Just a stone’s throw from Germany’s border with Switzerland, Singen is an industrial city near the shores of Lake Constance. It is notable for its World War II escape route that was used by POWs imprisoned at German camps, including several fleeing the infamous Oflag IV-C at Colditz Castle.
Things to do in Singen
Dominating Singen’s cityscape is the Hohentwiel, a volcanic stub topped by the ruins of a 10th-century fortress. Sprawling across nine hectares, it’s the largest castle ruin in Germany and host to the annual Hohentwiel Festival. Learn about its role as a ducal seat during the Middle Ages and the sieges that took place here during the Thirty Years’ War before the castle was largely destroyed by French troops in the Napoleonic Wars.
Nestled at the base of the Hohentwiel is the MAC - Museum Art & Cars, where automobiles are showcased in dialogue with art. This unique cultural institution occupies a contemporary curved building designed by the Gottmadingen architect Daniel Binder and merges with a gorgeous garden featuring yews and magnolias. After exploring the collection, you can dine on regional specialties and local wines at the MAC Bistro.
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Kunstmuseum Singen, which exhibits paintings, photographs and sculptures associated with the Lake Constance region. Otto Dix, Max Ackermann and Erich Heckel are all represented in the inspiring collection and temporary exhibitions on local themes are showcased throughout the year.
Getting around Singen
Singen is around 30 minutes’ drive from Konstanz and around an hour from Bodensee Airport Friedrichshafen, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Regular trains connect to the Singen railway station and the city centre is compact enough to explore on foot.