Ulm cleverly combines futuristic with medieval in the little heart of this city of Germany. If this place is on your bucket list, don’t forget to visit most of this city – its historic tall buildings, museums and beautiful parks. You can also go to the tower and bask in the attractive view of the city and enjoy the oh-so-amazing sunset!
There’s quite a bit of things to do in Ulm that I will share in detail below. While I share my personal visit to Ulm, I’ll also share some of its famous places that you shouldn’t be missing if you happen to visit Ulm!
This city was sorely damaged in World War II, but now, most of its main buildings have been repaired. Many Gothic walls, gates and fountains have survived and are still standing today like before.
Ulm is also famous for industries that include the manufacture of machinery, textiles, electrical equipment, metal products, motor vehicles, etc.
Fun fact: Ulm is the birthplace of the famous Albert Einstein.
Have a small Ulm map handy – you’re in for an adventure!
At A Glance
Where is Ulm, Germany?
Map of Ulm, Germany
Ulm is a city in the Southwest of Germany that lies on the left bank of the Danube River at its junction with the Iller and the Blau.
It was founded in the mid of the 9th century. This city has enjoyed a long history as a free imperial city that was ruled only by the Holy Roman Emperor without any annoying princes in between.
Neu-Ulm and Ulm are both in the same time zone Europe/Berlin.
Weather in Ulm, Germany
The essence of Ulm – a house that is surrounded by running waters.
This city’s temperature varies throughout the year. The summers in Ulm are comfortable, but the winters are very cold and windy here, and it is partly cloudy all year-round.
From March to the end of May it is spring in Ulm, Germany. The weather is pleasant and the city is busy with Easter celebrations.
From May’s end to August it is summer season, known for high temperatures. If you’re someone not so used to warm weather I don’t suggest this weather is for you.
From September to November it’s the fall season here, when all the festivities happen and people from all over the world join.
Winter, from November to February, in my view, is the perfect time to visit this city if you are someone who enjoys winter sports in the surrounding mountains. Here’s a packing guide for winters in Europe.
Best Hotels In Ulm, Germany
If you’re wondering where to stay in Ulm, here our top picks for the best hotels in Ulm to stay and why we recommend it.
1. B&B Hotel Ulm
The first hotel is B&B hotel. This hotel is just some minutes away from Ulm main station. You can easily explore all sights from this place. This hotel features soundproof rooms so you can rest with all silence and peace. Free WiFi is provided 24/7.
Check prices here.
2. Maritim Hotel Ulm
This hotel is located beside the Danube river. Maritim Hotel Ulm features graceful and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi.
The Maritim Hotel Ulm is connected to the Ulm Congress Centre. The historic Ulm Cathedral and the Donaustadion Stadium are just a 10-minute walk away from this hotel.
Check prices here.
3. Comfor Hotel Ulm City
This hotel is situated in the centre of Ulm, featuring soundproof rooms and free WiFi. Comfor Hotel Ulm City’s reception is open 24 hours a day, thus is perfect if you are planning to arrive late or leave early in the wee mornings.
Check prices here.
Things to do in Ulm, Germany
Ulm has its houses built around rivers. We were weaving through little bridges and between houses to discover the distinctive features that set Ulm apart from the rest of Germany. We were all so fascinated at how the houses can possibly be built upon the waters.
Here is a list of iconic things to do in Ulm and places you must visit when you visit Ulm.
1. Ulm Minster
Ulm Minster is one of the tallest Germany cathedral in the world having the highest steeple, at 161.5m high to be exact! This was the 5th tallest man-made structure before the 20th century.
Started in 1377, this church was completed in 1890. It is filled with 14th-century carvings that you can also find in the book of Genesis.
This place reveals some breath-taking views if you take the 768 steps up. The climb to the top might be a tiring experience, but it’s completely worth it.
As an example of Gothic art and architecture, the church carries many examples of medieval culture. The pews are oak with busts carved by a famous German sculptor. Many of the other pieces of beautiful art date back to the 14th or 15th century.
2. Fishermen’s and Tanners’ Quarter
The Fishermen’s and Tanners’ Quarter in Ulm used to be the centre of medieval Ulm once, when it was first documented in 854. This place was built around the channels of the stream of Blau which leads into the Danube.
The quarter is basically known for its medieval buildings which were used by craftsmen. Most of them were fishermen, tanners, or shipbuilders. All of these professions were benefited because of the closeness of the river to this place.
The streets over here are tightly packed with timber-framed houses, so close to each other that sometimes they even touch in front.
The quarter was also a home for emigrants travelling down the Danube to Hungary. They used to normally stay here for a few months to raise money before making the journey and moving ahead. This place has many tales that you’d love to hear from its locals.
3. Town Hall (Ulmer Rathaus)
The original building of Ulm’s Town Hall (Rathaus) was made by Duke Friedrich der Schöne, also called Frederic the Beautiful, in 1316.
It has been transformed many times according to the needs and today, it presents itself with the beautiful baroque facade of Johann Fischer von Erlach, decorated with the symbols of Justice and Kindness.
Coated with trompe-l’œil frescoes, Ulm’s majestic old town hall has an Early Renaissance design.
Basically, it is composed of three buildings, the oldest of which dates back to the 1370s. The oldest architecture it has is on the south-east side of the complex, while the gables and daintily ornamented windows this place has, are from the 15th century.
This iconic astronomical clock that you see on its facade was built in 1520. Apparently this clock tells not only of the time, but also your zodiac, the moon and the dates!
The intricately-designed murals surrounding the clock originate from 1900 and illustrate virtues, commandments and vices.
4. Schiefes Haus
Walking past this timber-framed house, one might think it’s about to fall on you. Built in the 14th century, this Leaning House is one of the oldest buildings in the city of Ulm. The crooked building tilts precariously towards the south and almost looks as if it’s about to fall any moment.
Set along the river Blau in a half-timbered house built-in 1406, the “Schiefes Haus”, or crooked house, is the most frequently photographed former townhouse in Ulm.
Dating all the way back to the year 1406, this quaint hotel is an 8-minute walk from Stadthaus Ulm and 11 minutes from the Ulm Hauptbahnhof railway station.
If you’re looking for hotels in Ulm for your stay from where you can visit attractions and things to do in Ulm easily, this is one hotel to consider.
According to the Guinness Book of Records, it’s the most crooked hotel in the world! The slant came about because of its wide, sloping supporting beams. It’s a good thing it was totally reinforced and stabilized in 1995, allowing it to be used as a hotel today – Hotel Schiefes Haus. This place is still going strong even after 600 years.
Come spring, colourful flowers greet you from each of the room’s windows, making this landmark an unmissable photo spot in Ulm.
5. Ulmer Museum
This museum is spread over 7 buildings linked together. There are signs near the lifts and various spots that will guide you about sections on each floor.
Since the joined-up complex can be confusing for a first-time visitor, you can ask an attendant for help and to decode the floor plan signs.
This place is filled with paintings and mesmerising works of sculptures by members of the late barbaric Ulm School.
A prehistoric statue of lion-man that was discovered in Hohlenstein-Stadel cave in 1939 is also set up here. This statue consists of a body of a man with the head of a lion.
Have a wander and be surprised by the amazing art collection this museum has.
6. Metzgerturm
Metzgerturm is also known as the “Butcher’s Tower” because it was once used to protect the butcher shop present in the area.
The way to get to the tower is through the old wall. On a square plant, this structure is 36 metres tall and has a hipped roof.
This tower is a part of the old town wall. A passage had to be made through this wall & a tower built on top, so the Butcher Shop was then behind the wall. Whereas formerly, it was outside the wall & totally unprotected.
This place is still scenic and unharmed, and this tower is now also open for public viewing.
Due to the marshy ground, the tower leans two metres to the northwest. Be amazed – the slant is only slightly less severe than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Learn the history of Metzgerturm and discover all stories about this place from its locals.
7. Cineplex Dietrich
When one considers the things to do in Ulm, a little relaxation away from everything is always a good idea.
For that, visit a high-end modern movie theatre that is Cineplex Dietrich when in Ulm. This cinema has everything you might need like snack bars, restaurants and lounging areas.
You can reserve a seat there and watch the latest movie! All of the famous and latest movies are available here.
Check out the snazzy-looking theatres they have, especially when the neon lights are turned on. The movie vibe is just another level.
Get yourself tickets and watch a movie with your friends or family!
8. Donaubad
A perfect place to take your kids or family to, Donaubad is a cool water park in Ulm I bet you didn’t know existed. This spacious water park is known to be one of the largest water parks with beautiful outdoor pools, indoor pools, whirlpool area, Jacuzzi, sauna and many other fun facilities.
Spending a few hours here knowing that there are tons of facilities to take advantage of takes no conscious decisions as you will lose track of time.
This is the perfect family-friendly activity, having fun with the water activities and enjoying every moment.
9. Zur Forelle
Try German food at Zur Forelle, a lovely restaurant at Ulm. Not only will the building attract your eyes, the food that they serve here is another compelling reason to visit.
When you get the chance to visit Zur Forelle, you’ll understand why this is such a famous restaurant in Ulm. They serve authentic German cuisine with seafood and healthy food options, along with a wide array of dining items from appetizers to desserts. That is what you shouldn’t be missing this dining experience when visiting Ulm!
10. Wiblingen Abbey
Wiblingen Abbey was a former Benedictine abbey which was later used as barracks.
Today, its buildings contain several departments of the medical faculty of the University of Ulm.
Wiblingen Abbey was founded in 1093 (11th century) by the counts Hartmann and Otto von Kirchberg. Wiblingen Monastery and its church represent the final masterpiece of Baroque architecture in Upper Swabia.
The interior of the library is considered to be one of the finest examples of Rococo architecture which is also seen as one of the biggest achievements.
With the kindest Brigitte who took us on a road trip around South Germany for the weekend! Hear about our family’s 25 year-long history with her family.
Ulm is such a peaceful, quiet town. Its ancient lanes, winding passageways, half-timbered houses, bridges and jetties give a real impression of what medieval life must have been like!
