Lake Constance is not only the largest inland body of water in Germany, but is also considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world according to National Geographic. With an area of 536 square kilometers, it almost looks like a sea. It borders directly on four countries and is surrounded by many pretty little towns, such as Meersburg, Constance and Bregenz. One of these towns is located in Bavaria and is characterized by its unique geographical location.
The town on the island
Most of the towns on Lake Constance are located in Baden-Württemberg or abroad, but there is one Bavarian town that stands out from the others, and not just because it belongs to our federal state. Its old town is located on an island in the lake, whereas the other towns are all on the lakeshore. It used to be spread over three islands, consisting of the rear island, the main island and the castle. In 1968, they were united by filling in. It is connected to the shore by a bridge and the railroad embankment.
In terms of surface area, the island is the second largest in Lake Constance after Reichenau. For a long time, it had the largest population, but is now also behind Reichenau. The mainland urban area itself covers an additional 12 kilometers of the shore of Lake Constance.
The town also includes another uninhabited island, which was created artificially. It was a private bathing island for a long time before it was transferred to the Free State of Bavaria in the 1970s, which finally made it available to the town in 2009.
The historic old town
There are still remains of the old fortifications on the island, some of which date back to around 810. Over the centuries, the wall was extended further and further and towers were added, for example. Modifications to the wall continued into the 17th century before it was demolished in the 19th century. In general, the old town has remained largely intact and is now a protected ensemble.
The main street on the island is Maximiliansstraße and forms the pedestrian zone where you can store to your heart’s content. In the center is Bismarckplatz, where the old medieval town hall stands. There is now a market hall on the first floor. In addition to the old town hall, the new town hall is also located here on the square, where you can listen to the carillon every day at 11:45 and 17:45.
Another Lindau landmark is the Thieves’ Tower on Schrannenplatz. Once used to imprison criminals, today you can enjoy the view over the island and the lake from a height of 35 meters. But the tower is also a real eye-catcher from below with its small corner turrets on the roof. Just a few steps away from the Thieves’ Tower is St. Peter’s Church, another highlight of the island town with its onion dome.
Harbour Christmas and Christmas ship
The picturesque entrance to Lindau harbour with its lighthouse and Bavarian lion is worth seeing in itself. During Advent, it also transforms into a winter wonderland that will enchant you with its festive lighting and decorations. In addition to numerous stalls where you can eat delicious delicacies and buy handmade items, there is also a supporting program. Music, city tours, wine tastings and storytelling sessions await you here, so there is plenty on offer for young and old alike.
Another special feature of the Harbour Christmas is the Christmas ship, which is decorated with fairy lights and has a nativity scene exhibition. You can take a round trip on the ship or travel back and forth between Bregenz and Lindau. This way, you can visit two Christmas markets in two different countries in just one day.
But Lindau is also worth a visit at any other time of year. You can reach the island town on Lake Constance by car from Munich in two hours and twenty minutes. It’s only a few minutes longer by train.