15 Best Things to Do in Konstanz, Germany

Discover the delights of Konstanz, a picturesque city tucked within Lake Constance on the German side. Embark on an exploration that promises an array of attractions. These are our favorite things to do in Konstanz.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Constance, Konstanz stands as a testament to German history and culture. This university town boasts a well-preserved old town, where cobbled streets lead past historic buildings and lively squares.

You’re not just walking through a city but traveling through time. With its medieval structure intact, the city offers an authentic peek into its past, inviting you to explore its many cathedrals and landmarks leisurely.

Beyond its architectural treasures, Konstanz serves up a variety of activities that cater to every kind of traveler. Sidle into cozy cafés, soak in the atmosphere of the bustling markets, or dip into the university’s intellectual vigor.

When your feet grow weary of the streets, the sprawling lake is ready to carry you across its crystalline waters on a serene boat tour on one of the largest lakes in Europe, Lake Constance (or Bodensee in German).

What is Konstanz, Germany, Known For?

Konstanz, Germany, is a historic city near the Swiss border at the western end of Lake Constance in the country’s south. Known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, Konstanz is distinguished by landmarks such as the Minster of Our Lady, a grand cathedral with a rich history dating back over a thousand years. The city also hosts the University of Konstanz, making it a vibrant educational and cultural center.

Things to Do in Konstanz, Germany

1. Visit Konstanz Minster.

Address: Münsterpl. 1, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

You may not be religious, but you will treasure the various types of art that religion brings together, as well as the rich history behind it. You’ll agree that Notre Dame is one of the most incredible structures ever.

According to available records, the Konstanz Minster was built in 615 but could be older. This fact alone is enough to make you ponder for a long time. It is free to enter and is open regularly, even when other museums are closed.

The majority of Konstanz’s attractions are spectacular. For Instance, the old cathedral might not be very imposing from the outside if you are used to the incredible English cathedrals. But you’ll appreciate it as a real gem once you are inside.

After you’ve finished the tour, try ascending the tower. It’s a bit difficult, as the climb takes effort and time, but once there, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Constance and the city.

Also, you can marvel at the Alps, which are beautifully covered in snow. This means that you shouldn’t worry about what to see in Konstanz. The city has more than enough to offer.

2. Check out the Kaiserbrunnen

Address: Marktstätte, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

Kaiserbrunnen, a multi-faceted feature with monuments, statues, and fountains, is a short walk from the rail station and Konstanz harbor. It’s at the top of the marketplace (Marketstatte) and attracts people from all walks of life.

The bronze horse is especially popular with children, who ride it and pose for photos. Facing the harbor, you can see lovely Imperia dutifully rotating slowly and many shops and cafes in and around the square. However, the place can get crowded.

On a sunny day, you can bring the kids here and let them ride the bronze horse. They can also play in the fountain area while you photograph them.

3. Uncover the past at Rheintorturm

Address: Rheinsteig 4, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

The beautiful tower serves as a charming landmark in Konstanz. It is located on the Rhine River and flows out of Lake Bodensee. Rheinard (a rare modern art piece), a striking cylinder dangling in the air, adorns the tower. The carnival museum is also housed in this tower.

Check the website to see if the location is open. It is only accessible on weekends, public holidays, and during the summer. On Fridays, it is open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.; on Saturdays and Sundays, it is open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

RheinTorterm is a magnificent tower on Lake Bodensee that overlooks the Spanish site attempting to seize Konstanz in the Middle Ages.

4. Tour Kunstgrenze

Address: Klein Venedig, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

When you visit Kunstgrenze, you will be standing in Switzerland and Germany simultaneously, with no questions asked. This is simply the border between the two countries. In the background, you can see the lovely Lake Bodensee.

After passing through the Konstanz Aquarium from the German side, you will reach the border marked by artwork. So, whether by bicycle or on foot, you’ll travel from one country to another without realizing it.

You’ll find a viewpoint, a zoo, and a nice place to eat something sweet on the Swiss side. What a fantastic way to demonstrate how open borders allow us to enjoy two worlds pleasantly and quietly. These are just the tip of the iceberg when thinking of things to do in Konstanz.

Nightlife in Konstanz is even more alluring. There are numerous things to do in Konstanz at night, including visiting lively bars and clubs, discos, casinos, and dance clubs.

 5. Visit Schloss Mainau and the historic Mainau Island

Address: Insel Mainau, 78465 Konstanz, Germany

Mainau Island on Lake Constance is teeming with historic sites and parks. You can tour the Teutonic order’s Baroque Castle, Schloss Mainau, built centuries ago.

It’s a beautiful home for the noble family who guards the island. Among the gardens and parks are a stunning conservatory, a butterfly house, and over 600 tree species. The place has a distinctly tropical appearance thanks to an extensive collection of rare and foreign plants, such as tulips and orchids.

Restaurants in the area specialize in Swedish and German cuisine. Many people enjoy visiting the island because it is great for kids and has a beautiful playground.

It has rafts and water, as well as numerous climbing areas for height lovers. It also has tracks for playing with a tiny ball, a petting zoo, and a small city with reliable trains.

You can pass the time by bathing in the Lake or feeding the duck. There’ll never be a dull moment in Konstanz, and your plate will always be packed with things to do.

See Related: Places to Visit in Germany

6. Spend an Afternoon at Konstanz Harbor

Address: Konstanz, Germany

The Konstanz harbor allows you to visit beautiful restaurants, take fun boat trips, and traverse an impressive park with lovely cafes. You can take a boat from Uberlingen, a lively town with many cafes and bars, to get there. You can eat ice cream while relaxing and watching the boats.

The larger-than-life Imperia sculpture greets you warmly as you enter the excellent harbor. The statue was controversial when it was erected in early 1993. It rotates slowly on its pedestal and touches on an excellent story by Balzac. Konstanz tourist attractions will always leave you yearning for more.

7. Go Kayaking on Lake Constance

Kayaking on Lake Constance offers a serene and panoramic experience as you glide across the calm waters. With each paddle stroke, you can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps and quaint villages dotting the shoreline.

The entire lake, shared by three countries, becomes your playground, inviting exploration of hidden coves and sun-dappled inlets. The water reflects the colorful hues as the sun sets, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Plenty of other water sports, such as kite surfing, boating, and paddleboarding, are also available. Getting on the way always hits differently. It’s definitely one of the more fun things to do in the area.

8. Tour Old Niederburg Town

Address: Niederburg 78462 Konstanz, Germany

Niederburg (ancient town) is a small, historic center. The Rhine walk separates it from the rest of Konstanz. You can take a break at one of the quaint boutiques and shops or relax in one of the cozy wine caves and coffee shops.

Unlike many other places in Germany, the town survived World War II, so most buildings still stand. The old city, rich in architecture and history, can teach you a lot.

It has a pleasant climate, a magnificent lake, a diverse population, and beautiful mountains in the distance. This town has stood the test of time and continues to dazzle.

Walking through Konstanz’s historic center is a pleasurable experience. The old town is charming. While walking through the narrow streets, one can admire the beautifully decorated buildings.

The main church, the Münster, is magnificent. The city is also dynamic because its restaurants serve traditional German food and there’s great shopping.

9. Take a Food Tour and Go Restaurant Hopping in Constance

An even better way to learn more about Lake Bodensee’s captivating cities is to hop on a ferry and spend one night in three lavish restaurants. You’ll spoil your palate with a three-course meal of vintage Biden-Swabian dishes.

Between tours, the highly skilled guides will ensure you are not bored. You’ll know who Imperia is, as well as the mystery behind the dangerous hole in the minister’s outer wall. You’ll get a guided tour, beginning at 5 p.m. local time, and answers to your questions.

The good news is that you are booked with only $88. You can cancel your reservation a day before the planned tour and get your money back.

See Related: Things to do in Leipzig

10. Pay a Visit to Konstanzer Marktstätte (Market Place)

The market is the focal point of the bustling shopping street. It also has a metal sculpture of a massive horse, which children frequently climb. It also has miniature metal sculptures of women, rabbits, and birds. It’s a great place to sit and relax while watching people pass.

You’ll enjoy strolling through the beautiful old town and seeing the past, meeting with the present to make things even better. You’ll enjoy browsing the small shops and seeing what interests you.

There are numerous excellent cafes and restaurants where you can stop for ice cream and beverages. On the other hand, Swiss tourists significantly raise the prices of items in the region.

11. Visit the Konstanz SEA LIFE

Address: Hafenstraße 9, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

Constance can have a lot of fun exploring SEA LIFE Konstanz. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the animals you’ll encounter at the aquarium. It’s a pleasurable activity for both couples and families.

However, because your visit is only one or two hours long, you’ll need to plan for other activities to fill your day. Younger children enjoy visiting this location more than older children.

The path through the various attractions is well-organized and secure. And you can trust your children to explore on their own. When visiting Konstanz, make sure to plan ahead of time.

That way, you’ll know what to do in Konstanz because the list is endless. You don’t want to miss anything you wanted to do because you ran out of time.

12. Stadtgarten

Address: 78462 Konstanz, Germany

Amenities: Children’s playground, Manicured flower beds, Winding paths

As you wander through the heart of Konstanz, Stadtgarten unfurls before you as a respite by the water, a stretch of tranquility where nature dances seamlessly with urbanity. During the summer, you’ll find the Stadtgarten is not just a city park but a social snapshot of life in Konstanz.

Nestled along the Konstanz promenade, it’s a perfect spot to watch boats drift across Lake Constance. Benches dotted along the way invite you to sit and gaze at the Konstanz harbor, an easy tableau of leisurely lake life and the comings and goings of vessels.

The promenade is the backbone of the Stadtgarten, where families push strollers, cyclists glide by, and joggers pound the path. Take your time here, soak in the lake’s serenity, and if the mood strikes, hop on a boat and see Konstanz from a different angle.

Your afternoon in Stadtgarten is well spent—time that slows down just enough to appreciate the blend of culture, nature, and leisure that Konstanz so effortlessly exudes.

See Related: Top Tourist Attractions in Nuremberg

13. Herosé Park

Address: Rosgartenstraße 3-5, 78462 Konstanz

Herosé Park in Konstanz is your oasis of tranquility. Amidst its well-tended greenery, you’re invited to meander along its peaceful paths and bask in the beauty of its lush surroundings. The park offers an escape and connects you with its monuments.

Kaiserbrunnen, a notable fountain in the park, pays homage to past emperors. This intricate landmark is more than just a water feature; it’s a lesson in stone and water, telling tales of times when emperors shaped the region. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and the stories etched in the details.

Peacocks roam the grounds with iridescent tails fanned, adding to the park’s serene atmosphere. These majestic birds are a living, moving spectacle, so keep your camera ready for these unexpected models who might strut by when you least expect it.

For those passionate about landmarks, Herosé Park doesn’t disappoint. Several historical markers are dotted throughout, allowing you to immerse yourself in Konstanz’s past as you relax in its present.

14. Rosgarten Museum Konstanz

Address: Rosgartenstraße 3-5, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

• Foundation: 1870
• Opening Times: Mon: Closed, Tue-Sun: 10 AM – 6 PM

When you wander through the Old Town of Konstanz, a cultural treasure worth your time is the Rosgarten Museum Konstanz. It’s nestled among the lively streets and is a testament to the region’s art and culture. Established in 1870, this museum transports you through the varied history of Konstanz and the Lake Constance region with its extensive exhibits.

The museum showcases an array of exhibits stretching from the Romanesque period to Gothic, right up to the impact of World War II. Its artifacts tell stories of a bygone era, and its walls echo with historical significance in the city’s heart.

Local and visiting enthusiasts have lauded its informative displays, leaving positive reviews highlighting the museum’s ability to captivate its audience. It’s recommended that you allocate at least 1-2 hours for your visit to fully appreciate the artifacts and information presented.

The cathedral, another exemplary historical site, is within walking distance, allowing you to enrich your knowledge of Konstanz’s past conveniently. Before you leave, don’t forget to capture your visit with some photos; the museum offers a picturesque backdrop that embodies the essence of the city’s history.

Add the Rosgarten Museum to your itinerary for an immersive journey into the cultural heart of Konstanz. It is a beacon of the city’s dedication to preservation and education, offering a profound glimpse into the rich tapestry of the region’s past.

15. Hus-Museum

Exhibits and Artifacts:

• Jan Hus Memorabilia: Original documents and personal items.
• Council of Constance: Insight into the landmark religious summit.
• Reformation Era: Explore texts and artifacts from a transformative time in European history.

Address: Hussenstraße 64, 78462 Konstanz

Immerse yourself in the echoes of medieval scholarly pursuits at the Hus-Museum in Konstanz. Nestled within the historic walls of the old town, this museum is a tribute to the influential Czech reformer Jan Hus.

Capturing the spirit of the Konstanz Rathaus and the pivotal Council of Constance, the Hus-Museum is not just for history enthusiasts but anyone curious about the European Reformation.

As you step through the museum’s rooms, the story of Jan Hus unfolds. Hus was a key pre-reformer whose teachings significantly influenced later Protestant movements. His time in Konstanz, however, was marked by controversy that led to his untimely demise at the stake, making the Hus-Museum’s location poignantly significant.

Insider Tip: Allocate less than an hour for your visit, making it an informative yet concise stop within your Konstanz itinerary. Tickets can be effortlessly acquired, and the experience is enriched by viewing the nearby attractions that paint the broader historical context.

See Related: Top-Rated Museums in Munich

Tours in Konstanz

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