Constance: Private City Tour the Mystical Constance

Constance, a mystical city nestled along the shores of Lake Constance, beckons visitors to uncover its rich history and captivating charm. Join a private city tour and explore the tranquil Stadtgarten, where whimsical sculptures and vibrant flowers create a serene ambiance. Venture to Dominicans Island, where the monastic heritage whispers tales of the past. As the tour unfolds, each landmark promises to unveil the enchanting layers of this captivating destination.

Key Points

• Explore the tranquil Stadtgarten, a former medieval monastery site with whimsical sculptures and charming flora.
• Discover the secluded Dominicans Island, home to Gothic-style buildings and remnants of a historic Dominican monastery.
• Visit the 14th-century Rheintorturm, a prominent landmark offering panoramic views and showcasing Constance’s medieval past.
• Wander through the quaint Niederburg quarter, where cobblestone streets and tales of religious mysteries evoke Constance’s mysterious history.
• Uncover the historic Münsterplatz, featuring the medieval Konstanz Cathedral, Hohenzollern Castle, and a bustling market showcasing local artisans.

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Exploring the Stadtgarten

As the tour begins, the group will be led to the Stadtgarten, a tranquil green oasis nestled within the heart of Constance.

The guide will point out the park’s whimsical sculptures and fountains, inviting visitors to pause and take in the serene atmosphere. The guide will share the garden’s history, explaining how it was once the site of a medieval monastery before being transformed into a public space.

Guests will have 10 minutes to explore the lush grounds, admiring the vibrant flowers and towering trees that lend the Stadtgarten its peaceful charm.

Uncovering Dominicans Island

Departing the tranquil Stadtgarten, the group now crosses over to Dominicans Island, a secluded haven nestled within the Rhine River. The island’s rich history unfolds as the guide shares tales of the Dominican friars who once inhabited the grounds.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Location | Situated on a picturesque island in the Rhine |

| Architecture | Gothic-style buildings from the 13th century |

| Significance | Former home to a Dominican monastery |

Wandering through the serene pathways, the group discovers the island’s serene ambiance and explores the remnants of the historic monastery, uncovering a glimpse into Constance’s captivating past.

Visiting the Rheintorturm

The group now approaches the iconic Rheintorturm, a 14th-century tower that once guarded the city’s medieval fortifications.

As they reach the tower, the guide provides an overview:

• The Rheintorturm, also known as the Rhine Gate Tower, is a prominent landmark and one of the few remaining original gates of Constance’s historic walls.

• The tower’s distinctive silhouette and Gothic architecture offer a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

• Visitors can explore the interior, which houses a small museum showcasing the tower’s history and role in Constance’s defenses.

• From the tower’s observation deck, the group can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the majestic Lake Constance.

Wandering Through Niederburg

Moving on from the imposing Rheintorturm, the group now ventures into the charming Niederburg neighborhood. This quaint medieval quarter boasts cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses.

The guide points out a 16th-century pharmacy, its colorful facade marking the spot where a local alchemist once practiced his craft. Down a narrow alley, the group admires the ornate entrance to the Petershausen Monastery, once a powerful Benedictine abbey.

As they wander, the guide recounts tales of the area’s storied past, from religious miracles to ghostly apparitions. Niederburg’s timeless ambiance offers a glimpse into Constance’s mysterious and captivating history.

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Discovering Münsterplatz

From Niederburg, the group makes its way to the Münsterplatz, the historic central square of Constance.

Here, they explore:

• The medieval Konstanz Cathedral, an impressive Gothic structure dating back to the 7th century

• The Hohenzollern Castle, once home to the noble Hohenzollern dynasty

• The monumental War Memorial, a solemn reminder of Constance’s tumultuous past

• The bustling market stalls, where local artisans and vendors peddle their wares

The guide shares captivating tales of the square’s storied history, from religious schisms to political intrigue, leaving the group with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting heart of the city.

Marveling at Konstanz Cathedral

Leaving the bustling Münsterplatz behind, the group now stands before the imposing facade of Konstanz Cathedral. This grand Gothic structure dominates the skyline, its twin towers reaching towards the heavens. As the guide explains, the cathedral has a storied history, serving as the site of the famous Council of Constance in the 15th century.

| Architectural Features | Historical Significance | Visiting Information |

|————————|————————-|———————-|

| • Romanesque and Gothic styles | • Hosted the Council of Constance in 1414-1418 | • Open daily from 7 AM to 7 PM |

| • Distinctive twin towers | • Saw the election of Martin V as Pope | • Free admission, donations welcomed |

| • Elaborate stone carvings | • Witnessed the trial and execution of Jan Hus | • Audio guides available for a fee |

The group marvels at the cathedral’s striking design and immense scale, eager to step inside and uncover more of Konstanz’s rich history.

Strolling Through Pfalzgarten

After admiring the grandeur of Konstanz Cathedral, the group now heads to the serene Pfalzgarten. This tranquil garden oasis offers a pleasant respite from the bustling city streets:

• Lush greenery and manicured lawns provide a peaceful setting for relaxation.

• Charming pathways wind through the garden, inviting visitors to stroll and explore.

• Ornate fountains and statues add a touch of elegance and history to the space.

• Stunning views of the Bodensee and the surrounding Alps can be enjoyed from various vantage points.

The Pfalzgarten offers a delightful contrast to the more imposing religious and historic sites, allowing the tour participants to savor the serene ambiance of this enchanting urban garden.

Navigating Obermarkt

As the group departs the tranquil Pfalzgarten, they now head towards the bustling Obermarkt, the central marketplace and commercial hub of Constance.

The guide leads them through the lively square, pointing out the vibrant mix of medieval architecture and modern shops. From the iconic Rathaus with its ornate façade to the charming fountains and cafes, the Obermarkt exudes a lively energy.

The guide shares stories of its historical significance, touching on its role as a gathering place for trade, politics, and community events over the centuries.

The Obermarkt has long served as a hub for trade, politics, and community events in the storied history of Constance.

The tour group takes in the sights and sounds, getting a feel for the pulse of Constance’s commercial heart.

The Sum Up

On this private city tour, you’ll discover the captivating charm of Constance. From the tranquil Stadtgarten to the historic Rheintorturm, you’ll uncover the city’s rich monastic heritage and marvel at the grandeur of Konstanz Cathedral. Wander the cobblestone streets of Niederburg, and learn about the lively atmosphere of Münsterplatz. This enchanting journey showcases Constance’s timeless allure, blending its mystical past with its vibrant present.

You can check availability for your dates here: