Weekend in Konstanz

The oldest part of Konstanz, with cobbled alleys, half-timbered houses, and the medieval Rheintorturm gate. No entry fee to wander the streets and find murals and courtyards.

Tip: Aim for the 'Haus zur Kunkel' at Niederburgerstrasse 19—a well-preserved 14th-century house with a free exhibition on its history. Quietest on weekday mornings.

A public rooftop plaza on top of the main shopping mall, with panoramic views over Lake Constance and the Alps. Free to access via the lifts or stairs. No need to buy anything.

Tip: Go just before sunset for the best light on the lake and mountains. There are a few benches and you can see the Imperia statue clearly from above.

The oldest part of Konstanz, with narrow cobbled lanes, half-timbered houses and medieval towers. Walk from the Münster down to the lake.

Tip: Take the small alley ‘Kreuzlinger Gasse’ – it cuts through to the waterfront and has a quiet courtyard cafe halfway.

Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with a tall tower you can climb for sweeping views over Lake Constance and the old town. The interior is free, with carved choir stalls and medieval frescoes.

Tip: Climb the tower late afternoon for fewer crowds and golden light on the lake—costs about €2, well worth it.

The oldest part of town, with narrow cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and the remains of the medieval city wall. Free to wander.

Tip: Take the path along the old city wall (Stadtmauer) from Schnetztor to Rheintorturm – it's quiet and gives you a genuine sense of medieval Konstanz.

A grand Romanesque and Gothic cathedral with a tall tower. Climbing the 200+ steps costs a few euros, but the main church interior and its impressive Romanesque crypt are free to enter.

Tip: Go on a weekday morning to avoid tour groups. The choir stalls have intricate medieval carvings worth a close look.

A towering medieval cathedral with Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Climb the spire for panoramic views of the lake and town.

Tip: The spire climb costs a few euros, but the main church interior and crypt are free. Go early to avoid queues.

A 9-metre rotating statue of a courtesan holding two figures at the harbour entrance. Built for the 1993 garden show, it’s now the city’s most photographed spot.

Tip: Go at sunset for good light and fewer crowds. The view back toward the old town from the harbour wall is better than the statue itself.

A 9-metre rotating statue at the harbour entrance, depicting a courtesan holding two naked men—a satirical nod to the Council of Constance. Best viewed from the harbour wall.

Tip: Go at sunrise or dusk for photos without crowds; the statue rotates fully every 4 minutes, so wait for the best angle.

A flat, well-maintained walkway along the Rhine between the Untersee and Obersee. Benches, old trees, and views of the water traffic and Swiss shore.

Tip: Bring a picnic and sit near the Schänzle peninsula – it's less crowded than the main promenade and has a small beach area.