Enjoy an enticing blend of atmospheric historical sights, exciting watersports and pretty lakeside scenery in a city that combines them all.
historic old town is a picturesque array of colourful churches, town houses and halls. Outside of the city centre, the region of Constance stretches along the lake peninsula and features nature reserves and island castles. Spend lazy days by the lake, wander historical streets and visit charming museums.
Get a sense of Constance’s rich history in Niederburg, the historic old town. Not only was Constance the religious centre of its diocese until 1827, but it was also a booming trade town in the Middle Ages. Gaze at the 250-foot (76-metre) tower of the Konstanz Münster (Constance Cathedral), which was built in the 11th century.
Study medieval paintings in the Rosgartenmuseum, an old guildhall. Gaze down at the Roman fort of Constantia, now underground and preserved beneath glass, or join a guided tour of the ruins.
Stroll around Constance HarbourOpens in a new window to see some more of the town’s sights. Visit the statue of Imperia, a 30-foot (9-metre) sculpture that towers over the marina. Sea Life Konstanz houses penguins, sea turtles and other creatures, while the leafy Stadtgarten provides a quiet place to escape by the water.
Paddle out onto the waters of Lake ConstanceOpens in a new window, which stretches for 39 miles (63 kilometres) along the borders of three different countries. Try your hand at watersports such as kayaking and sailing or lounge on its shores in summer.
Drive out of the city centre to explore stunning nature reserves. Venture out to Mainau IslandOpens in a new window to see elegant formal gardens, a butterfly house and a stunning Baroque palace in a scenic setting.
Constance is located in southwestern Germany, directly next to the border of Switzerland. Trains run into the centre of the city from Engen, ZürichOpens in a new window and towns in the Black Forest. Visit in summer and join crowds enjoying the fine weather. Come in spring and fall for cooler temperatures, fewer fellow visitors and colourful scenery.
