Travel guide Lake Constance
Discover Lake Constance, also known as the Bodensee, with our comprehensive travel guide. Lake Constance is a unique and versatile destination in the heart of Europe, where Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein meet. Here, the shimmering lake meets the majestic Alps, blending nature, culture, and tradition seamlessly. Explore fairy-tale castles, lively festivals, and picturesque hiking and cycling trails, or enjoy sailing in summer and skiing in winter. Savor freshly caught fish from the lake and sample refined regional wines.
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Discover Lake Constance
In addition to its breathtaking landscapes, the four-country region around Lake Constance has something to offer for everyone. Active travelers can follow the famous cycling route around the lake, hike in the nearby mountains, or enjoy water sports such as sailing and stand-up paddling. Culture enthusiasts will find three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, countless museums, medieval towns, and living traditions that reflect the diversity of four nations.
Food lovers are spoiled with freshly caught fish from the lake, regional wines and beers, apples, and locally grown vegetables. Each season has its own charm: colorful festivals in summer, golden vineyards in autumn, and enchanting Christmas markets in winter. A truly unique highlight is the “Christmas Ships” – beautifully illuminated boats gliding across the lake during the festive season.
With its blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights, Lake Constance invites you to enjoy unforgettable experiences all year round.
One ticket – 160 attractions – four countries
Bodensee Card PLUS
The Bodensee Card PLUS is the official holiday pass for the four-country region around Lake Constance and offers one-time free access to more than 160 attractions and activities over 3 or 7 days within a single calendar year. After a one-time purchase, pass holders can explore the most beautiful spots in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Principality of Liechtenstein at no extra cost. From passenger ships on Lake Constance, cable cars, and nature destinations to castles, palaces, thermal baths, museums, and city excursions – there’s a special experience for everyone.
Good to know about Lake Constance
Guest and advantage cards
In many subregions, you receive a guest card with your stay (included in the room price). Depending on the type of card, it offers free public transport and various benefits at attractions and excursions. A perfect complement to the regional guest cards are the advantage cards, which can be purchased separately. After purchase, these provide numerous benefits for excursion destinations and local public transport – either within the chosen subregion or across the entire four-country region.
Language
The official language in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Principality of Liechtenstein is German. However, the dialects vary considerably from region to region. In Switzerland, for example, Swiss German is spoken, which is derived from Alemannic, while the written language is Standard German.
Bodensee ticket
For connections that cross multiple borders, there are tickets such as the “Lake Constance Ticket – train | bus | ferry.” This ticket is valid for the booked zones (East, West, South) on trains and buses in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. In addition, two ferry routes that operate year-round are included. The ticket can be used for 1 or 3 consecutive days.
Other facts
When traveling around Lake Constance, it’s important to know that different rules and regulations apply in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Principality of Liechtenstein. These differences include mobile roaming, toll roads and speed limits, ferries, boating licenses, emergency numbers, health advice, currency, customs regulations, access permits, and smoking policies.
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Discover Lake Constance: four countries, one destination
Welcome to Lake Constance – a unique region where Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Principality of Liechtenstein meet. This breathtaking lake and its surrounding landscapes offer an unforgettable holiday experience all year round. Whether you’re seeking active adventures, cultural highlights, or pure relaxation – you’ll find it all at Lake Constance.
A holiday destination for every season
Lake Constance isn’t just a summer destination. In spring, the orchards and vineyards bloom, perfect for walks and bike rides in the crisp mountain air. Autumn paints the landscape in warm colors – ideal for wine tastings and culinary festivals. And in winter, romantic Christmas markets, charming medieval towns, and thermal baths create a magical atmosphere.
A destination with something for everyone.
The Lake Constance region is the perfect destination for families, couples, solo travelers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Cycling and walking routes, water sports opportunities, and the stunning natural surroundings make it a paradise for active travelers. Culture enthusiasts can explore medieval towns, historic castles, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Food lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, from local vineyards to charming lakeside restaurants. After a day full of experiences, you can fully relax at wellness centers or along the tranquil lakeshore. Traditions and local festivals, from carnival celebrations to Christmas markets, give the region a unique charm. In short, Lake Constance offers something for everyone.
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