Passing through Emporia Municipal Airport? A layover in Kempten is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 20 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Kempten, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Germany vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Kempten is roughly 20 minutes from EMP via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
What to See and Do in Kempten
For a layover visit to Kempten, we’d suggest Archäologischer Park Cambodunum (APC) and Residenz Kempten & Basilica of St. Lorenz. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
If you’d rather stay inside EMP — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- EMP FBO Terminal Waiting Area
- Aircraft Observation Deck (Windows)
Transport from Emporia Municipal Airport to Downtown
From EMP, the local transport gets you to Kempten in around 20 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 40 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Kempten, local travelers recommend Zum Stift. If you have time for a second stop, Wirtshaus zum Peter is another popular pick.
Back at EMP, EMP Terminal Vending Machines is the go-to. Pilot’s Lounge Coffee & Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kempten might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at EMP, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kempten itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Germany that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage at EMP
Luggage storage options at EMP can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Kempten for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, EMP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Kempten exploring the streets or relaxing at EMP, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.