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11 Best Things to Do in Konstanz, Germany

Things to do in Konstanz- what does the city have to offer? A tour of this charming German city guarantees the following.

Magnificent, charming, and historic, Konstanz will keep stealing your heart and keeping it every time you visit the town. Its remarkable history dates back to the stone age, and it has remained almost unchanged.

Currently,  more than 85,000 people call this energetic university town their home. I envy them. It’s a cultural dreamland full of museums, historic neighborhoods, and art galleries for you to explore. 

If you ever wash up on these shores, you’ll never get bored. Your plate will always be packed with stuff to do in Konstanz. Konstanz is a lively city with plenty of attractions and activities. It is an excellent getaway if you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.

Konstanz is also home to one of the largest lakes in Europe, which is perfect for swimming, boating, and sailing. But that’s just the tip of it. But before delving into the things to do in Konstanz, let’s see what makes Konstanz different from other cities.

Constance 1.5 Hour Night Watchman City Tour
1. Constance: 1.5-Hour Night Watchman City Tour Top Recommendation

Join the watchman on their nightly round Enjoy amusing anecdotes and entertaining songs Become a witness as the past becomes alive Hear tales you have never heard before. Learn about the local customs and traditions, and get to know more about this unusual form of citizen service that was common until recent times..

Constance Guided City Tour
2. Constance: Guided City Tour

Constance has a long and eventful history. On our guided tour you will discover the highlights of the city center of Constance on a walking tour with an expert guide. You will learn more about the exciting history of the largest city on Lake Constance, find out what really happened during the Council of Constance from 1414 to 1418 and wander through the charming alleys of the Old Town. Also visit cathedral and discover one of the biggest Romanesque churches in southern Germany, admire the scenic views of Lake Constance and Alps.

Private Historical Walking Tour in Konstanz
3. Private Historical Walking Tour in Konstanz

A local guide will show you around the highlights of Konstanz, including The Marina and the Triumph of Satire fountain. Visit key destinations like the Constance Church and The Imperia Statue, among others. Take advantage of personalized attention from your private tour guide throughout your experience. Learn more than you could if visiting Konstanz alone.

Best Things to Do in Konstanz and Surrounding Areas

If you ever wash up on these shores, be sure to visit some of the places listed below to make your visit to Konstanz a remarkable one.

1. Travel to Konstanz Munster.

Konstanz Munster

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 with me that Notre Dame is one of the most incredible structures you’ll ever see.

According to available records, it was built in 615, but it 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, make an effort to ascend 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 the Lake 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. Discover What Kaiserbrunnen Is All About

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, as well as 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. Visit RheinTorterm – Landmarks, Observation Decks, and Towers

Address: Rheinsteig 4, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

The beautiful tower serves as a charming landmark in Konstanz. It is located on the Rhine River as it flows out of Lake Bodensee.

Rheinard (a rare modern art piece), a striking cylinder dangling in the air, is currently adorning the tower. The carnival museum is also housed in this tower.

Check the website to see if the location is open, as 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., and 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 be traveling from one country to the next 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. When thinking of things to do in Konstanz, these are just the tip of the iceberg.

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.

Generally, you can never exhaust the list of beautiful things to do in Konstanz.

 5. Go to the Isle of Mainau.

Address: Insel Mainau, 78465 Konstanz, Germany

The island of Mainau in Lake Constance is teeming with historic sites and parks. You can take a tour of the Teutonic order’s Baroque Castle, built many centuries ago.

It’s a beautiful home for the noble family who guards the island. Among the gardens and parks, are a stunning conservatory and a butterfly house, and over 600 different 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 taking a bath in the Lake or feeding the duck. There’ll never be a dull moment in Konstanz. Your plate will always be packed with things to do in Konstanz.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Germany

6.  Explore Every Aspect of 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. Take a Lake Kayaking Trip

Lake Kayaking Trip

On a sunny day, walking along with the port and the dock while admiring the Imperia Statue, is a great way to spend a day at the harbor. You’ll also be enjoying the view of Lake Bodensee’s beauty and having a good time.

There will be birds and fish to catch and you will have ample opportunity to spend time outside, interacting with nature on a deeper level.

There is certainly so much to see in Konstanz, meaning that you’ll always be spoilt for choice.

8. Go on a Tour of 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 are still standing. The old city, which is 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 is one town that 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 very dynamic because of its restaurants, cafes, and shopping.

9. Take a City Tour and go Restaurant Hopping in Constance

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

Between tours, the highly skilled guides will ensure that 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 all of your questions.

And the good news is, with only $88, you are booked in. You can call off your reservation a day before the planned tour and get your money back.

See related: 12 Things to do in Leipzig, Germany

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

Konstanzer Marktstätte

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 more miniature metal sculptures of women, rabbits, and birds. It’s a great place to sit and relax while watching people go by.

You’ll enjoy strolling through the beautiful ancient city center as you’ll see history meeting up with the present to make things even better. You’ll enjoy browsing through the small shops and seeing what might interest you.

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

11. Visit the Konstanz Sea Life Aquarium

Address: Hafenstraße 9, 78462 Konstanz, Germany

Constance can be a lot of fun to explore sea life. 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 a single thing that you wanted to do because you ran out of time.

What is Konstanz, Germany Known For?

Konstanz is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. It’s not just the city itself, but also its location on Lake Constance and the cool things to do around it. Here are some of the things that make Konstanz an all-time best touring destination.

1. Lake Constance Itself

Lake constance - Bodensee

Also referred to as Bodensee in German, the Lake’s shoreline is 270 Kilometers and touches three countries: Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. The waters of the Rhine River build it up, and it’s also an extension of the Rhone River from Switzerland.

 It offers a respite in Europe’s dramatic scenery. To the North on the German side, you’ll see the Swabian Alb while to the South, the Swiss Alps come to light. Its calm waters lap the boundaries of both nations together with the western tilt of Austria.

The Lake’s peculiar culture embodies the best of all the three nations.  On the German side, which measures 170km of the Northern shore, you’ll see plenty of soothing thermal baths, exceptional vineyards, and many charming towns.

You can see the reddest sunset from this place. And you can also swim in the large Lake to cool off or enjoy the view of the Alps. The invincible Swabian Sea attracts a large number of tourists during the summer. They clog the promenade and saturate the sand beaches.

You can sometimes escape the chaos by crossing to the Swiss side of Lake Bodensee. Some German nationals cross over to the Swiss side to refuel their vehicles because it is more affordable there. Here you can enjoy the reddest sunset, take a swim to refresh yourself in the vast Lake, or have immense joy viewing the Alps.

Swiss nationals, on the other hand, tour the German side to shop and party. Konstanz is the biggest of the two towns and the most dynamic city on Lake Bodensee.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Berlin, Germany

2. Sensual Enchantments of Imperia

imperia statue

The Konstanz harbor is influenced by a rotating stone sculpture referred to as Imperia which is considerably epic.  Though it’s just a half-naked woman displaying the prostitute Imperia, it’s a landmark for the harbor and has given it its gothic appeal.

3. Its Exemplary History

things to do in konstanz, germany

If you are taking a tour of Konstanz’s ancient medieval region, viewing the council house, or visiting the gothic cathedral, you can sense the shadows of the city’s rich past. Remember that this is where Constantine (the Roman Emperor) fiercely defended his empire.

This is also the place where, for the first time, a pope was elected on German soil.  Sadly, it’s also where Jan Hus, a Czech reformer, was burned by being bound to a stick. Konstanz is the place where history teams up with the present to make things even more appealing.

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