Things To Do
in Kaufbeuren
Kaufbeuren is a historic Bavarian town in Swabia, nestled in the foothills of the Allgäu. Its well-preserved medieval core, clock towers, and winding streets tell a story of centuries of trade and culture. The town serves as a convenient gateway to alpine day trips while offering museum visits, markets, and traditional Bavarian hospitality.
Visitors can explore a blend of heritage, scenic surroundings, and a calm, friendly atmosphere perfect for a long weekend or a relaxing itinerary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café in the heart of Kaufbeuren, savoring traditional German pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets of the Altstadt (Old Town), where you can admire the beautifully preserved medieval architecture. Don't miss the iconic Stadtpfarrkirche St. Martin, a stunning church that showcases the city's rich history.
In the afternoon, visit the Kaufbeuren Puppet Theatre Museum to discover the fascinating world of puppetry and its significance in local culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local specialties like Schwäbische Maultaschen. After lunch, take some time to explore the charming shops and boutiques that line the cobblestone streets, picking up unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local beer gardens to experience authentic Bavarian hospitality over a hearty dinner. Enjoy traditional dishes such as Schnitzel and Weisswurst while sipping on locally brewed beer. The evening can be capped off with a leisurely walk along the Wertach River, where you can take in the serene ambiance of Kaufbeuren at night.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to the nearby Allgäu region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rolling hills. Participate in a guided nature walk, where you can immerse yourself in the lush surroundings while learning about local flora and fauna. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as you walk.
After a packed morning, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the picturesque meadows, surrounded by stunning views of the Alps. Post-lunch, explore the nearby scenic trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, ideal for photography enthusiasts. Take a moment to relax and absorb the tranquility of the surroundings before heading back to Kaufbeuren.
Return to Kaufbeuren and unwind at a cozy local restaurant, where you can reflect on your adventure over a warm meal. Choose from a variety of regional dishes and perhaps indulge in a slice of Black Forest cake for dessert. As night falls, consider attending a local cultural event or performance if available, to experience the vibrant community spirit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥨Local beer (0.5L) | $4-6 |
| 🧀Grocery staple | $3-8 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
| 🚆Day pass public transport | $6-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic town with well-preserved old town
- Gateway to the Allgäu and Alps for day trips
- Smaller nightlife compared to large cities
- Less multicultural than big urban centers
- "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Danke" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Kaufbeuren
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Gothic-Romanesque tower offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, ideal for cityscape photography.
Vibrant square with colorful facades, arches, and historical architecture perfect for street and architectural photography.
Scenic riverside route with reflections, bridges, and gentle landscapes, great for golden-hour shots.
Food in Kaufbeuren
Kaufbeuren Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy cheese noodles melted with crispy onions; a Swabian staple found in many traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Swabian ravioli stuffed with meat, spinach, and herbs; often served in broth or pan-fried with onions.
Slow-roasted pork shoulder with crackling, typically served with dumplings and sauerkraut or potato salad.
Potato noodles fried with sauerkraut or vegetables, a comforting regional dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market at Marktplatz featuring fresh produce, cheeses, breads, pretzels, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Being on time is valued; reservations and appointments are usually observed closely.
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo'; maintain courteous manners in conversation and service interactions.
Keep hands on the table during meals; wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.
Safety
Tipping in Kaufbeuren
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% in restaurants is common.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are increasingly common in shops and restaurants; contactless payments are widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and long evenings with outdoor dining and festivals; occasional rain showers— pack a light jacket and an umbrella.
Golden foliage and harvest markets; cooler nights and clear skies ideal for photography and strolls.
Cold with occasional snow; Christmas markets and cozy cafés create a festive atmosphere; daylight hours are shorter.
Mild temperatures with budding nature; rain is common, but it’s a good time for city walks and nearby hikes.
Kaufbeuren at Night
Hiking in Kaufbeuren
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular ridge hike offering panoramic views of the Allgäu and nearby lakes.
Easy to moderate river valley walk through forest and farmland.
Scenic lake-front trail ideal for relaxed hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Kaufbeuren by plane.
Nearest airport, about 60-90 minutes by road, with connections to several European destinations.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours by rail or car; frequent connections.
Further away but accessible for longer trips; good flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in Kaufbeuren, with good schools and parks.
A significant portion of residents are retirees who value peaceful neighborhoods.
Some students from nearby universities or training centers commute to the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local games and amateur leagues; opportunities to watch or join a team.
Nearby alpine regions offer winter sports during the season; day trips are feasible.
Extensive cycling routes around rivers and the Allgäu foothills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaufbeuren.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants; look for cheese-based dishes like Käsespätzle or vegetable plates, and many places can adapt sauces or sides to suit a vegetarian diet.