With Zeppelins first taking flight from Friedrichshafen in 1900, the city has since become synonymous with the aviation industry. Wander the streets here and you’ll see plenty of references to this proud history.
Delve into years gone by
Whether you’re a lover of the skies or have a passion for history, you’ll find Friedrichshafen still pays homage to its past. The Zeppelin Museum towards the edge of the city is the ideal place to learn all about the city’s links to flight, housing the most extensive collection of airship travel history in the world.
Spend the day wandering round some of the 6,000 objects on show at this fascinating museum and grab a bite to eat. The restaurant housed within the museum offers incredible views of the nearby harbor and the beautiful Lake Constance.
Relax on the shores of Lake Constance
Lake Constance boasts more than 125 miles of shoreline across three countries, making it the third largest lake in Central Europe.The scenery is stunning the whole way round but with the Swiss Alps as a backdrop, the views from the German shores are among the very best.
If the water is tempting you, then drop in for a swim to cool off. Look for signs to the ‘Strandbad’ where you’ll find showers, a café and a walkway for entering the water, as well as trees offering welcome shade on hot days. You could also try windsurfing or canoeing before relaxing on the sand and pebble beaches that line it.
Drive the famous Alpine Road
Starting at Lake Constance, the Alpine Road is a popular route for drivers to take in Germany. Rolling hills and lush alpine forest passes before you as you make your way from Lake Constance to Lake Königssee.
Germany’s oldest tourist route is annually voted one of the country’s best attractions. The road may date back to 1879 but it wasn’t until the 1960s that this continuous route between the two lakes was completed. It’s a great way to see the breathtaking views and experience unique Bavarian culture over the course of a pleasant drive.
The Oberjoch Pass is the most popular drive in Bavaria. It’s an exhilarating and challenging experience with more than 100 bends. Stop to take in the viewpoint at Paradise, which offers panoramic views of the Nagelfluhkette Nature Park, the Vorarlberg region in Austria and the towering Swiss Alps.
Step into a fairy tale at Neuschwanstein Castle
Dive into the pages of a fairy tale as you discover the remarkable Neuschwanstein Castle, once home to the eccentric and reclusive King Ludwig II.There are 14 rooms on view, including the king’s bedroom, but the most impressive is the two-story Throne Room – complete with a 13-foot tall chandelier and a floor mosaic.
Once you’ve seen the castle up close, head out to Marienbrucke. This awesome bridge across the cliffs was built in 1845 and boasts fantastic views of the castle. You’ll also find wooden trails around the castle where you can admire the rugged terrain of the Bavarian Alps.
Car rental in Friedrichshafen will allow you to discover the best of the city and beyond.