Cycling around Lake Constance, between Switzerland, Austria and Germany
Cycling Lake Constance is an exceptional route to explore. The lake is situated between Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It is famous for the towns and villages surrounding it, such as Constance, Meersburg, and Stein am Rhein. This cycling route takes you to the magnificent Rhine Falls. During a boat trip to the rock in the falls, you can admire them up close and enjoy unique panoramic views.
Main areas of interest during the stay:
- Meersburg Castle
- The rhine falls
- Constance and Bregenz
- Mainau, famous flower island
- Stein am rhein
- Reichenau island
Day 1 : Individual Arrival in Constance
Welcome to Constance, the largest city on the lake. Enjoy your free time to visit Mainau Island, stroll through the old town, or visit the aquarium or the Archaeological Museum.
Overnight in Constance
Day 2 : From Constance to Überlingen/Ludwigshafen (35-55 km)
You'll begin your cycle along the Gnadensee to the former imperial city of Radolfzell, now a spa resort. From there, you'll cross the Bodanrück hills. Upon reaching Überlinger See, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the lake. In the evening, you can enjoy a beautiful walk along the Überlingen.
Overnight stay in Überlingen or Ludwigshafen.
Day 3 : From Überlingen or Ludwigshafen to Friedrichshafen (35 km)
The Lake Constance cycle route takes you along the upper lake to Unteruhldingen. We recommend a visit to the prehistoric stilt village. The next stop takes you to Meersburg. Discover its medieval town and its must-see castle. Its towers rise majestically above the lake. Continue to Friedrichshafen, today's destination. You can visit the Aviation Museum or the Zeppelin Museum. If you'd like to get some heights, climb to the top of the observation tower on the harbor pier. It offers a magnificent panorama of the lake and the Alps.
Overnight in Friedrichshafen.
Day 4 : From Friedrichshafen to Lindau or Bregenz (25-35 km)
Today's stage takes you to Langenargen, where the Moorish-style Montfort Castle overlooks the shores of Lake Constance. You will continue cycling along the lake, passing orchards and idyllic landscapes, until you reach the Bavarian town of Lindau. Its harbour is guarded by a six-metre-tall lion, and the entire old town is located on an island.
Overnight in Lindau or Bregenz
Day 5 : From Lindau to Arbon or Rorschach (45-50 km)
On the way, you visit Bregenz, the capital of the Vorarlberg region in Austria. The town is famous for its festival, whose stage takes shape above the lake. The route then takes you to Höchst, just before crossing the border into Switzerland. Here, head towards to Rorschach and Arbon who are only a few kilometers away.
Overnight in Rorschach or Arbon.
Day 6 : From Rorschach to Constance (30-50 km)
This stage takes you to Romanshorn, the largest Swiss port on Lake Constance. You'll continue along the lakeshore to Constance. Don't hesitate to stop for a swim; there are plenty of opportunities. Upon arrival in Constance, wander the narrow streets of the old town or enjoy a delicious ice cream at the harbor.
Overnight in Constance.
Day 7 : From Constance to Schaffhausen (50 km)
Today, cycling along the lakeshore, you'll reach Stein am Rhein. This village on the banks of the Rhine has beautiful medieval houses decorated with frescoes. Crossing the border between Germany and Switzerland several times, you'll reach Schaffhausen. The town is dominated by Fort Munot.
Overnight in Schaffhausen.
Day 8 : From Schaffhausen to Constance via the Rhine Falls (55-65 km + boat trip).
After breakfast, cycle the short distance to the famous Rhine Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in Europe. Continuing up the Rhine, you'll return to Stein am Rhein before spending a longer period on the Höri peninsula. In Gaienhofen, you'll board the ferry to Reichenau Island. From there, it's only a few kilometers to cycle back to Constance. Collect your luggage in Constance or extend your stay with an extra night.
