Ravensburg's old town preserves an unusually complete set of medieval towers and gates, remnants of the fortifications built when the city was a free imperial city and a centre of the linen and paper trade. The Mehlsack, a white-plastered round tower, and the Blaserturm, the main watchtower on the market square, are the most prominent survivors, along with the Green Tower and several city gates that once controlled access to the walled town. Marktstraße and the surrounding lanes are lined with painted gabled townhouses, many now housing cafes and shops, while the city is also known as the historic home of the Ravensburger puzzle and game company, whose name draws family visitors interested in its heritage. A walking loop covering the main towers, gates and market square takes about ninety minutes to two hours. Weekday mornings offer the quietest streets, since the old town becomes busier with shoppers and visitors by early afternoon.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Always open |
| Typical visit | 1.5-2 hours |
| Best time | Weekday mornings for a quiet stroll among medieval towers |
| Getting there | 10 min walk from Ravensburg Hauptbahnhof |
| Address | Marktstraße, 88212 Ravensburg, Germany |
Weather through the year in Germany
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Germany.
Location
Marktstraße, 88212 Ravensburg, Germany
47.7817, 9.6117 View on map
Highlights
- Mehlsack round tower
- Blaserturm watchtower on the market square
- Medieval city gates and fortification remnants
- Painted gabled townhouses along Marktstraße
Tips for visiting
- Walk the loop of towers and gates in the morning for a quieter old town
- Look out for the Ravensburger company's heritage connections around town
- The Blaserturm can be climbed seasonally for views over the rooftops
- The old town is compact and best explored on foot
When to visit
Weekday mornings offer a quiet stroll among the medieval towers before afternoon shopping crowds arrive.
Accessibility
Most streets are paved and gently sloped, making the old town broadly accessible, though the towers themselves involve narrow stairs not suited to wheelchairs.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to explore Ravensburg's old town?
About ninety minutes to two hours covers the main towers, gates and market square.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, particularly for families familiar with the Ravensburger puzzle and game brand founded in the city.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, the old town streets and towers are public and freely photographable.