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Experience the charm of Solothurn’s Old Town on this private walking tour that lasts about 1.5 hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour costs $488 for groups up to 20 people, making it an intimate way to explore Switzerland’s architectural treasures. You’ll visit famous landmarks such as the 66-meter-high Saint Ursus Cathedral, a 12th-century Clock Tower, and several historic towers and fountains.
Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, or anyone curious about Swiss culture, this tour offers a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into Solothurn’s rich past. The tour’s focus on notable landmarks and famous sights makes it a solid choice for first-time visitors who want an engaging overview of the city’s most important sites. Keep in mind, the tour is designed for groups of up to 20, ensuring a personalized experience.
Key Points
- Private Guided Tour: Led by a live guide in English or German, ensuring personalized attention.
- Duration and Price: Lasts 1.5 hours with a fee of $488 for groups up to 20.
- Must-See Landmarks: Focus on Solothurn’s 11 fountains, churches, chapels, museums, and towers.
- Top Highlights: Visit Saint Ursus Cathedral, Clock Tower from the 12th century, and the Riedholzturm gate.
- Convenient Meeting Point: Starts at the staircase of Saint Ursus Cathedral, ending back at the same spot.
- Flexible Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
Exploring Solothurn’s Old Town with a Private Guide
This Solothurn Old Town tour offers a compact yet detailed look at one of Switzerland’s most historically rich areas. The tour is led by a live guide who speaks English and German, enhancing your understanding of the city’s stories and architecture. The private group setting guarantees a more tailored experience, with the guide focusing on your interests while sharing insights about the city’s history.
Starting at the staircase of Saint Ursus Cathedral, the guide welcomes your group with a signboard, setting the stage for a journey through centuries of history. This tour is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate exploration rather than large group excursions.
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Discovering Historic Landmarks of Solothurn’s Old Town
The tour begins at the Saint Ursus Cathedral, constructed from limestone and featuring stunning stained glass windows and paintings. The Tower of Saint Ursus, standing 66 meters high, dominates the skyline and offers a glimpse into the cathedral’s significance. The church itself dates back to the Early Middle Ages, making it one of the oldest structures in the town.
Next, the Jesuit Church of Solothurn awaits, built between 1680 and 1689 with an impressive baroque architectural style. Its north facade features a statue of the Virgin Mary, adding to the ornate features of this historic church. The guide points out details of the architecture and its role in the city’s spiritual life.
Iconic Fountains and Gates of Solothurn
A highlight of this tour is the Fish Fountain—also known as the Fountain of St. Ursus—created by sculptor Jacques Perroud around 1587. Located near the Basel gate in the northern part of Solothurn, the fountain offers a charming photo opportunity and a taste of the city’s artistic heritage.
You’ll also see the Riedholzturm, a 13th-century gate that once served as both a guard tower and a prison. This structure is part of the old city wall and is the highest point in the Old Town, providing a scenic overview of Solothurn’s historic layout.
Key Towers and the Old Town Center
The Bieltor is another significant tower in the western part of the Old Town. Its history as a guard tower and prison highlights its functional importance in medieval times. The Krummturm, a medieval defensive tower, completes the tour’s list of historic structures. It remains one of the oldest remaining buildings in Solothurn and has preserved its original character with no major modifications.
The Zeitglockenturm, a 12th-century clock tower, is a must-see. It features an astronomical clock and is centrally located, making it an easily recognizable landmark. The tower’s historical significance and distinctive clock face make it one of the town’s most iconic sights.
More Great Tours NearbyStrolling Through Märetplatz and the Old Town’s Historic Atmosphere
The tour also includes a walk across Märetplatz, a lively square lined with historic buildings. This area exudes old-world charm, with medieval architecture and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the city’s past. The guide shares stories about the buildings and the square’s role in Solothurn’s history, giving visitors a deeper understanding of local life.
The tour culminates at the Krummturm, a medieval defensive tower that stands as a testament to the town’s fortified past. Its preservation offers a glimpse into medieval engineering and defensive strategies.
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Practical Details and Logistics
This private tour begins at the staircase of Saint Ursus Cathedral, where the guide holds a signboard for easy identification. The duration of 1.5 hours makes it manageable for those with tight schedules or wanting a quick but rundown of Solothurn.
The guide conducts the tour in English and German, accommodating diverse language preferences. The activity includes a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your travel plans.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The focal point on Solothurn’s 11 fountains, churches, chapels, museums, and towers ensures that you see the most iconic and historically significant sites. The inclusion of key landmarks like the Clock Tower, Saint Ursus Cathedral, and Krummturm offers a well-rounded view of the city’s architectural heritage.
The personalized experience created by the private guide allows for tailored storytelling and the opportunity to ask questions. This tour is especially suitable for visitors seeking an efficient yet enriching overview of Solothurn’s historic core.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most
This 1.5-hour private walking tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Solothurn who want a focused exploration of the Old Town’s most notable sights. It suits those who appreciate historic architecture, medieval structures, and artistic fountains. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy and small group size make it a practical choice for travelers seeking confidence and personalization.
Final Thoughts on the Solothurn Old Town Tour
This tour offers a compact and engaging journey through Solothurn’s most important landmarks. The expert guide shines a light on the city’s medieval and baroque architecture, making history accessible and interesting. The fountains, towers, and churches form a picturesque backdrop for a memorable sightseeing experience.
While the tour’s duration of 1.5 hours is brief, it packs a meaningful punch, highlighting key sites without overwhelming visitors. The price of $488 for up to 20 guests offers good value for those who prefer a private, personalized experience rather than larger group excursions.
This tour is a solid choice for anyone eager to discover Solothurn’s historic heart with clarity and comfort.
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Solothurn – Old Town Historic Walking Tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What language does the guide speak?
The tour is conducted in English and German, depending on your preference.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the staircase of Saint Ursus Cathedral and ends back at the same meeting point.
Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, it is designed for private groups of up to 20 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
What landmarks will I see?
You will visit Saint Ursus Cathedral, Clock Tower, Fish Fountain, Riedholzturm, Bieltor, Zeitglockenturm, Märetplatz, and Krummturm.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Is it possible to reserve now and pay later?
Yes, the booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.
What is the price for the tour?
The group price is $488, covering up to 20 participants.