Lindau Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)

The basics

Tours of Lindau’s Old Town will almost certainly include a visit to the magnificent Old Town Hall, which sits along Maximilian Street at the center of town. It’s only possible to view the building from the outside, but visiting with a guide provides insight into the long history of the Town Hall, dating back to the 15th century. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to explore the city at your own pace, you can also join a self-guided scavenger hunt.

Things to know before you go

• Make sure to see the building from both sides—each facade features different murals and contrasting architectural details.

• There are public restrooms on Bismarckplatz right opposite the Old Town Hall.

• The streets around the Old Town Hall are cobblestone, but it is still accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Lindau Old Town Hall is located on Bismarckplatz, right in the heart of the Old Town. It’s easy to find along Maximilian Street, and you can walk there from the harbor in 5 minutes. Trains and buses stop at Lindau-Insel station, just a 3-minute walk away.

When to get there

Lindau’s Old Town can fill up with day-trippers during the summer months, so plan your tour for early or late in the day if you’re visiting in July or August. Visiting the landmark is a year-round, all-weather activity, but for the best photos, choose a clear day that shows off the colorful murals.

A walking tour of Lindau Old Town

The best way to explore Lindau is on a walking tour followed by a boat cruise on Lake Constance, so you can enjoy views of the Old Town from land and water. Start by visiting the 12th-century St. Stephen’s Church, admiring the buildings on Marktplatz, and visiting the Town Museum, housed in a beautiful 18th-century building. Walk along Maximilian Street, stopping to see the Old Town Hall and Lindavia Fountain, then continue to Lindau Harbor, with its old lighthouse and striking watchtower.