The town of Konstanz, situated on a shore of Lake Constance, is one of the popular holiday destinations, since the town has direct access to the lake, may offer a lot of attractions and, in addition, it`s a point from where you can get to the famous flower island of Mainau. Konstanz is located on the southern shore of Bodensee (German name of Constance Lake), on the border with Switzerland. Among the ways how to get to Konstanz, public transport and a rented car prevail.
Table of Contents:
How to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt
How to get to Konstanz from Stuttgart
How to get to Konstanz from Munich
How to get to Konstanz from Zurich
When to travel to Konstanz
I have been to the Baden-Wurttemberg region and, in short, I can say the area is full of incredible places to visit, be it tiny gingerbread towns or inspiring natural landscapes. Lake Constance is one of the most well-known places for travelling in the region. Konstanz town, in turn, is the “gateway” to the lake and its magnificent island of flowers called Mainau. Based on my experience of travelling around the Baden-Wurttemberg region, plus some research, I created this post about visiting Konstanz and the Mainau island.
The best time of the year to visit Konstanz on Lake Constance is summer indeed. In case you want to swim and sunbathe you`d better choose the period between mid-June and mid-September when the weather is sunny and the water is getting warm. Other seasons suites best for nature walking, seeing architectural attractions and enjoying the cultural heritage.
Besides, Konstanz is well-known for flower island of Mainau, to which it has direct access. The flower island of Mainau is also better to visit during the summertime when the flowers are constantly blossoming. Here you can see a great design landscape with different flowers sculptures and rarely-seen types of plants. Keep in mind that the island is pedestrian. How to get to Konstanz is your choice, but you can reach the island only on foot.
How to get to Konstanz
Please note that some of the links on the website might be affiliate links, which means that at absolutely no extra cost for you our website will earn a small commission. Thank you for supporting this project! Our Disclaimer
Where do you fly into to get to Konstanz? You can get to Konstanz by taking regular flights to Stuttgart or Frankfurt. These cities both have international airports. Check the current timetable from your city at Aviasales booking service. Then you can get to Konstanz from Frankfurt or Stuttgart by train, bus or rented car. Constance is considered to be one of the southernmost cities of the Baden-Wurttemberg region along with Freiburg, however, unlike Freiburg, Konstanz has direct access to Lake Constance, which makes it a popular resort destination.
How to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt
After some research, I discovered that the distance between Frankfurt and Konstanz is almost 360 km. The cities are connected with highway # A81, passing by Mannheim, Karlsruhe and Stuttgart. You can get to Konstanz from Frankfurt by train, as well as by bus or rented car. These are the most popular ways how to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt.
How to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt by train
There are no direct trains between Frankfurt and Konstanz, but you can get there with a train change, for example, in Offenburg or Baden-Baden. The duration of the change is not significant in time; therefore, it does not particularly affect the total travel time, which is about 4,5 hours. You can check the train schedule at the Raileurope booking service. I use Raileurope a lot for checking out the current train timetable when travelling in Europe. In my opinion, it is a very convenient service, because I can compare different routes, duration of the train journey and many other useful options.
How to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt by bus
Most buses run between Frankfurt and Konstanz with a change, but a direct bus also runs once a day. A travel time is approx. 6 hours. The direct bus departs from Frankfurt train station at 11 am. The shortest option with a change takes 6.5 hours.
How to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt by car
Another popular way to travel between cities in Germany is to rent a car. You can rent a car right at the airport upon arrival, or at any other rental offices in Frankfurt. You can also book a car in advance on the different booking services such as Discover Cars, Economybookings, etc.
◊A useful tip: Compare a few of booking services to choose the best price. Roads in Germany are high-speed (the so-called autobahns), so you can move along quickly and comfortably. Frankfurt and Konstanz are connected with highway # A81 (see on the map). I travelled a lot via autobahns in Germany, including the autonahn leading from Frankfurt, so I can confirm they are pretty much comfortable and it is often the fastest way to get to the desired destination. A car journey is one of the most popular option how to get to Konstanz from Frankfurt or any other large cities.
How to get to Konstanz from Stuttgart
Based on my research, the distance between Stuttgart and Konstanz is 170 km. The public transport variants how to get to Konstanz from Stuttgart are trains or buses. Also, as an option, you can use a rented car, then you need to move along the highway No. A81.
How to get to Konstanz from Stuttgart by train
There are trains from Stuttgart to Konstanz with a change in Singen; the travel time varies from 2.5 to 3 hours (depending on the type of a train). Trains run throughout the day. You can check the train schedule at the Raileurope booking service.
How to get to Konstanz from Stuttgart by train
Getting from Stuttgart to Konstanz by bus is even faster than by train. The travel time on a direct route is about 2 hours. Buses run 5 to 7 times a day. The earliest departs at 6.50, the latest departs at 19.30. Please note that the pick-up point may be different – Stuttgart railway station, Stuttgart airport, Kornwestheim or Böblingen stops, check it before your departure.
How to get to Konstanz from Stuttgart by car
One more advisable way to travel between cities in Germany is to rent a car. You can rent a car right at the airport upon arrival, or at any other rental offices in Stuttgart. You can also book a car in advance on the different booking services such as Discover Cars, Economybookings, etc. I compared various online services for and these ones have a lot of positive reviews that is why I can recommend them.
◊A useful tip: Compare a few of booking services to choose the best price. Roads in Germany are high-speed (the so-called autobahns), so you can move along quickly and comfortably. Stuttgart is connected to Konstanz with highway № A81 (see on the map).
How to get to Konstanz from Munich
Munich is considered to be one more popular starting point for travelling to Lake Constance ans its resorts. The distance between Munich and Konstanz town is 230 km. Tourists can use either public transport or a car to reach the desired travel destination. Let’s explore possible options.
How to get to Konstanz from Munich by train
You can reach Konstanz from Munich by train only with a change in swiss Saint Gallen. The total travel time is about 4 hours one-way. Trains depart from Munich every 2 hours during the day. You can check the train timetable at the Raileurope booking service. I can recommend this online service as it has an accurate information and a convenient search.
How to get to Konstanz from Munich by bus
Another available option is to take a regular bus from Munich Central Bus Station to get to Konstanz. Buses have direct routes so you don’t need to make a change. The final stop on the route is Constance Allmannsdorf. Buses depart at 08.20, 10.20, 13.15, 16.20 and 18.20. The timetable may vary depending on the day of the week. The transportation is carried out by Flixbus. The travel time is about 3.5 hours.
How to get to Konstanz from Munich by car
Many tourists prefer to travel on their own. It is quite easy to hire a car in Munich and freely travel around Lake Constance. Munich and Konstanz are connected by #A96 motorway (see on the map). The distance is about 230 km (or 142 miles). The travel time by car is 3.5 hours on average. I recommend a car for renting in Munich in advance as Munich is a very popular tourist destination. I usually use such well-known online services as Discover Cars, Economybookings and some others. In my point of view, they have a convenient search and are easy to use.
How to get to Konstanz from Zurich
Some tourists reach Konstanz from Zurich as Zurich is located in just 70 km away (or 44 miles). I would say it is super easy to get to Konstanz from Zurich as a motorway and a railway are available on the route. Let’s discover the most convenient options.
How to get to Konstanz from Zurich by train
As I found out there are direct and connecting trains between Zurich and Konstanz. If change is needed, it takes place in Singen. The total travel time is about 1.5 hours or slightly more. You can check the train timetable at the Raileurope booking service. I often use this online service when planning my trips around Europe. By the way, travellers can also take a bus to reach their travel destination, but buses leave Zurich not so often as trains. The bus carrier is Flixbus. The travel time is approximately 1 hour 50 minutes.
How to get to Konstanz from Zurich by car
Zurich and Konstanz are connected by motorways # A1 and A7 (see on the map). The travel time by car is 1 hour. The distance is just 70 km. After some research, I can confirm that there are a lot of car rental companies based in Zurich either in the city center or at the airport. I would recommend booking a car in advance, so you can save your money and time on the spot. I usually use such international online services as Discover Cars, Economybookings and some others. In my opinion, they are easy-to-use and have a lot of options.
Where to stay in Konstanz
After you decided how to get to Konstanz, it is the time to figure out accommodation options. When choosing a hotel in Konstanz, you should consider its location. If the main purpose of your trip is to relax by the lake, then it`s better to look for hotels near the first line. If you are going to Konstanz for a sightseeing holiday and visiting the flower island of Mainau, then it makes sense to choose a hotel in the Old Town, where the most picturesque architectural attractions are located. I did some research and I can say that tourists can find a lot of different accommodation options to stay here.
3-star hotels
ABC Hotel 3* is located near the train station, which is within walking distance. Lake Constance is 1 km from the hotel. Nearby there is a bus stop, from which you can get to the historical part of the town. The hotel offers its guests free Wi-Fi and free private parking (reservation is not required). If you choose a car as a transport option how to get to Konstanz, then availability of parking will be very important. Laundry and ironing services are also available upon request. All rooms are spacious; you can choose a single, double or junior suite room.
Inside you can find a kitchenette, TV, hair dryer, telephone, radio, mini-bar, coffee machine. Buffet breakfasts are included in the price. The breakfasts consistently receive high ratings from the guests. Check-in is from 14.00, check-out is until 11.00.
ibis Konstanz 3* is a 5-minute walk from the Bodensee and the Old Town. It offers beach access and an indoor pool. In summer, you can use the outdoor terrace for relaxation. The hotel has a 24-hour bar. Paid public parking is available nearby. Luggage storage is also available. The hotel offers single and double rooms, where you can find air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, telephone, radio. Buffet breakfasts are available for a charge. The front desk is open 24/7. Check-in is from 15.00, check-out is until 12.00.
B&Bs and no-star hotels
B&B Hotel Konstanz 2* offers bed and breakfast services. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and free parking. It is located away from the main attractions and the lake, but they can be easily reached by public transport. The bus stop is situated next to the hotel. The hotel offers single, double, triple rooms, as well as family rooms designed for a larger number of guests. Its rooms are equipped with air conditioning, TV, telephone. The hotel has an elevator. Breakfasts are available at an additional cost. Check-in is from 14.00, check-out is until 12.00.
City Hotel Konstanz is a family-run hotel in Konstanz located on the city’s central pedestrian street. Numerous cafes, restaurants and shops can be found nearby. The hotel offers its guests free Wi-Fi, an outdoor terrace for relaxation and luggage storage service. Paid public parking is also available. It is important to find out a parking space in case you choose a car as a way of how to get to Konstanz. The hotel has single, double and triple rooms equipped with everything you need. The room rate also includes a breakfast buffet. Check-in is from 15.00, check-out is until 11.00.
What to see & do in Konstanz
Konstanz is the main starting point for visiting the flower island of Mainau, located in the waters of Lake Constance. However, when you decide to visit Mainau, do not reject the idea of Konstanz town sightseeing, since many historical monuments and interesting places have been preserved here.
Historical Attractions
The main historical attraction of Konstanz is the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary, built in the 15th century. This massive Gothic cathedral attracts both with its exterior and interior decoration, where authentic elements and various artworks have been preserved. When preparing my trip, I discovered the following practical information:
- Cathedral is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; It is open till 7 p.m. on Sundays;
- Admission to the Cathedral is free of charge;
- Admission to the Cathedral Tower is 2 euro (there are no lifts, it`s only possible to climb by foot).
- Tickets to the Cathedral Tower can be purchased at the Cathedral shop.
In addition, even more ancient historical monuments have been preserved in the town, for instance, the Benedictine Abbey, the construction of which is attributed to almost 900 AD. Of course, since those times the building has been rebuilt and restored more than once, but, nevertheless, it continues to be a significant architectural and historical building. Currently, the Abbey is a State Archaeological Museum of Baden-Wurttemberg region that tells about the life of locals.
- The State Archaeological museum is open daily, except Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
- Entrance fee is 6 euros for adults. Entrance fee for children under 18 is free of charge;
- Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office or online.
Local Countryside
To see the whole town at a glance, it makes sense to lift the Gissberg Mountain, where the University of Konstanz, its botanical gardens and an observation deck are located. The university building also looks interesting, since it is considered to be one of the oldest universities in Germany. The botanical gardens are also open to the public.
- Botanical gardens are open from 8 a.m. to 3.45 p.m. on Monday to Thursday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday;
- The entrance is free.
Flower Island of Mainau
The island of Mainau is a huge landscape garden, in the middle of which the palace of the Bernadotte dynasty is situated. The garden is divided into some areas, depending on the plants and flowers growing here. You can find an extensive variety of flora on the island, so you can visit it almost all year round.
During the different seasons of the year, more and more new species of plants and flowers are starting to bloom. You can see the area of perennial flowers here, as well as the areas of dahlias or hydrangeas, roses or rhododendrons. Some particularly delicate plants are organized into greenhouses; see them at the Butterfly Greenhouse or the Palm Greenhouse.
Visitor’s information
In addition to the garden, you can visit the Bernadotte residence and other curious buildings located on the island, as well as an arboretum, a sequoia alley, original staircases and terraces decorated with different species of flowers. I did some research to collect practical information for visiting the island and here it is:
- The gardens, as well as Bernadotte palace, are open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Ticket price for adults starts from 24 euros depending on the season.
- Getting here: there is a pedestrian line, leading to the island from Konstanz town. The car parking area is situated on the mainland right before the pedestrian line. You can reach the island by foot, by bike or by boat, no vehicles please.
- Among the options on how to get to Konstanz, a car is a good one, but not fot getting directly to the island as it is pedestrian.
Take a note! When going on a trip to Germany, do not forget to take out travel insurance, which is useful for receiving a tourist visa and for solving emerging medical problems when travelling in another country. You can purchase insurance via online services, for example, via EKTA and others. You can choose from different modes, including quiet, active or extreme rest.
Photo above the article: Huub Janssen
Julia is an experienced traveller, BA in International Relations and Languages and true lover of planning trips in advance. Learn more about the author…
Those floral sculptures look amazing! Such a beautiful place to explore!
Konstanz is well worth a visit, we’ve enjoyed our stays there. I highly recommend visiting Mainau’s gardens, and a side trip to see the Rhein Falls.
Super helpful guide!! I’d love to check out some of those historical attractions, especially the Cathedral of the Virgin Mary.
I would love to visit Konstanz during the spring for all the gardens. It looks beautiful!
We’ve been to and on Lake Constance, however not to Konstanz or Mainau island. The floral display on Mainau island looks stunning.