Kempen(Germany) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For a romantic escape, Hotel Alte Mühle stands out as a top choice. Housed in a restored 19th-century mill beside the Lippe River, this boutique hotel offers private river-view rooms with cozy fireplaces and spa baths. Couples can enjoy candlelit dinners on the terrace, featuring regional dishes like wild mushroom risotto and dark beer chocolate mousse. The peaceful riverside setting, combined with intimate service and personalized touches—such as rose petals and local wine—creates an unforgettable atmosphere perfect for lovebirds seeking tranquility and charm in North Rhine-Westphalia.

The historic city center of Kempen is the most ideal area for first-time visitors. Located just steps from the Rathaus Square and St. Martin’s Church, it offers easy access to key landmarks, local cafés, and charming cobblestone streets. This district blends old-world ambiance with modern convenience, making it perfect for walking tours and cultural exploration. Nearby, you’ll find excellent restaurants serving traditional Lippe Valley cuisine and quiet parks ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Staying here ensures maximum immersion in the town’s authentic character and heritage.

Yes, the annual Kempener Altstadtfest is a must-attend event showcasing local traditions. Held each summer, it features artisan markets, live folk music, traditional costumes, and authentic food stalls offering smoked sausages, rye bread, and homemade apple strudel. Visitors can also explore the St. Martin’s Church with its stunning medieval stained-glass windows and join guided tours of the Kempen Castle Ruins, once a strategic border fortress. These experiences offer deep insight into the region’s rich history and community spirit in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Yes, most hotels in Kempen provide free parking, especially those located in or near the city center. Properties like Hotel am Rathaus and Gasthof Römer feature spacious underground or on-site garages, ensuring convenient access for guests arriving by car. Some smaller guesthouses may share parking with nearby businesses but often offer discounted or complimentary rates. Given the town’s compact size and narrow streets, it’s wise to confirm parking availability when HopeGoo. Many hotels also support electric vehicles with charging stations, promoting eco-friendly travel.

Near Kempen, nature lovers can explore the Lippe River Valley Nature Reserve, ideal for hiking and cycling along forest trails lined with wildflowers and streams. In spring, the Eckerberg Hill Trail blooms with cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for photography. For water lovers, Kempen Lake (Kempen See) offers calm waters for boating and lakeside picnics. The summit of Eckerberg Mountain provides panoramic views across the North Rhine-Westphalia countryside, especially stunning at sunset. All these spots are within 15 minutes by car, making them accessible for a day trip or extended outdoor adventure.

Yes, breakfast is typically included in most hotels across Kempen, often served as a self-service buffet. Guests can enjoy fresh rye bread, local cheeses, cured meats, eggs, yogurt, and seasonal fruit juices. Luxury options like Hotel Alte Mühle even offer customized breakfasts upon request, including gluten-free or vegan choices. Breakfast hours generally run from 7:00 to 10:00 AM, with seating available in the dining room or lounge. During peak seasons, it’s recommended to reserve a table in advance to ensure comfort and avoid waiting.

Kempen is well-connected via regional rail and bus services. The Kempen Train Station offers frequent connections to major cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Münster, with travel times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. Most central hotels are within a 5–10 minute walk from the station. Additionally, Bus Line 208 links the town to surrounding villages and scenic areas. Some hotels even provide complimentary shuttle services during high season. For real-time schedules, travelers can use the DB Navigator App or consult the local Tourist Information Center, which offers multilingual assistance.

Yes, many hotels in Kempen welcome pets, particularly family-run guesthouses and boutique properties. Gasthof Römer and Hotel Alte Mühle allow small dogs and cats, providing pet beds, bowls, and maps of nearby dog-friendly parks like Bergpark Kempen. A small cleaning fee (€10–15 per night) may apply. It’s advisable to inform the hotel in advance and bring proof of vaccination. With ample green spaces and peaceful surroundings, Kempen is a pet-friendly destination where both owners and animals can enjoy a relaxed stay.

Most hotels in Kempen employ staff fluent in English, with some also speaking French or Dutch. Hotels such as Hotel am Rathaus and Hotel Alte Mühle offer multilingual check-in services and provide brochures in multiple languages. Front desk personnel are trained to assist international guests with directions, bookings, and local recommendations. For deeper communication needs, the Kempen Tourist Information Center offers professional translation support and digital guides. This ensures a smooth and welcoming experience for travelers from diverse backgrounds.

Kempen stands out as a hidden gem in North Rhine-Westphalia, blending historical charm with natural beauty. Its well-preserved medieval old town, colorful half-timbered houses, and tranquil riverside location create a serene atmosphere. The town hosts authentic cultural events like the Altstadtfest, celebrates local cuisine, and offers access to scenic trails and lakes. Unlike larger German cities, Kempen remains unspoiled and intimate, offering travelers a genuine taste of rural German life. Whether exploring ancient castles, enjoying farm-to-table meals, or simply strolling through cobbled alleys, visitors find a peaceful retreat rich in tradition and simplicity.