Germany’s second oldest airport is a unique and rather intriguing place. Outside the small circles of world leaders who annually touchdown for the World Economic Forum in Davos, or the Silicon Valley billionaires who stop by before heading to Liechtenstein and Switzerland, very few people are even aware of its existence. That’s in spite of the fact that it boasts an extremely discreet location, an envious array of nearby luxury destinations, and an existing infrastructure which far surpasses many of the smaller regional airports in the Alps.
While many luxury skiers settle for less than desirable slot allocations at the nearby Zurich or weather-restricted Innsbruck, Bodensee Airport has been quietly growing its reputation among the most discerning of private flyers. The airport itself has grand plans for a brand new private jet terminal – set to open in 2025. This will soon serve the influx of luxury travellers looking to make the most of the 5-star resorts and attractions which are also set to open in the next 12 months. Therefore, when we were kindly invited to explore the area earlier this month, we couldn’t help but oblige…
About the Airport
The airport has a storied history that dates back to the early 20th century when Zeppelin airships scheduled their first passenger flights. It’s strategic location near Lake Constance, otherwise known as ‘the four-country region’, also provides well-connected routes to Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein and southern Germany.
Nestled amid the competitive landscape of regional airports, this modern facility stands out with its strategic features. The 2,356-metre-long anti-skid runway is designed to accommodate aircraft up to the size of an Airbus A321 or Boeing 737-800, ensuring smooth operations from early morning until 10 p.m. daily. Without the burden of slot restrictions—even on weekends—the airport promises a level of flexibility that larger, busier hubs simply cannot. It offers not only reliable handling for passengers but also long-term parking options for aircraft, providing a valuable service for operators looking to optimise costs and scheduling.
Connections
Bodensee Airport offers quick access to three popular destinations for private jet users: St. Anton, Zurich, and Davos, all conveniently within just over two hours by car. The charming ski resort of St. Anton is a mere two-hour drive, making it an ideal winter escape for those looking to hit the slopes soon after landing. Zurich, an international business and cultural hub, is a comfortable 2-hour 10-minute journey by car, or just a little longer by train. Whereas Davos, famed for its annual World Economic Forum and stunning alpine scenery, is also a smooth 2-hour drive.
Through Victor’s dedicated concierge department, travellers can elevate their journey even further with tailored ground transportation options. Whether it’s a chauffeured one-way service to whisk you from the airport to your hotel, hourly bookings for maximum flexibility, or rental cars ready upon your arrival, every detail is seamlessly coordinated.
Victor handles all aspects of the booking, from vehicle selection to payment processing, ensuring a smooth, luxurious experience from touchdown to your final destination. With access to fleets of executive-tier vehicles and the option to make changes up to an hour before departure, Victor’s service ensures that whether you’re en route to the slopes of St. Anton or the city streets of Zurich, your journey is as smooth as it is stylish.
Surrounding area
Just steps from Bodensee Airport lies a rare aviation gem: the Zeppelin Museum, where visitors can take to the skies in a historic airship. Offering panoramic views over Lake Constance, this is no ordinary flight—it’s a one-of-a-kind, ‘bucket list’. For those seeking an even more exclusive adventure, the entire airship can be privately hired for a bespoke journey with friends and family. Whether you’re gliding over the lake or simply soaking in the views of the surrounding landscapes, this is an exceptionally rare and unique experience.
Wine enthusiasts will find themselves at home in the nearby vineyards, such as Weingut Haug, a family-run estate now in its second generation. After taking over the vineyard in 2002, the owners spent much of their time gaining expertise in California, Michigan, and New Zealand, before returning home to their vineyard, bringing a very global perspective to their wine making.
For beer aficionados, HOPFENGUT No20 in Tettnang is a must-visit. This fourth-generation family business grows some of the world’s finest aroma hops, which are transformed into artisanal beers. The site is not only home to a brewery but also features a museum, shop, and restaurant—offering visitors a full immersion into the craft of brewing, set against the backdrop of centuries-old tradition.
For more information about flying to Bodensee, please email our team of Aviation Advisors at sales@flyvictor.com
