Lindau: what's worth seeing on an island in Lake Constance
April 11, 2025
Lindau, a charming island located in Lake Constance, is a true gem of southern Germany that delights tourists with its medieval character and fabulous scenery. Surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the lake and the majestic Alps in the background, the island of Lindau offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the most interesting corners of this picturesque island, discovering its historical treasures, charming backstreets and unusual attractions that make Lindau an ideal place for an unforgettable vacation.
Ad
The iconic symbols of Lindau - the Bavarian Lion and the historic harbor
Beginning a tour of Lindau, it is impossible to miss the most recognizable symbols of the island that greet visitors arriving from the lake. The first of these is the majestic Bavarian Lion (Bayerischer Löwe), a monumental sculpture guarding the entrance to the harbor. This imposing 6-meter-high stone lion statue was erected in 1856 and has been proudly gazing out over the waters of Lake Constance ever since.
The Bayerischer Löwe, located on the Römerschanze, is not only a magnificent work of art, but also an excellent vantage point. Standing next to the lion, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake, the mountains in the distance and the charming old town of Lindau. This is the perfect place for a souvenir photo, which will be a great souvenir of your stay on the island. It is worth noting that the sculpture enjoys a very high rating among tourists - 4.8 out of 5 stars, which proves its undeniable charm and importance to visitors.
Near the Bavarian Lion, in the heart of the historic harbor, is another symbol of Lindau - the historic lighthouse. Although not included in our POI list, this landmark is an integral part of the island's landscape and blends perfectly with the majestic lion. Together they form an unforgettable gateway to the city, which has welcomed sailors and tourists for centuries.
Strolling along the waterfront, look out for the lively restaurants and cafes, which offer not only delicious local delicacies, but also breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. This is the perfect place to savor the taste of fresh fish from Lake Constance while sipping on local wine.
For lovers of history and architecture, a visit to the Neptunbrunnen, also known as the Maximilian Fountain, will be a must. This beautiful fountain, dating back to 1840, is located in the heart of the historic Marktplatz. Surrounded by historic townhouses and nearby churches, the Neptune fountain is the centerpiece of the old town and is a testament to Lindau's rich history.
The Neptunbrunnen impresses with its craftsmanship and rich symbolism. The fountain's central figure is, of course, Neptune, the Roman god of the seas, highlighting Lindau's strong ties to shipping and maritime trade. The fountain not only serves a decorative function, but is also a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, the Neptune Fountain is held in high regard by visitors who appreciate its historical value and charm.
The heart of the island - the historic old town and charming backstreets
Continuing our tour of Lindau, we can't leave out one of the city's most important landmarks - the Altes Rathaus, or Old City Hall. A true architectural gem, this impressive building is the focal point of the old town and is a testament to Lindau's rich history. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, the Altes Rathaus impresses tourists with its monumental facade decorated with beautiful frescoes that tell the story of the city and the region.
The Old City Hall is not just a visual attraction - it is a living monument to Lindau's culture and traditions. The interior of the building, although not always open to the public, hides the rooms where the most important decisions concerning the city were made over the centuries. Today, in addition to its administrative functions, the Altes Rathaus is also a venue for various cultural events, making it vibrant all year round.
Walking around the city hall, it is worth noting the narrow cobblestone streets surrounding it, which lead to hidden squares and alleys. Each has its own history and charm, offering countless opportunities to explore Lindau's medieval character. It's the perfect place for a leisurely stroll while enjoying colorful house facades, atmospheric cafes and small local stores offering handicrafts and regional products.
Not far from the Old Town Hall is another gem of Lindau - the Lindavia Fountain (Lindaviabrunnen). Built in 1884, this beautiful red marble structure pays tribute to the city's rich history and culture. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, the fountain is not only a work of art, but also a symbolic representation of Lindau's economy and traditions.
Lindaviabrunnen, designed by Wilhelm Rümann, depicts at the top a figure symbolizing the city of Lindau. The four corner statues represent key elements of the island's economy: shipping, fishing, winemaking and agriculture. It's not only a beautiful object, but also a lesson in the history and economy of the region shown in art form.
The area around the Lindavia fountain is a great place to rest and relax for a while. The surrounding small park and children's playground make it an ideal place for families. Here you can sit on a bench, enjoying the tranquility and atmosphere of the old town, while observing the daily life of Lindau residents.
It's worth noting that both the Altes Rathaus and Lindaviabrunnen are well-preserved and well-maintained, demonstrating the locals' great affection for their cultural heritage. Both sites are easily accessible and within walking distance of each other, making it easy to visit even for people with limited mobility or families with young children.
For those who want to explore Lindau's history in greater depth, consider a visit to the nearby City Museum, which, although not included in our POI list, is a valuable resource for learning about the island's past and culture. The museum offers interesting expositions that give you a better understanding of the historical context of the monuments you can admire on the city's streets.
The green lungs of Lindau - relaxation surrounded by nature
After an intensive tour of Lindau's historic center, take a moment to relax and unwind surrounded by nature. The ideal place for this is the Gartendenkmal Lindenhofpark, a true oasis of calm in the heart of the island. With an impressive 4.7 out of 5 star rating, this beautiful park offers visitors the opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the greenery.
Lindenhofpark, located at Lindenhofweg 19, is not only a place of recreation, but also a garden monument of great historical and cultural significance. The park has been carefully designed to combine elements of a formal garden with more natural, wild areas. This diversity means that there is something for everyone, whether seeking shade under the centuries-old trees or admiring the carefully maintained flower beds.
One of Lindenhofpark's greatest assets is the breathtaking views of Lake Constance and the surrounding mountains. It's the perfect place for a family picnic or a leisurely stroll among the greenery. The park is also a popular destination for photographers, both amateur and professional, because of the picturesque scenery it offers at any time of the year.
It is worth noting that the park is well-maintained and clean, which is appreciated by tourists and locals alike. The only downside, as pointed out by some visitors, is the lack of lighting after dark, which limits the ability to enjoy the park in the evening.
For those looking for even more greenery and space for active recreation, it is worth mentioning the numerous bicycle and pedestrian paths that surround the island of Lindau. Although not included in our POI list, they are an excellent addition to the city's recreational offerings. These trails allow you to discover the beauty of the surrounding countryside and are ideal for both families with children and more demanding outdoor enthusiasts.
To sum up our trip to Lindau, we can't help but mention the overall impression the place makes on visitors. The island combines the charm of a medieval town with modern tourist infrastructure, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. From the majestic Bavarian Lion guarding the harbor, to the charming backstreets of the old town with Neptune's fountain and the Old Town Hall, to the green spaces of Lindenhofpark, every element of Lindau creates a cohesive and fascinating whole.
Also worth mentioning is the excellent organization of public transportation, which makes it easy to explore not only the island itself, but also the entire Lake Constance region. As a result, Lindau can serve as an excellent base for discovering the charms of southern Germany, Austria or Switzerland.
Lindau is a place that is sure to delight history and culture buffs as well as those looking for a quiet vacation by the water. Whether you're coming here for a weekend getaway or planning a longer stay, the island on Lake Constance offers countless ways to spend your time, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.
Similar articles
Ad