A real classic cycling destination, an idyllic region with castles and fruit orchards located in different countries with different names: Lake Constance, Bodensee, The Swabian Sea and the Dreiländersee. Hardly any other area receives as many cyclists every year as this one in the heart of Europe.
The Lake Constance Cycle Path is a dream come true for nature enthusiasts and cycling aficionados. With captivating landscapes that encompass rolling vineyards, charming medieval towns, and serene lake views, this route promises a visual feast for the senses. I'll be your guide as we pedal along this 270-kilometre trail, which connects Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, allowing us to immerse ourselves in three different cultures in one unforgettable adventure.
Along the way, we'll explore historic towns like Konstanz, Lindau, and Bregenz, where time seems to stand still in their well-preserved architecture and vibrant atmospheres.
Our classic bike tour through Lake Constance is not only one of our most popular tours but also the perfect opportunity to get to know the most beautiful areas around Lake Constance in a relaxed way by bike.
Details about the Classic Lake Constance bike tour
You start in Constance. The municipality impresses with a picturesque old town, a lively harbour, and a rich history. Our cycling tour along Lake Constance takes you along the High Rhine to the medieval town of Stein am Rhein, the Höri peninsula, and the garden city of Überlingen.
You will cycle along the Obersee, the largest part of Lake Constance, passing Meersburg Castle, riding through sun-drenched vineyards, and reaching the Zeppelin town of Friedrichshafen. You'll cross the German-Austrian border between Lindau and the festival city of Bregenz. After a few kilometres, you'll already be in Switzerland, where you'll cycle along the southern shore of the lake through charming villages back to Konstanz. Our Lake Constance Cycle Tour is ideal for beginners, leisure cyclists, and families.
The highlights of the Lake Constance cycling holiday at a glance
Rhine Falls: The largest waterfall in Europe with an included boat trip
Friedrichshafen: You cycle through vineyards to the famous town of Friedrichshafen. Cultural highlights such as the Baroque pilgrimage church Birnau and the Zeppelin Museum should not be missed on your program
Bregenz Festival: From Lindau, you head to Bavaria towards Austria. In Bregenz, the capital of Vorarlberg, the annual festival takes place on the most significant lake stage in the world. Enjoy the charm of the city and let yourself be spoiled by traditional Austrian cuisine!
Scenic beauty: The Lake Constance Cycle Path offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Lake Constance, picturesque vineyards, and charming medieval towns, making it a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and cyclists alike.
Multinational adventure: Stretching through Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, this 270-kilometre cycling route provides an opportunity to explore three distinct cultures and experience the unique flavours and traditions of each region.
Cycling diversity: Whether you're a beginner, a leisure cyclist, or a family, the Lake Constance Cycle Path caters to all skill levels, making it an accessible and enjoyable adventure for riders of various backgrounds and ages.
Worth knowing about the Classic Lake Constance bike tour
In total, you will cycle 233-250 kilometres around Lake Constance in eight days. The focus is on experiencing nature and enjoying the regions around the Dreiländersee.
The cycle route is fairly flat except for the first three hilly stages. In other words: the cycling tour around the Swabian Sea is certainly suitable for recreational cyclists and families.
Enjoy a stroll through the very well-maintained old town of Constance with Town Hall, the Munster, and the maze of little alleyways of Niederburg. Not to forget the Mediterranean harbour with the famous “Imperia”.
On the southern shore of Lake Untersee, you cycle along the lake through picturesque Swiss fishing villages to Stein am Rhein with its frescoed medieval houses. From there it is only a stone’s throw to the town of Gallingen or to Wangen and Hemmenhofen.
Today you will circumnavigate the Höri peninsula, where Otto Dix and Herman Hesse once lived. You take a break in the old imperial and present-day spa town of Radolfszell. Afterwards, you cross the Bodnarück and accept a very short gradient. The arrival at Lake Überlingen See compensates with great views of the Swabian Sea.
You cycle through vineyards to Friedrichshafen. On the way, you will pass the baroque pilgrimage church Birnau. In Meersburg, you should visit the beautiful old town and the old castle. A visit to the Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen is worthwhile. Your journey continues to Kressbronn or to the island town of Lindau.
Cycling through large orchards you reach Bavarian Lindau, a picturesque city on a peninsula. The next station is Bregenz. The capital of the Austrian federal country Vorarlberg is renowned for the yearly summer festival on the biggest lake stage worldwide. Afterwards, you cross the delta of the river Rhine, home of an important natural reserve.
You visit Romanshorn, Lake Constance's largest and most crucial Swiss port on your last day. Along the lake, you cross the apple-canton Thurgau. Tidy little half-timbered villages line the way back to Constance. Today you should visit the island of Mainau if you did not have the opportunity earlier. Return of rental bicycles and overnight in Constance.
The first three stages of the route have some gentle hills before transitioning to a predominantly flat terrain, primarily following paved bike paths along the lake shores. There are occasional short unpaved segments, and in the Friedrichshafen area, the bike path runs alongside the main road. This diverse terrain makes it suitable for riders of all levels.
6 nights in the chosen category, including breakfast
Entrance Rosgarten Museum in Konstanz including a cup of coffee
Luggage transfer(s) max. 1 piece of luggage 20 kg per person
Travel folder 1 x per room (German, English with route and overview maps, detailed route description, places of interest, important telephone numbers, luggage labels)
GPS data available on request
Service Hotline
Not included
Tourist tax, if applicable, to be paid locally
Arrival information
Airport: Zurich Airport
Train: Konstanz Station
Parking: Fenced at the Radweg Reisen office, costs €45 per trip, to be paid on site, reservation not possible. Free parking on the public road
Parking garage: (Fischmarkt, Dammgasse, Lago, Old Town, Benediktinerplatz), costs about €10 to €20 per day
Hotel parking: (available in individual hotels, with costs, and details in the travel documents)