Lindau Harbor is the gateway to Lindau Island on Lake Constance (Bodensee) in Germany's far south, and is celebrated as the most beautiful harbor entrance on the entire lake and the town's landmark. Its entrance is framed by two icons completed in 1856: the roughly 6 m Bavarian Lion and the 'New Lighthouse'—the southernmost lighthouse in Germany and the only one in Bavaria—with the Swiss and Austrian Alps rising behind them on clear days. As of 2026 the harbor and lakeside promenade remain free to stroll, while the lighthouse can be climbed for a fee during the spring-to-autumn season. With the lion, lighthouse and Alps aligning in a single frame, it is a signature photo spot and an easy half-day walking outing.
Bavarian Lion — a roughly 6 m, ~50-tonne Kelheim-sandstone sculpture by Munich professor Johann von Halbig; its base bears the completion year 1856 in Roman numerals 'MDCCCLVI'
New Lighthouse — about 33 m tall; climb 139 steps to a viewing platform over the island, lake, tri-border region and the Alps (one of the few lighthouses with a clock set into its facade)
Harbor entrance and Seepromenade — the classic viewpoint capturing lion, lighthouse and Alps together, especially striking at sunset
Mangturm — a 12th-century square stone tower on the promenade, a former lighthouse and part of the medieval town wall
Lake Constance cruises (BSB 'White Fleet') — panorama and tri-country round trips departing from the harbor, offering the finest views of the harbor entrance from the water
Good to know
SeasonLighthouse access and BSB cruises run mainly from spring (March/April) through October; in winter the lighthouse often closes and boat service is reduced. For a clear-day Alpine backdrop, check the forecast before choosing your visit date.
RulesClimbing the lighthouse costs a fee (roughly EUR 5 adults / EUR 3 children) and is suspended in high winds or bad weather for safety. Prices and hours change, so verify the latest details on Lindau's official site before you go; booking cruises ahead is advised in peak season.
SafetyParking on the island is very limited and often full in peak season. Long-distance trains stop at Lindau-Reutin on the mainland, so transfer via a local train to Lindau-Insel station right by the harbor, or park on the mainland and walk in. Some pier and breakwater edges have low railings—watch children near the water.
MannersThe area in front of the lion and lighthouse is a top photo spot and gets very crowded when tour boats arrive and in peak season. Avoid monopolizing spots with tripods or blocking others' shots; visiting early morning or around sunset is far quieter.
SeasonAlthough classed as a 'beach/island' spot, Lake Constance is fed by Alpine meltwater and stays cool even in summer. Lake swimming (e.g. the lido/Strandbad) is realistic only in the mild June–September window, and lakeside evenings in spring/autumn feel chilly—bring a layer.
CautionViolent crime risk is low in this small town, but watch for pickpockets and guard your bags on the busy promenade, at the boat landing and on trains. Ignore touts selling lighthouse or cruise tickets away from official counters, and any informal 'parking assistants.'
Practical info
Long-distance trains stop at Lindau-Reutin on the mainland, with a short local-train hop to Lindau-Insel station right beside the harbor and old town (walkable). The harbor and promenade are free; climbing the New Lighthouse carries a seasonal fee (about EUR 5 for adults), and BSB cruises depart from the harbor. Opening seasons, sailing schedules, fees and hours all change, so confirm the latest details before visiting.
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