Lake Constance cycle path
Europe's third largest lake
Over the past 30 years, Lake Constance has become one of Europe’s most popular cycling destinations. The mild climate, in which palm trees grow on the island of Mainau, together with the wide range of cultural attractions, never fails to captivate leisure cyclists.
The 273 km shoreline is perfect for exploration on two wheels. Gently sloping vineyards, impressive views of the Swiss Alps and panoramic vistas across the lake create a truly unique experience. Highlights along the route include the festival town of Bregenz, the island town of Lindau, the charming Meersburg, the islands of Mainau and Reichenau, the medieval town of Stein am Rhein and much more. The cascading water of Europe’s largest waterfall, the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, sparkles spectacularly in the evening light and is a must-see feature during any Lake Constance cycling tour.
➡ HERE are the most popular sights ⬅
➡ Click HERE for day bike hire on Lake Constance in Bregenz ⬅
TOP sights along the Lake Constance cycle path
RHEINFALL
near Schaffhausen
The Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen are among the most impressive natural attractions in Central Europe. With a height of around 23 meters and some 150 meters wide, they are classed as one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in Europe. Massive volumes of water cascade over the rocks with tremendous force, creating a spectacular natural sight attracting visitors from all over the world. One of the most memorable ways to experience the falls is by taking a boat tour directly at the waterfall. Several tours take visitors up close to the roaring water or even to the famous rock in the middle of the Rhine Falls. Boats also cross the river to the historic Laufen Castle, located on the opposite side which provides panoramic viewing terraces overlooking the falls. Numerous walkways and observation platforms allow visitors to experience and marvel at the power of the water from very close range. A visit to the Rhine Falls is therefore an unforgettable highlight for travellers and cyclists exploring the Lake Constance region.
ZEPPELINFLUG
Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen
A ZEPPELINFLUG (Zeppelin flight) over Lake Constance is a unique experience found in Friedrichshafen which combines both aviation history and breathtaking views. The iconic white airship gently lifts off from Friedrichshafen Airport slowly climbing to an altitude of around 300 meters, offering spectacular views of Lake Constance, the surrounding towns, and on clear days even the distant Alps. During the quiet and smooth flight, passengers are free to move around the cabin, watch the pilot at work, or simply relax while enjoying the scenery from above. Those who prefer to stay on the ground can visit the Zeppelin Museum Friedrichshafen, which offers a fascinating insight into the history of the famous airships. With more than 1,500 original exhibits, historic audio recordings, films, and photographs, as well as a partial reconstruction of the legendary LZ 129 Hindenburg, the museum vividly presents the development of rigid airships and Friedrichshafen’s important role in international aviation history.
UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE
Reichenau Island
The Island of Reichenau in Lake Constance is one of the cultural highlights of the region and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 together with the Monastery of Reichenau. As the largest of the three islands in Lake Constance, it offers a unique combination of history, nature and traditional agricultural methods. In the early Middle Ages, the monastery developed into an important spiritual and cultural centre in Europe, while its historic churches still shape the island’s landscape today. Here, visitors can explore a unique blend of historical landmarks and peaceful natural beauty. A scenic lakeside path leads to Hochwart, the highest point on the island where visitors are rewarded with a magnificent panoramic view of Lake Constance and the surrounding Alpine landscape. Cyclists can enjoy peaceful rides through vegetable fields, vineyards, and orchards, all of which have helped define the island’s agricultural character for centuries.
MEERSBURG CASTLE
Meersburg Castle is one of the most famous historical landmarks on Lake Constance and is considered one of the oldest inhabited castles in Germany. During a visit, guests can explore more than 30 furnished rooms, offering a fascinating insight into medieval life. Highlights include the historic castle kitchen, the Dürnitz (the former gathering hall), the palace, the armory, the impressive knight’s hall, the castle dungeon, the stables, and even a torture chamber, all providing an authentic glimpse into the past. Original furniture and historical exhibits bring centuries of history to life. After exploring the castle, visitors can relax in the cozy castle café, which features a beautiful terrace with stunning views of Lake Constance. Alternatively, the café with lake view offers a pleasant atmosphere to enjoy a break and reflect on the impressive historical surroundings.
SALEM MONASTERY AND CASTLE
Kloster und Schloss Salem (Salem’s Monastery and Castle) is one of the most significant cultural monuments in the Lake Constance region, never failing to impress visitors with its remarkable combination of history, architecture, and extensive gardens. Located within spacious park and garden landscapes, the former Cistercian monastery of Salem is now preserved as a historic palace complex and is considered to be one of the most beautiful landmarks of Lake Constance. The site has a long and fascinating history, and many parts remain in the original authentic condition of its monastic era. Visitors can enjoy exploring impressive buildings, courtyards, and historic interiors while experiencing the atmosphere of what was once one of the wealthiest and most influential Cistercian monasteries in southern Germany. The extensive gardens and the baroque court garden, with its carefully designed paths and labyrinths, simply invite visitors to relax and take a leisurely stroll through its scenic surroundings.
PEAKWAY
Bregenz
The Pfänderbahn (Pfänder Cable Car) in Bregenz offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the whole of the Lake Constance region. Within just a few minutes, this modern cable car transports visitors from the lakeshore up to Mount Pfänder, Bregenz’s local mountain. From the summit, visitors can enjoy a unique panoramic view over Lake Constance and up to 240 Alpine peaks stretching across Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Right next to the mountain station lies the Rheintal terrace, which provides breathtaking views over the Rhine Valley and the border region between the old and new Rhine. The surrounding Alpine scenery forms a truly impressive backdrop. The Pfänder is not only a popular viewpoint but also a great starting point for relaxing walks and hikes, making it a perfect excursion for visitors and cyclists exploring the Lake Constance area.
PFAHLBAUMUSEUM
in Unteruhldingen
The Pfahlbaumuseum (Pile Dwelling Museum) in Unteruhldingen offers a truly fascinating journey back to the Stone Age and Bronze Age periods. Visitors walk along a wooden boardwalk over Lake Constance to reach this unique open-air museum featuring 23 reconstructed pile-dwelling houses. These buildings illustrate how people would have lived thousands of years ago, constructing their homes above the water on wooden stilts. During the tour, visitors gain insights into daily life in prehistoric times and can even try their hand at ancient Stone Age crafts and techniques at interactive stations. The prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps are of great archaeological importance and were therefore designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2011. Today, the museum is one of the most important archaeological open-air museums in Europe.
WINE TASTING
in Hagnau
A wine tasting in Hagnau on Lake Constance is one of the most enjoyable experiences to be savoured in the region. The sunny vineyards of the Hagnau Winegrowers’ Association, one of the oldest wine cooperatives in Germany, produce distinctive wines shaped by the mild lake climate and mineral-rich soils. These so-called “Lake wines” are known for their elegant character and lively freshness. The Müller-Thurgau grape variety is particularly famous here and has a long tradition around Lake Constance. Another regional specialty is Pinot Noir, often produced as a Weißherbst rosé wine, known for its elegant and balanced flavour. The Bacchus grape offers an aromatic fruitiness, while the Kerner is appreciated for its full body and refreshing acidity. In a local Vinotheque, visitors can enjoy a guided wine tasting and learn more about the wine culture, the regional grape varieties, and the traditions of winemaking in the Lake Constance area.
MAINAU ISLAND
Mainau Island, also known as the famous Flower Island of Lake Constance, is a true paradise for nature lovers and one of the most popular attractions in the region. Visitors can relax and enjoy beautifully designed gardens and parks filled with colourful flowers, exotic plants, and scenic walking paths. Throughout the year, the island offers constantly changing floral displays that create a unique natural experience. One of the architectural highlights is the Mainau’s Baroque Castle, located at the centre of the island and open to visitors during special events and exhibitions. Other major attractions include the Palm House, which features a Mediterranean plant collection, and the popular Butterfly House, where tropical butterflies fly freely within a warm greenhouse environment. From the historic old town of Konstanz, the island can be easily reached by bike, with a total distance of about 16 kilometers for the round trip.
PILGRIMAGE CHURCH BIRNAU
Magnificent basilica on Lake Constance
The Birnau Pilgrimage Church, beautifully situated on a hill above the Maurach Bay, is one of the most remarkable baroque churches in southern Germany and is often referred to as the Baroque jewel of Lake Constance. Its location alone offers stunning views across the lake toward the Swiss Alps. Built in the 18th century, the church is considered one of the most important sacred baroque buildings in the region. The interior is particularly impressive, featuring elaborate stucco decorations, magnificent frescoes, and detailed sculptures that all create a unique atmosphere. One of the architectural highlights is the seven altars inside the basilica. In addition to the main altar, there are two further altars on each side of the nave, some of which still contain historic paintings from Altbirnau, the former site of the church.