Things To Do
in Konstanz

Konstanz is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Constance in Germany, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It serves as a gateway to Switzerland and is renowned for its beautiful medieval architecture, including the impressive Konstanz Cathedral. The city offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and culinary delights, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

With its charming streets and stunning waterfront views, Konstanz is a perfect place for leisurely exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Historical Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Konstanz Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

afternoon
:

Explore the Old Town, wandering through its narrow streets filled with shops and cafes. Visit the Rosgarten Museum for insights into the local history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a relaxing stroll along the lake promenade to soak in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a ferry to Mainau Island, famous for its beautiful gardens and parks. Spend the morning exploring the island’s floral beauty.

afternoon
:

Return to Konstanz and visit the Imperia statue and the nearby Zeppelin Museum to learn about the history of airships.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city before heading to a local bar for drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local Beer$4-$6
🏨Hotel Night$100-$200
🚆Train Ticket (Local)$3-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful lakeside setting with stunning views.
  • Rich history and cultural attractions.
  • Variety of outdoor activities available.
  • Can be crowded during summer tourist season.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Higher costs in tourist areas.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Konstanz

Visit one of these nice places.

Konstanz Cathedral

The iconic cathedral with its impressive towers offers stunning architectural details and views of the city.

Lake Constance Promenade

The scenic lakeside promenade provides beautiful sunset views and captures the essence of the city’s charm.

Mainau Island

Famous for its gardens and floral displays, it’s a perfect location for capturing vibrant colors and natural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Konstanz

Konstanz offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional German cuisine with influences from its proximity to Switzerland and Austria.

Konstanz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bodensee Felchen

A local fish dish, typically grilled or pan-fried, served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes.

Must-Try!

Kässpätzle

A traditional Swabian dish made of egg noodles baked with cheese and topped with crispy onions.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Konstanz Weekly Market

Held every Thursday, this market features local produce, artisanal products, and street food stalls offering a variety of snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Konstanz experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), ideal for outdoor activities. Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping to around -1°C (30°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans place high importance on punctuality, so be sure to arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is standard when greeting someone, and it’s polite to maintain eye contact.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a respectful volume in public spaces, especially on public transport and in restaurants.

Safety Guide

Safety

Konstanz is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Konstanz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit and debit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is mild and ideal for enjoying outdoor activities. The blooming flowers in parks and gardens attract many visitors.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather, perfect for lake activities and festivals. Expect crowded beaches and vibrant outdoor events.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage and a quieter atmosphere. It’s a great time for hiking and enjoying local wine festivals.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, but the city is beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Enjoy winter markets and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Konstanz at Night

Konstanz has a lively nightlife scene, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The waterfront area is particularly popular, featuring numerous bars with outdoor seating that attract both locals and tourists. You can find everything from cozy pubs to vibrant clubs, offering music from electronic to rock. Many venues also host events and themed nights throughout the week.

Hiking in Konstanz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail to the Mainau Island

A scenic trail that leads to Mainau Island, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature.

Reichenau Island Loop Trail

This trail around Reichenau Island features picturesque landscapes and opportunities to explore the local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Konstanz by plane.

Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)

Located approximately 40 km from Konstanz, this airport offers flights primarily to domestic and European destinations, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Konstanz is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a compact area. The Old Town features narrow, pedestrian-friendly streets, making it easy to explore on foot. The lakeside promenade is ideal for leisurely strolls, and bike rentals are widely available for those wishing to venture further.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

With a vibrant university presence, many students live in Konstanz, contributing to its youthful atmosphere.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world come to experience the city’s charm, particularly during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is widely popular in Konstanz, with local clubs and events attracting enthusiastic fans.

Rowing

Rowing is a favored sport on Lake Constance, with several clubs and competitions held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Konstanz is generally manageable, with public transportation options including buses and ferries. The city encourages cycling, with dedicated bike lanes and rental services available. Parking can be limited in the city center, so public transport is a convenient alternative.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Konstanz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, especially in cafes and bistros. Always inquire about specific options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some restaurants provide gluten-free alternatives, but it’s best to check menus or ask staff for assistance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Germany has a high standard of healthcare. Visitors can access medical services through private clinics and hospitals; however, it is advisable to have travel insurance covering health expenses. Pharmacies are also readily available for over-the-counter medications and basic health needs.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide