Mangturm: Lindau's Medieval Sentinel

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Explore Lindau's iconic medieval tower, offering stunning views and a touch of fairy-tale magic on the shores of Lake Constance.

The Mangturm, or Mang Tower, is a historic 12th-century tower in Lindau, Germany, guarding the harbor of Lake Constance. Originally a watchtower and part of the city's fortifications, it later served as a lighthouse until 1856. Today, its colorful tiled roof and connection to the tale of Rapunzel make it a beloved landmark.

A brief summary to Mangturm

Hafenpl. 2, Lindau, Insel, 88131, DE
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Local tips

Visit during the summer months (May to October) when the tower is typically open from 10 AM to 6 PM, but check the official website for any changes.
Climb the spiral staircase to the top for panoramic views of Lake Constance and the surrounding Alps.
Combine your visit with a stroll around Lindau Harbor to see the Bavarian Lion statue and the New Lighthouse.
Check the schedule for fairy tale hours, where you might see a Rapunzel-like braid hanging from the tower.
Be aware that parking on Lindau Island is limited and subject to charges; consider using park-and-ride options.

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Getting There

Walking

From Lindau's main train station, walk towards the harbor. The Mangturm is located on the harbor promenade, next to the lake and near the Bavarian Lion statue and new lighthouse. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No cost is involved.
Public Transport

Take the Lindau city bus to Lindau Inselhalle. From there, it's a short walk to the harbor and the Mangturm. A single bus fare costs approximately €2-3. Alternatively, from Lindau-Reutin train station, take a train to Lindau main station located on the island. From there it is a short walk to the harbor.
Parking

Parking on Lindau Island is limited. Consider using park-and-ride options like P1 Blauwiese or P2, which offer day tickets for around €5-7. From these parking areas, take the Lindau city bus to the island (free with the 'Echt Bodensee Card'). Parking at the Inselhalle P4 garage costs €1.80 per hour from 8 AM to 8 PM. Parking for caravans is only permitted at camping sites or designated spaces on Hartplatz Zech, where the day ticket costs €20.
Ferry

Arriving from Bregenz, Austria, take a ferry to Lindau Hafen. The ferry ride takes approximately 22 minutes and costs between €7 and €10. From the Lindau Hafen, the Mangturm is a short walk away.

Discover more about Mangturm

The Mangturm, standing proudly at Hafenplatz 2 in Lindau, is a captivating vestige of the city's medieval past. Dating back to the 12th century, this robust stone tower was an integral part of Lindau's fortifications, serving as a crucial watchtower and signal tower to protect the harbor. Its name is believed to be derived from the nearby Tuch- und Mangenhaus, a medieval warehouse for cloth makers. For centuries, the Mangturm played a vital role in Lindau's defense. Equipped with embrasures, it provided an ideal vantage point to monitor the waters of Lake Constance and guard against potential invaders. In 1856, with the construction of the new lighthouse, the Mangturm was retired from its duties as a lighthouse. It was then enhanced with an additional story and adorned with distinctive glazed tiles, transforming it into the colorful landmark that attracts photographers today. Visitors can climb the 89 steps to the top for panoramic views of Lindau's old town, Lake Constance, and the distant Alps. The tower also hosts occasional fairy tale hours, adding to its whimsical charm, with a long, golden braid sometimes hanging from its windows as a nod to Rapunzel. The interior features exhibits about the tower's history and Lindau. The Mangturm is also available as a unique location for weddings.