Lindau, Bayern

 Lindau, a former Free Imperial City (1275-1802), is known for its island setting, lighted harbor, old streets and beautiful views, which may often be obscured in summer by the haze from Lake Constance (Bodensee). The island is attached to the mainland by a road bridge, a railway embankment and a footpath. The town, which is the starting point of the German Alpine Road (Deutsche Alpenstraße), often becomes overcrowded with tourists during the summer, so a garden city (Gartenstadt) was developed on the lakeshore. It includes a variety of sports and recreational facilities. The old town hall (altes Rathaus) is a good example of the stepped gables style of Old Swabia. Tourists enjoy the port by strolling on the quays, watching the harbor life and taking in the views of the lake and the Alps. They might also embark on a large white Bodensee ship for a cruise of the lake. A small lighthouse and the monument of the Lion of Bavaria (1856) guard the entrance to the harbor. Alone on the quay stands the 13th century Mangturm, a former lighthouse.