Mainau Island
Mainau Island: Floral magic on Lake Constance for the whole family
Imagine: A sea of tulips in spring, the fragrance of 30,000 rose bushes in summer, and exotic butterflies fluttering through a tropical paradise all year round. Mainau Island on Lake Constance is more than just a day trip destination – it's an oasis for all the senses, making children's eyes sparkle and transporting adults to a world of color and fragrance.
As a mother of two, I know how difficult it can be to find a day trip destination that truly delights everyone. Mainau Island enchanted our family – and I'll tell you why you absolutely must experience this floral paradise too.
Fig. 1: Inspirations for "Mainau Island"
bodensee 2.0 stick - Organic Baseball Cap
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Lake Constance 2.1 White - Organic Hoodie
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Lake Constance is always a good choice for baby onesies.
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Lake Constance Hoodie Kids
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Lake Constance Kids T-Shirt
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Experience the magical flower exhibition on Mainau Island in Lake Constance
Did you know that over a million tulips bloom on Mainau Island in spring? This impressive flower display on Mainau Island in Lake Constance transforms the 45-hectare island into a living work of art. The first time I strolled through the tulip avenue with my children, we were speechless at this sea of color.
💡 The best times for flower lovers:
- March to May: Tulips, daffodils and hyacinths – over 400 varieties!
- June to August: Roses in bloom with an intoxicating fragrance in the Italian rose garden
- September to October: 12,000 dahlias in 250 varieties
- Open year-round: Palm house with Mediterranean plants
A real secret
Family trip to Mainau Island: Tips for an unforgettable experience
Mainau Island is a paradise for families! Here are my tried-and-tested tips for a family outing to Mainau Island that will make the day a highlight for everyone:
🎯 Our family checklist for the perfect day:
- Butterfly house first: The colorful butterflies are most active in the morning.
- Mainau Children's Land: Water playground, petting zoo and Blumi's Shore World
- Treasure hunt: Free puzzle sheets for children are available at the checkout.
- Wagon rental: For tired little legs (€5 fee)
- Pack a picnic: There are many secluded spots along the lakeshore.
My personal aha moment : A blue Morpho butterfly landed on my daughter's shoulder in the butterfly house – I'll never forget her shining eyes! The tropical atmosphere at 26°C and 80% humidity is like a short vacation in the tropics.
Mainau Island Events 2025: The Highlights
The Mainau Island events in 2025 promise magical moments for the whole family. Mark these dates in your calendar:
| Event | Period 2025 | Special feature |
|---|---|---|
| Orchid show | March - May | 3,000 orchids in the Palm House |
| Count's Island Festival | Ascension of Christ | Family day with children's program |
| Dahlia blossom | September - October | Election of the Dahlia Queen |
| Winter lights | November - January | Illumination of the island |
Count's Castle Festival, Mainau Island: Schedule dates
The Count's Castle Festival on Mainau Island is THE social event on Lake Constance! The Bernadotte family opens its gates for a magnificent, traditional celebration. In 2025, it will take place again on Ascension Day – a date you should definitely mark in your calendar!
🎪 What can you expect at the castle festival?
- Craft market: Over 100 exhibitors with regional products
- Children's program: bouncy castle, carousel and interactive activities
- Culinary delights: Lake Constance specialties and Count's wines
- Live music: On several stages spread across the island
- Castle tours: Exclusive insights into private rooms
Insider-
Come by boat! Traveling across the lake is not only more relaxing, but also an experience in itself. BSB is offering special trips on this day.
Make smart use of opening hours and admission prices for Mainau Island
Mainau Island's opening hours and admission prices are designed to be family-friendly. Here are my money-saving tips for your visit:
💰 Here's how to save money on your Mainau visit:
- Annual pass: Worth it from the 2nd visit onwards (adults: €75)
- Evening ticket: Half price from 5 pm
- Combination tickets: Often cheaper with a boat trip
- Children up to 12 years old: Go free of charge!
- Birthday children: Receive free admission on their birthday
Regular opening hours are daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (summer), with the ticket offices closing one hour earlier. In winter, the island closes at 5:00 PM.
Practical tips for your visit to Mainau
After countless visits, I have gathered some valuable insights that will make your day on the flower island even more beautiful:
📍 My personal Mainau hacks:
- Check the weather app: The butterfly house gets especially crowded when it rains.
- Sturdy footwear: The island has many inclines.
- Don't forget sunscreen: There's little shade in the flower fields.
- Restaurant reservations: Especially recommended at the Schwedenschenke on weekends
- Dogs welcome: on a leash, poop bags provided free of charge
A particularly special moment for me was always the view from the café in the Palm House across Lake Constance. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Swiss Alps – this view is priceless!
Mainau – more than just a flower island
Mainau Island is a place that enchants all generations. Whether you admire the magnificent flower displays, explore the butterfly house with your children, or simply enjoy the view over the lake with a glass of Lake Constance wine – everyone will find their own personal paradise here.
My advice: Take your time! Mainau isn't a place to be ticked off a list, but an experience to be enjoyed with all your senses. And when your children fall asleep tired but happy in the evening, dreaming of colorful butterflies, then you'll know: This day was perfect.
Plan your next family trip to Mainau Island and experience for yourself why this floral paradise on Lake Constance delights millions of visitors year after year. The memories you make here will last a lifetime!
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