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 and is famous for the picturesque towns and villages that surround it, including Güttingen, Stein Am Rhein and Gottmadingen. Enjoy an original and unique experience on the border between 3 countries on the cycle paths of Lake Constance.
Main areas of interest during the stay:
- Meersburg Castle
- The rhine falls
- Constance and Bregenz
- Mainau, famous flower island
- Stein am rhein
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.
Day 2: From Constance to Überlingen/Ludwigshafen (35-50 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, which is part of Lake Constance, 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 on this stage is Meersburg, a charming town with its old town and castle. Its towers rise majestically above the lake. Continue to Friedrichshafen, today's destination. You can visit the Aerospace 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 route takes you through immense orchards on the way to Langenargen and its beautiful Moorish castle. A few kilometers further, you arrive in the Bavarian town of Lindau. Its harbor is protected by a 6-meter-high lion. The old town is built entirely 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. Rorschach and Arbon 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)
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.
