🏰 Ulm and Neu-Ulm: A Tale of Two Cities on the Danube

Ulm is a hidden gem in southern Germany that often gets overlooked for its larger neighbors like Munich or Stuttgart. However, this city offers a perfect blend of medieval history and modern riverside life. Situated on the border between Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, the city is actually divided by the Danube River: the historic Ulm on one side and the modern Neu-Ulm on the other. 🌊

Last winter, my spouse and I spent a weekend exploring both sides. We found that while Ulm holds the history, Neu-Ulm offers a fresh, green perspective, and together they make for a fantastic European city break. 🥨

⛪ The Giant of the City: Ulm Minster (Ulmer Münster)

You cannot miss the Ulm Minster. It holds the record for the tallest church spire in the world, standing at an incredible 161.5 meters. Standing at the base and looking up is a dizzying experience. 🏛️

My husband, who never misses a chance for a view, climbed the 768 steps to the top of the spire. While I opted to stay on the ground and enjoy a coffee in the Münsterplatz, he came down breathless but raving about the view. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps across the German countryside. It is a feat of Gothic engineering that truly defines the city's skyline. 🏔️

🐟 The Romantic Soul: The Fishermen's and Tanners' Quarter

If the Minster is the city's head, the Fischerviertel (Fishermen's Quarter) is its heart. This medieval area is built where the Blau river flows into the Danube. It is a labyrinth of half-timbered houses, tiny bridges, and narrow alleys. 🛶

We spent our evening wandering past the Schiefes Haus (the Crooked House). It is officially the most crooked hotel in the world, leaning precariously over the water. Seeing the reflection of the ancient wooden beams in the river at night, with the warm glow of the restaurants nearby, felt like walking through a Brother Grimm fairytale. 🕯️

🌉 Crossing the Border: Neu-Ulm and the Danube Banks

A quick walk across the Herdbrücke bridge takes you from Ulm (Baden-Württemberg) into Neu-Ulm (Bavaria). While Ulm feels ancient, Neu-Ulm feels spacious and green. 🌳

We loved walking along the Danube banks. The city walls of Ulm on the opposite side provide a stunning backdrop for a riverside stroll. My spouse particularly enjoyed the Edwin Scharff Museum in Neu-Ulm, which offers fantastic modern art exhibitions. The contrast between the two sides of the river—one medieval and one contemporary is what makes this destination so unique. 🎨

🎒 Essential Tips for Your Ulm Adventure

• Wear Sturdy Shoes: 👟 The cobblestones in the Fishermen's Quarter and the 700+ steps of the Minster require good footwear. Leave the dress shoes for dinner!

• Try the "Ulmer Spatz": 🐦 The sparrow is the symbol of the city. You will see sparrow statues everywhere, and you must try the local "Spatz" chocolates or pastries at the local bakeries. 🍪

• The Ulm City Card: 🎫 This card is a lifesaver. It gives you a guided tour of the city, free entry to several museums, and even a climb up the Minster spire.

• Visit the "Einstein" Sites: 🧬 Did you know Albert Einstein was born in Ulm? While his original house was destroyed, there are several monuments and a fountain dedicated to him near the city center.
  

🏨 Featured Accommodation Recommendation

For a stay that places you right in the middle of the fairytale, Hotel Schiefes Haus is an unbeatable experience. Yes, you can actually stay in the world's most crooked house! The rooms are modern and comfortable, but the historic tilt of the building gives it a charm you won't find anywhere else. Guests love the breakfast overlooking the Blau river and the central location. ✨ https://www.booking.com/hotel/de/schiefes-haus.tr.html