Mainau Island

Mainau Island which includes bird life and a lake or waterhole
Mainau Island which includes a park
Mainau Island
Mainau Island
Mainau Island showing a park

This tiny island on the waters of Lake Constance hides numerous delights, including a Baroque castle, beautiful gardens and exotic wildlife.

Mainau Island, nicknamed the “Island of Flowers,” is just over 110 acres (45 hectares) in size and yet it offers enough in its compact borders for hours of entertainment. The small, wooded island on Lake Constance is not only a beautiful location, but it also contains a castle, gardens and glasshouses where multitudes of tropical plants grow.

Follow in the footsteps of the Teutonic Order of Knights, the first occupiers of the island who lived here in the 13th century. They built a castle on the island, which later became the palace that still stands here today.

Make the palace your first stop on your trip to the island. Admire the Baroque stylings of the castle, which dates back in its current form to 1746. Explore the other buildings on the island, such as the Gatehouse and the Castle Church of St. Mary.

Wander the formal gardens surrounding the castle. Thousands of flower species line the water features and paths. Don’t miss the Rose Garden, which was created in 1871 for the Duke of Baden.

Travel to the tropics in the Palm House. This ornate glasshouse creates a climate suitable for growing over 20 different kinds of palm tree. Marvel at the fragile beauty of the orchid collection that also grows here.

Surround yourself with butterflies in the Schmetterlingshaus. Around 1,000 of the delicate creatures live in the house. Children will also enjoy visiting the farm animals in the Bauernhof, where you can ride ponies and meet rare livestock breeds.

When walking around the island, look for the Viktoria lime and the knotted pagoda trees, both of which are about 150 years old. Wander along flower-lined terraces that look out across the lake.

Mainau Island is north of the city of Constance. Ride passenger ferries from the city to reach the island and its attractions, which are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Adult visitors will have to pay a fee, while children under 12 get in for free.

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5/5 - Excellent

Couple

Use local bus to reach Mainau, then walk across the Bridge to the Island. Less expensive than a Ferry excursion

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

There is a lot to see and enjoy so I advise that you research on line maps to plan your time there.

Popular places to visit

Pfahlbau Museum

Pfahlbau Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Pfahlbau Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Unteruhldingen. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Pfahlbau Museum

University Konstanz

Explore the campus of University Konstanz during your visit to Konstanz-Egg. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

University Konstanz

Reptile House Unteruhldingen

You can browse the exhibits at Reptile House Unteruhldingen, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Unteruhldingen. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Reptile House Unteruhldingen

Casino Constance

Why not try your luck with a visit to Casino Constance during your time in Petershausen-Ost? While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Casino Constance

Bodensee Stadium

Catch an event at Bodensee Stadium during your trip to Staad. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Bodensee Stadium

Archaeological Museum of Baden-Wurttemberg

You can study the exhibits at Archaeological Museum of Baden-Wurttemberg, a museum with a story of its own, during your holiday in Petershausen-West. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Archaeological Museum of Baden-Wurttemberg

Top Mainau Island Hotel Deals

Ko'Ono Hotel und Restaurant

Ko'Ono Hotel und Restaurant

Martin-Schleyer-Str. 19, Konstanz, BW
Ko'Ono Hotel und Restaurant
Holiday Inn - the niu, Flower Konstanz by IHG

Holiday Inn - the niu, Flower Konstanz by IHG

Line-Eid-Straße 6, Konstanz, BW
Holiday Inn - the niu, Flower Konstanz by IHG
Hotel Volapük

Hotel Volapük

Im Loh 14, Konstanz, BW
Hotel Volapük
Hotel 47°

Hotel 47°

Reichenaustr. 17, Konstanz, Baden-Wuerttemberg
Hotel 47°
Hampton by Hilton Konstanz

Hampton by Hilton Konstanz

Line-Eid-Strasse 8, Konstanz, BW
Hampton by Hilton Konstanz
Rioca Konstanz Posto 10

Rioca Konstanz Posto 10

Weberinnenstraße 4, Konstanz, BW
Rioca Konstanz Posto 10
ibis Konstanz

ibis Konstanz

3 out of 5
Benediktinerplatz 9, Konstanz, BW
ibis Konstanz
Hotel Graf Zeppelin

Hotel Graf Zeppelin

St. Stephansplatz 15, Konstanz, BW
Hotel Graf Zeppelin
Chérisy Hotel Konstanz - Self Check-in Only

Chérisy Hotel Konstanz - Self Check-in Only

Joseph-Belli-Weg 1-3, Konstanz, BW
Chérisy Hotel Konstanz - Self Check-in Only
See all 2,388 properties in Mainau Island
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Mainau Island

Mainau Island offers a delightful range of activities for visitors, including scenic walks through its stunning gardens. Families will enjoy Mainau Kinderland, a dedicated play area for children, while the Midsommar Festival showcases vibrant celebrations and cultural events. Exploring these attractions makes for a memorable experience on this beautiful island in Konstanz.

Shopping

Mainau Island offers a lovely shopping experience at LAGO Shopping-Center Konstanz, just 4.8km away, featuring various shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Bodensee Center, located 22.5km away, provides a vibrant atmosphere for family and leisure shopping.

Recreation

At Bodensee-Therme Konstanz, indulge in rejuvenating body treatments amidst a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, Bodensee Stadium offers vibrant sporting activities, while Schmuggler Bucht provides a delightful playground for families, allowing for outdoor fun and leisure in a picturesque setting.

Adventure

Embark on a thrilling Radtour Friedrichshafen, located 16.1km from Mainau Island, where you can enjoy scenic cycling routes. Experience the exhilarating Haldenlift Wintersulgen ski field, 17.7km away, perfect for skiing and sports enthusiasts. For water lovers, the Wasserskipark Pfullendorf, 25.7km from Mainau, offers exciting water sports adventures.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Mainau Island offers a delightful mix of culture and entertainment. Enjoy a performance at the Alte Fabrik Muehlhofen theatre, or take a ride on the Riesenrad am See for stunning views. Theatre Konstanz also promises a captivating evening filled with romance and family-friendly vibes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Mainau Island

Mainau Island offers a delightful blend of attractions, including the Mainau Castle and the enchanting Schmetterlingshaus, perfect for those seeking culture and picturesque scenery. Visitors can also explore the nearby Insel Reichenau, renowned for its archaeological significance. With the beautiful harbour and stunning lakeside views, this idyllic destination caters to beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, making it an ideal getaway for a relaxing holiday.

  • Basilika Birnau: Nestled 4.8km from Mainau Island, this stunning baroque church offers a serene atmosphere enriched with rich cultural heritage. Its beautiful frescoes and magnificent views over Lake Constance provide a peaceful retreat for visitors.
  • University Konstanz: Located only 1.6km away, this modern university boasts impressive architecture and a vibrant academic environment. The lively campus is a hub for students and offers engaging events, making it a delightful place to experience the city's youthful energy.
  • Konstanz Harbor: Situated 4.8km from Mainau Island, the picturesque harbor features charming waterfront views. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the promenade, vibrant beach vibes, and scenic spots perfect for unwinding by the water.

Best time to go to Mainau Island

The best time to visit Mainau Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January32.9°F (0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April48.6°F (9.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
June63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July66.6°F (19.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August65.8°F (18.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September58.5°F (14.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October50.5°F (10.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December35.2°F (1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Mainau Island

To save on your trip to Mainau Island, consider visiting between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Booking a month in advance can secure the best deals, especially on Mondays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Utilise Expedia's search tool to sort hotels by price and find eco-friendly options. Additionally, look out for last-minute deals and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for significant savings. Exploring free activities around the island will also enhance your experience without straining your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Mainau Island are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Mainau Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Mainau Island is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Mainau Island is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily sort your search results to display hotels from the lowest to the highest price, ensuring you see the most affordable options first. Additionally, you have the ability to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation on Mainau Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.