The medieval old town is the main reason to come. Marienplatz, the main square, is a good starting point — it is surrounded by historic buildings and the Blaserturm clock tower. The Mehlsack, a 51-metre white tower from the 15th century, is the city's most distinctive landmark and can be climbed for views over the old town and the surrounding Swabian countryside.
Three city gates and more than ten towers from the medieval fortifications survive intact, making Ravensburg one of the better-preserved fortified towns in southern Germany. The Ravensburger Spieleland museum covers the history of the famous board game and puzzle company that still bears the city's name.
Weingarten Abbey, about 4 kilometres north, is among the finest Baroque churches in Germany — a short bus or bike ride from the old town.