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Lake Constance
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
poi · CH

Lake Constance

Getting around: Lake Constance (Bodensee) is a short distance north of St. Gallen; the lakeside town of Rorschach is about 15-20 minutes by train from St. Gallen, with boats departing from there for onward trips around the lake, including into Germany and Austria.
Hours: Accessible at all times along the public shoreline; boat cruises run on a seasonal daytime schedule.

Lake Constance is a large lake shared by Switzerland, Germany and Austria, with the Swiss shore near St. Gallen centered on Rorschach, a lakeside town with a historic harbor and promenade. It's a notably calmer, flatter landscape than Switzerland's alpine lakes further south — more about lakeside towns, orchards and gentle cycling routes than mountain drama.

For visitors based in St. Gallen, it's a worthwhile change of pace from the hilly Appenzell countryside — an easy train trip to Rorschach for a lakeside walk, a swim in season, or a boat trip that can extend into Germany or Austria if you want a genuine cross-border day out.

Lake Constance FAQs

Can I cross into Germany or Austria from the Swiss side?

Yes, seasonal boat cruises connect the Swiss shore near Rorschach to towns in Germany and Austria across the lake.

Is Lake Constance as dramatic as Switzerland's alpine lakes?

No, it's a calmer, flatter landscape — more about lakeside towns and gentle scenery than mountain drama.

Can I swim there?

Yes, there are public swimming areas along the shore in summer.

How far is Rorschach from St. Gallen?

About 15-20 minutes by train.

Is cycling a good way to explore the shore?

Yes, the lake has well-developed cycling routes along its relatively flat shoreline.

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