Independent travel and view of the city of Lindau! History of the city of Lindau Early Times and Origins The n...
Early Times and Origins
The name “Lindau” can be translated roughly as “the island where lime grows”. The first documented mention of this name is in 882: a monk from the Abbey of St. Gallen Abbey listed in his document “the island on which lime trees grow.”
However, archaeological finds indicate that in the territory of modern Lindau already in the first century BC there was a Roman settlement (in the area of the modern quarter of Aeshiha).
In the VIII-IX centuries, the first permanent community appeared on the island: one of the counts, saved from disaster on the lake, founded a convent - later known as the abbey.
One of the oldest surviving church buildings is the parish church "Münster Unserer Lieben Frau" (Minster of the Virgin), which is the last remnant of that ancient monastery.
Thus, Lindau is one of the few settlements on Lake Constance, whose history goes back to ancient times.
Middle Ages: Market, Trade, Imperial Status
In the Middle Ages, the market played an important economic and social role. Initially, the market was located on the mainland - in the area of Aeshiha (continental part). But due to political and ecclesiastical conflicts, he was moved to the island of Lindau, where it was easier to protect trade.
In 1274–1275, under King Rudolf I of Habsburg, Lindau was granted the status of a Free Imperial City. This gave the city autonomy, important trade and jurisdictional rights and contributed to the economic recovery.
Due to its advantageous location on the trade route from Italy through the Alps to Central and Northern Europe, Lindau became a thriving trading center. Trade, shipping, and connections to other regions reinforced its importance.
In addition to trade, Lindau enjoyed its own "coin" - the city minted its own coins, which strengthened its economic independence.
Lindau was one of the founders of the Schwäbischer Städtebund, the Swabian Union of Cities, formed in 1376, which gave it political and military importance in the region.
Defense, religion, conflict
In 1180, St. Stephan’s Church was built on the island, one of the earliest Christian shrines in Lindau. In 1224 the Franciscans founded a monastery.
The city was surrounded by walls, had defensive structures. One of these is the Pulverturm (Lindau) - Powder Tower, built in 1508, part of the fortifications.
During the war, for example, during the Thirty Years' War, defensive structures played an important role. At the Siege of Lindau by Swedish troops (1646–1647), the tower and fortification walls helped defend the city.
In 1430, a tragic event occurred in Lindau: about 15 Jews of the city were accused of killing a Christian child and burned at the stake - a dark page in its history.
Transition into a New Time: Secularization and New Territorial Changes
In the XVI century, Lindau adopted the Reformation: in 1528, the city officially passed to Protestantism, first professing the Tetrapolitan and then the Augsburg confession.
But religious institutions, especially the abbey, have long maintained their status. Lindau Abbey as a church property existed until the beginning of the XIX century.
With the collapse of the Holy Roman Empire in 1802, Lindau lost its status as an imperial city. It was transferred first to the administration of the prince, then to the power of the Austrians, and in 1805/1806 Lindau and the whole region came under the control of the Bavarian king.
These changes were accompanied by periods of instability, changes in governance, and social and economic restructuring.
XIX-XX centuries: industrialization, transport, modern appearance
In the XIX century, Lindau experienced a "second birth": the city received a railway connection - in 1854-1856 a line was laid, a dam was built, connecting the island with the mainland, which increased the transport and economic importance.
In 1856, a new port was opened, and at the entrance to the harbor, two symbols were installed: the statue of the Bavarian Lion (Bavarian Lion) and the New Lighthouse (Lindau), a lighthouse that became the southernmost lighthouse in Germany and the only one in Bavaria.
These structures, together with narrow streets, patrician houses, ancient buildings, formed the architectural appearance for which Lindau loved tourists.
On February 1, 1922, Lindau absorbed the adjacent mainland territories, the former separate communes of Aeschach, Hoyren and Reutin. From that moment on, modern Lindau became roughly as we know it today.
After World War II, the city was for a time under French military administration, then part of various German lands, until, in 1955, it was finally returned to Bavaria.
Heritage, cultural and tourist significance
The old town of Lindau (island) is considered a protected monument - with its crooked streets, houses with a centuries-old history, cozy atmosphere and views of the lake.
The harbor with the Bavarian lion and lighthouse is one of the most recognizable symbols of Lindau. These places are often depicted on postcards, they have become iconic for travelers.
Lindau has become a popular resort and tourist center: thanks to the combination of medieval architecture, lake, nature and proximity to the Alps, people come here for the sake of history and recreation.
Today, residents of the mainland of Lindau have the opportunity to walk around the historic island, enjoy the parks, embankments, the atmosphere that unites antiquity and modernity.
Island old town
Lindau is one of the few historic towns on the island in Central Europe. The old town here is compact, cozy and incredibly atmospheric: cobbled streets, colored houses with frescoes, vintage shops, restaurants overlooking the lake - everything seems to have descended from medieval illustrations.
Germany's most photogenic harbor
The main business card is the Bavarian lion and lighthouse, standing on both sides of the port entrance.
This is one of the most beautiful places on Lake Constance:
The sunsets here look amazing.
At night, the lighthouse flickers in the water with golden gleams.
Perfect place for a photo!
Lake + Alps - the perfect view
Lake Constance is often compared to the sea:
spacious
clear water,
light wind,
yachts and boats – everything creates the feeling of a resort in Southern Europe.
And behind the lake rises the Alps, which make the landscapes especially impressive.
An atmosphere that falls in love with itself
Lindau is a city where there is no rush. It is suitable for those who want:
enjoy the beautiful views,
walk in the quiet streets,
drinking coffee on the waterfront,
boating between Germany, Switzerland and Austria,
rest your soul.
Each street is wrapped in flowers and vintage signs, and many cozy cafes and gassteines create the feeling of an ancient European resort.
What to do in Lindau
• Take a boat ride on Lake Constance
With flights to Bregenz, Rorschach, Mersburg, Friedrichshafen and other cities.
• Walk through the old town
You'll see:
Rathaus with picturesque painting,
old watchtowers,
colorful squares,
market and craft shops.
• Climb the lighthouse
From above, there is an incredible view of the lake and the Alps.
• Take a bike or walk along the lake line
The trails are well equipped, the landscapes are fascinating.
• Visit local events
For example, the Nobel Symposium in Lindau, major festivals and fairs.
Kitchen and rest
The region is famous for wine, fish, German and Swiss cuisine. The island has many restaurants with terraces right above the water – especially beautiful in the evening.
1. High level (4-5★)
For those who prefer comfort, stylish interior, comfort and good views.
Popular options:
Hotel Bad Schachen
A classic hotel by the lake, with a garden, swimming pool, terraces and views of the Alps. Great for a relaxed, relaxed holiday.
Best Western Plus Marina Star
Modern rooms, stylish design, convenient for travelers by car. Good comfort for reasonable money.
2. Medium level (3 ★, good city hotels, apartments)
Suitable for those who want convenience, cleanliness and a good location, but do not strive for maximum luxury.
Examples:
Hotel Vis à Vis
Modern, neat, located on the island part of Lindau - convenient for walking through the historic center.
Parkhotel Lindautel
A reliable hotel with a pleasant atmosphere. Good balance of price and quality.
3. Budget level (economy hotels, hostels, simple apartments)
Ideal for those who want to spend a few days in Lindau inexpensively.
Economy options:
Inselhostel Lindau
One of the most affordable options. Beds in a common room or inexpensive rooms. Great for young travelers.
Hotel Garni Reulein
Simple budget hotel, comfortable enough for short trips.
Inexpensive apartments and guest houses
Lots of apartments and rooms for rent are a great way to save money, especially if you are traveling as a family or group.
1. Lindau Harbour – Lighthouse and Bavarian Lion
The main symbol of the city. At the entrance to the port are two iconic figures:
The Bavarian lion is a massive statue that “guards” the harbor.
The New Lighthouse is Bavaria’s only operating lighthouse.
Transport accessibility
It is located right in the center of the island, at the pier.
Easy to walk from any part of the old town (5-10 minutes).
If you are staying on the mainland - from the railway station Lindau-Insel 3-5 minutes walk.
2. Old Town (Altstadt)
Medieval area located on the island: narrow streets, bright houses, squares, cafes.
The main points inside the old town:
Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) - with colorful fresco painting.
St. Stephan Church and Minster Church of the Virgin are two old churches standing nearby.
Marktplatz Square is the heart of city life.
Transportation
Fully pedestrianized.
You can enter from any side of the island, the route is very convenient.
From the railway station Lindau-Insel - 5 minutes walk.
3. Mangturm Tower
An old watchtower by the water, near the port. One of the business cards of Lindau thanks to the fabulous design.
Transportation
Located in the harbor, 1 minute walk from the lion and lighthouse.
It is easiest to reach on foot along the promenade.
4. Cliff Park and Promenade (Seepromenade)
Picturesque walking area along the lake with excellent views of the Alps, yachts and the island.
Transportation
Walking along the lake from the port (5-20 minutes).
By bicycle it is convenient to travel around the territory in 10-15 minutes.
5. Lindau Museum (Stadtmuseum)
It is located in the former Baroque Palace. Inside - the history of the city, art, old furniture.
Transportation
It's in the old town.
7 minutes walk from the port.
6. Hoyren Island, Aeshihah District and Lindenhofpark Park
This is the mainland part of Lindau, where there is a beautiful park Lindenhofpark with direct access to the lake, well-groomed lawns and paths.
Transportation
By foot: about 25-35 minutes from the island.
By bus: lines 1, 2, 3 - 10 minutes drive.
By bicycle: ~10 minutes on the promenade.
7. Lindau - the starting point for water walks
Ships depart from the harbor to:
Friedrichshafen
Bregenz (Austria)
mersburg
Rorschach (Switzerland)
Transportation
All boats depart from the main port near the lighthouse.
Walking from the central part of the island - 3-5 minutes.
Transport accessibility in the city as a whole
On foot.
The best way is the island is compact, everything is nearby.
Bicycle
Great option: many bike paths and almost no climbs.
City buses
Comfortable if you live on the mainland:
The routes run every 10 to 20 minutes.
It connects all areas to the island.
Machine.
You can enter the island, but:
parking lots,
Seats are often scarce. It is better to leave the car on the mainland near the Lindau-Reutin station or in a multi-storey parking lot and go on foot.
Winter and the pre-Christmas season (late November – December)
Lindau Harbour Christmas - Christmas market by the harbor
The main winter event. The whole port is decorated with lights, there are Christmas houses with mulled wine, pastries, souvenirs and crafts. The place looks magical: the lighthouse, lake and festive lights create a unique atmosphere. Usually takes place from the end of November to December 21.
Spring (March-May)
In the spring, cultural programs, concerts, exhibitions begin to take place regularly in Lindau, and the embankment is filled with life. This is a great time for a quiet trip, when there is no summer influx of tourists.
Summer (June - August)
Summer is the most intense season, when the most famous festivals and events of Lindau take place.
Sailing regatta Rund Um Bodensee
One of the largest night regattas in Europe. The lake is filled with hundreds of yachts, the promenade comes to life, and in the evening you can see a beautiful sight from the harbor.
Komm & See - Wine Festival
Takes place in early July. The wineries of the region gather in Lindau, offering tastings, local dishes, street food. The atmosphere is light, summer, very relaxing.
Lindauer Kinderfest - Children's city holiday
It takes place on the last Wednesday before school holidays. Children’s processions pass through the streets, music plays, and many family activities take place. A unique local tradition with a history of several centuries.
Autumn (September-November)
Lindau Oktoberfest
The local version of Oktoberfest is with beer tents, music, carnival atmosphere, street food and family entertainment. It usually takes place in early September.
Lindau Funfair - City Fair
A folk holiday with rides, carousels, trading tents, sweets and street entertainment. Takes place in early November and gathers a large number of local residents and tourists.
Autumn in Lindau is also a time of wine and gastronomic events, cozy musical evenings and exhibitions.
Winter (December to February)
Air temperature:
afternoon: 0... +6 °C
at night: -3... +2°C
Water temperature:
+3...+6°C is cold, swimming is impossible.
Features:
Frequent fog over the lake creates a romantic atmosphere
There are snowfalls, but snow cover does not last long.
Great time for Christmas markets and cozy walks
Spring (March-May)
Air temperature:
March: +7... +12°C
April: +10... +16°C
May: +15... +20°C
Water temperature:
March: +6... +7°C
April: +8... +10°C
May: +12... +15° C.
Features:
The city is blossoming, becoming sunnier.
By the end of May, you can smell summer.
Good for quiet walks and excursions
Summer (June - August)
Air temperature:
afternoon: +22... +28°C
on hot days: up to +30... +33 oh C.
at night: +15... +18°C
Water temperature:
June: +18... +20°C
July: +21... +24°C
August: +22... +25° C.
Features:
Warm water is the best season for swimming
Lots of sun and ideal conditions for walking on the lake
Everything works at full power: festivals, boats, beaches
Short thunderstorms are possible (especially in July)
Autumn (September-November)
Air temperature:
September: +18... +23°C
October: +12... +16°C
November: +7... +10°C
Water temperature:
September: +20... +22°C
October: +14... +16°C
November: +8... +10°C
Features:
September - warm, soft and very pleasant
autumnal
Perfect for wine festivals and relaxation
From November onwards it gets cold and foggy.
Language of communication in Lindau
The main language is German (Hochdeutsch)
Lindau is in Bavaria, but the region also has an Allemanic dialect similar to Swiss German. Locals sometimes speak a dialect among themselves.
How can a tourist communicate?
Most workers of the tourist sphere (hotels, restaurants, shops, transport) know English well. Tourist signs, menus and signage often have English options. Few German phrases are always perceived positively (Guten Tag, Danke, Bitte).
Traditions and customs that are important to know
Despite the fact that Lindau is a tourist city, the local culture remains very respectful, calm and neat. Here is what is definitely worth considering:
1. Politeness and formality
Germans (especially in the southern regions) value respectful communication.
In shops and cafes it is customary to say hello: "Guten Tag" or at least "Hallo".
They say goodbye almost always: Tschüss, Auf Wiedersehen.
They use “Sie” with strangers, not “du” (formal address).
2. Punctuality
Bavarians are among the most punctual in Europe.
For excursions, meetings, rent - come on time.
Trains and buses leave strictly on schedule.
3. Cleanliness and sorting
Lindau is very clean and is taken seriously. Forbidden:
dump
leave bottles or packages on the waterfront
litter
Garbage containers are always sorted – paper/glass/plastic/organic.
4. Silence and respect for others
Most shops are closed on Sunday.
In the evening and at night – silence mode (from 22:00).
In residential streets and parks, loud companies are not welcome.
5. Cycling
Residents are actively using bicycles. If you're skating too:
Driving in pedestrian areas is prohibited (you need to drive a bike nearby),
On the bike paths, observe the direction of movement.
Always give way to pedestrians in a mixed traffic area.
6. Beer culture and traditions
Bavaria is the birthplace of beer traditions. But important:
You can drink on the streets, but within the boundaries of decency.
Drinking in public transport is not allowed;
Intoxication in public is condemned.
Basic laws and regulations for tourists
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited:
inside
station and platform
confined
There are usually clearly designated areas for smoking.
Parking and traffic rules
On the island, parking is paid and limited.
Parking outside the markings can not be fined.
On many streets there is a zone of 30 km / h.
Pedestrians have priority, especially on zebras.
Payment and purchase
Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Sunday is closed except for cafes, restaurants and tourist spots.
Stores are usually open until 18:00-20:00.
Bathing and beaches
You can only swim in permitted places.
Jumping into the water from piers and private piers is prohibited.
The reservoir is international, so caution is required near hydro transport.
Domestic animals
You can walk with dogs almost everywhere, but:
The leash is mandatory.
You have to clean the pet.
Some parks and beaches have dog-free zones.
1. Greetings and polite phrases
Hallo!
[há-lo] Hello!
Guten Tag!
Good afternoon!
Guten Morgen!
Good morning!
Guten Abend!
Good evening!
Tschüss!
Bye!
Auf Wiedersehen!
Goodbye!
Bitte.
Please.
Danke schön.
Thank you very much.
Entschuldigung.
I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
2. The main tourist phrases
Sprechen Sie Englisch?
[Sprahen zi English] Do you speak English?
Ich brauche Hilfe.
I need help.
Wo ist die Altstadt?
[in the East] Where's the Old Town?
Wo ist der Bahnhof?
[East der Banhof] Where's the station?
Wie komme ich zum Hafen?
[Whimme their tsum hafeng?] How do I get to the port?
3. At the hotel.
Ich habe eine Reservierung.
I have a reservation.
Könnte ich bitte einchecken?
[Kyonte their beate ain-cheken] Can I move in?
Wo ist mein Zimmer?
[East Main Zimer] Where's my number?
Haben Sie Wlan?
[Habeng zi wee-lan] Do you have Wi-Fi?
Könnte ich später auschecken?
[Kyonte their spater au cheken] Can I leave later?
4. At the restaurant.
Die Speisekarte, bitte.
I'll be fine, please.
Haben Sie etwas ohne Fleisch?
[Khaben zi etwas one fluish] ] Do you have anything without meat?
Ich hätte gern...
[their hat garn] ] I'd like to ...
Die Rechnung, bitte.
Check, please.
5. In the store.
Wieviel kostet das?
[whi-fill Costa das] ] How much does it cost?
Kann ich mit Karte bezahlen?
[Kan their mit karte be-tzalen] ] Can I pay with a card?
Ich schaue nur.
I'm just looking.
6. Transportation
Ein Ticket nach Lindau, bitte.
A ticket to Lindau, please.
Wann fährt der Zug?
[Van Firth der Zug] When does the train leave?
Wo ist die Bushaltestelle?
[East di bous-halte-stell] Where's the bus stop?
1. Food and drink
Lindau and the Lake Constance region are known for their fresh and quality products.
Fish
Felchen (Felchen / Coregonus) is a traditional lake fish, slightly sweet, often served on a grill or smoked form.
Sudak and trout - local restaurants prepare delicacy dishes from lake fish.
Cheese and dairy products
Allgäuer Bergkäse is a hard Bavarian cheese with a rich taste.
Frischkäse and cottage cheese - with the addition of herbs from alpine meadows.
Baking and sweets
Bodensee-Kirschtorte is a cake with cherry from the region and a delicate cream.
Bienenstich is a classic German cake with honey and cream.
Carrots and marzipan are often sold in markets and pastry shops.
Drinks.
Wine from Lake Constance is white, especially Riesling and Müller-Thurgau.
Bavarian breweries are small local varieties, there are wheat and classic lagers.
Berry liqueurs and schnapps - cherry, apple, pear.
2. Medical and health-improving products
The region is known for its clear lake waters, herbs and balneology:
Local herbal teas are soothing and tonic, often from mountain herbs.
Honey from meadow apiaries is therapeutic, for immunity and respiratory tract.
Creams and balms based on alpine herbs - for the skin, leg fatigue, colds.
Massage and cosmetic oils - with extract of local plants.
Many products are sold in pharmacies or specialized shops, sometimes with a certificate of quality.
3. Souvenirs
Lindau is an old port city with the flavor of Bavaria. These souvenirs will do:
Classic.
Magnets with Lighthouse and Old Town
Felchen fish figures
Souvenir mugs of beer (Maßkrug)
Souvenirs with the image of Lake Constance
Authentic things
Handmade ceramics from Bavaria
Textiles and scarves with traditional ornaments
Local candles and aromas – especially with the smell of lake freshness or herbs
For collectors
Local stamps and coins
Small models of ships and yachts popular on Lake Constance
1. Rest safety in Lindau
Lindau is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Highlights:
The city is calmly suitable for walking at any time of the day.
The tourist areas, the promenade and the Old Town are well guarded.
Theft is extremely rare, but the standard precautions are:
monitor bags and purses in crowded places;
Do not leave things unattended on the beaches and in transport;
When renting bicycles, use locks.
Medical infrastructure is developed: pharmacies and hospitals are easily accessible.
2. Required documents for the tourist
Passport is the main document required to cross the border.
Visa (if required) – Germany is part of the Schengen area; citizens of the Russian Federation and some countries need a short-term Schengen visa.
Insurance policy – when crossing the border, it is common to check for health insurance covering a minimum of €30,000.
Tickets and proof of residence - sometimes you can ask for at the border.
Driving license – if you plan to rent a car; international license is desirable.
3. Health insurance
It is recommended to obtain travel insurance covering:
emergency medical care;
hospitalization;
transportation in case of serious illness or injury;
Baggage insurance (optional).
Cost: approximately €1–3 per day per person for standard coverage.
4. Emergency services in Germany
5. Mobile communication for tourists
Main operators: Telekom (T-Mobile), Vodafone, O2.
Connection: You can buy a SIM card for tourists (Prepaid) with the Internet and calls.
Roaming from EU countries is usually cheap or included, from other countries – check the tariff.
Internet and mobile applications are stable, LTE and 5G coverage is almost everywhere.
6. Tourist stay in Germany without departure
For citizens of countries that require a Schengen visa:
a maximum of 90 days within 180 days (short-term tourist visa Schengen Type C).
For EU/Swiss nationals/countries with which there are agreements:
Visa is not required, you can stay on a passport or ID for up to 90 days without registration; for a long stay, registration is required.
Excess of time - fines, ban on subsequent entry.
Create a query and local guides will offer you the best options
