Zisterzienser-Priorat Kloster Birnau

Kloster Birnau is one of the most beautiful churches in southern Germany — a stunning Baroque pilgrimage site set high above Lake Constance (Bodensee). The view alone is worth the visit, with vineyards stretching below and the blue lake glimmering in the distance. Inside, the church is breathtaking — full of gold details, frescoed ceilings, and delicate sculptures that capture the elegance and devotion of the 18th century. The atmosphere is peaceful, with soft light filtering through the windows and music often playing quietly in the background. We could only get a quick glimpse at the inside because there was a ceremony taking place when we arrived. Outside, the gardens and terraces are perfect for a short walk or quiet reflection. The church still belongs to the Cistercian Order, and the sense of care and tradition is clear in every detail. Kloster Birnau isn’t just a religious site — it’s a place of beauty, history, and serenity overlooking one of Europe’s most scenic lakes.

A drive along Lake Obersee at sunset overlooking the Alps wall is priceless. When you stop, you can enjoy the view with the beauty of nature where the church blends in with this landscape.

Magnificent Baroque Cathedral on the hill above Boden See. the interior cannot be photographed and the guided tours are limited in time but its a must visit if you are in the area.

The interior design is marvellously beautiful. The terrace, overlooking Lake Constance and the Northern edge of the mountain ridge of the Alps made me dream.

Kloster Birnau is a serene and picturesque stop along Lake Constance, perfect for a quiet break from busy travel. The baroque church itself is stunning, but what truly sets the place apart is its peaceful atmosphere and the breathtaking views over the vineyards stretching down to the lake. The setting is ideal for a reflective walk or simply soaking in the scenery. If you enjoy calm, scenic spots with a touch of history and spirituality, Birnau is well worth a visit. Entrance free, parking 🅿️ paid and toilets .50 cents

An amazing location isolated from the world as you overlooking the never ending lake below. A beautiful church, grape vines leading to the lakes edge and the sun on your back. Great place for a coffee or to admire the beauty the lake and its surroundings have to offer.

Amazing! This church is decorated in the most amazing example of rococo style! A must see for those who live cathedrals! Rural setting, facing the lake. We asked, they said we could take 1 or 2 photos as long as we don't use flash or disrupt other visitors.

Beautiful bulding, good spot for a stop. Has a parking nearby, which you have to pay, of course :))

The Birnau Basilica is an absolutely gorgeous German Baroque church perched on the shores of the Bodensee. Built in the 1750's, this church showcases splendid examples of German woodcarving. My favorite was the cherubs directly below the organ - charming! I can't remember seeing a church with such joyful decor - pink + white paint, lavish gilding and statues galore. No doom and gloom here! Birnau Basilica is still a very popular pilgramage church, so you can expect tour buses on the regular. The church is maintained and preserved by the Cistercian monks who also offer tours. There's a small gift/snack shop in the parking lot too. Even if you aren't a "churchy" person, it's worth a stop. The parking lot and grounds offer amazing views of nearby vineyards and the beautiful Bodensee. Regardless of your religious affiliation, don't miss this place!

It's a very pretty church overlooking the water but it's not really something to go out of your way to see as a tourist destination. The exterior is pretty enough but the interior is what really makes this church stand out. They do not allow any pictures but they do have a gift shop with some pictures of the inside of the church. I was only there for a moment as it was very crowded but the decor is highly embellished. There is another gift shop nearby and, when we were there, there was also a small market. I would not really recommend buying anything from the market as the produce didn't look like it was in great shape and it was overpriced.