Freiburg, a picturesque German city, boasts a captivating historic legacy that beckons travelers to uncover its storied past. A guided walking tour promises an immersive journey through time, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and offering a glimpse into its centuries-old heritage. From the grand Freiburg Cathedral to the intriguing Whale House, each step unveils a new chapter in Freiburg’s rich tapestry of history, inviting the curious explorer to delve deeper into its captivating narrative.
Key Points
- The Freiburg Historic Walking Tour is a 2-hour guided tour that explores the city’s rich history, including visits to landmarks like the Freiburg Cathedral and medieval gates.
- The tour is available in English and German, and includes hotel pickup for centrally located hotels and admission to the Freiburg Cathedral.
- Highlights of the tour include the Whale House, Old Town Hall, Bertolds Fountain, and Saint Martin’s Church, which showcase Freiburg’s architectural and historical significance.
- The tour route starts at the Victory Monument and covers key locations such as the Gerichtslaube, Old University, and the city’s remaining medieval gates.
- The tour is priced at $347.38 per group (up to 20 participants) and has a flexible cancellation policy, with full refunds available up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The tour lasts 2 hours and costs $347.38 per group of up to 20 participants.
It’s available in English and German. Participants can reserve now and pay later, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance receive a full refund.
The tour includes a private guide, hotel pickup if centrally located, and admission to Freiburg Cathedral.
Guests will meet the guide at the Victory Monument, then explore the city’s historic sites, including the Freiburg Cathedral, medieval gates, Old Town Hall, and the Whale House, a filming location for a horror movie.
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Highlights of the Tour
Though spanning over 300 years in construction, Freiburg Cathedral has survived the ravages of World War II, standing as a testament to the city’s resilience.
Freiburg Cathedral, constructed over 300 years, has endured the ravages of World War II, a testament to the city’s resilience.
The tour also visits two of the five remaining medieval gates, including the impressive Martin’s Gate and the ornate Schwabentor.
At the Old Town Hall, visitors admire its Renaissance architecture, which was reconstructed after being bombed in 1944.
The iconic Victory Monument, designed to commemorate the Franco-Prussian War, and the Gothic Whale House, featured in the horror film Suspiria, are other highlights that showcase Freiburg’s rich history.
Key Locations Visited
One of the oldest government buildings in Freiburg is the Gerichtslaube, dating back to the 13th or 14th century.
The Old University, established in 1457, still has some active research departments.
Bertolds Fountain, a historic monument with an equestrian statue, serves as a central location for trolley car lines.
Saint Martin’s Church, dating back to 1206, underwent architectural changes and was partially destroyed in 1944.
These key landmarks provide a glimpse into Freiburg’s rich history, spanning centuries of development and evolution within the city’s historic center.
Tour Route
The tour begins at the Victory Monument (Siegesdenkmal), where the guide will be waiting with a signboard for the group.
From there, the group will walk by the Whale House, a Gothic bourgeois house featured in the 1977 film Suspiria.
Next, they’ll visit the Old Town Hall and the Gerichtslaube, one of the oldest government buildings dating back to the 13th/14th century.
The tour continues to the iconic Freiburg Cathedral and the central Bertolds Fountain before exploring Martin’s Gate and St. Martin’s Church.
The walking tour concludes at the Schwabentor, another of Freiburg’s five remaining medieval gates.
More Great Tours NearbyInclusions in the Tour
The tour package includes a private tour guide to lead the group through Freiburg’s historic sites. Hotel pick-up is provided for those staying in the city center. Entrance fees for the Freiburg Cathedral are also covered. Participants will meet the guide at the Victory Monument, which is marked with a signboard.
| Inclusion | Details |
| — | — |
| Private Tour Guide | Accompanies group throughout the 2-hour tour |
| Hotel Pick-up | For centrally located hotels |
| Cathedral Entrance | Freiburg Cathedral admission fee included |
| Meeting Point | Victory Monument with signboard |
| Tour Duration | 2 hours |
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Freiburg Cathedral
Constructed over 300 years, Freiburg Cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. This Gothic masterpiece was built around 1200 and miraculously survived the bombings of World War II.
Visitors can marvel at its:
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Towering spires that soar 116 meters high
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Intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows
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Massive central nave, designed to inspire awe
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Renowned Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles
The cathedral remains an iconic landmark, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its grandeur and learn about Freiburg’s captivating past.
Historical Sites and Landmarks
Freiburg’s historic walking tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s medieval past.
Participants will see two of the five remaining medieval gates, including the iconic Martin’s Gate and Schwabentor.
Participants will see two of Freiburg’s five remaining medieval gates, including the iconic Martin’s Gate and Schwabentor.
The Renaissance-style Old Town Hall, reconstructed after WWII bombing, stands as a testament to the city’s resilience.
The tour also includes a visit to the Gothic bourgeois Whale House, a filming location for the 1977 horror film Suspiria.
With its rich history and well-preserved architecture, the tour offers a glimpse into Freiburg’s storied past, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s timeless charm.
The Whale House
Among the many historic sites visitors will encounter on the Freiburg walking tour is the Whale House, a Gothic bourgeois house that has gained notoriety as a filming location for the 1977 horror film Suspiria.
This captivating structure dates back centuries and boasts:
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Distinctive whale-like shape, giving it its unique nickname
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Ornate, intricate woodcarvings that adorn the façade
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Haunting atmosphere that has made it a popular backdrop for films and TV shows
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Opportunities for visitors to step back in time and imagine the house’s storied past
The Sum Up
This historic walking tour of Freiburg provides an immersive and captivating experience. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, uncover its rich heritage, and gain a deeper understanding of Freiburg’s past. The tour includes admission to the Freiburg Cathedral and a visit to the renowned Whale House, ensuring a memorable and comprehensive insight into the city’s history and cultural significance.
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