Kempten
Kempten Attractions: Discover the Finest Spots
Looking for the best Kempten attractions for your next trip? Kempten has attractions in abundance, as the oldest town in Germany offers a unique blend of Roman history, baroque architecture and modern charm. In this guide, we'll show you the 15 best attractions and insider tips so you can experience the Allgäu at its finest.
Whether you're spending a weekend in the town or just planning a day trip, this overview of Kempten attractions will help you make sure you don't miss any highlights. It's a good idea to plan a weekend trip to Kempten to explore all the attractions at your leisure.
Kempten attractions in the historic old town
The old town is the heart of all Kempten attractions and a must for every visitor. Narrow lanes, colourful half-timbered houses and historic squares define the townscape. Here, you'll feel the town's more than 2,000-year-old history at every turn.
Rathausplatz as a central meeting point
Rathausplatz is considered the most beautiful square among Kempten's attractions. Surrounded by historic townhouses, it's the perfect spot to linger and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Magnificent 17th-century façades
- Numerous cafés and restaurants with outdoor seating
- Regular markets and events
- The perfect starting point for a stroll through the old town
💡 Tip: Visit Rathausplatz early in the morning, when it's not yet crowded and the light falls particularly beautifully on the façades.
Discovering St Mang's Church
The Protestant St Mang's Church is one of the most significant religious attractions in Kempten. Its distinctive tower is visible from afar.
The interior impresses with understated elegance and remarkable acoustics. Concerts are regularly held here, making a visit all the more worthwhile.
Kempten attractions with Roman history
As the oldest town in Germany, Kempten boasts unique Roman relics. These Kempten attractions will transport you straight back to antiquity.
The Archaeological Park Cambodunum
The Archaeological Park Cambodunum, known as the APC for short, is one of the town's most important historical highlights. Here, you can experience the remains of the Roman provincial capital up close.
- Original foundations of a Roman temple precinct
- A reconstructed Roman bathhouse to explore
- Informative display boards in several languages
- Free admission to the outdoor grounds
The park is located a little outside the town centre, but it's easily reached on foot or by bus. It's best combined with a walk along the Iller.
The Roman Museum in the Zumsteinhaus
If you want to learn more about the Roman era, the Roman Museum is well worth a visit. It displays numerous finds from the region and gives an engaging insight into the lives of the area's ancient inhabitants.
Kempten attractions for art and culture lovers
Alongside its historic buildings, Kempten also boasts a rich cultural offering. These attractions shouldn't be missing from any list of Kempten's sights.
The Residenz and St Lawrence's Basilica
The former princely-abbatial Residenz impresses with opulent rooms in the Rococo style. Right next door lies St Lawrence's Basilica, one of the first great baroque churches north of the Alps.
The combination of secular and ecclesiastical power is particularly evident here. A tour of both buildings takes around two hours.
Museums and galleries in the town centre
Kempten offers several worthwhile museums covering a range of subjects:
- Alpine Museum – insights into Alpine culture and the mountain world
- Natural History Museum – the flora and fauna of the Allgäu
- Town Museum in the Zumsteinhaus – the town's history told concisely
- Kunsthaus Kempten – changing exhibitions of contemporary art
Kempten insider tips off the tourist trail
Alongside the classic Kempten attractions, there are also lesser-known spots well worth discovering. These insider tips show you the town from a different side.
Lindenberg with its panoramic view
Lindenberg offers a fantastic view over the town and the Allgäu Alps. Few tourists know about this hidden viewpoint.
- A peaceful retreat away from the crowds
- The perfect spot for sunset photos
- A short walk from the town centre
- Ideal for a romantic picnic
Hidden courtyards and lanes
Away from the main streets, Kempten hides numerous picturesque courtyards. These little oases of calm are real insider tips for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle.
💡 Tip: Ask at one of the local cafés for insider tips – locals often know the town's most beautiful hidden corners.
Kempten attractions for families and active holidaymakers
Kempten isn't just for history enthusiasts. Families and active visitors will also find plenty to enjoy among Kempten's attractions.
Bürgerpark and the Iller promenade
Bürgerpark invites you to relax with its expansive green spaces. Along the Iller, you can enjoy long walks or cycling tours.
There are several playgrounds and open areas for children to run around. In summer, the park is a popular spot for picnics and barbecues.
Swimming pools and leisure activities
In warm weather, a visit to the open-air pool or one of the local leisure pools is well worth it. These offer fun for the whole family and a welcome cool-down on hot days.
What to do in Kempten: shopping and indulgence
Beyond the classic attractions, many visitors wonder what else there is to do in Kempten. The answer: shopping and culinary discoveries are certainly not in short supply here.
Shopping in the pedestrian zone
The pedestrian zone around the old town is home to numerous boutiques and speciality shops. If you enjoy shopping, you should definitely make time for a browse.
Shopping fans should take a look at our Kempten shopping guide, which showcases the town's best addresses. From local designers to well-known brands, there's something for every taste.
Culinary highlights and evening entertainment
After a long day exploring Kempten's attractions, a good meal is a must. The town offers everything from traditional Allgäu cuisine to international specialities to satisfy every craving.
For a great evening, we recommend checking out the best bars in Kempten. There, you'll find the perfect spot for cocktails or a cold craft beer.
Practical tips for visiting Kempten's attractions
To help you plan your visit perfectly, we've put together the most important practical information. This way, you can enjoy all of Kempten's attractions stress-free and relaxed.
Getting there and getting around the town
Kempten is easily accessible by train and car and has a reliable bus network. Most attractions are centrally located and within walking distance.
- The main railway station is just a few minutes' walk from the old town
- Numerous car parks are available around the town centre
- Bike hire is available for active exploring
- Town buses connect all the major attractions
Best time to visit
Kempten can be visited year-round, but spring and summer are especially good for outdoor activities. In winter, the Christmas market lends the historic old town a special charm.
For more information about the town and current events, visit our Kempten city page. There, you'll find a comprehensive overview of everything the region has to offer.
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Conclusion: Kempten attractions for every taste
Kempten's attractions offer something for every visitor – from Roman history and baroque splendour to modern shopping experiences. The town uniquely combines tradition and modernity.
The key takeaways:
- The old town with Rathausplatz forms the historic heart of the town
- The Archaeological Park Cambodunum showcases impressive Roman remains
- The Residenz and St Lawrence's Basilica delight with baroque splendour
- Insider tips like Lindenberg offer peaceful retreats
- Shopping and dining round off every visit perfectly
Plan your visit now and discover all of Kempten's attractions for yourself! Whether for a day trip or a whole weekend, this Allgäu metropolis has the right highlights for every taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important Kempten attractions? The most important Kempten attractions include the old town with Rathausplatz, the Archaeological Park Cambodunum, and the Residenz with St Lawrence's Basilica. These three highlights shouldn't be missed on any visit.
How much time should I set aside for Kempten's attractions? For the main Kempten attractions, you should set aside at least a full day. If you also want to visit insider tips and museums, it's better to plan for a whole weekend.
**Are Kempten's attractions free to access? **Many Kempten attractions, such as the old town, Rathausplatz and the outdoor grounds of the Archaeological Park, are free to access. Museums and guided tours usually charge a small admission fee.
What else can you do in Kempten besides sightseeing? Beyond the classic attractions, Kempten offers excellent shopping opportunities and a lively bar and restaurant scene. Walks along the Iller or through Bürgerpark are also very popular.
Which Kempten insider tips shouldn't I miss? Lindenberg with its panoramic view and the old town's hidden courtyards are among the best insider tips. Chatting with locals in local cafés can also reveal further hidden highlights.
Lena Richter
