Mainau
A stunning 'flower island' on Lake Constance, Mainau offers vibrant gardens, a historic palace, and a magical Butterfly House.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak tulip and cherry blossom season
Mainau
Best Time
Peak tulip and cherry blossom season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 'flower island' on Lake Constance, Mainau offers vibrant gardens, a historic palace, and a magical Butterfly House.
"This is a WOW place never to miss if you like nature beauty, flowers, butterflies, 150 year old trees etc."
🚗 Parking & Transport
Paid parking is available on-site. Consider public buses for an alternative.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance to save money and skip lines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Butterfly House
Mainau Island
Wander through a tropical paradise and get up close with hundreds of colorful butterflies and turtles.
The Palatial Residence
Mainau Castle
Explore the historic Baroque palace, once home to the Teutonic Knights, offering a glimpse into the island's rich past.
The Arboretum
Mainau Island
Discover ancient trees, including impressive sequoias, that have stood for over 150 years, offering shade and natural beauty.
Seasonal Flower Displays
Mainau Gardens
Experience a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors with meticulously curated gardens showcasing tulips, roses, dahlias, and more.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Peak Blooms
Understanding Admission Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Transport
Paid parking is available on-site. Consider public buses for an alternative.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance to save money and skip lines.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the island's beauty.
🗺️ Use a Map for Navigation
The island is large; a map is essential for finding all attractions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Transport
Paid parking is available on-site. Consider public buses for an alternative.
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance to save money and skip lines.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the island's beauty.
🗺️ Use a Map for Navigation
The island is large; a map is essential for finding all attractions.
🦋 Butterfly House Fun
Entry to the Butterfly House is included with your island ticket.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Mainau Island's stunning beauty, calling it a 'WOW place' and a 'fairytale.' The meticulously maintained gardens, vibrant floral displays, and the enchanting Butterfly House are consistently praised. While the admission fee is noted as a bit steep by some, most agree the experience is well worth the cost for the natural splendor and peaceful atmosphere.
"Wow, what an amazing place. Park your car in a paid parking lot. Pay when you leave at the end of the visit and start a walking trail on an amazing island. It's beautiful and pleasant to walk. It's fun to spend a few hours. There's also a small amusement park. It's a highly recommended place. Entrance is free, and if you arrive in the afternoon, there's a discounted ticket."
איל אלימלך
"This is a WOW place never to miss if you like nature beauty, flowers, butterflies, 150 year old trees etc.
Arriving at the place is easy by car with plenty of parking space. Fixed parking cost of 6 euro for whole day. There are public buses also but not sure about the timing.
It could take 4+ hours to complete the island hiking covering almost all attractions. Follow the Google map for better navigation.
A highly recommended place to visit."
Rantu Saikia
"If you are into exotic plants, gorgeous lanscaps, butterflies and beautiful views; this is a place for you. The entrance fee of €26.5 might seem a bit steep, but to take care of all these living things costs money. And yes, they did have a couple of sequoia trees brought from CA."
Ramzi Delpak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mainau Island is accessible by car with ample paid parking available. Public buses also serve the island, though checking schedules is recommended. You can also arrive by boat from various points around Lake Constance.
Yes, Mainau Island is located in Lake Constance, very close to the border with Switzerland, making it a popular day trip destination from Swiss towns.
Absolutely! Boats are a scenic way to reach Mainau Island, offering beautiful views of Lake Constance. Ferries operate from various towns around the lake.
From Konstanz, you can take a bus or a scenic boat trip to Mainau Island. The boat ride offers lovely views of the lake and surrounding areas.
Yes, there is paid parking available on the mainland near the entrance to Mainau Island. The cost is typically a fixed rate for the whole day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees for Mainau Island vary depending on the season, with higher prices during peak bloom periods. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and consider purchasing tickets in advance.
Yes, discounted tickets may be available, especially if you visit in the afternoon or during off-peak seasons. Some travel packages, like those from SparMitReisen, may include entry.
While not always mandatory, buying tickets in advance is recommended to potentially save money and avoid waiting in line, especially during busy periods.
Yes, entry to the Butterfly House is typically included as part of your admission ticket to Mainau Island.
Opening hours for Mainau Island can vary by season. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
🎫 🌸 Onsite Experience
Mainau Island boasts a stunning Butterfly House, a Baroque palace, an extensive arboretum with ancient trees, and meticulously maintained gardens showcasing diverse floral displays throughout the year.
For the most vibrant floral displays, visit during spring for tulips and cherry blossoms, or summer for roses and dahlias. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage.
To fully experience the island and its attractions, plan for at least 4-5 hours. Some visitors may wish to spend an entire day.
Yes, besides the Butterfly House, there's a small amusement park area that children often enjoy. The open spaces and natural beauty are also engaging for kids.
Yes, Mainau Island is a photographer's paradise! The diverse flora and scenic landscapes offer endless opportunities for stunning photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Mainau Island offers several dining options, including restaurants and cafes, where you can enjoy meals and refreshments amidst the beautiful surroundings.
While specific picnic areas might be limited, the island's beautiful grounds offer opportunities for enjoying a packed lunch, especially in designated spots or on benches.
Dining options typically include local German cuisine and international dishes, catering to a variety of tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The vibrant flower beds, the historic castle, the tranquil lake views, and the exotic butterflies in the Butterfly House all make for incredible photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged on Mainau Island. Capture the stunning blooms, architecture, and natural beauty.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more atmospheric look.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The island's open spaces and diverse gardens provide plenty of room to explore and run around. Beyond the natural beauty, there's a small amusement park area that kids will love. The overall atmosphere is very welcoming for families, and the opportunity to learn about plants and insects in a fun, engaging way makes it an educational outing as well. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a day of discovery and enjoyment.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
+1 Explore the arboretum to marvel at ancient trees, including impressive sequoias, and discover the diverse plant collections. The island's commitment to horticulture is evident in every corner, from formal gardens to more naturalistic landscapes. It's an ideal place to wander, learn about different plant species, and simply soak in the serene beauty of a meticulously maintained natural environment.
📸 Photographers
Capture the architectural beauty of the Baroque palace and the charming details of the island's pathways. The Butterfly House provides unique opportunities to photograph delicate insects in their natural habitat.
For the best light, aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid harsh shadows and capture the magical atmosphere of this floral gem. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Blooming Paradise: Mainau's Gardens
+1Beyond the seasonal flowers, the island features a diverse arboretum with trees from around the world, including impressive sequoias that have stood for over 150 years. The carefully designed landscapes, including formal gardens and more naturalistic settings, offer a serene and visually stunning experience. Visitors can wander through themed gardens, discover hidden nooks, and enjoy the tranquility of this floral haven.
For those interested in specific flora, the island is home to a rose garden, a rhododendron grove, and a perennial garden, each offering unique beauty at different times of the year. The commitment to maintaining these gardens is evident, providing a consistently beautiful and inspiring environment for all who visit.
Exploring Mainau's History and Architecture
The Baroque palace on Mainau Island is a significant architectural feature, showcasing the grandeur of its historical inhabitants. Visitors can explore its interiors, which often host exhibitions and events, providing a cultural dimension to the island's natural beauty. The palace's presence adds a layer of historical depth to the experience, complementing the vibrant gardens.
Beyond the palace, remnants of the island's past can be discovered throughout its grounds, contributing to its unique atmosphere. The blend of historical architecture and lush botanical landscapes creates a captivating environment that appeals to a wide range of interests.
The Enchanting Butterfly House
Inside the Butterfly House, you can observe various species of butterflies in different stages of their life cycle. It's a fascinating educational experience for all ages, offering a chance to see these insects up close in a beautifully recreated natural habitat. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the butterflies are a photographer's dream.
In addition to butterflies, the Butterfly House often features other small creatures like turtles, adding to the biodiversity and appeal of this attraction. Entry to the Butterfly House is typically included with the general admission ticket to Mainau Island, making it an accessible and delightful part of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit