Private city tour in Constance

Explore Constance’s Historic Charm with a Private Guided Tour

This private city tour in Constance offers a captivating 1 hour 30 minutes exploration of the city’s most notable sights and stories. Priced at $225.73 per group (up to 15 people), it promises an entertaining, lively, and informative experience led by experienced guides who have been conducting tours in Constance for over 30 years. The tour is designed to be accessible for children aged 4 and above, senior citizens, and disabled guests, with special seating arrangements and routes accommodating strollers and visual impairments.

The guided tour starts at Hafenstraße, near the city’s port, and is perfect for those who want an insightful overview of Constance’s medieval past and present in a flexible, private format. The tour is available by appointment only, with options to schedule after 18:00, although visits to the Konstanz Minster and Rosgartenmuseum are limited during those hours due to their closing times. This tour suits history buffs, families, and anyone interested in a personal, in-depth look at Constance’s landmarks, anecdotes, and hidden stories.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience for groups of up to 15 at $225.73
• Duration of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, with flexible start times
• Accessible for children, seniors, disabled guests, and strollers
• Includes stops at key landmarks like Constance Harbour, Fischmarkt, Münster, and Kaiserbrunnen
• Informative and entertaining guides with over 30 years of experience, sharing stories and anecdotes
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point at Constance Harbour Sets the Scene

The tour begins at Constance Harbour, offering an ideal meeting point in the city’s center. This lively location provides a scenic backdrop for the start of the tour, where guides introduce the city’s history, including the notable Council of Constance (1414-1418) and the legendary figure Imperia. As the tour unfolds, the lively atmosphere of the port gives way to the city’s historic core, blending scenic views with storytelling.

From here, the guides lead the group into the picturesque old town, passing by buildings that reflect nearly a thousand years of architecture. The start point offers a great chance to absorb the city’s vibrant ambiance, which continues throughout the tour.

Discover the “Hohe Haus” at Fischmarkt with Historic Tales

A short walk from the harbor takes visitors to Fischmarkt, home to the “Hohe Haus”, a building dating back to 1194. The guides delight in sharing stories related to this historic house, which is reputedly built from top to bottom—a detail that sparks curiosity. This stop offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval fabric and the stories behind its oldest structures.

The Fischmarkt area remains one of the most recognizable historic spots in Constance, combining charming architecture with tales of the city’s early days. Visitors will enjoy hearing about the significance of this building and its role in Constance’s trading history.

Exploring the Münster: The Heart of the City

The Constance Münster, or cathedral, is a central highlight of the tour. This former Episcopal Church showcases special architectural features and an engaging history that the guides bring to life. Visitors get to touch and experience a piece of contemporary history within its walls, learning about its construction, significance, and the stories connected to this important religious site.

The guide’s explanations help visitors appreciate the baroque courtyards and the Roman remains on Münsterplatz, where the city’s origins as a Roman settlement are still visible. The Münster’s location and history make it a focal point for understanding Constance’s development through the centuries.

Münsterplatz and the Roman Roots of Constance

Adjacent to the Münster lies Münsterplatz, a broad square lined with Baroque-era buildings that once served as official courtyards. This area also marks the location of “Constantia” castle, built nearly 2000 years ago during Roman times. The tour highlights the remains of Roman castle walls, giving visitors a tangible connection to Constance’s ancient past.

The space was once a vibrant trade and administrative hub, and today, it retains its historical character with lively markets and open views, offering a perfect spot to soak in the city’s layered history.

Wandering through Niederburg’s Medieval Charm

The Niederburg district stands out as the oldest part of Constance, with narrow streets lined by medieval stone houses. The guides point out wealthy pawnshops and Baroque administrative buildings, illustrating how the city preserved its medieval character.

Walking through Niederburg, visitors see well-preserved architecture and hear anecdotes about life in the Middle Ages. The area’s compact layout and historic buildings create an authentic atmosphere, making it ideal for those interested in exploring the city’s medieval roots.

Wessenbergstraße: A Hub for Shopping and Relaxation

The Wessenbergstraße acts as the lively pedestrian zone within Constance. This street is perfect for browsing original shops and stopping in cozy cafés. The guides offer tips on local favorites, providing a relaxed break during the tour.

This area allows visitors to experience the modern side of Constance, with opportunities to shop for souvenirs or enjoy a coffee while soaking up the city’s everyday life.

Ancient Markets and Medieval Punishments at Konstanzer Obermarkt

The Obermarkt has historically been a central trading location, once home to the public pillory used for medieval punishments. The tour explains how this square functioned as a marketplace and political center during the Middle Ages.

During the Council period, the Obermarkt was also where “Cradle of Prussia” stood—an interesting historical footnote about Prussia’s origins. The guide shares stories about the market’s evolution from medieval trading hub to modern gathering place.

The Kaiserbrunnen: City’s Emperors and Mythical Creatures

The tour concludes at the Kaiserbrunnen, a fountain named after the many kings and emperors who visited Constance. The fountain features strange animals, including a horse with 8 legs and rabbits with fish tails and fins.

The guide explains the significance of these mythical creatures and why they appear in this central spot. It serves as a whimsical end to the tour while emphasizing Constance’s connection to imperial history and folklore.

Practical Details: Accessibility, Scheduling, and Flexibility

This private tour departs from Hafenstraße and ends at the Kaiserbrunnen Marktstätte. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with disabilities or strollers, thanks to designed accessibility features. Guides can schedule the tour at your preferred date and time, including after 6 PM, with the caveat that some attractions like the Münster and Rosgartenmuseum may be closed during late evening.

The tour features free admission at each stop and lasts about 90 minutes. It offers a flexible, personalized experience that is ideal for families, seniors, or groups seeking a detailed, customized exploration of Constance.

Final Thoughts on the Private Constance City Tour

This private city tour in Constance offers an engaging and accessible way to discover the city’s medieval streets, historic landmarks, and stories. Led by guides with over 30 years of experience, the tour balances entertainment and education, making it especially suitable for those who appreciate a personal, in-depth approach.

While the price is per group, it includes visits to multiple key sights, with the option to tailor the timing to your schedule. The tour’s strong points include its accessible design, friendly guide team, and the opportunity to explore both the old and modern parts of Constance in a relaxed, private setting.

This experience suits history enthusiasts, families with children, and senior visitors who want a comprehensive yet comfortable overview of this charming medieval city. The only consideration is that the tour is conducted on foot, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children from age 4 and up are welcome, and the tour is designed to be age-appropriate.

Can I book this tour in the evening?
Yes, start times after 18:00 are possible, but some attractions like the Münster and Rosgartenmuseum may be closed then.

Is the tour accessible for disabled guests?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for disabled visitors, with provisions for strollers and visual impairments.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is the price for the group?
It costs $225.73 for up to 15 people.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Hafenstraße and ends at Kaiserbrunnen Marktstätte.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Are attractions like the Münster included in the tour?
The tour includes a short visit to the Münster, but visits to the interior may be limited during late hours or religious services.

Is this a guided tour with a real person?
Yes, it is a private guided tour led by experienced guides familiar with Constance’s stories.

Can I customize the tour date?
Yes, tours are available by appointment and can be scheduled on your preferred date and time.