Friedrichshafen Day Trips: Explore 5 Amazing Local Getaways

Okay, so you find yourself chilling in Friedrichshafen, a neat little spot on the shores of Lake Constance, or Bodensee as the locals usually call it. It is often tempting to just kick back and enjoy the lakeside vibes, you know? That said, if you’re getting that itch to see a bit more, that is easy as pie to scratch because this place is seriously surrounded by some awesome day-trip destinations! Each trip nearby brings something totally special to the table, from picture-perfect medieval towns to legit fairytale castles and, too it’s almost like a bonus, maybe a bit of Swiss charm thrown in. Let’s take a squiz at five top spots that promise great memories – local getaways, if you want.

1. Meersburg: A Medieval Dream

Okay, so picture this: Meersburg. Just a super quick hop from Friedrichshafen and instantly you’re in what can be a super storybook scene. Lake Constance just shimmers around it, with two main sights, really, The Old Castle (Alte Burg), which might be the oldest inhabited castle in Germany and very likely looks like it, giving you some serious medieval vibes. The New Castle (Neues Schloss), is more or less dripping in Baroque glam, a bit more over-the-top.

As a matter of fact, wandering through Meersburg feels like wandering through history, like one of those towns barely touched since forever. Very narrow streets with those cobblestones, leaning half-timbered buildings; it’s almost the real deal. Duck into a café, enjoy what could be a tasty piece of local cake, watch the world wander on by. Oh, and that promenade? Super scenic. That can be seriously chill, you know, just watch the boats bob about.

Actually, don’t overlook the Vineum, is that is that local wine museum? You learn about the region’s winemaking. Really old castles there seem to be at every turn. When it’s grub time, loads of little taverns will make you feel welcome.

2. Mainau Island: A Floral Paradise

Very fancy seeing a boat trip from Friedrichshafen? Why not visit Mainau Island, just a short sail over charming local cake, that turns out to be the flower island of Mainau. Can you imagine anything prettier? Well, there’s heaps of blooms there, and so many of them it’s almost overwhelming! But pretty!

Seemingly, the whole place is an almost riot of color with so many different blooms bursting everywhere. Wander through the gardens – like your strolling through paradise. Is it any wonder they call it the “Blumeninsel” on the island? Don’t forget to just drop in on the Butterfly House (Schmetterlingshaus), there’s butterflies flitting around. And maybe give a peek at Mainau Castle with all its impressive gardens and fountains; really, something magical.

For instance, kids will likely go bonkers for the playgrounds dotted here and there – this very area, and maybe take a look at the petting zoo (Streichelzoo), seems something designed to wear little legs out. Lunch can be taken at any café – or many spots, that may make a stop there. As a matter of fact, if you’re looking to relax and like getting your nature on, maybe consider a day in Mainau – it is often like balm to one’s soul.

3. Lindau: Bavarian Charm on Lake Constance

In that case, how does a jaunt to Bavaria grab you? Seriously, a train ride that’s short like really, seriously short can whisk you away to Lindau. What an awesome city to discover! Apparently perched right on Lake Constance, or something quite similar. Actually it seems like a visual treat, that includes so much awesome!

For example, you will want to stretch those legs through the old town with those awesome buildings and houses there. Don’t even think of missing that harbor – which happens to have a lighthouse that overlooks Lake Constance. How’s that for pretty? That, and a big ol’ Bavarian Lion sculpture. Arguably the best selfie spot!

On the other hand, the Lindau City Museum is where you get a great peek at the background, if you’re in that kind of mood. If the views float your boat, is that is that climbing the Mangturm tower? Views of Lindau that you won’t believe, trust us. Basically Lindau feels both historically rich, and there are pretty stunning views just everywhere.

4. St. Gallen: Swiss Culture and Abbey

Then again, are you feeling a border hop into Switzerland? Just hop on a train that may drop you in St. Gallen pretty darn quick. You will see awesome history, and be around those very Swiss vibes all over.

Actually, it appears St. Gallen Abbey’s Library can be seriously world-famous. Actually? One of the best libraries out there. Check out those Baroque styles, that and manuscripts that’re probably hundreds and hundreds of years in the making, which makes it great to admire!

For instance, give the St. Gallen old town a good walking-to! Maybe keep on the lookout for those window bays – there are cool designs aplenty! Want Swiss chocolate or a souvenir? Heaps and heaps of stores here and there, just made for retail therapy!

5. Stein am Rhein: A Medieval Gem

In the meantime, fancy another lovely spot in Switzerland? Okay, so jump on the train to Stein am Rhein – only a seriously quick trip from St. Gallen or Friedrichshafen.

That said, this little beauty will catch you with buildings almost overflowing with paintings – pretty much from roof to pavement! Is it any wonder? Really charming! Get yourself on the main street, that could be something special, wander from top to bottom, give yourself the license to drink in what makes these views something truly memorable!

Anyway, just take the climb up to Hohenklingen Castle, a rather nice spot perched over the village there. Gosh it appears a climb to the top is likely worth that work out for that cool outlook on what might be a perfect area.