Ulm is a city that deserves a closer look. With its soaring Minster, enchanting old town, and surprising mix of history and quirky attractions, it’s full of surprises. What makes Ulm especially appealing for tours is its compact size—you can see a lot in a short time—and its rich array of features, including the tallest church spire in the world and the birthplace of Albert Einstein. We particularly like the Ulm: City Center Walking Tour with Minster Visit, which combines a stroll through historic streets with a chance to admire Ulm Minster up close. It’s a solid introduction for first-timers who want an easy, engaging overview.
Ulm also offers some more unusual options, like the Ulm: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Walking Tour, which turns sightseeing into a fun puzzle, and private experiences such as the Ulm’s History, Records, and Relativity Private Walking Tour, perfect for those wanting a personalized deep dive into Ulm’s renowned links to Einstein and ancient artifacts. Whether you’re after a straightforward overview, an interactive game, or a themed private tour, Ulm has something to fit your style.
1. Ulm: City Center Walking Tour with Minster Visit
At number 1 on our list is the Ulm: City Center Walking Tour with Minster Visit. This tour is a fantastic choice for those new to the city or anyone keen to see the highlights with a knowledgeable guide. For just $14 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, you’ll explore the historic center of Ulm, including the famous Ulm Minster, which boasts the tallest church spire in the world. The guide shares stories about the city’s origins, taking you through charming districts like the Fisherman’s Quarter and the Tanning Quarter, where you’ll learn how Ulm’s trades shaped its character.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s engaging storytelling, with one review noting how entertaining and focused the commentary is, emphasizing key events and fun anecdotes. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comfortable, well-organized introduction to Ulm’s sights without breaking the bank. An excellent option for a first visit or a quick overview to plan your time.
Bottom line: A friendly, affordable, and informative walk that hits all the main sights with a focus on Ulm’s history and architecture.
2. Ulm: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Walking Tour
For a more interactive experience, the Ulm: Scavenger Hunt Self-Guided Walking Tour offers a fresh way to explore the city at your own pace. For $45 per group (up to 10 people), this 3.5-hour activity turns sightseeing into a puzzle adventure, where you’ll solve riddles and answer questions about key Ulm sights like the Minster, the Fischer- and Gerberviertel, and the Grabenhäuser. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or anyone who prefers to set their own pace and add a playful twist to their sightseeing.
The beauty of this tour is its flexibility—you can pause the game for photos or breaks whenever you like. Reviews praise it as “fun and interactive,” making it perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a bit of friendly competition. It’s also great for those who want to avoid guided tours but still want a structured experience.
Bottom line: A flexible, entertaining way to see Ulm and test your wits, especially suitable for energetic groups or families.
3. Ulm’s History, Records, and Relativity Private Walking Tour
At number 3, this private tour focuses on Ulm’s intellectual and artistic contributions, notably its connection to Albert Einstein and the ancient Lion Man sculpture. For $261, the tour lasts around 1.5 hours and is ideal for those who want a personalized, in-depth experience. The guide takes you to the Ulm Minster and discusses its architectural marvels, then reveals the story of the Crooked House, recognized by Guinness World Records for its tilting structure.
Your guide will also share tales about Einstein’s birthplace and the Lion Man Sculpture, which is believed to be the world’s oldest known sculpture. This tour provides a fascinating mix of medieval architecture, scientific history, and artistic treasures, with views of the Danube River adding to the experience.
Guests note the tour’s quality and depth, with reviews emphasizing how well the guide’s knowledge brings Ulm’s past alive. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy history, art, and private, tailored outings.
Bottom line: An intimate exploration of Ulm’s most intriguing historical and artistic sites, perfect for history buffs or those with a keen interest in Einstein.
4. Ulm: Evening stroll through the old town
Number 4 is the Ulm: Evening Stroll through the Old Town, a romantic 90-minute walk that captures the city’s charm as it lights up at night. For just $14, you’ll explore illuminated streets, the fishermen’s quarter, and tanners’ district, offering a different perspective after sunset. This tour is popular among couples and those who appreciate a peaceful, atmospheric walk.
Reviews highlight the tour guide’s engaging storytelling and how beautifully the old town is lit up in the evening, making for a memorable experience. The tour is a good choice if you want a short, relaxing activity after a day of sightseeing or dinner.
Bottom line: A lovely way to see Ulm in a different light, emphasizing its romantic and picturesque qualities.
5. Ulm: Scary Walking Tour
Number 5 appeals to those who enjoy a spooky twist on history. The Ulm: Scary Walking Tour explores the neighborhood known as The Cross, with its foggy alleys and legends of the Old Cemetery. For just $17, the 1.5-hour walk reveals the city’s darker stories — from the secrets of Heimstrasse to tales of old celebrities buried in the cemetery.
This tour’s unique angle makes it stand out, especially for fans of ghost stories or supernatural lore. While reviews are limited, they describe the experience as “gloomy” and “mysterious,” perfect for a different kind of city adventure.
Bottom line: A short, atmospheric exploration suitable for brave souls or those interested in Ulm’s mysterious side.
6. Ulm: Bar and Club Tour with Free Shots and VIP entry
If you’re looking to experience Ulm’s nightlife, the Bar and Club Tour is a lively choice. For $37, over four hours, you’ll visit up to five venues, skipping queues with VIP access and enjoying free shots at each stop. The guide keeps the energy high and helps you navigate the best spots to dance, drink, and mingle.
Reviews are enthusiastic, especially noting the well-organized itinerary and the fun guide. This tour is best suited for party-goers or those wanting a memorable night out without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: A high-energy, fun-filled way to explore Ulm’s night scene with VIP perks.
7. Ulm Card: 20+ attractions and optional public transportation
The Ulm Card offers flexible access to over 20 attractions for just $27, including free admission to many museums and sites, plus optional use of public transport. Available for one day, it’s an economical way to maximize your time if you plan to visit multiple places like the Minster, museums, or the Steiff Museum.
While the reviews are mixed, mainly due to varying user expectations, the card remains a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with convenience. It’s ideal if you prefer to customize your trip and avoid paying at each spot.
Bottom line: Cost-effective and flexible, perfect for those who want to see many sights without buying individual tickets.
8. Giengen: Steiff Museum
Number 8 on the list shifts focus outside Ulm to the Steiff Museum in Giengen. For just $14, you explore the world of the famous teddy bear brand, starting with a story of 3,000 lost bears. The museum showcases how these beloved toys are handmade and features a giant petting zoo plus the longest Steiff snake slide, making it enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
The museum shop and outlet provide opportunities to buy souvenirs. It’s a charming, nostalgic trip into toy history, especially for families or anyone interested in classic craftsmanship. Reviews highlight the engaging exhibits and the fun atmosphere.
Bottom line: A delightful visit into toy-making history with hands-on fun and shopping, suitable for a family outing.
9. Ulm: Duellbox Ticket – your own game show, just like on TV
Number 9 offers a lively, interactive experience with the Ulm: Duellbox Ticket. For $41, you compete in 13 game boxes testing skills like sports, tactics, or knowledge over 2.5 hours. It’s a perfect choice for groups wanting a mix of fun and friendly competition, fostering team spirit.
Guests describe the experience as “super fun,” and the format makes it great for team-building or family fun. It’s more active and playful than traditional sightseeing, providing a memorable, energetic outing.
Bottom line: Unique, team-oriented entertainment that combines game show excitement with social bonding.
10. Ulm: Entertaining tour for puzzling and guessing
Number 10 is ideal for those who enjoy mental challenges. This interactive city tour costs $17 and lasts about 1.5 hours. It’s designed for mixed-age groups and involves solving puzzles and guessing games while discovering Ulm’s main sights.
The tour stands out for encouraging active participation, making it engaging for families or groups that prefer a more playful approach to sightseeing. Reviewers appreciate its originality and the opportunity to learn about Ulm’s landmarks in a fun way.
Bottom line: Perfect for puzzle lovers and families looking for a lively, participatory exploration.
11. Ulm: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
Finally, the Ulm: Express Walk with a Local offers a quick, insider’s view of the city. For $78, you spend 1 to 2 hours with a local guide, discovering highlights like the Minster and uncovering tips on the best cafes and bars.
This tour is especially appealing for travelers who want a personalized experience in a short time. Reviewers describe it as “wonderful,” with guides taking extra time and sharing top local insights, making it ideal for those who want an authentic taste of Ulm in a limited window.
Bottom line: A personal, efficient way to see Ulm’s highlights with local tips, great for short stays or those wanting a friendly, tailored experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Ulm
When deciding which tour fits your trip, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you’re new to Ulm, the City Center Walking Tour offers a solid overview. For those who prefer a self-paced adventure, the Scavenger Hunt adds fun to sightseeing. If history or private experiences appeal, the History and Einstein tour delivers depth, especially for aficionados.
Night owls may enjoy the Evening Old Town Stroll, while families and puzzle lovers should consider the Entertaining Tour for Puzzling and Guessing. Nightlife seekers will find the Bar and Club Crawl appealing, and those with limited time may prefer the Ulm Express for a quick, authentic taste.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons or for private or specialized tours, to secure your preferred time slot.
Ulm offers a variety of engaging, memorable ways to explore. Whether you want a guided walk, a quirky scavenger hunt, or an energetic nightlife crawl, there’s a tour that matches your style. For a relaxed introduction, the City Center Walking Tour is hard to beat. If you’re after something more interactive, the Scavenger Hunt or Puzzling Tour will keep you entertained. For a personal touch, the Private Einstein and History Tour is unbeatable.
No matter what type of experience you choose, booking ahead will ensure you get the most out of your visit. Ulm’s charm is waiting—just pick your favorite tour and enjoy exploring this dynamic city.
