Breathtaking panoramic views of Friedrichshafen and Lake Constance
Address: Observation tower at the harbor pier, Seestraße, 88045 Friedrichshafen | Built: 2000 | Height: 22 m
The observation tower at the harbor pier in Friedrichshafen rises majestically at a height of 22 meters. Those who climb to the viewing platform are rewarded with a magnificent view of the lake, Friedrichshafen and the castle church with its two towers and onion-shaped domes, the orchards in the hinterland, and the beautiful Alpine panorama.
Directions and location of this Friedrichshafen landmark
The observation tower is located directly at the entrance to the harbor, on the harbor pier, which juts out into the lake and is impossible to miss when walking along Seestraße. Anyone heading to the lakeshore from the harbor station, the city station, or the old town, to reach the harbor or the waterfront promenade, can’t miss the observation tower, also known as the Pier Tower. Also nearby are the Autoquai ferry terminal and the pier for the MS Seeschwalbe, which offers a lake cruise.
Opening Hours and Visits
There are no opening hours, so the observation tower on the harbor pier can be visited at any time to admire the city, the lake, and the hinterland with its orchards, and to take atmospheric photos with the rising or setting sun.
Entrance Fees for the Observation Tower at the Pier
The observation tower on the Pier is open to the public, and there is no admission charge.
Guided Tours of the Observation Tower at the Pier
No guided tours are offered on-site at the Pier Tower itself. Those interested in learning more about the structure will find a panel at the Pier Tower with all the important information. Those who climb the observation tower will find a panoramic panel with the names and elevations of the mountains.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Observation Tower at the Harbor Pier
When was the Pier Tower in Friedrichshafen opened?
The Pier Tower in Friedrichshafen was opened in 2000. The tower offers impressive views of Lake Constance and the surrounding area and is a popular landmark and vantage point for visitors to the city.
How tall is the Pier Tower in Friedrichshafen?
The Pier Tower in Friedrichshafen is approximately 22 meters tall.
What is the significance of the Pier Tower in Friedrichshafen?
The Pier Tower in Friedrichshafen is a striking landmark and offers visitors breathtaking views of Lake Constance and the Alps. As a tourist attraction, it is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the beauty of the region. The tower also symbolizes the city’s maritime tradition and its close connection to the water.
Observation Tower at the Harbor Pier – Special Features and Interesting Facts
Not far from the promenade, directly at the harbor, where ships dock and depart for a crossing or lake cruise, stands the steel structure, rising 22 meters into the air and offering a beautiful view of the harbor, the city, the lake, and the mountain panorama.
Some people also refer to the observation tower at the harbor pier as the “pier tower.” Those who climb the two upper viewing platforms will find orientation panels that help them identify the Alpine mountains by name and learn how high each one is.
The first platform is covered by the upper platform, so that even in the rain, you can climb the observation tower without getting wet. In hazy and foggy weather, the view is naturally rather limited.
In good weather, visitors are offered a magnificent view of the harbor, the city, and the skyline all the way to the castle church. The view extends into the hinterland and far across the lake to the impressive Alpine panorama.
Binoculars are available on the viewing platform, which can be used to get a closer look and observe the view in more detail.
Depending on the time of day, the observation tower on the harbor pier is open, you can experience a romantic sunset or sunrise and a wonderful play of light and color.
Note: The observation tower on the harbor pier has no elevator and is not wheelchair accessible. Therefore, wheelchair users and people with walking difficulties are not permitted to access the viewing platform.
Historical information and history of the observation tower at the harbor pier
The observation tower, located at the harbor pier in Friedrichshafen, marks the entrance to the harbor from Lake Constance. It was built during the renovation and redesign of the harbor pier. The tower was inaugurated on September 24, 2000. Construction of the observation tower took 11 weeks. The actual erection took another four weeks.
Measured from the foundation, which is partially submerged in Lake Constance, the tower is 22.25 meters high. The steel staircase has 117 steps. The observation tower has a total of nine levels. The two uppermost platforms are generously designed and can each accommodate up to 50 visitors.
The uppermost platform is 21.15 meters high, and the one below is 18.8 meters high. The tower weighs 47 tons and has a base area of 25.6 m². To ensure the observation tower’s stability and withstand all adversities, a supporting structure was chosen, consisting of two hollow steel sections with cross-sections for stabilization. In addition, steel piles with a diameter of 16 cm were embedded in the harbor pier.
Viewing the observation tower from the seaward side, one can see massive steel pillars. They are made of concrete. However, they are not directly part of the observation tower; rather, they serve as a protective structure to prevent passing ships from damaging the tower and the pier.
The architecture of the observation tower on the harbor pier is a counterpart to the roof located on the pier head on the opposite side and forms an important gateway to the city from the lake. With its clear design and understated color, it fits perfectly with the harbor station and reflects its Bauhaus style in a unique way.
Sights and attractions in the immediate vicinity of the observation tower on the harbor pier
Those who take a stroll from the observation tower on the harbor pier can discover numerous charming buildings, unique sculptures, and special features.
On Karlstraße are an old pharmacy, an old rectory, and a residential building, all of which are listed as historical monuments and boast distinctive facades.
A stone’s throw from the harbor pier with its observation tower is the town hall with a unique fountain on Adenauerplatz. The Buchhorn Fountain was designed by the Rumpf couple and was inaugurated in 2001. It commemorates the transformation of the Free Imperial City of Buchhorn and the village of Hofen with its monastery into the city of Friedrichshafen in 1811. It depicts various references to the city’s history and the industries that settled in Friedrichshafen.
A beautiful Catholic church with unique windows is St. Nicholas Church on the church square, just a few steps from the town hall. It has a tower with special roof tiles and is less ornately decorated inside than the monastery church.
It’s always worth exploring the area around the harbor and the observation tower on the pier with open eyes, because it’s not always the well-known sights, but rather the little things that bring joy.
Cafés and restaurants near the observation tower at the harbor pier
After visiting the observation tower at the harbor pier, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Lake Constance, the mountain panorama, and of course, the harbor and the ships sailing in and out with a delicious meal or a delicious coffee. In nice weather, outdoor terraces invite you to relax and unwind.
Aika on Karlstraße is a cozy café with a wonderful cake counter. Coffee delicacies and sweet treats are served to guests in a modern setting. They also offer delicious homemade breads, which are a special treat. Aika also offers a fine selection of wines.
Address: Aika – Bread, Coffee, Wine and Warmth, Karlstraße 38
The Bella Vista restaurant on Seestraße offers its guests Italian delicacies, which, in sunny weather, can also be enjoyed on the cozy outdoor terrace overlooking the lake. The menu includes deliciously topped pizzas and homemade pasta with a variety of ingredients. Delicious wines, a cold beer or non-alcoholic drinks, and a delicious espresso after your meal, as is fitting.
Address: Bella Vista, Seestraße 12
Bangkok Am See
If you’re in the mood for Thai cuisine and want to take a short stroll along the lakeside promenade, you’ll almost inevitably end up at Bangkok Am See at Seestraße 1. The casual restaurant with its beautiful outdoor terrace serves typical Thai specialties and sushi, lovingly prepared and served to guests.
Address: Bangkok Am See, Seestraße 1
Restaurant in the Zeppelin Museum
The modern restaurant in the Zeppelin Museum on Seestraße, with a bar, serves Swabian delicacies, delicious coffee specialties, long drinks, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. There’s a lovely outdoor terrace with views of Lake Constance, the harbor, and the observation tower on the harbor pier, perfect for a relaxing end to a stroll or a visit to the observation tower on the harbor pier.
Address: Restaurant in the Zeppelin Museum, Seestraße 22
Eis Café Italia
If you’re in the mood for delicious ice cream specialties or Italian coffee delicacies, you’ll find them at Eis Café Italia at Seestraße 10. They serve great ice cream sundaes, delicious tiramisu, and a fantastic view of Lake Constance and the mountain panorama when you sit on the outdoor terrace in good weather. Those who prefer ice cream to go can choose from numerous flavors from the ice cream counter.
Address: Eis Café Italia, Seestraße 10