Things To Do
in Singen

Singen is a small border town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, near Lake Constance and the Swiss border. Set at the foot of the Hegau volcanic hills, it blends historic charm with modern conveniences. The fortress of Hohentwiel dominates the skyline, offering dramatic views and a glimpse into regional history.

As a gateway to the Bodensee region, Singen serves as a convenient base for lake cruises, hiking, and day trips to nearby towns.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Singen's Historical Landmarks
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Hohentwiel fortress, an ancient mountain fort that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take a leisurely stroll around its well-preserved ruins, absorbing the rich history and stunning scenery. Capture some photographs as the morning light enhances the beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, explore the bustling town center of Singen, where you can visit shops and boutiques showcasing local artisan goods. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the Stadthalle Singen, an architectural marvel that often hosts concerts and cultural events. Take a break in a nearby park, enjoying the serene natural surroundings.

evening
:

As the evening unfolds, dive into Singen's culinary scene by dining at a traditional German restaurant, sampling local delicacies like bratwurst and spätzle. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, where you can listen to the soothing sounds of nature and reflect on the day. Cap off your night with a cozy drink at a local pub, mingling with friendly locals.

day 2
Discover the Natural Wonders of Lake Constance
morning
:

Begin your day with a scenic drive to Lake Constance, just a short distance from Singen. Engage in some early morning hiking along the lakeside trails, basking in the fresh air and the breathtaking views of the shimmering water. If you’re lucky, you may spot some local wildlife along the way.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the lakeshore, savoring homemade treats while soaking up the stunning ambiance. Spend the afternoon renting a paddleboat or taking a swim in the lake, allowing the refreshing waters to invigorate you. Visit the nearby flower island of Mainau, known for its vibrant gardens and diverse flora.

evening
:

As the sun sets over Lake Constance, find a quaint spot for dinner with lake views, enjoying fresh fish dishes unique to the region. Afterward, catch a local boat cruise, allowing you to see the lake from a different perspective while enjoying the calming waves. Wind down your day by stargazing by the water’s edge, as the night sky comes alive.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee in a cafe$3-5
🚇One-way public transit ticket$3-4
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$80-120
🛒Groceries for a day$8-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Centrally located near Lake Constance and the Swiss border
  • Good base for exploring the Hegau landscape and Bodensee
  • Smaller town with limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Seasonal tourist fluctuations may affect some services
  • "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Danke" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Singen

Visit one of these nice places.

Hohentwiel Fortress

A dramatic basalt rock rising over the town with sweeping views of the Rhine valley and Lake Constance, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour photography.

Marktplatz and Old Town Hall

Historic square with timber-framed houses and a charming, authentically Swabian atmosphere; great for street photography and architectural shots.

Stadtpark Singen

Lush green spaces and peaceful ponds provide tranquil compositions and portrait backdrops.

Lake Constance shoreline near Singen

Waterfront views with soft light on calm mornings; capture reflections and activity along the water.

Railway station arches

Architectural details and candid street scenes that showcase everyday urban life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Singen

Singen’s cuisine reflects Swabian traditions with influences from nearby Switzerland and Lake Constance, featuring hearty dishes, fresh produce, and comforting regional flavors.

Singen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Maultaschen

Swabian ravioli filled with meat, spinach, and onions; commonly served fried with onions or in broth.

Must-Try!

Käsespätzle

Cheesy egg noodles topped with crispy onions; a comforting staple often found in local eateries.

Flädlesuppe

Beef or vegetable broth with thin pancake strips; a warming starter in many traditional restaurants.

Schweinebraten

Roast pork with crackling, typically served with dumplings and gravy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Singen Wochenmarkt

Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties; a great place to sample local delights.

Climate Guide

Weather

Singen experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters. Being close to Lake Constance moderates temperatures somewhat, and rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest periods typically in late spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' and offer a handshake in formal settings.

Punctuality

Be punctual; schedules and trains run on time and are valued in daily life.

Recycling

Germany emphasizes recycling; sort waste into colored bins and follow local guidelines.

Safety Guide

Safety

Singen is generally safe for travelers. Standard precautions apply: stay aware of your belongings in busy areas, follow local guidance, and know emergency numbers (112 for emergencies, 110 for police).

Tipping in Singen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Germany, a tip of about 5-10% is common if service is not included; round up the bill or add a small amount for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (NFC) and mobile wallets are common in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with plenty of outdoor events; enjoy lake activities and long evenings, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Pleasantly cool and colorful as leaves change; ideal for hiking in the Hegau hills and photographing fall foliage.

Winter

Cool to cold with possible frost or light snow; festive markets in nearby towns provide cozy, photo-friendly settings.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; great for outdoor walks, cycling, and landscape photography.

Nightlife Guide

Singen at Night

The nightlife in Singen is cozy and low-key, with a handful of pubs and bars in the city center. For more options, nearby Bodensee towns like Konstanz offer a broader selection of clubs, live music venues, and riverside bars during warmer months.

Hiking in Singen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hohentwiel Summit Trail

A rewarding hike to the fortress with expansive valley and lake views; suitable for most hikers.

Hegau Volcano Trail

A network of trails through basalt hills offering scenic overlooks and geological interest.

Airports

How to reach Singen by plane.

Zurich Airport (ZRH)

Major international hub about 1-1.5 hours away by train or car from Singen; excellent for global connections.

Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH)

Regional airport on Lake Constance; convenient for European connections and short trips.

St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (ACH)

Small regional airport close to the Swiss border; useful for quick access to nearby regions.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most attractions within easy walking distance. Some trails to the fortress involve gentle climbs and stairs, so a reasonable level of fitness helps.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A mix of native Germans and immigrant communities from Turkey, Italy, and other parts of Europe; the area also has an aging population in parts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Widely followed with local clubs and community leagues contributing to regional sports culture.

Cycling

Popular due to scenic lake routes and the Hegau countryside; suitable for day trips.

Swimming

Lake Constance and local pools offer seasonal swimming opportunities.

Transportation

Traffic

Singen benefits from solid rail and road connections in the region. Public transport is reliable, with trains linking to Bodensee towns and the Swiss border. Expect occasional border-related traffic during peak travel times and be mindful of bike lanes and urban traffic rules.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Singen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options like stuffed dumplings, pasta dishes with cheese, salads, and soups; ask for vegetable-forward or cheese-based dishes and specify no meat or fish.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Singen is accessible with local clinics and pharmacies; Germany’s healthcare system provides universal coverage. For emergencies dial 112; doctors and specialists are available in the town and surrounding cities.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide