Things To Do
in Ulm
Ulm is a historic university town on the Danube, where medieval charm meets modern science and culture. Its crown jewel is the Ulm Minster, whose soaring Gothic tower ranks among the tallest churches in the world and offers sweeping city views. The old town around Rathausplatz and the Fischerviertel (Fishermen's Quarter) preserves timber-framed houses and narrow lanes that invite exploration.
Today Ulm blends a compact, walkable center with a lively café and museum scene, all set along the river and the Swabian Alps on the horizon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ulm Minster, home to the tallest church steeple in the world. Climb the 768 steps to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Danube River. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional German pastries and coffee.
Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the half-timbered houses and unique architecture. Make your way to the Fishermen's Quarter, where you can explore the picturesque canals and small bridges. Stop for lunch at a quaint restaurant, indulging in regional specialties like Maultaschen or Spätzle.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the Danube River for a serene evening walk. Enjoy dinner at a local beer garden, sampling some of the region's famous craft beers and hearty dishes. Cap off your day with a visit to the Ulm Rathaus, where you can appreciate the beautiful frescoes illuminated at night.
Begin your day with a refreshing bike ride along the scenic Danube River bike path. Stop at one of the many parks along the way for a picnic breakfast surrounded by nature. Enjoy the fresh air and picturesque views as you pedal through the serene landscapes.
Continue your adventure by renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the river from the water. Experience the tranquility of the Danube while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Afterward, have lunch at a riverside café, relishing the ambiance and delicious fresh seafood.
As evening approaches, join a sunset boat cruise on the Danube for a unique perspective of the city. Sip on a local wine while enjoying the fading light and the beautiful reflections on the water. After the cruise, enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in fresh fish dishes, wrapped up by a walk back along the riverbank.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $3-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-150 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic Gothic cathedral and compact, walkable center
- Welcoming Swabian hospitality and seasonal cuisine
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can feel touristy around peak times in the Market Square
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich heiße ..." - My name is ...
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Ulm
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic cathedral with a towering spire; bookend city views from the tower if you’re up for the climb.
The Market Square framed by the Rathaus façade and lively daily life—great for architectural and street photography.
Colorful timber-framed houses along the Blau canal; atmospheric water-side shots at golden hour.
Wide riverfront with bridges and sunset opportunities—ideal for panoramic river scenes.
Food in Ulm
Ulm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Meat-filled pasta pockets that are often served in broth or fried with onions.
Must-Try!
Soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and crispy onions.
Swabian lentil stew served with egg noodles.
Beef steak topped with caramelized onions, typically accompanied by potatoes or spaetzle.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering fresh regional produce, breads, cheeses, and local specialties near the Market Square.
Casual bites and riverside snacks in Ulm’s historic quarter with waterfront ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Grüß Gott'; a handshake is common in formal settings; use Sie for strangers.
Punctuality is valued for appointments and trains.
Keep hands visible, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and handle utensils with care.
Respect recycling rules and keep noise to reasonable levels, especially late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Ulm
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, a tip of about 5-10% is customary if the service is good; you may round up the bill in casual settings.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (EC/credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days invite outdoor dining, riverfront strolls, and open-air events; beware occasional heat and late-afternoon thunderstorms.
Mild to fresh days with colorful foliage; harvest markets and seasonal dishes become highlights.
Cold and sometimes snowy; Christmas markets add festive warmth and cozy cafés provide shelter from the chill.
Crisp air and blossoming trees; city walks and hill viewpoints offer fresh cityscapes and fewer crowds.
Ulm at Night
Hiking in Ulm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Blue spring and surrounding trails; a popular day trip about 40 km south of Ulm with forest paths and viewpoints.
Extensive hikes with karst landscapes, caves, and panoramic overlooks within a short drive.
Hiking routes on the Eselsberg hill offering city views and nearby nature.
Airports
How to reach Ulm by plane.
Major international hub about 1–1.5 hours by rail or car from Ulm.
Regional airport roughly 1–1.5 hours away by car or rail connection.
Lake Constance airport about 1.5–2 hours away by road and rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ulm University and the city’s research institutions attract a large student population.
A mix of urban residents and suburban communities with good services.
A growing number of expatriates and visitors due to the university and industry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; local clubs and match days add energy to town.
Growing community for road cycling and scenic rides in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ulm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for Kässpätzle with vegetables, veggie Maultaschen, or salads.