The historic city of Lindau in Southern Bavaria lies on the
border with Austria, within walking distance of the Austrian town
of Bregenz. The city is actually built on an island in Lake
Constance (also known as 'Bodensee'), with the official name of
Lindau im Bodenssee - "Lindau in Lake Constance". The town is one
of the region's hidden gems - it is never overrun with tourists,
but is nevertheless full of charm.
Lindau's historic streets are lined with medieval and
half-timbered houses, and the small harbour is particularly
beautiful - especially when illuminated at night. The harbour scene
is complemented by the city's most famous landmarks: the Bavarian
Lion of Lindau sculpture and the delightful lighthouse, the only
lighthouse in (land-locked) Bavaria. Both of these guard the
entrance to the harbour. A wander through the narrow alleyways of
the old town, past the artistically painted town hall and the
lovingly restored half-timbered houses, is an ideal way to
experience Lindau. The lakeside promenade really is still a
promenade, and is a pleasure to walk along, with views across the
lake to the (often) snow-capped Swiss Alps.