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Port · Lindau, Baviera
Hafeneinfahrt Lindau
The entrance to Lindau's harbor, with the six-metre león da Baviera on a jetty and the Neuer Leuchtturm of 1856 on the other side. The lighthouse, the only one in Baviera, can be climbed in season.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hafeneinfahrt Lindau
The Hafeneinfahrt, the harbor entrance, is Lindau’s postcard spot. On one side stands the Neuer Leuchtturm, the new lighthouse completed in 1856; on the other, on a three-step pedestal, the six-metre león da Baviera, sculpted by Johann von Halbig and facing the Swiss shore. Line boats enter and leave between them.
The lighthouse is 36 metres tall and is the only one in Baviera, as well as the southernmost in Germany. It replaced the Mangturm tower in the role of marking the harbor and gained a clock on its facade because it was operated by the railway administration, which wanted to show the time to those arriving at the station opposite.
In season, usually from March to October, you can climb the 139 steps of wooden stairs to the platform. Panels on the walls tell stories of the lake, such as the winters when it froze. From the top you can see the island, the lake and, on clear days, the Alps of Austria and Switzerland.
The lion's jetty has a path that circles the statue and is the most sought-after spot for photos of the harbor with the mountains in the background. The quay around it houses cafés, restaurants and the ticket offices for the boats.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour for the walk along the piers; another 30 to 45 minutes if you climb the lighthouse.
Best time
Early in the morning the harbor is quieter and the light illuminates the lion. In the late afternoon the sun sets on the lake side. The lighthouse is open from March to October and may close in strong wind or rain; check before you go.
How to get there
It is next to Lindau-Insel station, a few steps from the boat landings. From Lindau-Reutin station, take a regional train or bus to the island.
Tip
The lighthouse staircase is narrow and has low-ceiling spots; tall people should climb with care. On clear days, look south: the mountains of Austria and Switzerland appear beyond the lake.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hafeneinfahrt Lindau
When does the Lindau lighthouse open for climbing?
The season usually runs from March to October. On bad weather days or during events, opening times may change. Check before you go.
Is there an entrance fee for the lighthouse?
Yes, there is a ticket to climb. Walking along the breakwaters and seeing the lion is free.
Is the climb difficult?
There are 139 steps in narrow wooden staircases, with landings to rest between levels. There is no elevator.
Where do you take the classic photo of the harbor?
From the quay in front of Lindau-Insel station or from the path around the lion, with the lighthouse and the mountains in the same frame.