A Perfect German Escape in Bodenseekreis

Located just north of Lake Constance, Bodenseekreis is a scenic region filled with charming towns, medieval architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. Spanning from Germany's border with Austria and Switzerland, this overlooked gem deserves to be higher on your travel list. From the vineyards and castles around Meersburg to the laidback lakeside towns further north, Bodenseekreis offers a unique slice of German culture and history amidst idyllic countryside. In this travel guide, we'll explore the top places to visit and things to do in Bodenseekreis to help you make the most of your trip.

Meersburg and the vineyards

Nestled on a peninsula jutting into Lake Constance, the walled town of Meersburg feels like a fairy tale come to life. Its ancient alleyways are lined with half-timbered buildings and flowers bursting with color. But Meersburg is best known as the birthplace of Germany's wine industry. The steep vine-covered slopes surrounding the town have produced fine whites for centuries. Spending an afternoon wandering through the vineyards and stopping at wine shops and tasting rooms is a must. Many spots offer breathtaking views over the lake and Alps beyond. A visit to Reichlin von Meldegg Castle, perched high above the vineyards, provides a bird's eye perspective of the incredible landscape. Sunsets here are especially beautiful. For overnight stays, consider booking rooms at Weinstube Löwen, a traditional inn right in the historic center.

Überlingen and the golden shore

Heading north along Lake Constance's "Golden Shore," Überlingen is the largest town in the Bodenseekreis region. Its well-preserved medieval old town is filled with half-timbered buildings and cobblestone streets framing Überlingen's main attraction - the Church of St. Nicholas. The 15th century Gothic hall church boasts incredible woodcarvings and stained glass. Wander the shoreline promenade for views of the Alps across the lake or relax in one of the many beer gardens. Überlingen is also famous as the site where a meteorite crashed into the lake in 1492. You can visit the nearby meteor crater and learn more at the Meteoriticum exhibition. For bite-sized day trips, the villages of Sipplingen and Uhldingen-Mühlhofen offer similarly lovely lakefront settings.

Friedrichshafen and Zeppelin tourism

As the largest city in the Bodenseekreis, Friedrichshafen has a lively urban vibe yet remains surrounded by nature. Stroll the lakefront promenade and keep an eye out for swans, ducks and other waterfowl. Then check out the impressive Zeppelin Museum chronicling the history of Count Zeppelin and his pioneering airships. Take a guided tour for an in-depth look at full-scale replicas. From there, it's a short ferry ride across the bay to visit Mainau Island and its botanical garden, which explodes with color during spring and summer. After working up an appetite, grab a homemade treat at Café Vordermayer, right on the main square. For budget-friendly lodging, the Ibis budget is conveniently located near the train station.

Additional outdoor adventures

When you need a break from medieval towns and architecture, Bodenseekreis has no shortage of natural beauty to discover. One scenic route is the Bodensee Cycle Path, a mostly flat 185km trail circumnavigating Lake Constance. Rent bikes in Friedrichshafen or Überlingen to experience the diverse landscapes at a relaxed pace. Hikers and climbers will find gorgeous spots like the Hirschzarten Rocks just west of Meersburg, with panoramic views from the top. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore areas like the Altdorfer Wald forest north of Lindau, perfect for scenic walks. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight - keep an eye out for birds like white storks, red kites, and if lucky, elusive white-tailed eagles soaring over the reeds.

Planning your Bodenseekreis trip

With so much to see and do spread across charming towns, it's best to spend at least 4-5 days exploring Bodenseekreis to really soak it in. Considering using BitBook to book hotels and collect crypto rewards - they have many partner properties throughout the region. Public transport also makes navigating easy - frequent passenger ferries and trains connect all the main places. Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable weather, though winters can be mild too. Be sure to sample local specialties like flammkuchen (thin-crust pizza), Maultaschen (ravioli-like pasta), and fresh lake fish. With its idyllic scenery and captivating history, Bodenseekreis is a delightful corner of Germany that deserves more recognition. Follow these tips and you're sure to fall in love with this fairytale-like destination on the shores of Lake Constance.