Lake Constance, Lake Zurich, Lake Walen bike tour through 4 countries
Cycle through four countries on a circular journey that brings together a remarkable mix of lakes, mountains, historic towns and distinctive regional landscapes. From the relaxed atmosphere of Lake Constance to the dramatic setting of the Churfirsten Mountains, this cycling holiday offers a varied perspective on northern and eastern Switzerland, with the cultural character of Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Austria woven into the experience. Along the way, cycling combines with time on the water, encounters with historic places and changing Alpine foothill landscapes, creating a journey as diverse as the countries it connects.
A circular journey bike tour with scenic boat and train journeys
This self-guided bike tour combines cycling with selected boat and train journeys, allowing you to experience the region at your own pace while covering a varied route through northern and eastern Switzerland. Detailed route information, maps support independent travel, while included boat and train sections add different perspectives to the landscapes around Lake Walen and the Appenzellerland region.
ROUTE
Starting and finishing in Constance, the route crosses Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and Austria, combining lakeside cycling with historic towns, the Rhine Falls, the cosmopolitan city of Zurich and the Alpine landscapes of eastern Switzerland. From the shores of Lake Constance to the Churfirsten Mountains, the tour brings together varied scenery and cultural highlights within a single cycling holiday.
A self-guided cycling tour gives you the freedom to experience the route independently, with daily stages ranging from approximately 45 to 70 km and a mix of largely flat cycle paths, low-traffic side roads and more hilly sections. Boat and train transfers are integrated into the itinerary, including the crossing of Lake Walen and the train journey from Altstätten to the Appenzellerland, making it possible to combine cycling with some of the region’s most scenic connections.
Itinerary
Day 1: Constance – Individual arrival
The largest town on Lake Constance is still quite medieval in character and, in 1414, hosted the only church council ever held north of the Alps.
Day 2: Constance – Schaffhausen
50 km / 31 miles
Today you will cycle along the romantic Lower Lake through small fishing villages and the well-known town of Stein am Rhein. The Canton capital of Schaffhausen is towered over by the Munot Fortress. There are over 170 oriels in the town, which testify to the former wealth of the citizens.
Day 3: Schaffhausen – Rhine Falls – Zurich
55 km/34 miles + train ride or 70 km/44 miles
The first highlight of your trip is the Rheinfall waterfall, which you will approach by boat. The Glatt valley will lead you to Zurich, the fascinating cosmopolitan Swiss city.
Day 4: Zurich – Lachen
45 km/28 miles
Today, you follow the northern shore of Lake Zurich. It is often referred to as the Gold Coast. From afar, you’ll see the castle of Rapperswil. Here, you will cross the lake on a dam. On the other side of the lake is Lachen. Pay a visit to the baroque Heilig Kreuz church, enjoy the flair of the harbour and the Alpine panorama or take a dip in Lake.
Day 5: Lachen – Vaduz + boat trip
60 km/38 miles
Follow the Linth Canal until you reach the town of Weesen. The canal is an artificial construct connecting Lake Zürich and Lake Walen.
You will cross Lake Walen here by boat. Enjoy the view of the Churfirsten peaks reaching up to 1800m while crossing the deep lake. On its northern shore, you’ll encounter palm trees. Meanwhile, its slope is covered in snow until May. The landscape around Lake Walen is truly remarkable! Continue on your way to the Alpine Rhine Valley. Already, you’ve reached the Principality of Lichtenstein. You will spend your night here in Vaduz.
Day 6: Vaduz – St. Gallen
60 km/38 miles
Today’s route is lined by imposing castles. The foremost of them is Schattenburg Castle at the heart of the medieval town of Feldkirch. It is a highly esteemed and well-preserved complex, housing a valuable collection of historical weapons. Continue on your way and cross the Rhine River to Altstätten. From here, a train takes you up the hills into the Appenzellerland region. From now on, the alpine pasture and cows will accompany you on your route to St. Gallen. The town gained fame for its canvas and its embroidery trade. The entire Abby district was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. Visit the 18th-century Baroque collegiate church and the abbey’s library, which looks like a medieval movie set.
Day 7: St.Gallen – Constance
45 km/28 miles
Cycle downhill towards Lake Constance which you will reach just before Arbon. Follow the bike path through well-kept Swiss villages and apple orchards to Constance. Along the way, take a break at one of the many cafés or jump into the water. Once you arrive, there is still time to visit the Rosgarten Museum or just drift through Constance’s historic city center.
Day 8: Constance – Individual departure
After breakfast, your bike tour along the Swiss Lakes, encompassing Lake Constance, Lake Zurich, and Lake Walen, comes to an end. We are happy to extend your stay in Constance.
Day 9: Optional Extension
Additional nights can be organized on request who wish to continue their journey.
Getting to Constance (Departure Point)
By plane & train: The easiest is to fly to Zurich or Basel and the catch a train to Constance in a 1h ride. You can check the train connections here.
How to book this tour
We require a 25% deposit per person for the trip upon reservation. Final payment 6 weeks before tour departure.
Included
- 7 nights with breakfast
- Luggage transport from hotel to hotel
- Entrance to the Rosgarten Museum in Constance incl. 1 coffee
- Boat trip Weesen – Walenstadt incl. bike
- Boat trip to the Rhine Falls rocks at the national level with private facilities
- Train ride Altstätten – Gais incl. bike
- Entrance Rose Garden Museum incl. 1 cup of coffee
- Boat tour Weesen-Walenstadt
- Travel documents with maps, 1 set per room
- Service hotline
Not Included
- Individual travel to departure point
- Bicycle or E-bike rental
- Train ride Rümlang – Zurich (see optional services)
- Dinners, Lunches and Drinks.
- Local tourist tax (where applicable)
- Travel insurance
- Anything not listed as included is not included
Check available options
Departures & Prices
Choose the option that best fits your schedule and start planning your cycling journey.
Prices are per person in a double room in 2026. 2027 available on request.
Daily departures from 24 April to 26 September. The season is dictated by the arrival date.
Season 1
24 Apr–29 Apr | 19 Oct–26 Oct
from
1279€
Options & Supplements
✓
+659 Single supplement
Season 2
Apr–20 May | 5 Sep–18 Oct
from
1379€
Options & Supplements
✓
+659 Single supplement
Season 3
21 May–4 Sep
from
1649€
Options & Supplements
✓
+659 Single supplement
Accommodation
Carefully selected to ensure comfort, quality, and a relaxing and unforgettable journey.
Accommodation in hotels of national 3- to 4-star standard, including breakfast.
Additional nights
Prices per person, including breakfast
Constance
Double Room 119€
Single room 169€
Any questions + info
Please get in touch with us – we’ll be happy to help!
BIKES
You can choose to rent a bicycle. Below you’ll find the essential information for rent options.
27-gear Bike
109€
30-Gear Bike
189€
E-Bike
299€
E-Bike
89€