March 7, 2026, 1:23 pm | Read time: 7 minutes
Vacationing in their own country remains the top choice for many Germans. Even before the start of the 2026 season, surveys show that about one in four plans a (short) trip within Germany. Regions with water, mountains, and mild climates are particularly popular. At the country’s largest lake, not only do four countries meet, but also picturesque old towns, idyllic shore landscapes, and consequently numerous visitors. However, those who look closer will also find places away from the well-known hotspots. TRAVELBOOK reveals seven such hidden gems around Lake Constance.
Natural Swimming Lake and Outdoor Pool, Steißlingen
Not every section of Lake Constance is ideal for swimming. Shallow shore zones and algae growth in summer make entering the water difficult in many places, and longer swimming rounds are hardly pleasant. A popular alternative in the region is the natural lake near the community of Steißlingen. The lake is considered one of the cleanest swimming lakes in the area. Its water is deep, clear, and pleasantly cool—ideal for jumping in, diving, and swimming. At the same time, the lake is under special protection: As a natural monument, it is meant to preserve its valuable habitat for plants and animals.
Swimming is therefore only allowed in the specially designed outdoor pool on the shore. This offers the best conditions: a spacious sunbathing lawn, a large water playground, a beach volleyball court, table tennis tables, and a kiosk with a terrace. In the water, a separate non-swimmer area provides additional safety. Lifeguards also monitor the swimming operations. For families, the swimming lake is a relaxing alternative to the larger neighbor, Lake Constance. Admission is family-friendly, with tickets starting at 1.50 euros.
Marienschlucht, Bodman-Ludwigshafen
Those who visited Lake Constance about a decade ago might remember Marienschlucht. Once a popular destination for nature and hiking enthusiasts, the gorge made headlines in May 2015 when a landslide buried two hikers, and the access points were closed for safety reasons.
After about eleven years and investments of around 4.5 million euros, Marienschlucht is finally completely open again at the end of March. A new, safe panoramic path leads visitors between massive rock walls directly to the shore of Lake Constance. In the middle of the forest, historic castle ruins invite exploration, and an information path offers even the youngest exciting insights into the nature and history of the region.
Especially convenient: A dedicated boat dock allows for boarding and disembarking right on site. Ideal for a varied tour on the water and on foot.
Concert Sail, Radolfzell
The lakeshore of Radolfzell, separated from the old town by the train station, is a wonderful place for walks and all kinds of activities. Heading south, the Concert Sail can be reached in just a few minutes. Thanks to the reclaimed shore, a wide area has been created here, where the architectural peculiarity stands. The structure, reminiscent of an oversized fishing net, is even a protected monument. Many events take place at this open-air stage in the summer, including the well-known Lake Festival and other concerts of all genres.
The nearby lake bar adds a real vacation flair to this spot with cozy deck chairs, cold summer drinks, and authentic Swabian cuisine. The perfect mix of culture, leisure, and relaxation.
Grill Area at the Water Tower, Horn
On the flat German side of Lake Constance, where the Alps do not yet dominate the view, small elevations are particularly sought after. They offer rare panoramic views over water, fields, and the gentle hills of the region. One of the most beautiful spots for this is near the small community of Horn on the Höri peninsula.
At the former water tower on the edge of the Lower Lake, a wide view opens up over the lake to the opposite shore. The special feature: The place is not only a viewpoint but also a public grill area. A large fire pit with modern equipment invites you to grill together here. The large lawn offers plenty of space to linger, especially suitable for families. Children can play and romp around freely here. Everyone is welcome at any time—groups of more than 10 people should register with the community in advance.
It becomes particularly atmospheric in the evening: When the sun slowly sets over the Lower Lake, it bathes the water, fields, and sky in warm gold and orange tones.
Bismarck Tower, Konstanz
The Bismarck Tower in Konstanz is one of numerous towers in Germany erected in honor of Otto von Bismarck and is also the tallest in Baden-Württemberg. Since its inauguration in 1912, it has been a popular meeting point. Between vineyards and on the expansive lawn, people picnic, celebrate, and enjoy the view.
After a short but steep climb, you reach an enclosed area where two fire pits invite summer grilling or winter warming. From here, an impressive panorama unfolds: the old town of Konstanz, Lake Constance with the Rhine delta, and the opposite Swiss shore with the Alpine range.
Today, the tower is owned by a carnival club that opens the doors to everyone on some Sundays in the summer and during good weather. At 23 meters high, the view is even more impressive. It’s worth stopping by!
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Beach, Altnau
In summer, you often hear the call “Off to the Badi!” on the Swiss shore of Lake Constance. In Switzerland, this is how swimming pools or bathing facilities at lakes are referred to. Almost every community has such a facility, many of them directly on Lake Constance. Visitors find well-maintained sunbathing lawns, shady spots, and usually free access to the water. Some Badis are simple, while others offer additional sports areas or rental stations.
A particularly beautiful beach is located in Altnau. The place is mainly known for its apple orchards and for an exceptionally long wooden pier that extends about 300 meters into Lake Constance. Hence, it is said that the apple village has also received its stem here. At the end of the pier, a small platform invites you to jump into the deep water or sunbathe directly over the lake.
The facility also offers a spacious sunbathing lawn, public grill areas, and sanitary facilities. The best way to reach the beach is by bicycle—or, as they say in Switzerland, by “Velo.”
Fischersteg Sunset Bar, Bregenz
Around 1900, a curious city ordinance prohibited fishing from the shore in Bregenz. The residents responded creatively: They built a long wooden pier that extends far into the lake to cast their fishing rods from there. Later, the pier even served as a landing stage for a seaplane. An experiment that was quickly discontinued.
For about ten years, the pier has become one of the trendiest spots for a sundowner at Lake Constance: the Fischersteg Sunset Bar. Sitting on barstools under a romantic pavilion and along the pier, visitors enjoy freshly mixed cocktails with an unparalleled view. You sit almost directly on the water, with the impressive mountain panorama and city backdrop in the background. A real highlight!
In summer, during the Bregenz Festival, the music even floats over the lake to the bar, and from the pier, the spectacular stage set can be well observed. Those who want to experience this hidden gem should come early. The seats are limited and very popular among insiders.