Abwechslungsreicher Urlaub im Dreiländereck: Bodensee, Schwarzwald & Zürich

About the destination: Konstanz is a city in southern Germany. It lies on the border with Switzerland and on Lake Constance (Bodensee), exactly where the river Rhine exits the lake. The city is split in two by the Rhine. Although the Rhine is the usual border between Switzerland and Germany, the historic part of Konstanz lies on the south ("Swiss") side of the Rhine and is more or less an enclave. Konstanz has traces of civilization dating from the Stone Age and was settled by the Romans in about 50 CE. Konstanz was an important trade center and a spiritual center. At the council of Konstanz in 1414-1418, a papal election was held, ending the papal schism. Konstanz attempted to join the Swiss Confederacy in about 1460, but was voted down. Due to its proximity to Switzerland, Konstanz was not bombed during World War II and its historic old town remains intact. It is a historic city with a charming old town, and could be called the jewel of the region. The most important sites to see in Konstanz are: • The Münster: Built between 1100 and 1854, the church is a magnificent example of architectural styles of the centuries. Climb up the tower for a fantastic view of Konstanz and the Bodensee. • Mainau flower island: Flower gardens and parks, butterfly house, greenhouse. • Niederburg District: This charming district is the oldest part of Konstanz. It is made up of narrow streets and old buildings, sometimes more than 700 years old. It's a very cozy atmosphere and worth a walk through.

About the destination: Zurich labours under the misconception that it is nothing more than a sterile banking city – don't believe a word of it. True, Zurich plays home to one of the largest stock exchanges in the world and is the financial motor of Switzerland itself, but step back from the markets and share prices and you'll find an arty, trend-conscious and vibrant city. Just hang in Zurich West for a while. Its former warehouses, viaducts and ship building caverns have been converted into art centres, funky bars and quirky boutiques. Along Langstrasse, the city’s notorious red light district, you’re now as likely to take home a chic handbag crafted by an emerging designer as you are a piece of skirt. Zurich’s character booms from the speakers of the annual Street Parade, a mammoth techno festival that weaves through the city with DJs and minimally-clad dancers on floats. There isn’t a banker’s tie in sight. If there is in the pretty east bank quarter of Niederdorf, it’s loosened. These medieval streets are abuzz with cafés on corners, trendy taprooms and world-class restaurants. It’s easy to while away an afternoon just absorbing its laidback atmosphere, especially in summer when the riverside take on a beach vibe. Winter is special too. Under the spell of snow, the cobbled alleyways, fountains, lakeside promenades and stunning architecture of the Old Town were made for the stroke of an artist’s brush. This is when one of Europe’s best Christmas markets rolls into town and the warming citruses and cinnamons of the glühwein (mulled wine) stalls fill the air. Shoppers will be in their element here at any time of year. Zurich’s flashy side is evident in the upmarket designer boutiques of Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main shopping drag. But this is no longer a city for the smart set alone; there are plenty of unusual shops to be discovered down hidden streets. Sitting astride the River Limmat and the northern tip of Lake Zurich, Mother Nature certainly smiles down on Switzerland’s biggest city. Architects were courteous in their additions too - just check out the Fraumünster and Grossmünster churches, which face each other across the river. Then, when you’ve had enough of the city’s diverse array of restaurants, first-rate museums and pulsing nightlife, there’s always the nearby Uetliberg mountain or a boat trip on Lake Zurich to enjoy – if only to catch your breath before diving back into the city’s delights again.

About the destination: Freiburg im Breisgau is a pleasant university city surrounded by the hills of the Black Forest in the southwest corner of Germany. It is a beautiful, walkable city known for being one of the sunniest of the country. Freiburg has one of the most beautiful old towns in Germany, flanked by typical channels, paved narrow streets and beautiful historic buildings. Freiburg's 11th century Münster is a very impressive red sandstone structure that dominates the skyline of the city and is the heart of the active commercial and market district. The exterior is a myriad of columns, angles, sculptures and topped by an intricately decorated spire standing above the platz. Make the effort to climb the stairs to the top of the tower for the fabulous views. The interior is equally rich in wonderful art with richly coloured and kaleidoscopic stained glass windows and a colourful and stunning high altar. Located at the square surrounding the Münster, we find the Altes Kaufhaus, the old merchant hall, with its red façade, and the Museum of City History. Close to the cathedral we have the historic and current city halls located at the Rathausplatz or City Hall Square. Freiburg is a laid-back, beautiful university city with a charming old town and wonderful atmosphere. There is nothing better than to sit in one of the beautiful cafes with a glass of wine and enjoy this contemplative city. The university and its students keep the city vibrant and cultural. It is a good base to explore this region with day trips to the nearby spa towns and the numerous hiking opportunities in the Black Forest.