Things To Do
in Ravensburg
Ravensburg is a historic town in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, perched on a gentle hill above the Schussental valley. Its skyline is dominated by the iconic Mehlsack tower and a well-preserved medieval old town. The town serves as a calm base for exploring the Allgäu foothills and Lake Constance region.
With a friendly Swabian atmosphere, it blends artisan crafts, culture, and hearty local cuisine for a quintessential southern German experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Ravensburg Town Hall, where you can admire its stunning architecture and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the medieval streets, stopping by the charming shops and cafes that line the cobblestone paths. Don't forget to visit the famous Ravensburg game museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history in board game production.
In the afternoon, head to the Marienplatz, the main square, where you can enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries featuring traditional Swabian cuisine. After your meal, explore the various boutiques and artisan shops in the area, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. You can also take a guided tour of the historic Weissenau Monastery to delve deeper into Ravensburg's cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at one of the outdoor terraces to enjoy a refreshing local beer or wine. Consider dining at a restaurant that specializes in regional dishes, allowing you to taste the flavors of Swabia. To wrap up your evening, take a leisurely walk along the scenic paths by the Ravensburg city walls, soaking in the beautiful night views.
Spend a fun-filled morning at Ravensburger Spieleland, a theme park that celebrates the joy of games and creativity. Engage in various attractions that cater to both young and old, from roller coasters to interactive game stations. Don't miss the chance to participate in some of the hands-on activities that Ravensburger is renowned for, particularly those that bring board games to life.
After a delightful morning, grab lunch at one of the park's family-friendly restaurants, offering a variety of options suitable for all ages. In the afternoon, continue to explore the park, enjoying live shows and demonstrations that showcase the art of game-making. Make sure to take plenty of photos as you create lasting memories amidst the colorful rides and vibrant atmosphere.
As the park begins to wind down, enjoy a light dinner at a local pizzeria nearby, where you can relive the day’s excitement over a delicious meal. Consider visiting the nearby lake for a tranquil evening walk, reflecting on the fun-filled day. If there’s a chance of catching the sunset, find a scenic spot to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee/tea in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆Local transit day pass | $6-9 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable old town with historic charm
- Rich Swabian cuisine and welcoming locals
- Excellent base for Lake Constance and Allgäu nearby
- Accessible by train and well-connected to other cities
- Nightlife is relatively low-key compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions require short trips outside Ravensburg
- Seasonal crowds in peak travel periods
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Vielen Dank" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much is this?
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Ravensburg
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic white flour-sack tower provides a dramatic focal point in the square, best photographed at sunrise or golden hour with the old town backdrop.
Colorful facades and timber-framed buildings line the square; capture reflections in the cobbled streets and seasonal market activity.
Hilltop vantage point offering sweeping views over Ravensburg and the surrounding countryside, especially striking at sunset.
An architectural landmark with a tall spire; ideal for vertical compositions and detail shots of stained glass and stonework.
Food in Ravensburg
Ravensburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian cheese noodles topped with crispy onions; a signature comfort dish found on many menus.
Must-Try!
Swabian dumplings filled with meat, spinach, and herbs; enjoyed in broth or fried with onions.
Roast pork shoulder with dumplings and sauerkraut or gravy; a hearty regional classic.
Onion tart, often enjoyed in fall with a light beer; a beloved seasonal treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market near the heart of the old town offering local cheeses, breads, produce, and seasonal specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use Sie for strangers and elders in professional or formal settings unless invited to use the informal du.
Punctuality is valued in business and social settings; plan arrivals a few minutes early.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up or leave a small tip for good service.
Safety
Tipping in Ravensburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service charge is not included. You can round up the bill or leave coins for small services. In bars, rounding up or leaving a few euros for good service is common.
Cash (Euro) is widely accepted, but cards (debit/credit) and contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants. EC cards (debit) and mobile wallets are widely supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and pleasant evenings; occasional rain showers. Great time for outdoor dining, walking tours, and lakeside trips to nearby Bodensee towns.
Mild early autumn with colorful foliage; harvest markets begin, and comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.
Cool to cold, with possible snowfall. Christmas markets in nearby towns are charming, and indoor museums make for cozy days.
Rising temperatures and blooming gardens; perfect for strolls through the old town and nearby nature trails.
Ravensburg at Night
Hiking in Ravensburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular short hike to elevated viewpoints offering expansive views of Ravensburg and surrounding fields.
A nature reserve near Eriskirchen with birdlife and wetlands; ideal for a peaceful, nature-focused day.
Gentle hillside trails connecting historic towers and scenic overlooks within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Ravensburg by plane.
Regional flights; convenient access to Ravensburg by road or rail, typically under an hour by car.
Allgäu Airport; a common gateway for low-cost carriers; about 1–1.5 hours by road/rail to Ravensburg.
Major international hub with frequent connections; longer transfer time but excellent flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cares for traditional Swabian culture, parks, and kid-friendly museums; a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.
Nearby universities and vocational schools bring a youthful energy to the town; affordable cafés and study-friendly spaces exist in the old town.
Slow-paced, culturally rich atmosphere with easy access to nature and cultural events.
Visitors drawn to medieval architecture, regional cuisine, and proximity to Lake Constance.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and community leagues are active; matches are a social draw in season.
Flat to rolling routes around the Schussental and lake region attract cyclists of all levels.
A popular indoor sport with local teams and community facilities.
Public courts and clubs offer seasonal play for visitors and residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ravensburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Swabian cuisine centers on hearty dishes, but there are plenty of vegetarian options like käsespätzle without meat, salads, and vegetable sides. Many restaurants can adapt dishes or offer daily veggie specials.
Ask about dairy-free cheese or egg-free pasta; look for vegetable-forward dishes and salads. Some places may offer vegan options or adapt classics on request.
Many bakeries and restaurants can accommodate gluten-free needs; always inform staff and request gluten-free bread or pasta when available.