Planning your next romantic break away? Then lovebirds, rejoice – these hotels in Lake Constance are perfect for couples looking to enjoy a one-of-a-kind getaway.
The only borderless place in Europe, it’s all too easy to turn this 270km stretch of glittering water into a romantic road-trip. Take a two-person boat trip out on the lake, visit one of the many beaches, cycle along the shore, sample local wines, explore beautiful palaces – the choice is yours.
After all, Bodensee – as it’s known in German- is surrounded by Germany, Austria and Switzerland, so you can fit not one but three countries into your cosy couple’s weekend. Who needs inter-railing when you can visit Lake Constance?
What to do in Austria, Lake Constance
Bregenz’ floating outdoor stage is an absolute must-see. The fantastic set is a visual spectacle and redesigned every two years. Visit in July and August so you can catch one of the operas on show – after all, you deserve a romantic night out!
It’s also worth taking a trip up the Pfander by cable car for some gorgeous panoramic views of the town, looking out over the lake and long winding promenades. There’s also three restaurants, biking trails and a wildlife park, if you’re an outdoorsy couple.
Our favourite Lake Constance hotel in Austria
Hotel Schwarzler, Bregenz
Hotel Schwarzler is a cosy yet contemporary alpine hotel, situated in the city of Bregenz on the eastern shores of Lake Constance.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice that every detail has been carefully considered, from the scarlet felt keychain for your room to the bouquets of red roses dotted around the hotel. Very romantic.
The hotel exudes comfort and style in equal measure; think plenty of sleek wood, squashy leather sofas, curated art collections and an interesting mini-library.
As for your hotel room, the modern bathrooms feature powerful rainshowers while Scandi-style terraces overlook the gardens or famous Gebhardsberg mountain and restaurant.
Things to do in Germany, Lake Constance
Take a wander hand-in-hand through the colourful Bavarian town of Lindau. Make sure you pop into Kase Ecke and sample some of the incredibly more-ish buttery truffle brie – it’s to die for.
For something a bit different, go to Friedrichshafen and visit the massive Zeppelin Hanger and fascinating aerospace museum, the Dornier. You can even take a romantic 30-minute flight over the lake in one of the airships!
The best German hotel next to Lake Constance
Hotel Bad Schachen, Lindau
On the north side of Lake Constance in Germany, you’ll find a picturesque, pink hotel straight out of a Wes Anderson film (that also channels some serious Sound of Music vibes).
Originally built in 1752, the rooms are classically designed and charming, serving up a slice of old-world glamour. Most of the rooms boast balconies that look out over the hotel’s sprawling grounds, the Alps and of course Lake Constance itself.
Leisure is the name of the game in this idyllic wellness hotel, so get ready for the two of you to unwind. You can switch off in the luxurious spa with its indoor pool, Rhassoul bath, Finnish sauna and saltwater steam bath before retiring to the sun-bathing lawn for some TLC.
You and your other half should pay a visit to the hotel’s art nouveau lakeside lido. Here you’ll find the heated swimming pool, perfect for soothing the soul – it also offers direct access to Lake Constance if you fancy a refreshing dip.
What to do in Switzerland, Lake Constance
The city’s pretty old town is the best spot to do some sight-seeing. Check out the 8th-century monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Abbey of Saint Gall; St. Gallen Cathedral and the gorgeous 16th-century library (that gives the one from Beauty and the Beast a run for its money).
If you fancy a day trip, then the pretty Kartause Ittingen monastery is definitely worth a visit. Nestled in the Instagram-worthy Swiss vineyards, the old Carthusian monastery features manicured courtyard gardens and a great restaurant.
Our top Lake Constance Hotel in Switzerland
Dom, St Gallen
Hotel Dom is a modern design hotel in the Old Town of St Gallen, and an easy base for your time in the Swiss part of Lake Constance.
Although situated in the heart of St Gallen’s historical city centre, the hotel’s aesthetic is sleek, contemporary and minimalist, and painstakingly designed throughout.
Rooms are furnished in a bright white and complemented with funky colours, while the chic bathrooms boast luxury L’Occitane toiletries. They also dress the beds Nordic-style, which means the two of you will get your own duvet (no more power struggles for the blanket in the middle of the night).
You’ll also be sending out good karma during your stay – the hotel works with a foundation training young people with special needs, and their paintings and sculptures can be seen adorning the walls.
If you’ve got extra time, why not visit…
The Principality Liechtenstein
If you can’t quite bring yourself to go home yet, why not squeeze in a fourth country?
Visit Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein, and enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir in the Prince’s personal winery and vineyards. You won’t find wine from Liechtenstein outside of this tiny country, so it really brings date night up a whole other level.
Mainau Island
The beautiful garden island of Mainau on the west side of Lake Constance is also worth a trip.
Created by a Prince of Sweden, the island is home to endless flowerbeds, as well as a fascinating butterfly house and Baroque castle. Who needs a cheap bouquet after a date when you’ve got an entire flower island?