Considering a trip to Bodensee in September this year. Wondering if I should stay on the Swiss side or the German side. Can anyone who has stayed on the lake recommend a town that is easily accessible by train? Last visited the area in the early 1980s and don't remember much of the trip. Solo traveler, would love to go to wine festivals (I do remember that!!), and do some gentle hikes in the area. Other interesting jaunts from the lake would also be welcome. I am comfortable in either hotels or guesthouses (as long as I have a private bath). Plan to stay 5-7 nights on the lake. Is this too much time?
Not sure if I will be heading to Bodensee from Italy or from Germany. Yes, I know I should have these plans already set but I don't. I kind of like to plan on the fly.
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19092 posts
'Can anyone who has stayed on the lake recommend a town that is easily accessible by train?"
Lindau!
There are trains just about everywhere around the periphery of the lake, most towns are accessible. In 1988 I went by train from Romanshorn to Konstanz, and many times I've gone between Lindau and Friedrichshafen by train. If I had a choice, I would stay in Lindau, the island town on the eastern end, near the Austrian border. It's beautiful! It's a junction between the German towns along the lake from Friedrichhafen to Bregenz, Austria, and Switzerland, with a branch going to Munich.
Posted by
Green Bay
20103 posts
Not mention that the German side will be 15-20% cheaper than the Swiss side.
Posted by
San Antonio TX, United States
2393 posts
We stayed in Lindau - lovely town - be sure to stay on the island.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
One thing to consider. If you stay on the German side, your view over the lake will be towards the Alps, whereas on the Swiss side, the visible Alps (if you can see them at all) are sort of behind you to the right.
I can't think of a better place to stay than Lindau, with Friedrichshafen being the second choice.
Posted by
OP
Vermont
331 posts
Thanks for the info.
Posted by
Columbus, USA
332 posts
Two trips ago stayed in Bregenz, Austria in a cozy little hotel with wonderful food. It was a lot less expensive than Lindau and Switzerland.
In high school we stayed in Konstanz. That was fun too, I just don't remember much except I was under the weather for that part of the trip.
It is such a beautiful area, enjoy!