Erfurt: With night watchman Schwalbe through the old town, including tasting

Erfurt’s Historic Night Tour with the Night Watchman Schwalbe

The Erfurt Night Watchman Tour led by Reinhard Schwalbe offers a captivating 2-hour journey through the old town of Erfurt, a city renowned for its well-preserved architecture and lively history. For just $16 per person, travelers explore the illuminated alleys and historic sites, guided by a certified local guide who brings the city’s stories to life with humor and depth.

This tour emphasizes medieval atmosphere and storytelling, with a special focus on the city’s legends, notable figures, and intriguing past. The experience is particularly suitable for those who enjoy historic narratives combined with a taste of local culture, including tastings of regional drinks and a hearty evening meal.

While the tour is accessible for wheelchairs and features a flexible booking policy, it is worth noting that it involves walking through dark, narrow streets in the evening, which may not be ideal for everyone. Still, its authentic ambiance makes it a memorable exploration of Erfurt’s nighttime charm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price: Only $16 per person for a guided 2-hour experience
• Includes: Storytelling, city insights, and a tasting of local herbal liqueur and vegetarian Fettbemmen
• Start Location: Fischmarkt, a central square rich in history
• Led by: Reinhard Schwalbe, a certified tour guide and member of the BVGD
• Tour Length: 2 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability
• Additional Options: Optional violin music and beer tastings available at extra cost

Starting Point at Fischmarkt

The tour begins at the Fischmarkt, a lively square lined with historic buildings and patrician houses. This central location sets the scene for a walk through Erfurt’s old town, with the city hall nearby as a key landmark. From here, the guide takes you into the medieval alleys that surround the Krämerbrücke, one of Erfurt’s most famous sights.

The Fischmarkt serves as an ideal meeting point, easily accessible and packed with history. The tour concludes back at this same spot, making transportation and planning straightforward.

Exploring Erfurt’s Old Town with the Night Watchman

The main part of the tour involves a guided walk through Erfurt’s illuminated old town, where the dark streets and historic buildings create a perfect setting for storytelling. The night watchman Schwalbe shares tales of rebellious students, legendary figures like Doctor Faust, and local legends, all woven into the city’s buildings, squares, and alleyways.

Listeners hear about Martin L., Puff beans, council master Adam Ries, and the prankster Eulenspiegel, adding humor and intrigue to the night. The guide’s storytelling style blends humor with historical facts, making the tour lively and engaging.

From the Old Town Hall to the Krämerbrücke

The tour takes you past Erfurt’s town hall and the fish market, highlighting their architectural beauty and historical significance. The Krämerbrücke, a half-timbered bridge lined with shops, is a focal point of the walk, especially enchanting under lights at night.

Other stops include the university quarter, the Old Synagogue, and the cathedral square, where the cathedral and Severikirche stand as towering symbols of the city’s past. The guide explains their stories with vivid detail, tying each site into the broader narrative of Erfurt.

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The Special Evening Meal: Fettbemmen and Herbal Liqueur

One of the unique aspects of this tour is the simple evening meal of Fettbemmen—a vegetarian option is available—served with fresh bread, herbs, and gherkins. This traditional snack is accompanied by a local herbal liqueur with 40% alcohol, offering a taste of regional flavors.

The meal is symbolic of the city servant’s evening meal, adding an authentic touch to the experience. The vegan option ensures that dietary preferences are accommodated, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Stories in Darkness: Legends and Local Myths

As night deepens, the guide’s storytelling becomes more atmospheric, blending ghost stories, legends, and local myths. You’ll hear about Doctor Faust’s conjurations and the eaten mayor, stories that seem to emerge from the darkness itself.

The dark, silent streets and dim lighting enhance the mood, making it feel as though the city itself is whispering its secrets. The mysterious ambiance is a highlight, creating a sense of connection with Erfurt’s medieval past.

Optional Tasting Experiences: Violin and Beer

Beyond the core experience, additional arrangements are available. For €6 per person, travelers can enjoy violin music that adds a melodic backdrop to the walk. For beer enthusiasts, a €8 per person option offers a beer tasting of three hand-brewed varieties along with a snack.

These extras are optional but add a layer of local flavor and entertainment, making the tour even more memorable for those interested.

Practical Details: Booking, Availability, and Accessibility

This Erfurt night tour is available with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for travelers. Reservations can be made easily, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

The meeting point is at the middle of the town hall steps, a central and easy-to-find location. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the group size is manageable, ensuring a personalized experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

The combination of storytelling, authentic local food and drink, and atmospheric night views makes this tour stand out. It offers a deep dive into Erfurt’s legends and history in a relaxed, engaging manner. The expert guidance of Reinhard Schwalbe, combined with humorous storytelling, means you’ll leave with more than just sightseeing—you’ll have a vivid impression of the city’s soul.

The price of $16 is highly attractive given the depth and atmosphere of the experience. The optional music and beer tastings provide further customization, appealing to a variety of interests.

The Sum Up: An Enchanting Night Walk through Erfurt

The Night Watchman Tour with Reinhard Schwalbe offers a worthwhile glimpse into Erfurt’s past, set against the enchanting backdrop of the city at night. Its blend of storytelling, local cuisine, and atmospheric ambiance creates a memorable and authentic experience.

Ideal for history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed yet intriguing evening, this tour provides great value for the price. While it involves walking through dimly lit streets, the storytelling and mood compensate with a rich sense of history and legend.

Travelers who enjoy discovering cities through tales and tastes will find this tour a rewarding way to experience Erfurt’s medieval charm after sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is 2 hours long, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Fischmarkt, a central square in Erfurt.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the price?
The guided walk, storytelling, and the traditional evening meal of Fettbemmen and herbal liqueur are included in the $16 fee.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, violin music and beer tastings are available at additional costs (€6 and €8 respectively).

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the guide fluent in English?
The tour is conducted in German; check for language options if needed.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for an evening walk through potentially cool and dim streets**.

Is there vegetarian food available?
Yes, a vegetarian option for Fettbemmen is available.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made online, with the option to reserve now and pay later. For questions, contact Reinhard Schwalbe at 01773207885.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby