Travel Guide to Lindau am Bodensee, Bavaria, Germany

Discover Lindau, the Bavarian gem on Lake Constance

About Lindau on Lake Constance

Lindau on Lake Constance It is a city in southwestern Bavaria, located on the eastern shore of Lake Bodensee (Lake Constance), in the “Four Countries” region—Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. It is the seat of the Lindau district and the southwesternmost city in Bavaria, belonging to the administrative region of Schwaben (Swabia). The city has a population of approximately 27,000 and covers an area of about 33 square kilometers; its historic center is located on an island of about 70 hectares, the second-largest on Lake Constance.

Elevation: about 400 meters above sea level

Coordinates: approximately 47°33′N 9°42′E

Lindau is one of those places where the city and nature seem to have come together in a unique setting. The old town, with its narrow streets and medieval and Baroque buildings, occupies the island, while the mainland features green spaces, historic parks, and the lakeside promenade. The entrance to the harbor, dominated by the Lion of Bavaria and the New Lighthouse, is the city’s iconic image.

The name Lindau is first mentioned in historical records as early as 882 and is linked to the phrase „the island where linden trees grow.” The city’s history is closely tied to its location on Lake Constance: Lindau became an imperial city in 1275 and retained this status for over 700 years. From 1805–1806, the city became part of Bavaria.

Today, Lindau is a destination where you can easily combine a stroll through a well-preserved historic center with the lakeside vacation atmosphere, views of the Alps, and trips to Austria, Switzerland, or Liechtenstein.

Past and present

The history of Lindau dates back to the Early Middle Ages. The first documented mention of the „island where linden trees grow”—from which the town’s name derives—dates back to the year 882. At that time, the island was home to a few fishermen’s cottages and a convent founded around the year 810.
In the Middle Ages, the island’s location—which made it easier to defend—fostered the town’s development. In 1079, the local market was moved from the mainland to the island, and Lindau began to emerge as an important commercial center.
In 1275, King Rudolf I declared Lindau a free imperial city. The city retained this status for several hundred years, during which time it experienced significant economic and commercial growth.
At the beginning of the 19th century, the political changes brought about by Napoleon put an end to its status as an imperial city. In 1805–1806, Lindau became part of Bavaria.
The 19th century brought industrialization and better connections to the outside world. Lindau was linked to the Lake Constance shipping network and, later, to the railroad. Two of the city’s landmarks also date from this period: the Bavarian Lion and the New Lighthouse at the entrance to the harbor.
On February 1, 1922, the city of Lindau acquired an administrative structure similar to its current one through the incorporation of the towns of Aeschach, Hoyren, and Reutin; Reitnau was added later.

The historic center of Lindau is located on Lindau Island, which covers approximately 70 hectares. The old island, narrow streets, historic buildings, and the promenade along the shores of Lake Constance preserve the atmosphere of a medieval town very well, while its connections to Austria and Switzerland give it an international character.

Lindau is one of those cities where you don’t have to go to a museum to find history. You simply discover it as you stroll through the Altstadt, along Maximilianstraße, toward the harbor and the lakeshore.

Route map

(click on objectives for extended version)

1. Lake Constance. The beaches.

Lake Bodensee It is one of the main attractions of the city of Lindau. The lakeshore offers superb views of the Alps and plenty of places to walk, relax, and swim.

For a day at the beach, Eichwald Beach It's a great choice: it has direct access to the lake, a sandy beach, a lawn for relaxing, and facilities for children and sports activities.

A quieter option is Lindenhofbad, located in Lindenhofpark. Admission is free, and there is direct access to the lake, a large grassy area, and the option to rent kayaks.

In the summer, the shores of Lake Constance are the perfect place for a swim in the lake, a walk, or simply a few hours of relaxation with a panoramic view of the Alps.

Lake Bodensee (Constanța) and the Alps

the lakeside promenade

beach at Lake Constance

cruises and lake transportation

2. The New Lighthouse

The New Lighthouse (Neuer Leuchtturm) It is one of the landmarks of the city of Lindau and stands right at the entrance to the harbor. Built between 1853 and 1856, it is 36 meters tall and is the southernmost lighthouse in Germany and the only one in Bavaria.

The lighthouse is open to visitors, and the 139 steps lead to a viewing platform where you can enjoy a superb panoramic view of Lake Constance, Lindau Island, the Alps, and the Three-Country Area.

It's worth the climb, especially on a clear day. Inside, you'll find information and stories about Lindau and Lake Constance.

Price: 5 € for adults, 3 € for children (ages 6–15).

Visit to the Farul Nou Museum

The Mang Tower as seen from the New Lighthouse

The New Lighthouse

The Bridge to the New Lighthouse

3. The Port. Ships. Boats.

The port of Lindau is one of the most beautiful places in the city. At the entrance to the port is The Lion of Bavaria and the New Lighthouse, and numerous ships and boats set out from here onto Lake Constance.

From Lindau Harbor You can take day cruises, scenic boat rides, or trips to other towns along the lake. During the 2026 season, cruises to Bregenz and Three-Country Tour, a trip lasting about 1.5 hours along the coasts of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Even if you don't take a boat trip, it's worth taking a stroll around the harbor area. It's one of the liveliest spots in Lindau and offers excellent views of the lake and the Alps.

Tip: A boat ride is one of the most enjoyable ways to see Lindau and the scenery around Lake Constance.

The Port of Lindau on Lake Constance

Symbols - The Bavarian Lion and the New Lighthouse

yacht and boat marina

ship entering the port

4. Mang Tower

Mang Tower (Mangturm) It is one of Lindau's most famous landmarks and is located on the harbor promenade. Built in the 12th century, it was part of the medieval fortifications and served as a watchtower and signal tower.

The tower has 35 meters high and is notable for its colorful roof, with glazed tiles. After the New Lighthouse was built in 1856, it lost its original function. Today, it is one of the most photographed landmarks in Lindau.

Inside, you can climb up to the observation deck, where you’ll enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the harbor, the city, and Lake Constance. There are 89 steps, and the facility is not accessible to people with limited mobility.

In the center of the port stands the Mang Tower

Mang Tower

The Mang Tower as seen from the New Lighthouse

5. The Bavarian Lion

The Bavarian Lion (Bayerischer Löwe) It is one of Lindau's most iconic landmarks and stands at the entrance to the harbor, facing Lake Constance. The sandstone statue was created in 1856, commissioned by King Maximilian II of Bavaria and created by the sculptor Johann von Halbig. It has It is 6 meters tall and weighs about 50 metric tons.

The lion looks toward the Austrian shore of the lake and, together with The New Lighthouse, the famous landmark at the entrance to the port of Lindau. It is one of the most photographed spots in the city, with Lake Constance and the Alps in the background.

It's worth stopping here to take a few photos, especially if you happen to visit on a clear day. The view of the harbor, the monumental statue, and the lighthouse together form one of Lindau’s most iconic sights.

The Majestic Bavarian Lion

the coat of arms of the Kingdom of Bavaria

Symbols - The Bavarian Lion and the New Lighthouse

The Magnificent Bavarian Lion

6. The Old Town (Altstadt)

Old Town (Altstadt) It is located on the island of Lindau and is the most picturesque part of the city. The narrow streets, historic houses, squares, and colorful buildings are best explored on foot.

An important place is Maximilianstraße, the main pedestrian street, about 230 meters long, lined with stately homes, shops, restaurants, and cafes.

In the city center, you'll also find Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall), built in 1422, with a richly decorated facade, as well as St. Peter's Church, one of the oldest churches in Lindau.

Recommendation: Leave your car behind and explore the Altstadt on foot. The best discoveries are often found in the side streets, away from the main route.

another painted building

buildings in the old town

through the Old Town

7. Old City Hall. New City Hall.

Old City Hall (Altes Rathaus) It is one of the most impressive buildings in Lindau's Old Town. Built in the Gothic style between 1422 and 1436, the building stands out for its richly decorated and colorful façade, built in the late 19th century.

Inside is the famous Gothic council chamber, where, in In 1496, Emperor Maximilian I convened the Imperial Diet (Reichstag). On the ground floor, visitors can also tour the city's former Imperial Library (ERB).

New City Hall (Neues Rathaus) It is located nearby, on Bismarckplatz, and today houses the city administration. Together, the two buildings form one of the most interesting architectural ensembles in Lindau.

It's worth stopping for a few minutes in front of the Old City Hall to admire the paintings and the details of the facade before continuing your walk along Maximilianstraße.

the spectacular facade of the Old City Hall

New City Hall

The Wonderful Old City Hall

8. An Evening on Lindau Island

In the evening, Lindau Island takes on a special atmosphere. Once the tourists start to leave, the narrow streets and the illuminated historic buildings become the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll.

You can start with a walk on Maximilianstraße, then continue toward the harbor promenade, where you’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the lake and the surrounding lights. The street, with its medieval cobblestones, patrician houses, restaurants, and cafés, is one of the most pleasant places for an evening stroll.

For dinner, there are plenty of restaurants in the Old Town and harbor areas. And if you want to end the evening on a special note, it's worth checking out the schedule The Lindau Puppet Theater, which puts on performances at the city theater.

Recommendation: Don't leave Lindau right after sunset. An evening stroll through the Altstadt and along the harbor promenade is one of the city's most beautiful experiences.

an evening on the island

The Landmarks of Lindau Island at Night

Lake Constance at dusk

the steamship anchored at the dock

Conclusion

Lindau It is a destination that manages to combine, within a relatively small area, the lake, the mountains, the history, and the Bavarian atmosphere. The island is easy to explore on foot, from the harbor—dominated by the Bavarian Lion and the New Lighthouse—to the picturesque narrow streets of the Old Town.

Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or staying longer, Lindau is definitely worth adding to your list of places to visit on Lake Constance. A stroll along the lakefront, a boat cruise, a coffee in the Altstadt, or simply an evening at the harbor are enough to appreciate the charm of this city.

Lindau is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful destinations on Lake Constance and a place worth returning to.

All the best!

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