Lindau is a charming Swiss-German town perched on the edge of Lake Constance, famous for its medieval architecture and lakeside setting. What makes Lindau stand out for tours is its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a scenic location that invites exploration from multiple angles. Whether it’s a picturesque boat cruise with breathtaking views of the Alps or a private walking tour through its cobbled streets, Lindau’s diversity of experiences makes it a top destination for sightseeing. We especially appreciate experiences like the half-day tour with a panoramic boat ride that combines scenic cruising with a detailed stroll through the Old Town — perfect for first-timers looking for an immersive introduction.
If you’re seeking a more personalized experience, the private guided tours offer an intimate look at Lindau’s highlights, from the iconic Mangturm Tower to the historic Peterskirche. For travelers with limited time, quick but comprehensive options like the 1.5-hour private sightseeing tour or the express walk with a local hit the sweet spot. And for those wanting to add some fun to their trip, the self-guided scavenger hunt delivers a playful way to explore while solving riddles.
Quick Overview
Below you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best tours in Lindau. They include scenic boat rides, private walking tours, quick highlights, and even full-day excursions. Each offers something different, whether you prefer an in-depth exploration, a scenic cruise, or a fun, interactive experience. Check out the options below to find your ideal Lindau adventure.
1. Discover Lindau and its charming Old Town on a half day tour incl Panoramic Boat Tour
At number 1 on our list, this half-day tour combines a guided walking tour of Lindau’s medieval Old Town with a scenic cruise around Lake Constance. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive introduction to Lindau’s highlights without feeling rushed. The tour includes visiting Lindau’s iconic Lighthouse, the Bavarian Lion Sculpture, and the Mangturm, while also offering magnificent views of the Swiss and Bavarian Alps from the water. The boat cruise provides a relaxing vantage point to see Lindau from the lake, adding a memorable touch.
What makes this tour stand out is its private format, which ensures personal attention from your guide and flexible scheduling. The guide shares fascinating insights into Lindau’s history, architecture, and culture, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the interesting itinerary, with one emphasizing that Lindau was a “big surprise” thanks to this tour. For around $329.92 per person, it offers a rich experience suitable for those who enjoy a combination of walking and cruising.
Bottom Line: If you want a thorough, private overview with stunning lake views and in-depth commentary, this tour delivers.
2. Lindau Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
Number 2 provides an intimate, private walk through Lindau’s top sights. For just over $250 per group, you get approximately 1.5 hours exploring the town’s most photogenic spots like the Mangturm Tower, the Harbor, the Lighthouse, and the Church of St. Stephen. Your guide will tailor the experience to your interests, answering questions and sharing stories about Lindau’s importance as a trading hub and its historical secrets.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a personalized, flexible experience. While brief, it covers key landmarks efficiently, giving a good orientation if you’re short on time. Multiple reviews mention guides being “friendly,” “knowledgeable,” and “enthusiastic,” making the experience more engaging. The tour also touches on Lindau’s carnival traditions and scandals, adding depth to your visit.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a private, quick, focused introduction to Lindau’s most famous sights.
3. Private Sightseeing Tour 1.5 hours Lindau Island Lake Constance
The 1.5-hour private tour offers a short but sweet glimpse of Lindau’s main sights, perfect if you’re pressed for time but still want to see the highlights. It includes stops at the Historic Town Hall, Munster Unserer Lieben Frau, Stephanskirche, and Lake Constance views. Your guide provides insights into Lindau’s architectural styles and local stories, making the sightseeing more meaningful.
This tour shines for its personalization and focus on natural beauty. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and want to maximize their limited time. Guests have described their guides as “knowledgeable”, and the tour’s flexibility makes it a good choice for those with tight schedules. The price point is attractive at $173.64 per group, especially considering it includes customized commentary.
Bottom Line: Best for quick explorers who want an efficient, private introduction to Lindau and Lake Constance’s scenery.
4. Lindau – Town Highlights Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour walking tour focuses on Lindau’s most iconic sights like the Lighthouse, the Thieves Tower, and Peterskirche. It’s a private guide who will tailor the route to your interests and time availability. It offers walking at a steady pace, allowing you to appreciate medieval buildings and breathtaking harbor views.
While this tour is slightly more condensed, it covers core landmarks and provides insights into Lindau’s maritime importance. Reviewers have appreciated the flexibility and personalized attention. If your goal is a straightforward, personalized overview of Lindau’s history and architecture, this tour hits the mark.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those looking for a focused, private overview of Lindau’s top attractions in a comfortable timeframe.
$348.94 per group (up to 15)
5. Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
For a fun, interactive way to explore Lindau, this self-guided scavenger hunt is perfect. Using your smartphone, you’ll solve riddles that lead you to hidden corners, famous landmarks, and local secrets. It’s a two-hour experience designed to entertain and educate simultaneously.
Priced at just $12.45 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option that appeals to families or adventurous travelers who enjoy puzzles and exploring at their own pace. The feedback praises the creativity of the riddles and how it led to discovering unexpected spots. Plus, it’s entirely flexible, allowing you to pause or extend your adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing with a playful challenge, perfect for tech-savvy explorers.
$12.45 per person
6. Day Trip Flower Island of Mainau including Meersburg
Number 6 offers a full-day excursion that ventures further afield to the Flower Island of Mainau and the historic town of Meersburg. For approximately $481.48 per person, this private tour includes a boat cruise across Lake Constance to Mainau’s botanical gardens, famous for their impressive plant collections and butterfly garden.
The tour also visits Meersburg, known for its ancient fortress and charming streets. Your guide will ensure you see the best parts of each location, providing insights into German and Swiss culture along the way. Guests rave about the botanical splendor and the relaxing boat ride, which offers stunning lake views that are especially striking during sunset.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full-day escape combining nature, history, and lakeside scenery with the convenience of a private guide.
7. Lindau: Private Guided Walking Tour
Number 7 takes you on a personalized walk through Lindau’s most impressive landmarks. For about $249, your guide will introduce you to the Old Town’s medieval architecture, including the Mangturm tower, the cathedral, and historical streets. The focus is on storytelling and local insights, making it ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Lindau’s cultural fabric.
Guests describe their guides as friendly and knowledgeable, with one noting that it’s a great way to see the town at your own pace. It’s a versatile tour suited for history lovers and curious explorers who value personalized attention and deep dives into local stories.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a comprehensive, private walking experience with a focus on history and culture.
8. Lindau: Express Walk with a Local
This one-hour walk offers a quick, insider’s introduction to Lindau. It’s perfect if your schedule is tight but you still want to see some highlights like the Lindau Old Town Hall, Mangturm, and harbor views. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn about Lindau’s best cafes, bars, and hidden corners in a small group of up to 8 travelers.
Guests praise the friendly guide, noting that the tour offers a good overview and helpful tips for the rest of their stay. This tour is especially suited for first-time visitors who want a taste of Lindau’s essence without committing to a longer tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, lively introduction with personal local insights.
$78 per person
9. Lindau Private Christmas Market Tour
During the festive season, Lindau’s Christmas Port Market becomes a storybook scene. This 1.5-hour private tour guides you through the market’s stalls, musical performances, and festive treats, all set against Alpine backdrops. You’ll learn about Lindau’s traditions, scandals, and historical figures like Emperor Maximilian I.
This tour is perfect if you want to experience Lindau’s holiday spirit while discovering its cultural traditions. Tour reviews highlight the enchanting atmosphere and the local stories shared by the guide. It’s a wonderful seasonal activity that immerses you in Lindau’s festive charm.
Bottom Line: A can’t-miss choice if visiting during Christmas, especially for those who want a festive, private experience.
10. Lindau: Private city tour with wine tasting
Finally, this 2.5-hour tour combines city sightseeing with wine tasting from Lake Constance’s local wineries. Starting at Therese-von-Bayern-Platz, you’ll visit several key sites, including Fischergasse, St. Stephan’s Church, and the Lindau Old Town Hall, while sampling at least five wines with bread and mineral water.
The guide is humorous and knowledgeable, making the experience lively and informative. It’s a unique way to pair local culture with regional wines, appealing to foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. The reviews mention how much fun they had learning about local wines while exploring Lindau’s streets.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in wine and local culture, seeking a relaxed, engaging experience.
How to Choose the Perfect Lindau Tour
When selecting your Lindau adventure, consider your budget, time available, and interest areas. For a rundown with scenic views, the Discover Lindau and its Old Town tour is unbeatable. If you prefer a more personal touch, the private guided walks provide tailored experiences. Budget travelers or families might enjoy the self-guided scavenger hunt, which combines fun and exploration at an affordable price. For food and wine lovers, the wine tasting tour offers a delightful combination of sightseeing and regional flavors.
Think about your fitness level too — some tours involve walking over uneven cobblestones, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like summer or Christmas, to secure your preferred times and guides. Also, check if the tour includes entrance fees or if those are extra, so you can budget accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Lindau offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and schedules. For a full immersion with scenic lake views, the half-day tour with boat ride is a top pick. Those seeking a private, personalized experience will find value in the guided walking tours. And if you’re visiting during the festive season, don’t miss the Christmas Market Tour to soak in Lindau’s holiday cheer.
Whether you want to explore medieval streets, enjoy lake vistas, or sample local wines, Lindau has a lot to offer. To avoid missing out, especially during busy seasons, it’s best to book early. Whichever tour you choose, you’re sure to walk away with a deeper appreciation for this lakeside gem.