Lake Constance

About Lake Constance

The emerald-green Lake Constance connects Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Besides countless water sports activities, a special highlight is the passenger ships offering a broad range of circuit cruises. Some are combined with culinary options like brunch or burger cruises. Excursions to picturesque towns such as Bregenz, Lindau, or Constance are also very popular around the lake. You can circle Lake Constance on 260 km long routes by bike or on foot. (Photo: Switzerland Tourism, Roland Gerth)

12 Reasons to Visit Lake Constance

• Lake Constance is located on the borders of three countries: Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. With an area of over 500 km2, it's the third largest lake in Europe. The lake attracts visitors year-round with its appealing sports and recreational activities.
• Along the Swiss side of the lake, there are numerous charming waterfront towns, including Romanshorn, Arbon, and Rorschach. From the promenades, you can enjoy stunning views of the lake, and on clear days, even catch a glimpse of Germany.

• Various cruise companies offer boat tours on the lake. Enjoy the view of the surrounding landscapes of the three countries from the water. The tours are often combined with a meal, such as the boat ride with a burger buffet.
• In Kreuzlingen, one of the most beautiful river cruises in Europe begins. The approximately 50 km long route takes you through the Untersee and then on the Rhine to Schaffhausen. During the trip, you'll discover places like Stein am Rhein and the island of Reichenau.
• From Romanshorn, a car ferry goes to Friedrichshafen in Germany. This ride makes for a great day trip. After the picturesque boat ride, you can spend the day in the city. Alongside numerous cozy cafés and restaurants, there’s an exciting Zeppelin museum that delights visitors of all ages.

• In summer, cooling off is often called for. There are numerous lakeside baths and stone beaches around Lake Constance. In Romanshorn and Arbon there are also large swimming pools with diving towers and slides.
• Of course there are also numerous possibilities for water sports. Kayaks and SUP boards can be rented at various places to explore the shore. The good wind conditions of the lake make sailors and windsurfers hearts beat faster.
• For a relaxed exploration of the lake it is worth renting a pedalo and motorboat. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with family or friends on the lake, jumping into the cool water at any time when cooling off is needed.
• There are also opportunities for sporting activities on the shores of Lake Constance. Various skating and cycling routes lead around the lake. The Lake Constance Cycle Path is a special one, which leads around Lake Constance through all three countries.

• Lake Constance has a lot to offer culturally. In various museums you will learn about the nature, history and art of the region. These include Sea Life in Constance, Forum Würth in Rorschach, the historical museum Schloss Arbon and the fascinating Lake Dwelling Museum in Unteruhldingen.
• Most visitors to Lake Constance forget about the western part, the Untersee. But this region has much to offer. Idyllic lakeside towns, the UNESCO World Heritage peninsula of Reichenau and the bustling city of Constance are just a few of the highlights.
• One of the most famous destinations on Lake Constance is Mainau Island. This small island is also famous as the island of flowers. In spring, the tens of thousands of flowers begin to bloom, bathing the entire island in a spectacle of color. In winter, the natural experience turns into a magical winter garden.