Our journey through Ulm's historical treasures begins with two of the city's highlights - the monumental Ulm Cathedral and the charming Old Town.

The Ulm Cathedral (Ulmer Münster) is undoubtedly the city's most recognizable symbol. This Gothic temple impresses not only with its architecture, but especially with its impressive 161.53-meter-high tower, which is the tallest church tower in the world. Construction of the cathedral began in the 14th century, but was not completed until the 19th century, making it a fascinating example of the evolution of architectural styles over the centuries.

Inside the cathedral, a true feast for the eyes awaits. Note the richly decorated stalls in the chancel, the monumental tabernacle and the soaring pulpit. Lovers of sacred art will be delighted by the 'Last Judgment' fresco on the rainbow wall. For adventurous tourists there is quite a challenge - climbing the tower up almost 800 steps. The reward is a breathtaking view of the city and, in good weather, even the distant Alps and the Black Forest.

The Old Town (Ulm Altstadt), on the other hand, is a veritable maze of charming streets that will transport you back in time. Walking along the cobblestone alleys, we pass colorful townhouses and half-timbered houses, which create a unique atmosphere of a medieval town. Especially charming is the Fischerviertel fishing district, where you can admire Ulm's characteristic 'crooked houses'.

The Old Town is not just architecture, but also the vibrant heart of Ulm. Numerous cafes, restaurants and beer bars invite you to relax and enjoy local specialties. During the summer, the squares and streets host concerts and festivals, further enlivening this historic part of the city.

Comparing the two attractions, it is worth noting that the Ulm Cathedral offers a more monumental and spectacular experience, ideal for lovers of sacred architecture and panoramic views. Walking through the Old Town, on the other hand, allows for a more intimate and authentic experience of daily life in historic Ulm. Both attractions are easily accessible and located in the city center, making them easy to visit even with young children.

Both the cathedral and the Old Town are open to the public year-round, although the cathedral's opening hours may vary depending on the season. Admission to the Old Town is free, while there is a fee to climb the cathedral tower (as of 2023). Regardless of the attraction you choose, both guarantee an unforgettable experience and a deep immersion in Ulm's history and culture.

The next leg of our journey through Ulm's historical treasures is the city's impressive fortifications, which include the Ulm city wall and the Ulm Fortress (Bundesfestung Ulm). These monumental structures bear witness to the city's military might and strategic importance over the centuries.

The Ulm city wall, also known as the 'promenade on the wall,' is a unique attraction that combines historical and recreational values. Stretching more than 3.5 kilometers, the walking route atop the walls offers not only a fascinating history lesson, but also picturesque views of the city and the Danube River. The walls, which once protected the city from invaders, today provide a popular meeting and relaxation place for locals and tourists.

As you walk along the walls, you can admire the preserved towers and city gates, a reminder of Ulm's turbulent past. Along the route, there are information boards that bring you up to date on the history of each part of the fortifications. This is an ideal place for a family walk, during which children can learn about the city's history in an interactive way.

The Ulm Fortress, also known as the Bundesfestung Ulm, on the other hand, is a vast fortification complex that was built in the 19th century. This massive structure, consisting of numerous forts, bastions and fortifications, was one of the largest fortresses in Europe. Today, partially reconstructed and open to the public, it is a fascinating attraction for lovers of military history.

Particularly recommended is Fort Oberer Kuhberg, which houses a museum presenting the history of the fortress and its role in the city's history. While visiting the fort, you can see the preserved elements of 19th-century military architecture, learn about the defense techniques used at the time and admire the panorama of Ulm from the fort's ramparts.

Comparing the two attractions, it's worth noting that Ulm's ramparts offer a more recreational and family-friendly experience, ideal for a leisurely stroll and admiring the views. The Ulm Fortress, on the other hand, is for those interested in military history and defensive architecture, requiring a bit more time and commitment to explore.

The accessibility of both attractions is good - the fortress walls are open year-round and available free of charge, making it an ideal option for families with children or those traveling on a tight budget. The Ulm Fortress, particularly Fort Oberer Kuhberg, has specific opening hours and charges an entrance fee (as of 2023), but offers a more in-depth educational experience in return.

Both the ramparts and the Ulm Fortress are well-maintained and offer fascinating insights into the city's military history. It's well worth planning a visit to both sites to fully appreciate Ulm's strategic importance over the centuries and admire the craftsmanship of past military builders and engineers.

Our tour of Ulm's historical treasures would not be complete without a visit to Wiblingen Abbey (Kloster Wiblingen), which is a true Baroque gem of the region. Located on the outskirts of Ulm, this monumental monastic establishment is not only a testament to the city's religious history, but also an example of extraordinary Baroque architecture and art.

Wiblingen Abbey was founded in the 11th century, but owes its present impressive appearance to an 18th century reconstruction. The monastery complex impresses with its monumental facade, which is a fine example of late Baroque architecture. Walking through the abbey's courtyards and gardens, you can feel the atmosphere of the old centuries and imagine the life of the monks who inhabited the place for centuries.

But the real treasure of Wiblingen Abbey is its library, considered one of the most beautiful Rococo interiors in Europe. This spectacular hall, richly decorated with frescoes, gilding and sculptures, makes one dizzy with its splendor. The ceiling of the library is decorated with allegorical paintings depicting various fields of science, and the walls are covered with bookcases filled with old volumes. This is a place that delights not only book lovers, but anyone who appreciates beauty and art.

Wiblingen Abbey is not only a monument, but also a thriving cultural center. The former monastery premises house a museum that presents the history of the abbey and the daily life of the monks. It also hosts concerts, exhibitions and other cultural events, making the abbey vibrant and attracting both tourists and Ulm residents.

When comparing Wiblingen Abbey with other Ulm attractions, it is worth noting that it offers a unique experience of interacting with Baroque art at the highest level. In contrast to the Gothic and medieval monuments of the city center, the abbey takes us into a world of 18th-century splendor and elegance. It is an ideal place for lovers of architecture, art and history, but also for families looking for a peaceful and inspiring place to spend time.

The accessibility of Wiblingen Abbey is good - it is located on the outskirts of Ulm, but is easily accessible by public transportation. The abbey is open to the public most of the year, although opening hours may vary depending on the season. There is an admission fee for the museum and library (as of 2023), but the prices are affordable, especially when compared to the cultural and aesthetic value the site offers.

A visit to Wiblingen Abbey is worth planning as a complement to a tour of Ulm's historic center. The contrast between the Gothic austerity of the cathedral and the Baroque splendor of the abbey will allow you to fully appreciate the architectural and cultural richness of this region of Germany. Whether you are a lover of history, art, or simply looking for beautiful places, the Wiblingen Abbey is sure to make an unforgettable impression on you and become one of the highlights of your visit to Ulm.

To sum up our tour of Ulm's historical treasures, it's worth noting that each of the five sites featured - Ulm Cathedral, Old Town, the city walls, Ulm Fortress and Wiblingen Abbey - offers a unique experience and allows you to explore different aspects of the city's rich history. From medieval sacred architecture to Renaissance townhouses, a Baroque abbey and 19th century fortifications, Ulm is a true journey through the eras that will delight any lover of history and culture.