The first of Ulm's hidden treasures is the Tast- und Riechgarten, or the Garden of Touch and Scent. Located at Schweinmarkt 6, this unique place offers extraordinary sensory experiences for the whole family. The garden is designed to stimulate the senses of touch and smell, making it an ideal place for people of all ages, but especially for children, who can discover the natural world here in a whole new way. Among the carefully selected plants are species with a variety of leaf textures and intense scents, which can not only be viewed, but also touched and smelled. This is an excellent opportunity for nature education and relaxation in the heart of the city. The garden is open year-round and best of all - admission is free.

Not far from the garden, at Weinhof 12, is another gem - the Schwörhaus, or Oath House. This baroque building from the 17th century hides a fascinating history of the city. It is here that for centuries the mayor of Ulm has taken the annual oath of allegiance to the citizens, a tradition that dates all the way back to the 14th century. Although the building itself is usually closed to the public, its restored facade is a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a testament to the city's rich history.

Comparing the two sites, the Tast- und Riechgarten offers a more interactive and sensory experience, ideal for families with children, while the Schwörhaus attracts history and architecture lovers. The garden is open year-round and free of charge, making it more accessible to all visitors. The Schwörhaus, on the other hand, though closed off inside, allows you to admire the beautiful architecture from the outside and is an important landmark on the city's historical map.

Both sites are easily accessible, located in the city center, and can be visited in a single walk. The Tast- und Riechgarten offers the opportunity to spend more time on site, exploring the various plants and their properties, while a visit to the Schwörhaus can be shorter, but equally valuable due to its historical significance.

It's worth remembering that while the Tast- und Riechgarten is a year-round attraction, it's best to visit during the warmer months when the plants are in full bloom. The Schwörhaus, on the other hand, takes on special significance on the penultimate Monday in July, when the traditional mayoral oath ceremony takes place there. This is a unique opportunity to see the building in its full glory and experience the city's living tradition.

Another hidden treasure of Ulm is the Wasserturm, or Pressure Tower, located on Turmstraße in Neu-Ulm. Although no longer serving its original function today, this impressive building is a fascinating example of turn-of-the-century industrial architecture. The tower, which supplied residents with drinking water from 1900 to 1964, is today a picturesque vantage point and a symbol of the city. Surrounded by a beautiful park, it offers the perfect place for a relaxing stroll or picnic. The tower offers panoramic views of Ulm and Neu-Ulm, making it the perfect place for photography enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet spot away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

Not far from the Pressure Tower, on the border of Ulm and Neu-Ulm, is another lesser-known attraction - the Illermündung. This is the place where the Iller River flows into the Danube, creating a picturesque landscape and offering a unique perspective on the joining of two important European rivers. Illermündung is a true paradise for lovers of nature and active recreation. There are biking and hiking paths along the banks, ideal for family outings or romantic walks. The area is also popular with anglers and ornithologists, who can observe a variety of waterfowl species here.

Comparing the two attractions, the Wasserturm offers a more 'urban' experience with elements of history and architecture, while the Illermündung is all about contact with nature and active recreation. The Wasserturm is easily accessible and offers great views, making it attractive to people of all ages, including families with children. The Illermündung, on the other hand, requires a bit more effort to reach, but rewards visitors with beautiful landscapes and the opportunity to commune with nature.

Both locations are free, which is a big plus for tourists. The Wasserturm is accessible year-round, but is best visited on sunny days when visibility is best. The Illermündung is beautiful at any time of the year, but it is especially charming in spring and summer, when nature awakens to life.

It's worth noting that while Wasserturm offers a more orderly and 'civilized' setting with a park and benches, Illermündung is wilder and more natural. This makes them complementary - after visiting one place, it's worth visiting the other to experience the diversity of Ulm's landscape.

For families with children, the Wasserturm may be more suitable due to its easier access and safe park setting. The Illermündung, on the other hand, is a great place for older children and teens who enjoy active recreation and exploring nature. Both locations offer unique educational opportunities - Wasserturm for history and engineering, and Illermündung for ecology and geography topics.

Last, but not least, Ulm's fascinating hidden treasure is the Lion Fountain, or Fountain with Lions, located on Münsterplatz. This 16th-century fountain is not only a beautiful example of Renaissance art, but also an important part of the city's history. Decorated with two majestic lions, an imperial shield and the coat of arms of the city of Ulm, the fountain is a testament to the site's rich past. Although located in the center, it often escapes the attention of tourists focused on the nearby cathedral.

The Lion Fountain has a tumultuous history - it was originally located elsewhere, and was severely damaged during World War II. Restored and moved to its current location in 1992, it is now not only a decoration of the square, but also an important landmark and meeting place for locals and tourists. The fountain is particularly charming on warm days, when its water offers refreshment in the open space of the cathedral square.

Comparing the Lion Fountain with the previously described attractions, it is worth noting that it is the most central and most easily accessible. Unlike the Tast- und Riechgarten or Illermündung, the fountain does not require special planning for a visit - it can be enjoyed on the way to other attractions in the city center. It is an ideal place for a short stop during a visit, offering a chance to relax and contemplate the city's history.

Historically, the Lion Fountain can rival the Schwörhaus, although it represents a different era and style. While the Oath House is an example of Baroque architecture, the fountain is a testament to Renaissance craftsmanship. Both attractions tell the city's story, but in different ways - the fountain through its symbolism and ornamentation, and the Schwörhaus through its function in the city's social life.

For families with children, the Lion Fountain can be particularly appealing. Children are often fascinated by fountains, and the presence of lions adds an element of fun and imagination. It is also a great place to learn about the city's history in an accessible way, through stories about the fountain's symbols and decorations.

Compared to the Wasserturm or Illermündung, the Lion Fountain offers a more 'urban' experience. There are no sweeping views or contact with nature, but instead you can feel the pulse of the city and its history. It's ideal for those who prefer to visit downtown and don't have time for trips to the outskirts of the city.

It is worth noting that all the described attractions are free of charge, making them accessible to any tourist. The Lion Fountain, like the other fountains, is particularly attractive during the warm months, but can be enjoyed all year round. In winter, when the fountain is not in operation, its architectural beauty continues to attract attention.

All in all, each of the five attractions described offers a unique experience and allows you to discover a different side of Ulm. From the sensory experience at the Tast- und Riechgarten, to the historical significance of the Schwörhaus, the panoramic views from the Wasserturm, the natural beauty of the Illermündung, and the artistic and historical value of the Lion Fountain, these hidden gems create a complete picture of the city that goes far beyond what the average tourist knows. By visiting these sites, you can gain a deeper understanding of Ulm's character and heritage while enjoying the less crowded and more authentic aspects of this fascinating German city.