Two practical self-guided options showcase the best of Esslingen.
The Historic Old Town Walk (€8.32) is a smart choice for budget travelers, offering a phone-based guide to essential medieval landmarks including the well-preserved Schelztor tower and magnificent St. Dionys church.
The pricier Castle Tour (€174) delivers an intimate look at the city’s fortress complex with its dramatic viewpoints and historic courtyard.
I especially love the Old Town Walk for its tremendous value and user-friendly format.
Let’s explore these memorable tours in detail.
Key Points
- Two self-guided tour options in Esslingen – Historic Old Town Walk (€8.32) and Castle Tour (€174) – both offer unique historical experiences.
- Historic Old Town Walk provides a budget-friendly 2-hour tour with interactive content and engaging tasks, rated 4.4/5 by users.
- Castle Tour offers a 2-hour exploration of the fortress, featuring panoramic views and an immersive experience, available in German.
- Both tours offer flexible start times, offline access, and the ability to repeat for deeper exploration.
- Reviewers praise the tremendous value, convenience, and self-paced nature of the self-guided tours in Esslingen.
Esslingen: Historic Old Town Self-guided Walk
Set out on a captivating journey through Esslingen’s historic old town with this self-guided walking tour. Priced at just $8.32 per person, the 2-hour experience allows you to discover the city’s charming alleys, half-timbered houses, and notable landmarks at your own pace.
Using your smartphone, you’ll have access to an interactive tour with informative content. Key sights include the Schelztor tower, St. Dionys town church, old town hall, Einhorn House, Onion Fountain, and Wolf Gate.
Venture through Maille Park and the “Little Venice of Esslingen” as you engage in entertaining tasks and riddles along the way.
The tour can be started anytime, as often as desired, with the flexibility to begin on-site or remotely. While an internet connection is needed to initiate the experience, you’ll have offline access once downloaded.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5, this self-guided adventure offers a fun and convenient way to explore Esslingen’s rich history and architecture.
Read our full review: Esslingen: Historic Old Town Self-guided Walk Review
Book now: Check availability
Esslingen: Self-Guided Tour to the Castle
From the market square in Esslingen’s historic center, the self-guided tour to the castle leads visitors up the historic castle steps, known as the Stäffeles.
This 2-hour experience, priced at CZK 174 per person, offers an interactive and varied tour through the castle’s history and culture. Using a smartphone, participants can access the self-guided tour, complete with tasks, puzzles, and interesting stories at each stop along the way.
The tour’s highlights include panoramic views from the castle and the opportunity to explore the inner castle square at one’s own pace.
While the tour is only available in German, the offline map and audio guide provide additional support. Reviewers note mixed experiences, with some finding the instructions unclear but overall enjoying the tour.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this self-guided castle tour is a convenient and flexible option for exploring Esslingen’s rich history.
Read our full review: Esslingen: Self-Guided Tour to the Castle Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Esslingen’s historic old town and castle offer visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich past at their own pace. The self-guided walks provide an immersive experience, allowing you to discover charming cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and stunning views from the castle. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking in the ambiance, these tours are a great way to experience the best of Esslingen.