Attractions and sightseeing
Island Mainau, 78465 Insel Mainau, Germany
Mainau Island
Mainau Island – The Flower Island of Lake Constance
Mainau, often called the Flower Island, is one of the most enchanting attractions on Lake Constance. Set on the lake’s western shore near Konstanz, it is a natural paradise shaped by both history and careful design. The island is famous for its extraordinary gardens that change character with each season: in spring, millions of tulips and daffodils cover the grounds; in summer, roses bloom in terraced gardens; and in autumn, dahlias burst into colour.
The mild climate allows exotic plants to thrive, including palms, citrus trees, and giant sequoias, creating a Mediterranean feel in the heart of Central Europe. The Butterfly House, one of the largest in Germany, offers an immersive experience among hundreds of free-flying tropical butterflies.
Cultural highlights include the Baroque palace and its church, once the residence of the Grand Dukes of Baden, which today host exhibitions and events. Families also find plenty to enjoy, with themed playgrounds, animal enclosures, and interactive trails.
Accessible by boat, bus, or a scenic walk along the causeway, Mainau is a year-round destination that blends horticultural artistry with natural beauty. Whether you go for a leisurely stroll, a day of photography, or simply to relax by the water, Mainau offers a unique mix of nature, history, and tranquility.
Tickets: https://webshop.mainau.de/de/tagesticket
Münsterpl. 1, 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Konstanz Münster
Konstanz Münster (Cathedral of Our Lady)
The Konstanz Münster is the city’s most prominent landmark, a historic cathedral blending Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements. Its richly decorated interior, crypts, and chapels reflect centuries of religious and cultural history. In warmer months, visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views over the old town, Lake Constance, and the distant Alps.
Imperia, Hafenstraße, Konstanz, Germany
Imperia Statue
Imperia Statue
Standing at the entrance to Konstanz harbour, the Imperia Statue is a striking nine-metre sculpture by artist Peter Lenk. Slowly rotating on its pedestal, it satirically recalls the Council of Constance (1414–1418) and has become one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Old Rhine Bridge, Am Seerhein, Konstanz, Germany
Old Rhine Bridge (Rheinbrücke / Seerhein Bridge)
Old Rhine Bridge (Rheinbrücke / Seerhein Bridge)
The Old Rhine Bridge connects the historic old town of Konstanz with the neighbourhood of Petershausen across the Seerhein. Originally built in the Middle Ages, the bridge has been rebuilt and modernized over centuries while retaining its historic charm. Today it serves pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, offering scenic views of the Rhine, the harbour, and the surrounding old town. The bridge is a popular spot for photos, leisurely walks, and observing the boats passing underneath.
Wessenbergstraße 43, 78462 Konstanz-Altstadt, Germany
Wessenberg-Galerie (Municipal Gallery)
The Wessenberg-Galerie is a municipal art gallery housed in a historic building in the heart of Konstanz. It features rotating exhibitions of contemporary and regional art, with a focus on artists from the Lake Constance region. The gallery is a cultural hub for art enthusiasts and offers a glimpse into the local art scene.
Address: Wessenbergstraße 43, 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
Admission:
Adults: €5.00
Reduced (students, groups of 10 or more): €3.00
Free entry on the first Sunday of each month
School classes: Free
Access: The gallery is centrally located and easily accessible on foot or by public transport.
Rheinpromenade, 78462 Konstanz
Seerhein Promenade
The Seerhein Promenade is a scenic lakeside walkway that stretches along the Seerhein River, connecting the old town of Konstanz with the University of Konstanz. Lined with trees, benches, and cafés, it's a popular spot for leisurely walks, cycling, and enjoying views of the lake and surrounding nature.
Address: Seerhein Promenade, 78462 Konstanz, Germany
Opening Hours: Open year-round, 24/7
Admission: Free
Access: Easily accessible from the city center; ideal for walking or cycling.
Rosgartenmuseum Konstanz, Rosgartenstraße, Konstanz-Altstadt, Germany
The Rosgartenmuseum
The Rosgartenmuseum in Constance is a significant cultural and city museum founded in 1870 by pharmacist and city councilor Ludwig Leiner. It is housed in the medieval guildhall "Zum Rosgarten," first mentioned in 1324 and later connected with the neighboring "Zum Schwarzen Widder." The museum provides a multifaceted insight into the history of the city and the Lake Constance region.
Address: Rosgartenstraße 3–5, 78462 Constance, Germany
Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 – 18:00
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays: 10:00 – 17:00
Closed on Mondays
Admission Fees:
Adults: €5.00
Reduced (e.g., students): €3.00
Family Ticket: €7.00
Annual Pass: €20.00
Special Rates:
School Groups: €0.50 per child
Groups of 10 or more: €3.00 per person
Free Admission:
Every first Sunday of the month
Wednesdays from 14:00
More Information: For current exhibitions, events, and further details, visit rosgartenmuseum.de
Hafenstraße 2, Konstanz-Altstadt, Germany
Council Building (Konzilgebäude) in Constance
The Council Building in Constance is a remarkable example of medieval architecture and plays a central role in the city's history. Originally built in 1388 as a warehouse for trade, it later became the site of the Council of Constance (1414–1418), where Pope Martin V was elected in 1417. Today, the building serves as a venue for concerts, conferences, and weddings, and is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors.
Address:
Hafenstraße 2
78462 Constance
Opening Hours:
Daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Admission:
Entry is free. Admission fees may apply for events.
Highlights:
The building impresses with its historic architecture and views of Lake Constance. The rooms are adorned with murals depicting the city's history. The Konzil-Gaststätten inside offer Baden rustic cuisine with regional ingredients and a terrace with lake view
Reichenau Island, Reichenau, Germany
Reichenau Island
Explore Reichenau Island – A Tranquil UNESCO Gem
Just a short journey from Hotel Chérisy, Reichenau Island is a peaceful retreat on Lake Constance, renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage churches, lush landscapes, and rich monastic history. Spanning 4.3 km², the island offers visitors a harmonious mix of cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and relaxing activities – perfect for a day trip from Konstanz.
Address:
Insel Reichenau
78479 Reichenau
Baden-Württemberg, Germany
How to Get There from Hotel Chérisy Konstanz
By Train:
From the hotel, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to Konstanz Main Station. From there, take the S1 train toward Mannenbach-Salenstein and get off at Konstanz-Fürstenberg. The journey is short, around 30 minutes, and train tickets cost approximately €2–€8.
By Ferry:
For a more scenic option, catch a ferry from Konstanz Hafen to Reichenau. The ride takes about 54 minutes and offers stunning views of Lake Constance. Ferry tickets typically cost €12–€15.
By Car or Taxi:
Driving is also convenient: the island is about 12 km from the hotel, roughly a 15-minute ride by taxi.
What to Do on Reichenau Island
Explore UNESCO-listed Churches: Visit the Romanesque churches of St. George, St. Peter and Paul, and St. Mary, each showcasing the island’s monastic history. Guided tours are available.
Museum Reichenau: Discover fascinating exhibits on the island’s medieval past. Entrance: Adults €8, Children €4.
Scenic Walks and Cycling: Enjoy peaceful paths through vineyards, orchards, and along the lakeshore.
Boat Tours: See the island from the water for a unique perspective.
Guests with the Bodensee Card PLUS enjoy one-time free admission to selected attractions.
Reichenau Island is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours. It’s just a short trip from Hotel Chérisy, making it a perfect addition to your stay in Konstanz.