Things To Do in Bodensee, Germany

Bodensee Things to Do

A trip to the Bodensee (Lake Constance) makes for a fascinating and enjoyable place to visit. Visitors definitely won’t lack for things to do.

See Architecture

Meersburg is a small Bodensee town that looks like the backdrop to a Charles Dickens’ story, especially in the winter. Several small alleys show you lovely little houses with an old-world bijou charm. There are two castles in town, the first dates back at least to the late 10th century, and the second, the 18th century. These palaces and the picturesque old town draw many visitors year-round.

The Birnau Basilica, a cistercian monastery church, is located along the B31 road between Nubdorf and Uhldingen. Built between 1746 and 1749 in Baroque style, it has stunning ceiling frescoes and sculptural art. Its location overlooking the Bodensee is magnificent.

Built in 13th century, the Mangturm-Mang tower is on the promenade at the lake and has wonderful colorful tiles on its roof. A bit away from the lake there is the Diebsturm (thieves’ tower), which was constructed in the 14th century. Its first use was as a guard tower, but was later used as a prison for thieves, hence the name.

Connect with Nature

If you want to connect with nature there are lots of opportunities on the Bodensee. Walk along the lake and stop at one of the many cafes to rest and drink in your surroundings. There is also a very easy hike between Unteruhldingen and Birnau. The flat path runs for 3.5 km one-way and its landscape is very Bodensee-typical with apple trees and vineyards.

Mainau Island has thematic gardens, parks, arboretums, and a butterfly house. The island can be reached easily by the “Weisse Flotte” ferries. The shortest connection would be to take the ferry from Unteruhldingen.

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Other Interesting Things to See

Did you know human settlement can be traced to the Stone Age in the Bodensee area? The town of Unteruhldingen’s archaeological museum is definitely worth going to–they reconstructed a pile dwelling village that was there during the Stone Ages. During the tour you enter houses from different time periods and learn about daily life and how early Bodensee settlers took care of things like building and food preparation.

In various places around the lake, there are many interesting statues and fountains. For instance, the Statue of Imperia stands in the German part of Bodensee and is a symbol for many things. People have different theories, but one thing everyone agrees on is Imperia is the queen of Bodensee.

Lindau is the only port in Bavaria. The larger part of the town is on the mainland and a bridge connects the rest of town. On this beautiful island you can stroll through cute little alleys; most of the buildings are several centuries-old and beautifully kept. Enjoy the shops and restaurants here. There is also a lighthouse you can climb.

Other towns to see in the area include Konstanz, Wangen and Ravensburg.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Bodensee.