Gessler 1862 - Café - Bar

Imagine a place where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scent of printer's ink from new books. Gessler 1862 is a unique cafe-bar combined with a bookstore in the city of Friedrichshafen. Located right on the shores of Lake Constance, it offers guests an atmosphere of true home comfort, typical of the finest establishments that Germany is famous for.

Gessler 1862. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The interior of the venue is a work of art in itself. Designers utilized natural oak, elegant brass, and stylish forest-moss-colored curtains to create a space that literally breathes tranquility. Special attention is drawn to the cement mosaic, with a palette that echoes the ever-changing colors of Lake Constance. Sliding glass doors separate the cafe area from the bookshelves, allowing you to enjoy reading in silence or watch the sunlight dance on the water.

The concept of Gessler 1862 is built on sustainability and the use of regional products. Here, you can not only buy a rare edition or a gift but also sample specialty coffee, select wines, and homemade pastries. This place has become a true cultural hub where literature, gastronomy, and lifestyle products merge into a single sensory experience.

For those planning a visit to this concept space, we have compiled the relevant contact information. You can check table availability or the event schedule in advance by calling the number provided below.

At Gessler 1862, everyone will find something to enjoy. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast featuring homemade croissants, or stop by for lunch to try fresh soups and signature salads. On Thursdays, they serve a local delicacy—schnitzel with noodles—which is particularly popular with regular guests.

Culture enthusiasts should keep an eye on the event calendar: the space regularly hosts literary readings and musical evenings. For example, you might catch atmospheric 60s-style retro performances or take part in wine tastings and culinary masterclasses. It is the perfect venue for those who want to spend time in a "living room" setting among like-minded people.

Don't forget to set aside some time for shopping. In addition to books on a wide range of topics, the store offers a great selection of niche fragrances, regional delicacies, and original gifts. Simply flipping through pages surrounded by aesthetic interiors and lake views is the best way to recharge during your trip.

The establishment is conveniently located in the heart of the city at Friedrichstraße 53. Thanks to its central location, it is easily accessible on foot from most hotels situated near the Lake Constance promenade.

If you are arriving by train, head towards the Friedrichshafen Stadt station. From there, it is just a 10–15 minute walk straight down Friedrichstraße. For those traveling by car, there are several municipal parking lots in the city center within walking distance of the cafe-bar.

Travelers planning a full day can combine a visit to Gessler 1862 with a trip to the famous Zeppelin Museum, which is located very close by. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city to quickly reach the venue from the port or the outskirts.

The history of Gessler 1862 is impressively long-standing: this establishment grew out of a traditional bookstore with over 150 years of history. Over a century and a half, it has evolved from a classic bookshop into an ultra-modern space where literature meets gastronomy and lifestyle.

The updated concept was developed with the goal of creating a "timeless" brand. The designers aimed to make the establishment stand out as a cozy oasis amidst the city's industrial landscapes. The entire interior and visual identity—from the menu to the stationery—is permeated with the themes of imagination and literary creativity.

Interestingly, Gessler 1862 is now considered a "gold standard" of hospitality in the region. The owners have successfully maintained a connection to the past, integrating the historical heritage of bookselling into a contemporary design featuring natural oak, brass, and original mosaics that reflect the shifting colors of Lake Constance.

A typical visit to Gessler 1862 usually takes about 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to enjoy a cup of coffee and dessert at your leisure while browsing the bookstore’s collection.

If you plan to attend one of the evening events, such as a musical evening or a literary reading, you should allow about 3 hours for your visit. The venue encourages long contemplation and relaxation, so guests often stay longer than originally planned.

The opening hours of Gessler 1862 allow you to plan anything from a morning coffee visit to a cozy evening over a glass of wine. Please note that the establishment is closed on Mondays and Sundays.

From Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 10:00 to 18:00. On Friday, the hours are extended until 21:00, as this is the evening when interesting cultural events and concerts often take place. On Saturday, the cafe operates on a shortened schedule from 10:00 to 14:00. It is recommended to check the official website for the current schedule before visiting, especially if you are planning to go during the holidays.

Its downtown location makes this spot an ideal starting point for further exploration. A stroll along the promenade or through the historic quarters will allow you to see Friedrichshafen from many angles: from its industrial past to its royal grandeur.

Check out the attractions located in the immediate vicinity of Gessler 1862: