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

For authentic cultural stays, Hotel Alte Mühle stands out—a historic mill turned boutique hotel on the banks of the Iller River, blending Bavarian architecture with modern comfort. Guests enjoy views of the Marienkirche cathedral and easy access to the old town. The hotel hosts local beer tastings and guided tours to nearby Alpine villages, offering immersive experiences in Bavarian heritage. Each room reflects regional craftsmanship, from hand-carved furniture to traditional textile decor.

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the prime area for accommodation in Kempten. Nestled around the Rathausplatz and near the Marienkirche, it’s a protected historical zone with cobblestone streets and 16th-century facades. Stay at Gasthof zum Ritter, a centuries-old inn that offers traditional Bavarian breakfasts and direct access to local markets. The area pulses with culture—perfect for evening strolls beneath vintage streetlamps and morning visits to artisan shops.

Join the annual Kempten Festival in summer, featuring folk costumes, puppet shows, and Alpine folk dances. Book a stay at Haus zur Krone, where guests participate in beer brewing workshops and learn to make Gräppel, a traditional Bavarian dessert. Visit the Bavarian Folklore Museum to explore farming tools, wedding traditions, and seasonal rituals, gaining deep insight into the region’s living heritage and rural lifestyle.

The Marienkirche cathedral, built in the 13th century, is Kempten’s iconic landmark, showcasing striking Gothic architecture with twin spires and stained-glass windows. Nearby, the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) features intricate carvings and now serves as a city history museum. Cross the Ehrenbrücke stone bridge over the Iller River for panoramic views. From here, walk 10 minutes to the Kempten Art Gallery, which displays contemporary works by regional artists, blending tradition and modernity.

After dark, head to the riverfront bar scene along the Iller River, such as Brauerei am Fluss, where live folk music fills the air while sipping local dark Bavarian beer. For a deeper cultural immersion, book a candlelit walking tour through the old town, narrated by historians sharing tales of plague outbreaks and noble families. Some hotels like Hotel Stadthof offer private stargazing sessions with telescopes, revealing clear Alpine night skies—an unforgettable way to unwind.

Familienhotel Kempten is designed for families, featuring a children’s playroom, outdoor mini-farm, and hands-on cooking classes (try making Bavarian Schweinshaxe). Located next to Arlensteinpark, it offers safe green space for kids. Family rooms connect seamlessly, with cribs and safety gates provided. The hotel also organizes forest treasure hunts, guiding children through nature trails to discover native plants and wildlife—perfect for young explorers.

While not a thermal spa town, Therme Kempten is the region’s premier wellness center, just 15 minutes from the city center. It features indoor pools, saunas, massage therapy, and meditation zones. Its Alpine-themed bathing area uses natural mineral salts for water treatment, paired with soothing ambient music. Hotels like Hotel am Park offer tailored wellness packages including aromatherapy massages and herbal tea ceremonies, helping guests reconnect with nature after travel.

Photographers should visit the ruins of St. Johann Monastery on Krempelberg Hill, where broken arches and ivy-covered walls create dramatic compositions. Capture sunrise mist through ancient windows. Another gem: the rock trail along the upper Iller River, offering reflections and flowing water textures. For human interest shots, visit the weekly farmers' market, where artisans weave colorful Bavarian ribbons—a vibrant burst of tradition and color.

Must-try delicacies include Gräppel, a creamy apple-and-vanilla dessert served warm, often found in old-town bakeries. Pair it with a glass of local wheat beer (Weißbier). At Gasthaus zur Alten Mühle, sample Schweinshaxe—crispy roasted pork knuckle with tender meat. During seasonal farmers’ festivals, taste wild mushroom stews and honey-based wines sourced from Alpine meadows—authentic expressions of Bavarian terroir.

Yes, Kempten has an efficient public transit system operated by Kemptener Verkehrsbetriebe (KVB), covering all major districts and attractions. The Kempten Hauptbahnhof connects directly to Munich, Augsburg, and Austrian borders via train—just 45 minutes to Munich. City buses accept the StadtCard, offering free rides and museum discounts. Bike rentals are available at stations and squares, enabling scenic rides along the Iller River Greenway, a sustainable and scenic alternative to driving.