Winter wonder at Lake Constance: 6x Christmas markets by the lake

Why visit Lake Constance in winter?

Straddling the borders of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, Lake Constance (or Bodensee in German) is a destination loved for its clear waters and sunny summers. But when winter arrives, the lakefront turns into a festive wonderland. The region is draped in snow-dusted charm and towns light up with festive spirit. Around the lake, you’ll discover various Christmas markets that blend tradition, winter magic and lakeside beauty. From Germany’s medieval harbours to Swiss fairytale towns and Austrian Alpine backdrops, Lake Constance offers a unique cross-border Christmas experience.

Hop on the catamaran and cross the lake in just 52 minutes, making it really easy to do your Christmas shopping at different markets. During the Christmas season, special boat connections also run between Rorschach (CH) and Lindau (DE), as well as Bregenz (AT) and Lindau (DE). Discover our six favourite Christmas markets around the lake that will fill you with holiday spirit.

1. Christmas Garden at Mainau Island

A visit to Mainau Island, located on the German side of the lake, in winter is a dream for every Christmas lover. When the night falls, the little island turns into a sparkling sea of lights. Stroll through the Christmas Garden filled with glowing sculptures, twinkling tunnels, dreamlike displays and sing along with Christmas soundtracks. You can take the boat from Meersburg to Mainau Island (and back) and discover the Meersburg castle and vineum, a modern wine museum. Or combine Mainau Island with a visit to Constance and enjoy thermal baths, the archaeological museum and a vibrant city centre.

Tip: If you plan to visit the Christmas Garden on Mainau Island with the whole family, you can buy a family ticket with a discount here.

Christmas Market date: from November 18, 2025 to January 5, 2026

^{Photo: Achim Mende}

2. Lindau Christmas Market

The historical architecture combined with the dramatic backdrop of Lake Constance and the snow-capped Alps makes the Lindauer Hafenweihnacht one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in the region. The Christmas market is nestled around the harbour of Lindau, and its wooden stalls and light displays create a festive atmosphere. Shop for handcrafted gifts, sip Glühwein and enjoy live performances with stunning lake views. Don’t forget to explore the rest of Lindau, like the historical Cavazzen museum, the art museum Kunstforum Hundertwasser or the lighthouse. Or relax in one of the thermal baths.

Christmas Market date: November 27 to December 21, 2025 (open Thursday through Sunday only)

^{Photo: Achim Mende}

3. Christmas Markets in Bregenz

The Austrian town of Bregenz offers not just one but several charming markets scattered throughout its historic centre. Enjoy carousels, artisan stalls and culinary delights under the twinkle of festive lights. Watch the Christmas tree on Leutbühel and taste seasonal delicacies like roasted almonds and hot punch. Or visit the Kornmarktplatz, which turns into a lovely Christmas market with handicrafts and original gift ideas. But Bregenz has more to offer in winter than just Christmas highlights. Explore the vibrant city center, watch art and theater on the impressive floating stage or dive into culture and art in the Vorarlberg Museum or the Kunsthaus.

Christmas Market date: November 15 to December 23, 2025

4. Überlingen Christmas market

Tucked away on the northern shore of Lake Constance, Überlingen’s Christmas Market brings together tradition and charm. In December, the market square (Hofstatt) fills up with wooden stalls with handcrafted ornaments, local delicacies and warming drinks. Stroll through the old, historical town and enjoy festively decorated streets, live music, mulled wine, cinnamon and the smell of pine trees. And after a lot of Christmas fun it's time to unwind in one of the relaxing thermal baths.

Christmas Market date: December 11 to December 21, 2025

^{Photo: Überlingen Marketing & Tourismus GmbH, Winfried Heinze}

5. St. Gallen city of stars

Each winter, the city of St. Gallen turns into the city of stars. Nearly 700 glowing stars hang above the UNESCO-listed old town, casting a magical light on cobbled streets and baroque architecture. The Christmas market in St. Gallen stretches across several squares, with a blend of Swiss culinary treats, handmade crafts and festive music. Visit one of the most beautiful and oldest libraries in the world, the Abbey Library, dating back to the 8th century.

Tip: don’t miss the huge, festively decorated Christmas tree in front of the cathedral.

Christmas Market date: November 27 to December 24, 2025

^{Photo: St. Gallen Bodensee Tourismus}

6. Märlistadt Stein am Rhein

Every December, the Swiss fairytale town of Stein am Rhein gets another name: Märlistadt, translated as fairytale town. Its timber-framed houses and medieval lanes are transformed with twinkling decorations, Christmas trees and festive stalls. Stroll through Stein am Rhein during this time of the year and explore themed windows, local crafts and sweet scents in the air. It creates a nostalgic journey into the heart of Christmas magic.

Date: December 3, 2025 to January 4, 2026

^{Photo: Achim Mende}

Crossing Lake Constance by boat in winter

For everyone who wants to visit multiple Christmas markets around Lake Constance in a short period of time, there is a great and easy solution. Hop on the catamaran and cross the lake in just 52 minutes. Easy, fast and comfortable! Even in winter it sails daily: on weekdays from 6 AM until 7 PM and on weekends from 9 AM until 6 PM. Glide across the quiet, misty waters while sailing to Christmas markets in four different countries or simply enjoying the view.

This article was written in collaboration with the Tourist Board of Lake Constance. Discover more about the Lake Constance/Bodensee region on their website or in our travel guide.