HARBOR LIGHTS (Think Boz Scaggs) There are harbors, and then there is Lindau. To arrive here by boat — gliding across the glittering expanse of the Bodensee with the Austrian and Swiss Alps rising white and immense on the horizon — and to pass through that harbor entrance is one of the great small moments of travel in Europe. Nothing quite prepares you for it. The entrance is guarded by two icons. On the left, the Bavarian Lion: six meters of Kelheim sandstone, fifty tonnes of quiet authority, gazing steadily across the water toward Austria. Sculpted by Munich professor Johann von Halbig and completed in 1856, he is not merely a monument — he is a presence. On the right, the New Lighthouse: 36 meters tall, Bavaria's only lighthouse and Germany's southernmost, its clock face visible from the water and 139 steps winding up to a viewing platform where, on a clear day, you can see three countries at once. The interior walls on the way up are painted with scenes that reward the climb even before the view does. Between them and along the promenade stands the Mangturm, a 12th-century square stone tower that served as a lighthouse long before the new one existed, its colorful roof catching the Bodensee light like a beacon from another era. The harbor itself is everything a harbor should be: sailboats rocking gently at their moorings, the White Fleet ferries coming and going to Bregenz and Meersburg and Konstanz, the lakeside promenade lined with cafés where you can sit with a coffee or a glass of local Bodensee wine and simply watch the water. The island town rising behind it — barely 70 hectares, medieval in its bones, Baroque in its dress — completes the picture. At sunrise the light is golden on the lion. At sunset the Alps turn pink behind the lighthouse. At midday in summer the lake shimmers so intensely it almost hurts to look at. There is no bad time. Lindau Hafen is not just the most beautiful harbor on Lake Constance. It is one of the most beautiful harbors in Germany, full stop. Come by boat if you possibly can.

Great harbour to get a boat from around the Bodensee. We took a boat to the town of Bregenz in Austria for €37 return price for 2 people. The ticket people were very nice and staff on board the boats were more than helpful!

Lindau, a gem on the shores of Lake Constance, is a photographer's paradise. The harbor, adorned with a charming lighthouse and overlooked by the majestic Alps, offers breathtaking vistas, especially as the sun paints the sky during sunset. Strolling through Lindau's cobblestone streets, lined with colorful flowers and historic buildings boasting intricate architecture, presents a visual feast for any keen photographer. The blend of medieval and Baroque structures, such as the Town Hall and Mangturm Tower, provides a fascinating backdrop for capturing the town's essence. Aside from its visual allure, Lindau spoils visitors with its diverse culinary scene. From traditional Bavarian dishes to fresh seafood, the local gastronomy reflects the town's rich heritage. Lakeside cafes invite exploration, offering delightful pastries and aromatic coffee against a backdrop of serene lake views.

Very old town in east Lake Constance in Bavaria (Bodensee). Can walk along the lake (seepromenade) and watch sunset. Lovely atmosphere, lots of old cafes and restaurants and souvenir shops. The view of the mountains from Austria makes this town lovelier. The Central Railway Station is just across the seepromenade, very convenient. The bold statue of the great Bavarian Lion and the old lighthouse tower make this old Bavarian town more charming. You can go up the old tower and have lovely view of the lake and old town. Parking is everywhere, albeit hard to find when at its peak season in summer.

Lindau harbor Lindau (Lake Constance), Germany I was here on March 30, 2019 Beautiful harbor with a great atmosphere A place to stroll, dine and start a boat tour.