Things To Do
in Kempten

Regular open-air market in the central square with seasonal produce, regional cheeses, breads and sausages — great for picnic provisions and tasting local specialties.

During summer and festival weekends you’ll find stalls along the Iller offering sausages, pretzels, crepes and local sweets.

Be on time for meetings, tours and social appointments — punctuality is valued.

Use formal pronouns (Sie) with strangers and older people until invited to use first names; a polite handshake is standard when meeting.

Respect ‘Ruhezeiten’ (quiet hours) in evenings and Sundays; sort waste into recycling streams — locals follow rules closely.

Dress modestly in churches and be mindful during religious events; festivals celebrate local customs — join respectfully and ask before photographing people closely.

In restaurants round up the bill or leave 5–10% for good service; in cafés and smaller purchases people often round up to the next euro. Taxi drivers expect a 5–10% tip; hotel porters and cleaners typically receive small cash tips.

Cash (Euro) is still widely used and appreciated, especially in small eateries and markets. Debit cards (EC/Maestro) and contactless payments are common; major restaurants and shops accept credit cards but always carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Mild temperatures, blooming meadows and fewer crowds — great for early hiking, cycling and enjoying farmers' markets. Weather can be changeable; pack layers and a light waterproof jacket.

Warm days suited to hiking, swimming in lakes and rivers, and long beer-garden evenings — busiest tourist period, especially on weekends. Expect pleasant temperatures but occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons.

Crisp air, colorful foliage and harvest festivals — excellent for scenic drives and cheese/food festivals. Cooler evenings mean warmer layers; some mountain lifts may start to close late in the season.

Cold with regular snowfall in nearby higher terrain, perfect for skiing and winter sports in the Allgäu resorts; town center is quieter but festive at Christmas markets. Bring warm clothing and winter footwear; roads in passes can be icy.

Known as the 'Guardian of the Allgäu,' Grünten offers accessible summit trails with panoramic views over Kempten and the Alpine foothills; routes vary from moderate to strenuous.

A popular peak in the Nagelfluhkette Nature Park — rewarding vistas and well-marked trails; cable car available on some approaches for mixed-ability groups.

Flat riverside paths suitable for long, scenic walks and multi-day hikes following the Iller valley; good for families and cyclists.

Access from Kempten to a network of higher alpine hikes including routes to Nebelhorn and Fellhorn — expect steeper climbs and alpine conditions.

Long-established residents who maintain regional traditions, businesses and community life.

A modest student population contributes to cafés, cultural events and local nightlife.

Sizable retired community enjoying quieter pace, parks and local clubs.

Small but diverse groups from other EU countries and beyond, contributing to multicultural food and services.

Local and regional clubs are popular; many residents follow German football and youth leagues are active.

Downhill and cross-country skiing are major winter activities given proximity to Allgäu resorts — alpine culture is strong.

Year-round hiking, alpine touring and trail running are common with extensive trail networks and guided options.

Iller cycle path and local mountain-bike trails attract both casual and more serious cyclists.