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Mainau Island

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Island

Weather…

Mainau Island in Lake Constance, known as the 'Flower Island,' is a botanical paradise of international standing. Across an area of about 45 hectares, it has an overwhelming variety of plants, including an arboretum with over 500 different tree species and a magnificent rose garden. The heart of the island is the 18th-century Baroque castle ensemble, which once belonged to the Teutonic Order and is now the residence of the Bernadotte family. Especially worth visiting is the butterfly house, one of the largest of its kind in Germany, where numerous tropical species can be observed. Each season brings its own highlights, from the tulip blossoms in spring to the dahlia show in autumn. The island follows a consistent ecological concept and serves as a model for sustainable tourism and horticulture. As one of the most visited attractions on Lake Constance, it combines nature experiences with cultural heritage and princely hospitality.

Location: Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Top sights: Großherzog-Friedrich-Terrasse · Kakteen · Insektengarten
Nearby: Meersburg (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-1	0	4	9	13	17	19	18	14	10	4	0
Rain mm	94	74	92	91	141	139	144	146	103	100	87	102

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The island is easily accessible via a pedestrian bridge directly connecting it to the mainland shore, or by utilizing regular passenger boats cruising across the large lake.

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Best season

The period from spring to early autumn is undeniably the best time to visit, as the magnificent botanical gardens and floral displays are fully blooming in bustling colors.

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Terrain & paths

The grounds are exceptionally well-maintained, featuring paved walking paths and gentle inclines that are perfectly suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and relaxed strolling.

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What to bring

Comfortable and casual walking shoes are generally sufficient for the manicured pathways, along with appropriate sun protection and a camera to capture the impressive gardens.

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Parking

Ample designated parking facilities are situated conveniently on the mainland right just before the pedestrian bridge, allowing for an effortless transition to the island.

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Safety

The island park is considered extremely safe and family-friendly, though visitors should remain mindful of the large crowds and keep a close eye on wandering small children.

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Time needed

Most visitors typically spend about a half-day to thoroughly explore the extensive parklands, admire the seasonal flower beds, and comfortably visit the butterfly house.

Geography

Coordinates

47.70500, 9.19500

Facts

Total area of the island is approx. 45 hectares
Baroque castle was completed in 1746
Arboretum contains giant sequoias from 1864
Residence of the noble Bernadotte family
Visitor numbers are approx. 1.2 million per year
Butterfly house accommodates over 120 species

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Constance3 km · SWExplore →

Konzilgebäude Konstanz5 km · SExplore →

📍Meersburg6 km · EExplore →

Kreuzlingen7 km · SExplore →

📍Überlingen7 km · NExplore →

Reichenau Island10 km · WExplore →

📍Markdorf15 km · EExplore →

Bodensee15 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Mainau Island (10)

Großherzog-Friedrich-Terrasse

Terrace on Mainau Island with a view of the lake and the garden facilities.

Kakteen

Cactus collection on Mainau Island, displayed in a special greenhouse.

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Insektengarten

Garden on Mainau that provides habitat for insects and gives information.

Schmetterlingshaus

Tropical butterfly house on Mainau with free-flying butterflies.

🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-19:00💶

Mainau Kinderland

Play and adventure area for children on Mainau Island.

Schloss Mainau🏰 castle

Castle on Mainau Island, surrounded by gardens and parkland.

Naturschutzgebiet Obere Güll

Nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, with wetlands.

Naturschutzgebiet Untere Güll

Nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, protecting reed beds.

Nördliches Mainauried

Nature reserve in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, a bog and meadow area.

Sicht auf den Überlinger See und die Insel Mainau

Viewpoint overlooking Lake Überlingen and Mainau Island.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Mainau Island?

The island is most beautiful from March to October, especially during the tulip and rose blooms in spring and summer.

Are dogs allowed on Mainau Island?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the island but must be kept on a short leash. They are not permitted inside the exhibition houses.

Is there a butterfly house on Mainau Island?

Yes, the Mainau Butterfly House is one of the largest in Germany, housing around 120 species year-round.

What is the best way to get to Mainau Island?

You can reach the island by boat from various locations on Lake Constance or on foot via the bridge from the mainland.

Is Mainau Island suitable for children?

Yes, there is 'Mainau Kinderland' with adventure playgrounds, a petting zoo, and a water world for children to play.

Mainau Island: where is it located?

Mainau Island is located in Baden-Württemberg, Germany.

Mainau Island: what is there to see?

Highlights include Großherzog-Friedrich-Terrasse, Kakteen, Insektengarten.

Mainau Island: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Mainau Island: why is it worth visiting?

Mainau Island in Lake Constance, known as the 'Flower Island,' is a botanical paradise of international standing.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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