Konstanz is a city that packs a lot into a small area. Sitting right on the shores of Lake Constance, it offers not only stunning views of the Alps but also a fascinating mix of medieval alleys, historic landmarks, and lively markets. Its accessible compact center makes it ideal for exploring on foot, and that’s exactly what makes city tours in Konstanz so appealing. Whether you’re interested in deep dives into history, lively evening walks, or tasting regional wines, there’s a tour for you. We especially like the Guided City Tour for its comprehensive look at the city’s past combined with scenic views — perfect for first-timers wanting a solid overview.
While exploring, I’ve noticed that Konstanz’s compact size and rich stories make it ideal for walking tours, and many options cater to specific interests like mystery or literature. Whether you prefer a lively daytime stroll, a mystical evening adventure, or an intimate private experience, this list covers the best options with detailed insights to help you choose.
Quick Overview
Our list features seven fantastic city tours in Konstanz, each with its own flavor. For history lovers, the Guided City Tour offers a 90-minute walk through the highlights, including the impressive cathedral and Old Town alleys. For those intrigued by medieval tales, the Night Watchman Tour brings history alive with humor and stories. If wine is your thing, the wine tasting tour combines sightseeing with sampling regional Lake Constance wines. For travelers seeking privacy, the Private City Tour offers a customizable experience—also perfect for families or groups. Curious about the darker side? The Mystical Tour reveals spooky secrets of the city. For literary fans, the Literary City Tour takes a poetic stroll through Constance’s famed writers’ haunts. Lastly, the Proverbial Tour promises an engaging, fun exploration of the city’s corners and stories.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each tour to see what makes them stand out.
1. Constance: Guided City Tour
Starting with the Guided City Tour, this 1.5-hour walk offers an excellent introduction to Konstanz’s key sights. With a high rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 500 reviews, it’s a popular choice. The tour features expert guides who share stories about the city’s past, including the infamous Council of Constance (1414–1418), and take you through the charming alleys of the Old Town. You’ll visit the cathedral, one of the largest Romanesque churches in southern Germany, and enjoy sweeping views of Lake Constance and the Alps.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its blend of history, architecture, and scenery—all at an affordable price of just $16 per person. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, making complex history accessible and entertaining. This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a solid, quick overview of Konstanz’s highlights.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, well-rated introduction to Konstanz’s rich past and beautiful surroundings—ideal if you’re short on time but want depth.
2. Constance: 1.5-Hour Night Watchman City Tour
For a different perspective, check out the Night Watchman Tour. This 1.5-hour walk with a medieval night watchman is the perfect way to experience Konstanz after dusk. As the watchman patrols the alleys, you’ll hear amusing anecdotes, enjoy lively songs, and soak in the mystical atmosphere of the oldest part of town. The tour’s 4.9-star rating from 160 reviews speaks volumes about how much visitors enjoy this experience.
This tour stands out because it transforms history into storytelling—imagine hearing about medieval city life, legends, and secrets from someone in costume. It’s especially suited for those who love storytelling, history with a touch of entertainment, or an atmospheric evening stroll. The $20 price tag offers excellent value, given the theatrical flair and intimate group size.
Bottom Line: A lively, atmospheric tour that makes medieval Konstanz come alive after hours—great for history buffs and night owls alike.
3. Constance: Public city tour with wine tasting
If you want to combine sightseeing with tasting, the Public City Tour with Wine Tasting is a top pick. At 2.5 hours long, it offers a full immersion into medieval Constance and its regional wines. Starting at Historische Hafenuhr, you’ll explore key sites including Konstanz Port, Stadtgarten, and Fischmarkt, with guided commentary along the way.
What makes this tour unique is the focus on Lake Constance wines. Over several stops, you’ll sample different varieties and learn about their special features, all while soaking in the historic sights. The tour includes a total of about 15-minute wine tastings at each stop, making it a fun and relaxed experience.
Reviewers highlight the engaging guides and the quality of the wine. At $45 per person, it offers good value for those interested in both the city’s history and regional wine culture.
Bottom Line: A delightful blend of history and wine, perfect for those looking to add a tasty, educational twist to their visit.
4. Private city tour in Constance
Looking for a personalized experience? The Private City Tour in Constance is a flexible option for up to 15 people. For about $225, your group will enjoy a 1.5-hour entertaining and lively tour led by a guide with 30 years of experience. The tour covers the secrets and treasures of the medieval Council city, starting at Constance Harbour and passing by historic buildings and charming townhouses.
A highlight is the visit to the cathedral, where your guide shares stories from the city’s past. The tour concludes at the busy Market Square, perfect for relaxing afterward. The guide’s storytelling style, along with anecdotes about Imperia and the Council, makes this a memorable experience.
While it’s pricier than the group tours, the private format offers flexibility and a more tailored experience. Suitable for families, small groups, or travelers wanting a more intimate exploration.
Bottom Line: A more personalized, in-depth look at Konstanz’s history, ideal if you prefer private guides and customized pacing.
5. Constance: The mystical Constance
For those intrigued by the spooky and mysterious, the Mystical Tour offers a dark twist. This 2-hour private tour reveals mysterious symbols, dark corners, and stories of miracles and demonic figures. Starting at Historische Hafenuhr, the tour covers sites like Konstanz Port, Dominicans Island, and Rheintorturm, weaving legends with real history.
The guide shares spooky moments and secrets that make the city’s past come alive — perfect for travelers who enjoy ghost stories or want to see the city through a different lens. The tour costs around $221 for groups up to 15, making it a good value for a private experience.
Bottom Line: An engaging, slightly eerie tour that uncovers Konstanz’s darker stories, perfect for fans of mystery or those wanting a different perspective.
$221 per group up to 15
6. Constance: The private literary city tour
Poetry and literature come alive in the Literary City Tour. This 2-hour private walk leads you through Konstanz’s literary sites, following the footsteps of famous poets and writers. Your personal guide shares stories of the city’s poetic and intellectual past, making it a contemplative and sensory experience.
The tour visits spots like Rheintorturm, Niederburg, and Kanzleistraße, revealing how literature and history intertwine in the city’s fabric. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate culture, poetry, or want a more intimate, thought-provoking experience. Costing around $221 for groups up to 10, it provides personalized insights and a slower pace.
Bottom Line: Tailored for literature lovers, this tour offers a poetic lens on Konstanz’s history, ideal for those who want a calm, reflective journey.
$221 per group up to 10
7. Constance: The proverbial city tour
Finally, the Proverbial Tour promises an entertaining, lively 2-hour walk exploring the city’s stories and corners. Starting at Historische Hafenuhr, it takes you through Fischmarkt, Münsterplatz, and other key sites, with an emphasis on fun facts and local anecdotes.
This tour stands out for its interactive style. You’ll follow your nose through alleys, with the guide sharing tales and legends that make history engaging. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a fun, casual introduction, especially if you enjoy storytelling with a humorous touch. The cost is comparable at $221 for groups up to 15.
Bottom Line: An energetic, story-filled tour that brings the city’s history alive with humor and local gossip.
$221 per group up to 15
How to Choose the Right City Tour in Konstanz
Deciding which tour is best depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re keen on a quick, budget-friendly overview, the Guided City Tour is hard to beat. For a more atmospheric experience, the Night Watchman Tour offers a memorable evening. Wine lovers should consider the Wine Tasting Tour, which combines regional flavors with sightseeing.
For a personalized experience, the Private Tours and Literary Tour provide tailored insights—great for families, couples, or literature fans. The Mystical Tour appeals to those interested in spooky stories, while the Proverbial Tour is perfect for travelers wanting a lively, humorous experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially in summer or during local festivals, to secure your preferred times.
Final Thoughts
From quick highlights to immersive private experiences, Konstanz offers a wide variety of city tours suited to every traveler. For history enthusiasts, the guided tours provide rich context, while the wine tasting adds regional flavor. If you’re after something unique, the mystical or literary options make for memorable adventures.
No matter your choice, booking in advance and considering your interests will help you make the most of your time in this charming lakeside city. Happy exploring!