Konstanz travel guide

Konstanz Tourism | Konstanz Guide

You're Going to Love Konstanz

Konstanz is one of the few towns in Germany left untouched by the Second World War. As such, its beauty and culture are still thriving today. Don't miss this hidden jewel of a German city, with its cobbled-stone streets, old stone buildings, calm waters of the river Rhine and colorful, year-round festivals.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Konstanz

1. Bright Lights at the Christmas Market

Make like the locals and celebrate the Christmas spirit at this outdoor market. Brightly lit and seasonally decorated, the streets are lined with stalls serving up food, mulled wine, fun art and souvenirs.

2. Experience an Authentic German Oktoberfest

Konstanz's smaller community is the perfect way to initiate yourself into the copious amounts of food, beer and live bands that characterize Oktoberfest, that's held during the end of September and beginning of October.

3. Take a Boat Trips to Surrounding Islands

Situated as it is on Lake Constance, Konstanz offers ample opportunities to explore the surrounding islands with a picturesque boat cruise.

4. Relax for a Day at the Spa

At Zur Therme 2, you can relax in the multiple saunas and outdoor heated pools, take advantage of the massage services and end the day with a meal at the restaurant.

5. Visit Any of Konstanz's Theatres

Fans of contemporary theater can enjoy more experimental pieces at the Spiegelhalle, while classic theater lovers can experience the Stadttheater. There's even a puppet theatre known as Werkstatt.

1. Bright Lights at the Christmas Market

Make like the locals and celebrate the Christmas spirit at this outdoor market. Brightly lit and seasonally decorated, the streets are lined with stalls serving up food, mulled wine, fun art and souvenirs.

2. Experience an Authentic German Oktoberfest

Konstanz's smaller community is the perfect way to initiate yourself into the copious amounts of food, beer and live bands that characterize Oktoberfest, that's held during the end of September and beginning of October.

3. Take a Boat Trips to Surrounding Islands

Situated as it is on Lake Constance, Konstanz offers ample opportunities to explore the surrounding islands with a picturesque boat cruise.

4. Relax for a Day at the Spa

At Zur Therme 2, you can relax in the multiple saunas and outdoor heated pools, take advantage of the massage services and end the day with a meal at the restaurant.

5. Visit Any of Konstanz's Theatres

Fans of contemporary theater can enjoy more experimental pieces at the Spiegelhalle, while classic theater lovers can experience the Stadttheater. There's even a puppet theatre known as Werkstatt.

What to do in Konstanz

1. Mainau: An Island of Bliss

Situated in the center of Lake Konstanz, Mainau is a magical island with a fascinating past. For centuries, the island's palace was a center of the Teutonic Knights, before it passed through a string of aristocratic families. Nowadays, it's open to everyone, and it's a gem of an attraction. See the gorgeous arboretum featuring 500 species, the equally stunning Italian rose garden and, of course, the historic palace itself. Everything is accessible via a causeway, and it's not far from central Konstanz.

2. Konstanz Minster: A Sonic and Visual Delight

The city's graceful cathedral is its spiritual heart. Probably founded in the 7th century after Christ, it took its current form in the 16th century when an army of craftsmen turned it into a Gothic masterpiece. Be sure to venture inside to see the elegant decorations and the soaring vaulting, and take in the views from the Observation Tower, too. If you can spare the time, hang around to hear the bells chime the hour; with Germany's second largest collection of bells, the sound is quite something.

3. Konstanz Hafen: Lovely Views in a Historic Location

The city's harbor was once a key node in European trade, coordinating the movement of goods between Italy and the Holy Roman Empire. You can get a feel for these glory days at the beautiful 14th-century Council Building, which is still used for official purposes. Wandering around the harbor is a delight, with sublime lakefront views. You'll also stumble upon a monument to Ferdinand von Zeppelin, the inventor of the airship, as well as plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the sunset.

4. SEA LIFE Konstanz: A World of Watery Wonders

SEA LIFE is a world-class aquarium which reflects Konstanz's obsession with water. Located right next to the lake, it hosts over 3,500 marine animals -- a mixture of salt and freshwater creatures. Feeding time is a highlight, as the turtles and sharks receive their treats, but it's always rewarding to wander the corridors and get to know the locals. Don't miss the Nemo-style clownfish and the ghost-like jellyfish as well as the fearsome sharks and the languid sea turtles. There's even a cute penguin colony to round off this family-friendly assortment of sea-dwellers.

5. Imperia: An Iconic Figure with a Controversial Story to Tell

Standing proud at the center of the harbor district, Imperia is the most famous symbol of modern Konstanz, and getting a snap with her is a vacation essential when you visit the city. Created by controversial German sculptor Peter Lenk, Imperia commemorates a famous moment in the city's history: the 15th-century Council of Constance. Nine meters tall and rotating at a rate of one turn every four minutes, Imperia balances imperial and Papal power in her two hands. Apparently based on a story by Balzac, the real Imperia sought to seduce Popes and emperors -- giving the statue a complex, provocative double meaning.

6. Bodensee: Lake Constance Sports

Bodensee, or Lake Constance, situated on the Rhine beneath the Alps is comprised of the Obersee - Upper Lake Constance, the Untersee - Lower Lake Constance, and the Seerhein, which connects the lake to the Rhine. Bodensee is bordered by Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The lake has become a tourist destination as a result of its sports attractions, which include swimming, sailing, and boating. It is also possible to bike the 162 miles around the lake on the Bodensee-Radweg trail.

MainauMainau
Konstanz MinsterKonstanz Minster
BodenseeBodensee

1. Mainau: An Island of Bliss

Situated in the center of Lake Konstanz, Mainau is a magical island with a fascinating past. For centuries, the island's palace was a center of the Teutonic Knights, before it passed through a string of aristocratic families. Nowadays, it's open to everyone, and it's a gem of an attraction. See the gorgeous arboretum featuring 500 species, the equally stunning Italian rose garden and, of course, the historic palace itself. Everything is accessible via a causeway, and it's not far from central Konstanz.

2. Konstanz Minster: A Sonic and Visual Delight

The city's graceful cathedral is its spiritual heart. Probably founded in the 7th century after Christ, it took its current form in the 16th century when an army of craftsmen turned it into a Gothic masterpiece. Be sure to venture inside to see the elegant decorations and the soaring vaulting, and take in the views from the Observation Tower, too. If you can spare the time, hang around to hear the bells chime the hour; with Germany's second largest collection of bells, the sound is quite something.

3. Konstanz Hafen: Lovely Views in a Historic Location

The city's harbor was once a key node in European trade, coordinating the movement of goods between Italy and the Holy Roman Empire. You can get a feel for these glory days at the beautiful 14th-century Council Building, which is still used for official purposes. Wandering around the harbor is a delight, with sublime lakefront views. You'll also stumble upon a monument to Ferdinand von Zeppelin, the inventor of the airship, as well as plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the sunset.

4. SEA LIFE Konstanz: A World of Watery Wonders

SEA LIFE is a world-class aquarium which reflects Konstanz's obsession with water. Located right next to the lake, it hosts over 3,500 marine animals -- a mixture of salt and freshwater creatures. Feeding time is a highlight, as the turtles and sharks receive their treats, but it's always rewarding to wander the corridors and get to know the locals. Don't miss the Nemo-style clownfish and the ghost-like jellyfish as well as the fearsome sharks and the languid sea turtles. There's even a cute penguin colony to round off this family-friendly assortment of sea-dwellers.

5. Imperia: An Iconic Figure with a Controversial Story to Tell

Standing proud at the center of the harbor district, Imperia is the most famous symbol of modern Konstanz, and getting a snap with her is a vacation essential when you visit the city. Created by controversial German sculptor Peter Lenk, Imperia commemorates a famous moment in the city's history: the 15th-century Council of Constance. Nine meters tall and rotating at a rate of one turn every four minutes, Imperia balances imperial and Papal power in her two hands. Apparently based on a story by Balzac, the real Imperia sought to seduce Popes and emperors -- giving the statue a complex, provocative double meaning.

6. Bodensee: Lake Constance Sports

Bodensee, or Lake Constance, situated on the Rhine beneath the Alps is comprised of the Obersee - Upper Lake Constance, the Untersee - Lower Lake Constance, and the Seerhein, which connects the lake to the Rhine. Bodensee is bordered by Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The lake has become a tourist destination as a result of its sports attractions, which include swimming, sailing, and boating. It is also possible to bike the 162 miles around the lake on the Bodensee-Radweg trail.

MainauMainau
Konstanz MinsterKonstanz Minster
BodenseeBodensee

1. Mainau: An Island of Bliss

Situated in the center of Lake Konstanz, Mainau is a magical island with a fascinating past. For centuries, the island's palace was a center of the Teutonic Knights, before it passed through a string of aristocratic families. Nowadays, it's open to everyone, and it's a gem of an attraction. See the gorgeous arboretum featuring 500 species, the equally stunning Italian rose garden and, of course, the historic palace itself. Everything is accessible via a causeway, and it's not far from central Konstanz.

Mainau

2. Konstanz Minster: A Sonic and Visual Delight

The city's graceful cathedral is its spiritual heart. Probably founded in the 7th century after Christ, it took its current form in the 16th century when an army of craftsmen turned it into a Gothic masterpiece. Be sure to venture inside to see the elegant decorations and the soaring vaulting, and take in the views from the Observation Tower, too. If you can spare the time, hang around to hear the bells chime the hour; with Germany's second largest collection of bells, the sound is quite something.

Konstanz Minster

3. Konstanz Hafen: Lovely Views in a Historic Location

The city's harbor was once a key node in European trade, coordinating the movement of goods between Italy and the Holy Roman Empire. You can get a feel for these glory days at the beautiful 14th-century Council Building, which is still used for official purposes. Wandering around the harbor is a delight, with sublime lakefront views. You'll also stumble upon a monument to Ferdinand von Zeppelin, the inventor of the airship, as well as plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the sunset.

Bodensee

4. SEA LIFE Konstanz: A World of Watery Wonders

SEA LIFE is a world-class aquarium which reflects Konstanz's obsession with water. Located right next to the lake, it hosts over 3,500 marine animals -- a mixture of salt and freshwater creatures. Feeding time is a highlight, as the turtles and sharks receive their treats, but it's always rewarding to wander the corridors and get to know the locals. Don't miss the Nemo-style clownfish and the ghost-like jellyfish as well as the fearsome sharks and the languid sea turtles. There's even a cute penguin colony to round off this family-friendly assortment of sea-dwellers.

5. Imperia: An Iconic Figure with a Controversial Story to Tell

Standing proud at the center of the harbor district, Imperia is the most famous symbol of modern Konstanz, and getting a snap with her is a vacation essential when you visit the city. Created by controversial German sculptor Peter Lenk, Imperia commemorates a famous moment in the city's history: the 15th-century Council of Constance. Nine meters tall and rotating at a rate of one turn every four minutes, Imperia balances imperial and Papal power in her two hands. Apparently based on a story by Balzac, the real Imperia sought to seduce Popes and emperors -- giving the statue a complex, provocative double meaning.

6. Bodensee: Lake Constance Sports

Bodensee, or Lake Constance, situated on the Rhine beneath the Alps is comprised of the Obersee - Upper Lake Constance, the Untersee - Lower Lake Constance, and the Seerhein, which connects the lake to the Rhine. Bodensee is bordered by Germany, Switzerland and Austria. The lake has become a tourist destination as a result of its sports attractions, which include swimming, sailing, and boating. It is also possible to bike the 162 miles around the lake on the Bodensee-Radweg trail.

Activities & attractions in Konstanz

Where to Eat in Konstanz

Take your fill of the popular "Döner Kebap" at Ali Baba in the Old Town, starting at EUR5. Otherwise, check out Suppengrün for fresh vegetarian and vegan salad selections (that charge by the weight!) or soups for around EUR4.20.

When to visit Konstanz

Konstanz in February
Estimated hotel price
$43
1 night at 3-star hotel
Konstanz in February
Estimated hotel price
$43
1 night at 3-star hotel

Visit Konstanz during the months of June through September for warm temperatures between 50°F to 79°F. Autumn is also very pleasant, though in winter, it gets chilly with heavy rain.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Konstanz

Plane

To get to Konstanz, land at either Zurich Airport (Switzerland) or Stuttgart Airport (Germany). From here, take the train to Konstanz, which takes 1 hour from Zurich and 2 hours from Stuttgart.

Train

Arrive at the main station Konstanz Hauptbahnhof, located in the old town. Fares vary, depending on where you're coming from. From Zurich, for example, fares can be around EUR26.00.

Car

There are various routes for getting to Konstanz by car, all accessible by the highway. From Zurich, for example, use the A1, then exit onto the A7 and continue on to the city.

Bus

Taking the bus from nearby cities like Zurich is very cheap when using companies like FlixBus and Polski Bus. Fares start at EUR6.

Plane

To get to Konstanz, land at either Zurich Airport (Switzerland) or Stuttgart Airport (Germany). From here, take the train to Konstanz, which takes 1 hour from Zurich and 2 hours from Stuttgart.

Train

Arrive at the main station Konstanz Hauptbahnhof, located in the old town. Fares vary, depending on where you're coming from. From Zurich, for example, fares can be around EUR26.00.

Car

There are various routes for getting to Konstanz by car, all accessible by the highway. From Zurich, for example, use the A1, then exit onto the A7 and continue on to the city.

Bus

Taking the bus from nearby cities like Zurich is very cheap when using companies like FlixBus and Polski Bus. Fares start at EUR6.

Airlines serving Konstanz

Lufthansa
Good (4,482 reviews)
KLM
Good (822 reviews)
SWISS
Good (912 reviews)
British Airways
Good (4,280 reviews)
Delta
Good (4,609 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (2,252 reviews)
Air France
Good (971 reviews)
Iberia
Good (1,533 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (480 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (4,840 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (2,465 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (5,446 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (801 reviews)
LOT
Good (670 reviews)
TAP AIR PORTUGAL
Good (1,115 reviews)
Singapore Airlines
Excellent (885 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (812 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (693 reviews)
Cathay Pacific
Good (464 reviews)
Egypt Air
Good (189 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Konstanz

Check into Hotel Hirschen for luxury stays. Hotel Graf Zeppelin is better for modest travelers and the Otto-Moericke-Turm Youth Hostel is good for travel nomads on a budget.

Popular Neighborhoods in Konstanz

Mainau Island - Known for its beautiful flower gardens and lush, gorgeous green parks, the island is a boat ride away from Konstanz.

Niederburg - A charming district with some streets that are more than 700 years old. Visitors will love the town in the summer, when shops stay open late and music fills the air.

Petershausen - This neighborhood is home to the Archaeology Museum of Baden-Württemberg and the annual Bodensee boat festival.

Mainau Island - Known for its beautiful flower gardens and lush, gorgeous green parks, the island is a boat ride away from Konstanz.
Niederburg - A charming district with some streets that are more than 700 years old. Visitors will love the town in the summer, when shops stay open late and music fills the air.
Petershausen - This neighborhood is home to the Archaeology Museum of Baden-Württemberg and the annual Bodensee boat festival.

Where to stay in popular areas of Konstanz

Most booked hotels in Konstanz

Romantik Hotel Residenz am See
3 stars
Excellent (8.8, 401 reviews)
$134+
Steigenberger Inselhotel
5 stars
Excellent (8.6, 1769 reviews)
$168+
Hotel Halm Konstanz
4 stars
Excellent (8.5, 3484 reviews)
$109+
Hotel St. Elisabeth
3 stars
Excellent (8.4, 823 reviews)
$93+
Hotel Bella Vista
3 stars
Excellent (8.3, 1829 reviews)
$75+
Parkhotel St. Leonhard
4 stars
Excellent (8.3, 1413 reviews)
$130+

How to Get Around Konstanz

Public Transportation

Getting around by bus is easy. Fares cost EUR2.20 for adults. Grab a day pass for EUR4.10.

Taxi

Taxis are available around town and at the bus stations. Fares start at EUR3 for the first mile and EUR9.30 for each successive mile.

Car

Rent a car from companies like Sixt or Europcar, starting at EUR75.90 for a 4-door sedan.

Public Transportation

Getting around by bus is easy. Fares cost EUR2.20 for adults. Grab a day pass for EUR4.10.

Taxi

Taxis are available around town and at the bus stations. Fares start at EUR3 for the first mile and EUR9.30 for each successive mile.

Car

Rent a car from companies like Sixt or Europcar, starting at EUR75.90 for a 4-door sedan.

The Cost of Living in Konstanz

Shopping Streets

Konstanz is a small town, so farmers' markets and open-air flea markets are the local favorites, along with mom-and-pop stores for clothing and furniture. Check out the shops in the Old Town or visit the Lago Center shopping mall.

Groceries and Other

A quart of milk costs around EUR0.66 and a dozen eggs will run you EUR1.93.

Cheap meal
$11.11
A pair of jeans
$87.00
Single public transport ticket
$2.67
Cappuccino
$2.96