Konstanz is a lively university town on the shores of Lake Constance, famous for its medieval streets, stunning lake views, and rich past. What really sets it apart as a destination for tour lovers is how accessible and engaging its local guides make exploring the city — whether you’re interested in history, holiday cheer, or a quick orientation. We particularly like the guided city tour for its lively storytelling and scenic highlights, or the Christmas Market experience that captures the holiday spirit with local traditions and lake adventures.
In this guide, we’ll cover three of the best options to explore Konstanz, each suited to different interests and travel styles. Whether you want a deep dive into history, a festive holiday outing, or a personalized introduction to the city’s hidden corners, you’ll find a tour that fits.
Quick Overview
Below are the top three tours in Konstanz, each offering a different way to discover this charming city. We’ve included options for history lovers, holiday enthusiasts, and those seeking a quick yet personalized introduction. For more details, just follow the links to each experience.
- Constance: Guided City Tour — A 1.5-hour walking tour exploring the city’s main sights and history.
- Konstanz: Private Christmas Market Tour — A festive 1.5-hour walk through the Christmas markets, with lake views and local treats.
- Konstanz: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local — An intimate, personalized tour perfect for first-time visitors wanting tips and hidden gems.
1. Constance: Guided City Tour
At number one, the guided city tour offers a well-rounded way to see Konstanz in a short time. For just $16 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours walking with a knowledgeable guide who can bring the city’s story to life. This tour covers the essentials — from the bustling medieval Old Town to the impressive cathedral, one of the largest Romanesque churches in southern Germany.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of history and scenery. Your guide will explain what happened during the Council of Constance (1414-1418), a pivotal event in European history, and share stories that make the city’s streets come alive. You’ll also get sweeping views of Lake Constance and the Alps, making this a visual and educational treat. Many reviews praise the guide’s enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, with one noting, “Die Begeisterung und das große Wissen des Guide (der Guidin)!” earning a perfect 5/5.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting an affordable, engaging overview of Constance with a friendly local. It’s easy to fit into a half-day and offers a great foundation if you plan to explore further on your own afterward.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, insightful intro to Konstanz’s core sights and stories, ideal for first-timers wanting a lively, cultural overview.
2. Konstanz: Private Christmas Market Tour
Second on our list is the Private Christmas Market Tour, which runs for about 1.5 hours. This experience is perfect if you’re visiting during the holiday season and want to soak up the festive atmosphere. For around $16, a local guide will lead you through Konstanz’s beautifully decorated squares, highlighting the history and customs behind the city’s Christmas traditions.
One highlight is the chance to experience the “Christmas Ship,” a floating vessel decorated with lights that sails on Lake Constance, adding a magical touch to the holiday ambiance. Your guide will share stories behind local folklore and Christmas customs, making this more than just a stroll through markets. The tour creates a cozy, memorable atmosphere amid the twinkling lights and scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
Guests often comment on how the tour captures the spirit of Konstanz’s Christmas Market, with one reviewer calling it “a magical introduction to local traditions.” It’s especially suited for those who love holiday festivities, lake views, and learning about regional customs in a small group.
Bottom Line: A charming, festive way to enjoy Konstanz’s holiday markets and traditions, with the added bonus of lakeside views and local stories.
3. Konstanz: 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local
Finally, the 2-hour Best Intro Walking Tour with a Local is perfect if you want a personalized and quick orientation. Priced at $152 per person, it’s a private experience that connects you directly with a local who knows the ins and outs of Konstanz. This tour covers the top sights, but also takes you to lesser-known spots, giving you a real feel for the city’s character.
What makes this tour special is the mix of sightseeing, tasting, and insider tips. You’ll sample a typical local product, learn where the best cafes are, and get recommendations for dining, drinking, and exploring further. The tour is intimate, with a max of 8 travelers, which allows for personalized questions and relaxed pacing. Reviewers appreciate the “local tips that made our stay memorable,” and praise the guide’s friendliness and knowledge.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a flexible, tailored introduction to Konstanz and prefer a small-group experience that feels more like exploring with a friend than a class.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those seeking a personalized, in-depth introduction that combines sightseeing and local insights in a relaxed setting.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on what you’re after. If you need a quick, affordable overview of Konstanz’s main sights, the guided city tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for first-timers and offers a good balance of history, scenery, and storytelling.
For holiday travelers during Christmas, the Christmas Market Tour immerses you in local traditions while enjoying Lake Constance’s winter beauty. It’s ideal if festive cheer is your priority.
If you prefer a more intimate, customized experience—perhaps on your first day or if you want to dive deeper into what makes Konstanz special—the Private Introduction Tour offers flexibility and insider tips.
When booking, consider the season, your budget, and whether you want a group or private experience. Tours fill up quickly during peak times like summer or Christmas, so plan ahead to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Konstanz offers a variety of tours that match different interests and travel styles. For a rundown, the guided city tour is a great starting point. During the holidays, the Christmas Market tour adds a festive glow to your trip. And for those seeking a personalized introduction, the private local tour provides tailored insights.
If you’re planning your trip, consider booking early, especially in busy seasons. Whether you’re into history, holiday cheer, or a personalized first look, these tours will help you make the most of your time in this charming lakeside city.