Kempten City Guide

Traditional Bavarian and Swabian dishes are common. You’ll find Italian, Turkish, and Asian options too. Vegetarian and vegan choices exist but can be limited in traditional spots. Late-night food options are rare.

Nightlife centers on pubs and bars near the city center. Not a party hotspot but enough for casual evenings out.

Growing coffee scene with a mix of traditional and specialty cafés. Good quality but not extensive.

Tipping is polite but not mandatory. Round up or add 5-10% in restaurants and taxis. Small tips common for services like hairdressers.

SIM cards can be bought at Telekom, Vodafone, O2 stores, and MediaMarkt. Prepaid plans are common. Registration with ID is required.

Very clean city with efficient waste management and well-maintained public spaces.

Limited 24/7 services. Emergency pharmacy rotation and some gas stations provide basic late-night needs. Food options are mostly closed late.

Main supermarkets include EDEKA, Rewe, Lidl, Aldi, and Netto. International products are available, though specialized stores are limited. Shops usually open Mon-Sat, closed on Sundays.

Card payments are accepted in most big stores and many restaurants, but smaller places sometimes take cash only. Carry cash for small shops and bakeries.

ATMs from major banks are common in the city center and shopping areas. Check your bank for withdrawal fees when using foreign cards.

Local German schools serve the city. No dedicated international schools, nearest options are in Munich or Augsburg.

Small digital nomad community, with limited meetups or coworking spaces. Mostly quiet and traditional work environment.

Good access to parks and nature paths along the Iller River suitable for walking and cycling.

Good running routes along the Iller River and parks. Safe with active local running groups.

Several gyms offer good equipment and fitness classes.

Several tennis clubs with indoor and outdoor courts, equipment rental available.

Padel courts exist but are less common, mostly in larger sports centers.

Several studios offer various yoga styles. Some classes in English, wellness facilities available.

Multiple dojos offer Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, BJJ, and boxing. English-speaking instructors may be present in some places.

Near ski resorts ranging from 30 minutes to an hour away. Runs suit all levels with snowmaking and equipment rentals.

Kayaking and paddleboarding possible on the Iller River and nearby lakes during warmer months.

No ocean surfing. Some river surfing happens elsewhere in Bavaria, but not in Kempten.

Freshwater lake diving is possible nearby but limited in scope and visibility.

Good quality hospitals and clinics, including Klinikum Kempten. English-speaking staff are available in larger facilities but not guaranteed everywhere.

Tap water is safe and meets high German and EU standards.

Many playgrounds and family-friendly cafés. Attractions like Allgäu Skyline Park and archaeological parks appeal to families.

Generally accepting with legal protections. Less visible scene than in big cities but discrimination is rare.

Dog-friendly with many outdoor spaces and vets. Pet supplies widely available, but check for pet policies when booking.