Lindau is a major town and island situated on the eastern side of Lake Constance in the Bavarian region of Germany. It serves as the administrative capital of the district (Landkreis) of Lindau. The town's location is notable for its proximity to international borders, specifically near the Austrian state of Vorarlberg and the Swiss cantons of St. Gallen and Thurgau.
The historic center of the town is located on an island of approximately 0.68 square kilometers (0.26 sq mi). This island is connected to the mainland via a road bridge and a railway causeway that leads directly to Lindau station. The town's coat of arms features a linden tree, which refers to the traditional origin of its name.