramic views of the Bodensee and the Alps.

Aiports

How to reach Konstanz by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

The largest international airport in Switzerland, located about 70 km from Konstanz. It serves as a major hub for international flights.

EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH/EAP)

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.

Munich Airport (MUC)

One of the largest airports in Germany, located approximately 250 km from Konstanz. It is a major hub for international flights.

Stuttgart Airport (STR)

Located roughly 180 km from Konstanz, this airport serves as a major gateway to southern Germany and offers a variety of international flights.

Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)

A smaller regional airport located about 30 km from Konstanz, offering flights mainly within Europe and to some holiday destinations.

Walkability

In this picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Constance, walkability is a notable feature. The urban layout facilitates easy navigation, with well-maintained sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and a compact city center. Many attractions, including cafes, shops, and parks, are within a short walking distance, promoting an active lifestyle and encouraging residents and visitors to explore on foot. The old town, with its charming medieval architecture, is particularly pedestrian-friendly, boasting narrow streets that are ideal for leisurely strolls. Additionally, the prevalence of walkways along the lakeshore offers scenic routes for walkers and joggers, providing beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere. Public transportation options are also accessible, but the city's design encourages walking as a primary mode of movement, making it convenient for daily errands and recreational activities alike. Overall, the combination of compactness, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and attractive surroundings makes this city a great place to walk.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

German Nationals

The majority demographic, comprising individuals who hold German citizenship and identify as ethnic Germans.

Foreign Nationals

Includes residents from other countries, with significant populations from EU nations and other parts of the world.

Students

A large demographic group, primarily due to the presence of the University of Konstanz and other educational institutions.

Senior Citizens

Older adults, reflecting the aging population trend in various regions of Germany.

Young Professionals

Individuals in the early stages of their careers, often attracted by job opportunities in education and tourism.

Families

Households with children, contributing to the demographic diversity in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Konstanz, with many local clubs and community events.

Handball

Handball has a strong following in Konstanz, supported by several amateur teams and youth programs.

Volleyball

Volleyball is widely played in Konstanz, both indoors and on the beach along the shores of Lake Constance.

Cycling

Cycling is popular due to the scenic routes around Lake Constance, attracting both recreational cyclists and sports enthusiasts.

Rowing

Rowing clubs are active on Lake Constance, making this sport popular among locals who enjoy water sports.

Running

Running is favored by many in Konstanz, with numerous parks and trails providing ideal conditions for runners.

Traffic

Located by the shores of Lake Constance, the city experiences a mix of local and tourist traffic, particularly during peak seasons when visitors flock to its attractions. The road network is well-developed, with main thoroughfares facilitating efficient movement, but during rush hours, congestion can occur, especially around key intersections and near popular destinations. Biking is a popular mode of transport, bolstered by numerous cycling paths that cater to both residents and tourists. Public transport, including buses, is reliable, making it easy to navigate the city without a car. Parking can be challenging in the city center, where spaces are limited, leading many to opt for alternative transport methods. The proximity to Switzerland and Austria also means cross-border traffic, contributing to occasional delays at peak times. Overall, the transportation system in the area is designed to accommodate both the local population and the influx of visitors, though challenges are typical for any charming city with historical significance and natural beauty.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Konstanz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

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.

Gluten-Free Options

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.

Healthcare

In this city located on the Bodensee (Lake Constance) near the border with Switzerland, healthcare services are well-developed and accessible to residents and visitors alike. The healthcare system includes a range of facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical practices. The main hospital in the area is the Klinikum Konstanz, which provides a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. This facility is known for its modern medical technology and a team of skilled healthcare professionals. In addition to hospitals, numerous outpatient clinics and general practitioners are available, ensuring that residents have access to primary care and preventative health services. Specialized medical practices cover various fields such as pediatrics, gynecology, and dermatology, among others. The healthcare system in the city operates under the principles of the statutory health insurance model prevalent in Germany, which guarantees that all citizens have access to basic healthcare services. Private health insurance options are also available for those who prefer additional coverage. Pharmacies are widely available, offering prescription medications as well as over-the-counter products. Many pharmacies also provide health consultations and advice on medications. Public health initiatives, preventive care programs, and health education are part of the community's efforts to promote wellness and maintain a healthy population. Local authorities also conduct health campaigns aimed at increasing awareness about various health issues. Overall, the healthcare system in this city demonstrates a commitment to quality care, accessibility, and patient well-being, reflecting the high standards of the German healthcare model.

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