6 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Friedrichshafen! A Resort City on the Shores of Lake Constance

Friedrichshafen is a city located on the shores of Lake Constance (Bodensee) in southern Germany. Lake Constance spans three countries—Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, and its surroundings are dotted with resort towns and tourist destinations.
Friedrichshafen is a relatively young city, having been established in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, the city flourished as a center of the aviation industry, thanks to Ferdinand von Zeppelin, who developed airships there.
Today, Friedrichshafen is a picturesque city perfect for vacations and leisure activities. In this article, we introduce six recommended tourist spots in Friedrichshafen that you shouldn’t miss!

1. Zeppelin Museum

Count Zeppelin, a native of Konstanz, successfully conducted airship flight experiments at the end of the 19th century. In the early 20th century, he established a manufacturing base in Friedrichshafen. The term "Zeppelin" became widely recognized as referring to the rigid airships developed by the count, and Friedrichshafen thrived as an aviation industry hub until World War II.
The Zeppelin Museum is a must-visit spot where visitors can learn about the history of Friedrichshafen and airships. Conveniently connected to the harbor station and ferry port, it is easily accessible for tourists. The museum offers detailed exhibits on airship development and mechanics, with descriptions available in both German and English. There are also audio booths featuring animated films for children, making it an enjoyable destination for both adults and kids.
The museum also covers the 1937 Hindenburg disaster, one of Friedrichshafen's most well-known historical events. It features numerous photographs, documents, and even reconstructed passenger rooms from the famous airship. The average visit takes about two hours, and comparisons between airships and modern airplanes highlight the impressive size and luxury of these 80-year-old flying vessels.

2. Friedrichshafen Observation Tower

The Friedrichshafen Observation Tower is a scenic viewpoint located at the tip of a narrow breakwater extending from the ferry port entrance. The tower stands 22.25 meters high, and there is no elevator—visitors must climb a staircase equivalent to about seven floors. While the ascent is a challenge, the breathtaking view from the top makes it worth the effort, offering a panoramic vista of Friedrichshafen, Lake Constance, and even the distant Alps.
Also known as Moleturm (meaning "Breakwater Tower"), this relatively new attraction was built in 2000. However, visitors should be aware that the tower sways slightly, which may be uncomfortable for some. That said, it remains one of the best spots to enjoy a full panoramic view of Friedrichshafen. If you're up for an adventure, be sure to climb to the top and take in the stunning scenery!

3. Dornier Museum

The Dornier Museum is located near Friedrichshafen Airport, slightly outside the city center. It showcases the history of Claudius Dornier, who separated from the Zeppelin Airship Company to establish Dornier GmbH, a pioneering aircraft manufacturer.
This museum is perfect for aviation enthusiasts and also for travelers with extra time before a flight. Outside the museum, visitors can see a Dornier Do 31 jet transport aircraft, along with exhibits featuring Dornier aircraft and space-related displays.
A special outdoor park along the runway features a repurposed light aircraft, making it an exciting stop even for those who are not aviation buffs. The museum also includes a restaurant, and visitors can enjoy outdoor dining while watching planes take off and land.

4. Uferpromenade

Stretching about 1 kilometer west from the ferry port, the Uferpromenade translates to "Lakeside Promenade." As its name suggests, it is a scenic lakeside walkway, lined with restaurants, cafés, and green parks, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
Beyond the lake, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Alpine ridgeline, making this promenade a perfect place for a relaxing sightseeing walk. Many cafés and restaurants offer terrace seating by the water, allowing guests to enjoy a luxurious lunch or coffee break while taking in the views. There are also boat rentals available along the way, making it a great opportunity to row out onto Lake Constance and create a special travel memory.

5. Schlosskirche Friedrichshafen (Friedrichshafen Palace Church)

While walking west along the Uferpromenade, you will notice two towering spires standing on a cape across the bay. This is Schlosskirche Friedrichshafen, a historic landmark that predates the founding of the city. Originally built as a monastery in the 11th century, it was destroyed during the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century. Later, when the Kingdom of Württemberg built its summer palace on the site, the church came to be known as the "Palace Church."
Due to its monastic and royal history, the church stands on a vast estate and features grand architecture. One of its most striking features is the brilliant white ceiling, adorned with intricate decorations. At the southeastern edge of the grounds, there is a monument called "Schlosssteg," resembling a pier. While visitors cannot walk on it, the area is a popular photography spot, thanks to its historical significance and picturesque surroundings.

6. Der Katamaran (The Catamaran)

The Catamaran is a regular ferry service connecting Friedrichshafen and Konstanz across Lake Constance. The journey takes just under an hour, offering a short but scenic boat trip where passengers can enjoy views of charming lakeside towns and the majestic Alps.
Konstanz is a popular tourist city and serves as the southern starting point of the Fantastic Road, a famous scenic route in Germany. Since Konstanz is close to the Swiss border, prices tend to be higher than in Friedrichshafen. A smart travel tip is to stay in Friedrichshafen and take a day trip to Konstanz, making the most of your budget.
Additionally, the Catamaran offers a 45-minute sightseeing cruise around the Friedrichshafen area. This service operates only during the summer high season, making it an excellent way to experience a boat trip on Lake Constance with ease.

◎ Summary

We have introduced six recommended tourist spots in Friedrichshafen. This city offers stunning views of Lake Constance and the Alps, as well as unique aviation museums showcasing airships and aircraft history.
As a hidden gem where resort relaxation meets historical sightseeing, Friedrichshafen is a must-visit destination when traveling through southern Germany or Switzerland. Be sure to stop by and explore this charming lakeside city!