Located in Bavaria's Allgäu region, this historic town along the Romantic Road has medieval half-timbered buildings, a 13th-century clock tower, and local breweries dating back centuries.
In southern Bavaria, Kaufbeuren's cobblestone streets wind past the 12th-century Crescentiakloster monastery and under the distinctive Five-Button-Tower. Children parade through these same streets during the annual Tänzelfest, wearing historical costumes and acting out scenes from the town's past. In the Neugablonz district, jewelry makers craft pieces for international fashion houses in workshops that have operated since the 1940s.
Walking Through Medieval Kaufbeuren
Walk along the original town wall and climb three of its medieval towers: the 28-meter Fünfknopfturm with its distinctive roof buttons, the Hexenturm where alleged witches were once imprisoned, and the Gerberturm, used by medieval tanners. The neo-Gothic town hall from 1879 anchors the market square, while the Gothic St.-Martins-Kirche rises 65 meters above the surrounding buildings.
Neugablonz Jewelry Quarter
After 1945, jewelry makers from Bohemia established workshops in what became the Neugablonz district. You'll find artisans creating pieces for Christian Dior and other fashion houses using techniques passed down through generations. Several workshops welcome visitors to watch the crafting process and buy directly from the makers.
Tänzelfest Celebration
Visit Kaufbeuren in late June to see the Tänzelfest, Germany's oldest children's festival. Watch as 1,800 local children recreate historical scenes in period-accurate costumes. The week-long celebration includes medieval markets, craft demonstrations, and parades through the old town streets.
Sports and Recreation
Watch the ESV Kaufbeuren ice hockey team compete in DEL2 matches at the Erdgas Schwaben Arena from September to March. The surrounding Alpine foothills contain marked hiking paths ranging from 3 to 15 kilometers, with routes starting from the town center.
Arts and Culture
The Kunsthaus Kaufbeuren, housed in a restored 18th-century building, displays rotating exhibitions of regional and international artists. At the 400-seat Stadttheater, you can watch plays and concerts throughout the year, with programs ranging from classical theater to contemporary performances.
