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Best lake destinations in Europe

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Constance
Lakeside old town on the Swiss border
8.0
Three countries share the shores of Lake Constance. Mainau island is a flower garden with tulips in spring and orchids in winter. Zeppelin sightseeing flights leave from Friedrichshafen on the northern shore. Ferries connect lakeside towns and medieval harbors throughout the day in the warmer months of the year.
Highlights:
  • ⚓ Stroll along Konstanz Harbour and see Imperia statue
  • 🏰 Explore the charming medieval Old Town streets
  • 🌆 Climb Konstanz Cathedral tower for breathtaking city views
Berchtesgaden
Alpine town by Königssee and the Watzmann
8.1
Electric boats have cruised the Konigssee since 1909 to keep the water quiet. Boatmen play a trumpet so visitors can hear the echo bounce off the steep walls. A chapel with red onion domes sits on the far shore. Trails lead from the dock to the Obersee and its waterfall.
Highlights:
  • 🥾 Hike to the crystal-clear Obersee and waterfall
  • 🦅 Admire breathtaking alpine views from the Eagle’s Nest
  • 🚤 Take the scenic boat across Königssee to St. Bartholomä
Schwangau
Fairytale castles below the Alps
8.2
Clear Alpsee lies right beneath Hohenschwangau castle. Swimmers and rowers enjoy the quiet mountain water in summer. Forggensee nearby is a large reservoir used for sailing and boat trips. Paths around both lakes give views of the forest and the Alps and lead to quiet picnic spots.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Explore Hohenschwangau Castle, childhood home of King Ludwig II
  • 🌉 Walk across Marienbrücke for breathtaking castle views
  • 🏰 Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, the iconic fairy-tale fortress
Bavaria
Alps, castles, beer gardens and old towns
8.6
Lake Chiemsee is called the Bavarian Sea and holds the island of Herreninsel. King Ludwig II built a palace there modeled on Versailles. Small steamers leave from Prien on the western shore. Alpine peaks rise behind the lake and reflect in the water on calm mornings.
Highlights:
  • 🚗 Drive the scenic Romantic Road through medieval towns
  • 🍺 Join Oktoberfest in Munich and raise a stein with locals
  • 🏰 Explore Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairytale icon of Bavaria
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