Things To Do
in Friedrichshafen
Friedrichshafen sits on the northern shore of Lake Constance, framed by the Alps in the distance and a lively lakeside atmosphere. The city blends aviation heritage with family-friendly museums, promenades, and easy access to boat trips and scenic day trips. Its compact center makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, while the lake invites relaxing days by the water.
As a gateway to nearby Switzerland and Austria, Friedrichshafen is an ideal base for culture, outdoor adventures, and relaxing lake views year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Friedrichshafen's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Visit the Zeppelin Museum to learn about the city’s aviation history and its connection to the famous airships. Enjoy a coffee at one of the quaint cafés nearby, soaking in the charming atmosphere.
In the afternoon, head to the shores of Lake Constance and take a scenic boat ride to experience the stunning views of the surrounding Alps. Afterward, visit the Graf Zeppelin House, a cultural venue that hosts various exhibitions and performances, immersing yourself in local art and culture. Stop by the local shops to pick up some unique souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant market scene.
As the sun sets, dine at a lakeside restaurant where you can savor fresh fish dishes and regional wines. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, watching the colorful sunset reflect on the water. End your evening with a visit to a local bar for some live music, enjoying the lively nightlife of Friedrichshafen.
Begin your day at the Strandbad Friedrichshafen, a popular beach area perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the lake. Rent a paddleboat or kayak to explore the serene waters and enjoy the crisp morning air. Grab a quick breakfast at the beach café, relishing fresh pastries and coffee.
Continue your water adventure with windsurfing or sailing lessons offered at the beach, where experienced instructors will guide you through the basics. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with families and locals. For lunch, savor a picnic by the lake, picking up fresh local delicacies from nearby shops.
As the evening approaches, enjoy a barbecue at the beach, where you can meet fellow travelers and locals over grilled specialties. Participate in some beach games or simply relax under the stars as the waterfront comes alive with music and laughter. Finish your day with a cozy bonfire, sharing stories and enjoying the camaraderie of new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $60-90 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread (500g) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lake setting with Alpine vistas
- Strong mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions
- Compact city center and good public transport links
- Peak-season crowds can be strong along the lakefront
- Some attractions require added travel to nearby towns for variety
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Die Rechnung, bitte" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Friedrichshafen
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide lake views with the Alps on the horizon; ideal for sunrises and long water reflections.
Harbor edge, moored boats, and the lighthouse offer classic lakefront compositions, especially at sunset.
Historic perches above the lake providing dramatic angles of the water and the town below.
Panoramic overlooks near Bregenz for sweeping Lake Constance and Alpine scenery.
Food in Friedrichshafen
Friedrichshafen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian dumplings filled with meat, spinach, and herbs; often served in broth or fried with onions.
Must-Try!
Egg noodles layered with melted cheese and crispy onions; a beloved regional comfort dish.
Local lake fish prepared grilled or pan-seared, often served with potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
Traditional pretzel often enjoyed as a snack with coffee or beer at lakeside cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market with fresh produce, regional cheeses, breads, pastries, and occasionally fish fresh from the lake.
Casual lakeside stalls and cafés offering quick bites, local wines, and light street foods during warmer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and reservations; punctuality is valued in both business and social settings.
German is the official language; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but a few German phrases go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Friedrichshafen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving 5-10% at restaurants is common if service is good; cash tips are appreciated but not required.
Most places accept credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard). Cash is widely accepted, including in markets and smaller cafés.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and abundant outdoor activities; water sports and harbor events are common.
Mild days with colorful foliage; harvest festivals and wine-related events in nearby towns.
Cool to cold with possible snowfall; Christmas markets in Lindau and nearby towns are a seasonal highlight.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for lakefront walks and outdoor café Culture.
Friedrichshafen at Night
Hiking in Friedrichshafen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic hikes with a cable car to the summit offering sweeping lake and mountain views.
Segmented hiking route around the lake for easy to moderate day hikes with scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Friedrichshafen by plane.
Small international airport with regional connections; convenient city gateway with good rail links to the center.
Major international hub about two hours away by train; frequent connections to Europe and beyond.
Large international airport about two hours away by rail or car; broad flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Baden-Württemberg and nearby regions who value lake life and outdoors.
International visitors from across Europe and beyond attracted by the lake and cultural sites.
Young adults studying at Bodensee universities and related programs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple activity on the lake with various clubs and rental options.
Extensive lakefront routes and road cycling opportunities around the Bodensee.
Easy lakeside strolls to moderate climbs with alpine views in nearby hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Friedrichshafen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants; look for Kässpätzle, flatbread with toppings, salads, and vegetable-forward dishes. When in doubt, ask for dishes without meat or fish and request cheese or egg additions if desired.