Magical Lindau: discoveries between the old town and Lake Constance
Discover Lindau on Lake Constance: from the charming old town to culinary highlights to nature experiences - your guide for unforgettable days!

Magical Lindau: discoveries between the old town and Lake Constance
Welcome to Lindau, the charming pearl on Lake Constance, which enchants with its picturesque old town and breathtaking landscape! This small island town, which was surrounded by an impressive city wall until the 19th century, today offers a perfect mix of history, culture and nature. As you explore the cobbled streets, you will be amazed by the colorful facades of the houses, the cozy cafes and the view of the glittering waves of Lake Constance.
Whether you're a passionate history buff, want to try out the local cuisine, or just enjoy the beauty of nature, Lindau has something to offer every traveler. From a relaxed walk through the old town to exciting boat trips on Lake Constance to a variety of culinary experiences - the possibilities seem endless!
In this article we take you on an exciting journey of discovery through Lindau. Let's explore the city's hidden gems together and find out what you shouldn't miss on your next visit!
Discover Lindau A walk through the old town
The old town of Lindau is a real gem that could come straight from a fairy tale book. Nestled in the picturesque Lake Constance, this historic island town attracts countless visitors with its well-preserved buildings, narrow streets and incredible views of the Alps. A walk through the old town is not only an exploration of history, but also a pleasure for the senses.
Start your tour onNew port, where the famous one isLindau harbor lotusand thelighthousecondition. The lighthouse, built in 1856, stands proudly at 33 meters high and offers fantastic views over Lake Constance and the surrounding mountains. To enjoy the maritime atmosphere, sit on one of the benches right by the water and watch the boats gently rock on the waves.
From here we continue into the old town, where the atmosphere of centuries-old history wafts through every street. TheFischerstrasseis particularly charming with its pastel-colored houses and the smell of freshly fried fish emanating from the small restaurants. Here you will find numerous small shops selling handmade souvenirs and regional products. Take your time to stroll through the alleys and admire the magical architecture.
This is an absolute highlightSt. Stephen's Church, which was built in the 15th century. Its impressive Gothic tower is the city's landmark and is visible from afar. Inside the church you will find valuable works of art and an impressive organ. The simple but elegant altars offer a quiet atmosphere, ideal for a short break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Another essential stop is theMaximilianstrasse, the heart of the old town. Here there are cozy cafés and exclusive shops that invite you to linger. Try one of the many flavors of ice cream in one of the ice cream parlors or enjoy a coffee in one of the outdoor cafes while watching the hustle and bustle.
Not to be forgottenWater Gate, the eastern city gate of Lindau, which has been preserved to this day. It was built in the 14th century and makes an impressive backdrop for photos. The location right on the water and the view of the Alps in the background make this place one of the most popular photo opportunities in the city.
After a long walk in the old town, it is worth visitingCity Museum, which is located in a former monastery. Here you will gain interesting insights into the history of Lindau and the Lake Constance region. The museum features a variety of exhibits ranging from Roman times to modern times. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the city's cultural and economic development.
Finally, you should take the timeFlower Parkto visit, which connects to the old town. The park is an oasis of peace and ideal for a relaxing walk. Surrounded by colorful flowerbeds and old trees, you can unwind and enjoy nature.
A walk through the old town of Lindau is not only a journey into history, but also a unique experience for all the senses. The combination of breathtaking architecture, delicious cuisine and proximity to Lake Constance makes Lindau a very special place that should not be missed when visiting Germany.
The highlights on Lake Constance: boat trips and beach fun
Lake Constance is a true paradise for water lovers and nature seekers. When visiting Lindau, exploring the shipping options and beautiful beaches is an absolute must. There is a wide range of activities that offer both relaxation and adventure.
Let's start with the boat trip on Lake Constance. TheScheduled shipsLake Constance boat trips not only offer a convenient way to reach the surrounding towns and sights, but also breathtaking views of the mountains, water and idyllic villages along the shore. You can plan numerous day trips from Lindau:
- Friedrichshafen: Berühmt für das Zeppelin-Museum und den schönen Uferpromenade.
- Bregenz: Heimat der berühmten Bregenzer Festspiele und der Pfänderbahn mit Panoramablick.
- Meersburg: Eine charmante Stadt mit einer historischen Burg und malerischen Weinbergen.
The trips are well organized and many ships also offer dining options, so you can enjoy the impressive views with a glass of wine or a coffee. These tours are ideal for experiencing the special ambience of Lake Constance while you glide comfortably over the water.
But it's not just shipping that's a main attraction; the beaches around Lindau invite you to linger. TheLindau beach promenadeis particularly inviting. Here you can relax, swim or just enjoy the sun. Some special features of these beaches are:
- Der Lindauer Strand: Ein schöner Sandstrand mit flachem Wasser, ideal für Familien.
- Der Bodenseepark: Vegane und gesunde Snacks sowie eine bequeme Liegewiese sorgen für ein angenehmes Ambiente.
- Die Insel Mainau: Nicht weit von Lindau entfernt, ist sie für ihre üppigen Gärten und das milde Klima bekannt.
The beaches also offer a varietyWater sports options. From surfing and sailing to stand-up paddling, there are countless ways to get active:
- Kitesurfen: Der Bodensee bietet idealen Wind für adrenalingeladene Abenteuer.
- Bootsverleih: Genießen Sie die Freiheit, selbst ein kleines Motorboot oder Segelboot zu steuern.
- Schwimmen und Sonnenbaden: Die klaren Gewässer des Bodensees sind perfekt zum Schwimmen.
For those who want to spend a quieter time by the water, there are numerous green promenades and parks that invite you to take relaxing walks. Imagine strolling along the promenade with an ice cream in hand as boats gently bob on the water. This peaceful atmosphere is the heart of a visit to Lake Constance.
| Activities | Description |
|---|---|
| Water skiing | Exciting water sports fun for adrenaline junkies. |
| Canoeing | For those who prefer quiet exploration on the water. |
| Visit to the outdoor pool | The outdoor pool in Lindau is ideal for families with children. |
The combination of boat trip and beach fun on Lake Constance creates an unforgettable experience. Whether you want to explore the picturesque towns from the water or just relax and enjoy nature, Lindau and its surrounding areas have something to offer for everyone. Under the blue sky of Lake Constance, memories will develop that you will treasure forever. Don't forget to pack a swimsuit and sunscreen - the water may be tempting!
Culinary treasures of the region: The best restaurants and cafes
Lindau, the picturesque island town on Lake Constance, is known not only for its breathtaking landscape and historic architecture, but also for its diverse and delicious food scene. If you want to discover the region's culinary treasures, there are numerous restaurants and cafés offering both local specialties and international dishes. Here are some of the best addresses that you shouldn't miss during your stay in Lindau.
1. The “Pavilion” restaurant
Thepavilionis located directly on the shore of Lake Constance and offers spectacular views of the water and the Alps. The restaurant's menu combines traditional Lake Constance cuisine with modern influences. The use of fresh, regional ingredients is a highlight of the pavilion's culinary philosophy.
- Besondere Gerichte: Bodensee-Fisch, hausgemachte Spätzle, saisonale Salate
- Öffnungszeiten: Täglich von 11:00 bis 22:00 Uhr
2. Café by the lake
TheCafe by the lakeis the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee or a piece of cake while enjoying the wonderful view of Lake Constance. The café is known for its homemade cakes and freshly baked bread rolls. Here you can also have a light breakfast or an afternoon snack.
- Besondere Angebote: Sonntagsbrunch, vegetarische Optionen
- Öffnungszeiten: Montag bis Sonntag von 9:00 bis 18:00 Uhr
3. Inn “Zur Traube”
This is a traditional inn with charmInn “Zur Traube”. This cozy restaurant serves regional specialties that have been prepared using family recipes for generations. The hearty meat dishes and beers from local breweries are particularly recommended.
- Besondere Gerichte: Zwiebelrostbraten, Kässpatzen
- Öffnungszeiten: Dienstag bis Sonntag von 11:00 bis 22:00 Uhr, Montag Ruhetag
4. Restaurant “The Warehouse”
This is for foodiesStorage housea must. The restaurant combines modern cuisine with truly local flavors and is known for its creative and seasonal menu. Fish dishes from Lake Constance as well as exquisite meat variations are offered here.
- Besondere Highlights: Degustationsmenü, veganen Optionen
- Öffnungszeiten: Mittwoch bis Sonntag von 18:00 bis 22:00 Uhr, Montag und Dienstag Ruhetag
5. Marktcafé Lindau
In theMarket cafeA cozy atmosphere awaits you in which you can enjoy local delicacies. The café offers an extensive selection of breakfast options, freshly prepared sandwiches and daily specials. We particularly recommend the delicious breakfast platters, which are ideal for an energetic start to the day.
- Besondere Getränke: Hausgemachte Limonade, exzellenter Kaffee
- Öffnungszeiten: Montag bis Freitag von 6:30 bis 19:00 Uhr, Samstag von 7:30 bis 19:00 Uhr, Sonntag Ruhetag
6. Ice cream parlor “Dolce Vita”
No view of Lindau's culinary treasures would be complete without a visitIce cream parlor “Dolce Vita”. Here you can refresh yourself in the warm sun with a delicious ice cream creation. The ice cream parlor offers a huge selection of homemade ice cream, which is very popular with both locals and tourists.
- Besondere Sorten: Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, fruchtige Sorbets
- Öffnungszeiten: Täglich von 11:00 bis 22:00 Uhr
Table of culinary hotspots in Lindau
| Restaurant/café | Special features | Opening hours |
|---|---|---|
| pavilion | Lake Constance fish, seasonal dishes | Daily 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m |
| Cafe by the lake | Homemade cakes, breakfast | Mon-Sun 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m |
| To the grapes | Regional specialties | Tue-Sun 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m |
| The storage house | Creative, seasonal cuisine | Wed-Sun 6:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m |
| Marktcafé Lindau | Breakfast offerings, sandwiches | Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m |
| Dolce vita | Homemade ice cream | Daily 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m |
Visit these culinary treasures in Lindau to create an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Whether it's a cozy cup of coffee or a hearty dinner - you're sure to enjoy the gastronomy in this charming city!
Cultural experiences: museums and festivals in Lindau
Lindau, picturesquely located on Lake Constance, is known not only for its breathtaking landscape, but also for a rich cultural offering. The Old Town, surrounded by water, provides a stage for a variety of museums and festivals that keep the region's cultural heritage alive.
This is one of the most famous museums in LindauLindau Art Museum. It is located in a historic building and shows masterpieces of European painting from the 14th to the 20th century. The collection includes both classical works and contemporary art. Particularly noteworthy are the regular temporary exhibitions that present talented artists from the region and beyond.
On the trail of the city's history- theLindau City Museumoffers a fascinating insight into the history of the city. Here visitors can marvel at exhibits that tell the story of Lindau's founding through to the modern day. Finds from the Roman period, the development of trade and the importance of Lindau as a port city are just some of the topics that are highlighted here. The museum is a great place to learn more about regional identity and culture.
This is for children and familiesSwabian Sea Music Festivala highlight. Held annually, this festival features a mix of music, dance and interactive programs that delight young visitors. It promotes children's interest in music and culture and provides a platform for local talent.
This is another annual eventInternational Lindau Nobel Prize Winners Meeting. This unique event attracts attention as Nobel Prize winners from various disciplines come together to share their insights and experiences. The event promotes exchange between science, society and the general public and makes Lindau an important center for academic dialogue.
The Lindau Harbor Festival, which take place in summer, are another cultural highlight. This festival includes theatrical performances, concerts and a varied program that delights both residents and tourists. The beautiful harbor of Lindau becomes the scene of impressive performances that add to the magical atmosphere of the summer evenings.
A visit to thecity festivalis also a must for those interested in culture. It takes place every two years and transforms the old town into a large festival area full of music, dancing and culinary delicacies. Stalls with local specialties and handicrafts invite you to experience the regional culture up close.
To get an overview of ongoing events and museums in Lindau, guests can consult the following table:
| Event/Museum | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lindau Art Museum | European painting from the 14th to the 20th century | Learn more |
| Lindau City Museum | Historical exhibits on the city's history | Learn more |
| International Nobel Prize Laureate Meetings | Scientific Forum for Nobel Prize Winners | Learn more |
| Lindau Harbor Festival | Theater performances and concerts | Details available soon |
| City festival | Local festival with music and cuisine | Details available soon |
For a complete overview of the cultural offerings in Lindau, it is worth visiting the official website. Here travelers can get up-to-date information about events, exhibitions and other cultural experiences. With its unique mix of history, art and lively festival culture, Lindau is a true paradise for culture enthusiasts.
Pure nature: activities for outdoor lovers
The region around Lindau on Lake Constance offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you like hiking, cycling or just want to enjoy the impressive nature, you will find what you are looking for here. Lake Constance and the surrounding mountains are a true playground for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
For hikers, the surrounding hills and mountains are like thatpawns, a popular destination. With a cable car that leads up from Lake Constance, you can reach breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps in no time. The hiking trails on the Pfände are well marked and offer both easier routes and more challenging trails for experienced hikers. Perfect for a family trip or a relaxed hike with friends!
Here are some of the most popular hiking trails in the area:
- Pfänder Panoramaweg: Eine leichte Rundwanderung mit spektakulären Ausblicken.
- Hochhäderich: Ein mäßig anspruchsvoller Wanderweg mit herrlicher Natur.
- Rundweg um den Lindauer Hafen: Perfekt für einen gemütlichen Spaziergang, ideal auch für Familien.
If cycling is more your thing, the Lake Constance cycle path offers a fantastic way to explore the region. It runs around the entire Lake Constance and connects the three countries Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The route is signposted throughout and varied, with breathtaking views and charming villages along the way.
Here are some highlights of the Lake Constance cycle path:
- Eine atemberaubende Sicht auf die Alpen: Vor allem auf den Strecken von Lindau nach Bregenz.
- Kulturelle Stopps: Kleine Städte und Attraktionen wie Meersburg und Lindau selbst.
- Vielfältige Landschaften: Von Weinbergen bis zu Wiesen und hügeligen Ausblicken.
| activity | Location | Difficulty level |
|---|---|---|
| Hike | pawns | Moderate |
| Bike tour | Lake Constance cycle path | Mild to Moderate |
| canoeing | In Lake Constance | Light |
| Mountaineering | Hochhäderich | Stressful |
If you want to experience the water directly, you can go toCanoeing and kayakingtry. Lake Constance is ideal for such activities, and there are numerous rental companies that provide equipment. This allows you to view the surrounding natural landscapes from the water, offering a whole new perspective. Swimming and stand-up paddleboarding are also popular options during the summer months when the water is pleasantly warm.
For the adventurous among you, the Alps directly behind Lindau offer numerous opportunitiesMountaineering and climbing. Here are some featured areas:
- Rätikon: Für erfahrene Kletterer mit vielen Routen unterschiedlicher Schwierigkeitsgrade.
- Alpenarena: Eine perfekte Location für Sportklettern und Bouldern.
- Neue Asitzbahn: Zugang zu atemberaubenden Berglandschaften und Kletterrouten.
If you want to enjoy nature at your own pace, there are plenty of options for thatBird watchingandphotography. Nature reserves around Lake Constance are ideal for this leisure activity. The riparian zones in particular are habitats for many rare bird species. Binoculars should definitely be in your equipment here!
Last but not least, don't forget to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets over Lake Constance. The view from the Lindau lighthouse or the beaches offers you an impressive backdrop that you won't quickly forget.
Pack your hiking boots and your bike and set off for an unforgettable adventure in nature around Lindau on Lake Constance!
Excursions into the surrounding area Secret tips for day trips around Lindau
The picturesque town of Lindau on Lake Constance is not only an idyllic gem, but also the perfect starting point for numerous exciting excursions into the surrounding area. Seeing the Alps from the water or hiking through dense forests – the possibilities are almost endless! Here are some secret day trip tips you shouldn't miss.
1. Meersburg – A trip into the past
Just a short ferry ride from Lindau is the charming town of Meersburg. Here you can see the impressive Meersburg, the oldest inhabited castle in Germany. Stroll through the narrow streets with their historic buildings and enjoy the view of Lake Constance. Meersburg is also known for its wine culture - a wine tasting at one of the local wineries is a must!
2. Bregenz – culture and nature combined
You can climb the Pfände in Bregenz with the cable car. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Lake Constance and the Alps. The Pfände is also a fantastic hiking destination, with numerous trails for all levels of difficulty. Beforehand, it's worth visiting the famous Bregenz Festival, where the largest lake stage in the world is located.
3. Mainau Island – The Flower Island
The Mainau Island is a true paradise for plant lovers and just a short boat ride from Lindau. Magnificent gardens, greenhouses full of exotic plants and free-roaming animals await you here. The most beautiful flowers bloom, especially in spring and summer, and invite you to linger. A visit to Mainau is not just a highlight for nature lovers!
4. Nagelfluhkette Nature Park – Active in the Alps
If you like hiking or want to explore nature, this is it Nagelfluhkette Nature Park exactly the right thing. About an hour from Lindau, the park offers countless hiking trails with various levels of difficulty. The views of the Alps are spectacular and the tranquil surroundings are ideal for a break from everyday life. Remember to bring a picnic to fully enjoy the picturesque surroundings!
| Excursion destination | Activities | Travel time from Lindau |
|---|---|---|
| Meersburg | Castle tour, wine tasting | 30 minutes (ferry) |
| Bregenz | Cable car ride, cultural events | 40 minutes (car or train) |
| Mainau Island | Botanical gardens, boat trips | 30 minutes (boat) |
| Nagelfluhkette Nature Park | Hiking, nature experience | 60 minutes (car) |
5. Dornbirn – shopping and relaxing
Dornbirn is a lively city known for its shopping centers and cozy cafés. The City offers a great shopping experience and is the ideal place to relax after a day of exploring. The nearby Rappenlochschlucht is also a great place for a short nature walk. Here you can explore the impressive gorge with its waterfalls and hiking trails.
6. Lindau Island – An insider tip on your doorstep
If you haven't explored all the facets of the city of Lindau yet, you should definitely do so. Take time for a leisurely walk across theLindau Island. There are numerous hidden spots, casual little cafés and a beautiful display of flowers. You can do that too Lindau City Museum Visit, which vividly presents the history of the city.
With these secret tips for day trips around Lindau, you are well equipped to discover the diverse facets of the Lake Constance region. Whether you're looking for culture, nature or just relaxing days by the water - the area has something to offer for everyone!