Things To Do
in Pfullendorf
Pfullendorf is a small, well-preserved medieval town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, known for its intact town walls, half-timbered houses and a compact historic center. It sits on gentle hills above the Ablach River and serves as a quiet gateway to the Lake Constance (Bodensee) region and the scenic Linzgau countryside. The town blends regional Swabian culture with easy access to hiking, cycling and the Upper Swabian Baroque Route.
Pfullendorf is ideal for relaxed exploration, local food experiences and day trips to larger nearby destinations like Friedrichshafen and Ravensburg.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Pfullendorf’s historic center, where medieval architecture tells the stories of centuries past. Don’t miss the impressive St. James' Church, with its stunning stained-glass windows and towering spire.
For lunch, indulge in traditional Swabian cuisine at a nearby restaurant, enjoying dishes like Maultaschen or Spätzle. Post-lunch, visit the local museum to delve into the history and culture of the region, featuring exhibits that highlight Pfullendorf's rich heritage. Take a leisurely walk around the historic town hall and admire the beautiful fountains and squares.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local beer garden to enjoy a refreshing local brew. Engage with friendly locals and savor a hearty dinner of regional specialties while soaking in the ambiance of the town. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the picturesque streets, illuminated by charming street lamps.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to explore the beautiful surrounding nature. The nearby Pfullendorfer Wald offers peaceful walking trails where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the forest. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you stroll through the lush greenery.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the scenic spots within the forest, allowing you to relax and soak in the tranquility. Afterward, continue your exploration by hiking up to the viewpoint at the top of the hill, where breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside await you. Capture the moment with photos and take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty.
Return to Pfullendorf and treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant that prides itself on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. After your meal, take a relaxing walk around the town's parks, breathing in the fresh air as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings. End your day with a warm drink at a local café while reflecting on the beauty of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $50-80 |
| ☕Coffee / Cappuccino | $3-4 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5 L) in a pub | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel (mid-range) per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-preserved medieval town center with authentic charm
- Close to Lake Constance and attractive countryside for outdoor activities
- Calm, safe environment ideal for relaxed exploration
- Good base for day trips to larger regional highlights (Ravensburg, Friedrichshafen)
- Limited nightlife and fewer late-night amenities compared with larger cities
- Public transport connections are modest — a car is helpful for flexibility
- English may be less widely spoken in small-town businesses than in tourist hubs
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Danke (schön)" - Thank you (very much)
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ich bin Vegetarier / Ich bin Vegetarierin" - I am vegetarian (male / female)
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Pfullendorf
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic shots of colorful medieval façades and market activity; best in soft morning or late-afternoon light.
Panoramic views from or of the well-preserved ramparts and tower — great for wide-angle shots and sunset silhouettes.
Picturesque riverside scenes with reflections, small bridges and seasonal foliage — good for moody, intimate landscape photos.
On clear days, hills near Pfullendorf offer vistas that include the Bodensee and distant alpine silhouettes — ideal for sunrise/sunset panoramas.
Colorful stalls, traditional costumes and evening lights at village festivals present excellent candid and cultural photography opportunities.
Food in Pfullendorf
Pfullendorf Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian filled pasta sometimes called 'German ravioli' — usually filled with meat, spinach and herbs; vegetarian versions are common in town and served in broth or pan-fried. Find them at traditional restaurants and local markets.
Must-Try!
Soft egg noodles mixed with melted cheese and crispy onions — a must-try comfort dish available at most Gasthäuser and family restaurants.
Roast beef topped with caramelized onions and often served with Spätzle or potatoes — a classic hearty main in regional eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small weekly market (check local schedule) where producers sell bread, cheese, seasonal fruit, vegetables and sometimes sausages; perfect for picnic supplies.
Throughout the year local festivals bring stalls with grilled specialties, pretzels and sweets — excellent for sampling regional street food in summer evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Germans value punctuality — be on time for tours, appointments and social gatherings.
Use 'Sie' (formal you) with people you don't know and follow cues before switching to 'du' (informal).
Respect quiet hours (usually late night and midday in some areas) and keep in mind many shops close on Sundays; loud noise is frowned upon.
Waste separation is important: follow local recycling rules (paper, plastics, organic, residual) and check garbage schedules at your accommodation.
Safety
Tipping in Pfullendorf
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is customary when service is good (no need to tip heavily). For taxi drivers, small rounding up or a few euros is normal; hotel porters and hairdressers expect small tips.
Cash (euros) is still commonly used, especially in smaller businesses; many restaurants and shops accept cards (Debit/EC or credit) and contactless payments are increasingly common. Always check before assuming card payment; have some cash for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make this a lovely time for walks and cycling; some attractions begin weekend openings and markets become livelier. Expect occasional rain—bring a light waterproof and layers.
Warm, sunny days are ideal for hiking, swimming at Lake Constance and outdoor dining; peak season brings more tourists to the region. Pack sun protection and expect warm afternoons with cooler evenings.
Crisp air and colorful foliage are perfect for photography and wine/harvest festivals in the region — temperatures are comfortable but variable. Layers recommended; some seasonal businesses may reduce hours later in autumn.
Cold, with possible snow and frosty mornings; the town is quiet and atmospheric, ideal for cozy restaurant visits and low-season rates. Dress warmly and be prepared for shorter daylight hours; some rural services may run reduced schedules.
Pfullendorf at Night
Hiking in Pfullendorf
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle riverside route following the Ablach for peaceful walks, accessible directly from the town and good for all fitness levels.
Network of trails on the Linzgau hills offering panoramic views toward Lake Constance and distant alpine silhouettes on clear days.
Cultural walking routes linking baroque churches and historic villages — combine shorter sections for easy day hikes with cultural stops.
Within short driving distance, shoreline trails around the Bodensee provide flat, scenic routes ideal for long easy hikes and bicycle rides.
Airports
How to reach Pfullendorf by plane.
Closest regional airport (~40–60 km depending on route) with domestic and seasonal European connections. Transfer by regional bus, car or taxi; trains from nearby towns link to Friedrichshafen.
Major international airport (~140–170 km) offering many long-haul and European connections; reach Pfullendorf by rental car or train (longer transfer time).
International hub (~150–200 km) with excellent connections; convenient if combining a trip to Switzerland or southern Germany — train and car options available.
Budget airline flights to the region (~90–120 km); good for low-cost connections, though ground transfers may be longer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households are family-oriented with community activities, schools and family services prominent in town life.
Like many smaller German towns, there is a notable share of older residents and retirees who contribute to the town’s quieter daytime pace.
There are modest immigrant communities (European and other backgrounds) reflected in local businesses and cultural life, adding to culinary and cultural variety.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local amateur and youth football clubs are popular and form a central part of community sport life.
Both recreational and sport cycling are common due to quiet country roads and dedicated routes leading toward Lake Constance.
Widely practiced among all ages — many marked trails and fitness circuits in the surrounding hills and river valleys.
Accessible when visiting the Bodensee area: sailing, rowing and paddle sports are popular in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pfullendorf.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian choices are generally easy (Käsespätzle, salads, vegetable soups) at most restaurants and cafés. Ask for 'vegetarisch' and many places will adapt dishes; supermarkets carry good fresh produce.
Vegan options are increasing but still limited in smaller towns — plan to ask for modifications (hold cheese or eggs) or shop at larger supermarkets for plant-based products. Bring snacks if you have restrictive needs.
Celiac-friendly options are less common in traditional eateries; mention 'glutenfrei' and check with staff. Bakeries sometimes offer limited gluten-free breads or you can buy packaged items at supermarkets.