Things To Do
in Kempten

Kempten, Germany, is a charming town located in the heart of the Allgäu region, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It boasts a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture, including beautiful churches and ancient Roman ruins. The town is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of local events, Kempten offers a unique experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kempten's History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Archaeological Park Cambodunum, where you can explore the remnants of the ancient Roman city.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then head to the St. Lorenz Basilica, known for its stunning baroque architecture and beautiful interior.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Bavarian restaurant, followed by a stroll through the historic town center to admire the illuminated buildings.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the nearby Allgäu Alps, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the Allgäu Museum to learn about local culture, art, and history, then grab lunch at the nearby market.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local brewery to sample regional beers and enjoy a hearty dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🍺Beer at a bar$4
🛒Groceries (weekly)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Welcoming local community
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities
  • Public transport can be less frequent
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Kempten

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Lorenz Basilica

Capture the grandeur of this stunning baroque church with its impressive facade and intricate interior.

Archaeological Park Cambodunum

A perfect spot to photograph ancient Roman ruins against the backdrop of the modern town.

Kempten Town Hall

The colorful town hall is a picturesque subject, especially when illuminated at night.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kempten

Kempten's culinary scene showcases traditional Bavarian flavors and local specialties that are sure to delight any food lover.

Kempten Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Käsespätzle

A delicious dish made of egg noodles layered with cheese and topped with crispy onions.

Must-Try!

Schweinshaxe

A roasted pork knuckle served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut.

Apfelstrudel

A traditional apple strudel, a sweet pastry filled with spiced apples and raisins.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kempten Weekly Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade goods.

Street Food Festival

An annual event featuring a variety of food trucks and stalls offering international and local street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kempten has a temperate climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold with average temperatures around -2°C to 5°C. Summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 20°C to 25°C, perfect for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures, with spring flowers blooming and autumn foliage providing a picturesque backdrop.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Germans value punctuality; always arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings.

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting; maintain eye contact and offer a polite 'Guten Tag'.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while eating.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kempten is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay alert in crowded areas and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and most locals speak English in case assistance is needed.

Tipping in Kempten

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of 5-10% for good service in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and visiting local gardens.

Summer

Summer is warm with plenty of sunshine, perfect for hiking, festivals, and enjoying lakeside activities.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage and harvest festivals; it's a great time for scenic hikes and tasting seasonal dishes.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, perfect for skiing in the nearby Alps and enjoying traditional Christmas markets.

Nightlife Guide

Kempten at Night

Kempten offers a vibrant nightlife with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular spots include local breweries where you can enjoy craft beers, as well as cocktail bars that often feature live performances. The town hosts regular events, such as pub crawls and outdoor festivals, making it a lively place to socialize at night.

Hiking in Kempten

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Breitenberg Trail

A moderately challenging trail offering stunning views of the Allgäu region, ideal for experienced hikers.

Iller River Trail

An easy, family-friendly trail that follows the river, perfect for leisurely walks or biking.

Airports

How to reach Kempten by plane.

Memmingen Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Kempten, Memmingen Airport offers low-cost flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kempten is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, featuring wide sidewalks, benches, and clear signage. Walking is encouraged, and many visitors find it enjoyable to explore the streets and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Kempten is home to a university, attracting a vibrant student population who contribute to the town's dynamic culture.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Kempten for its peaceful environment, access to nature, and active community programs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Kempten, with local clubs offering matches and community involvement.

Skiing

With nearby Alps, skiing is a favored winter sport, attracting enthusiasts to various ski resorts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kempten is generally manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses that connect key areas of the town and nearby regions. Biking is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kempten.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, such as salads, Käsespätzle, and seasonal vegetable plates.

Gluten-Free Options

Some establishments provide gluten-free meals, but it's advisable to ask staff for specific options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kempten has good healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics equipped to handle most medical needs. Pharmacies are widely available, and many staff members speak English. Travelers should have travel insurance to cover any potential medical costs.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide