The Tales of Frankfurt’s New Old Town: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Discover Frankfurt’s Hidden Gems with the Tales of the New Old Town Audio Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Frankfurt and want to see a different side of the city beyond its sleek skyscrapers and busy financial district, this self-guided audio tour could be just what you need. It promises a relaxed, flexible way to uncover some of Frankfurt’s most intriguing historic spots without the hassle of group tours or rigid schedules. From the iconic Römer to Roman ruins and charming alleys, it’s a well-rounded way to experience the city’s past and present at your own pace.

What really caught our attention about this tour is its affordable price point—just under $9—and the fact that it offers lifetime access to its content. Plus, the fact that it’s a self-guided experience means you can take your time, pause for photos, and revisit your favorite spots as often as you like. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a guided group tour with a live guide, so you’ll need to enjoy exploring independently and be comfortable navigating with your smartphone.

This kind of tour suits travelers who prefer flexibility, enjoy walking, and want a more personal experience without the pressure of a scheduled group. It’s especially handy for those who like to explore on their own terms but still want reliable, engaging commentary. If you’re into history, architecture, or just want a practical way to get an overview of Frankfurt’s Old Town, this tour could fit the bill nicely.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Flexibility: Set your own schedule and explore at your pace.
• Cost-effective: At $8.99, it offers good value for a personalized, in-depth look.
• Rich content: Learn stories and spot landmarks many visitors overlook.
• Convenience: Offline access to audio and maps means no worries about internet.
• Highlights: Covering major sights like Römer, Frankfurt Cathedral, and Roman ruins.
• Ideal for solo travelers or those who prefer exploring independently.

A Deep Dive into the Self-Guided Experience

When it comes to how this tour actually works, it’s straightforward. You book online, download the VoiceMap app — compatible with both Android and iOS — and then access the tour offline. This means no worrying about roaming charges or losing signal as you walk through Frankfurt’s streets. The tour lasts around 35 to 50 minutes, which makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll, a quick introduction to the city, or as a standalone activity.

The tour kicks off outside the Römer, which is practically the heart of Frankfurt’s old town. From there, it’s a walkable loop that takes you around some of the most historic and picturesque parts of the city. You’ll explore the Frankfurt Cathedral, a striking Gothic structure that has witnessed centuries of change. The tour then guides you past the Hühnermarkt — a lively chicken market historically significant to Frankfurt’s trade.

Walking Through Frankfurt’s Historic Landmarks

One of the best aspects of this tour is the way it incorporates landmarks that many visitors overlook when rushing through Frankfurt. For example, it passes by the Old St. Nicholas Church and briefly goes onto the Iron Bridge, offering lovely views before moving on. If you enjoy a stroll with scenic vistas and meaningful history, these stops will resonate.

The Krönungsweg (Coronation way) is another highlight. It’s a pathway that commemorates historic royal events, and walking along it feels like tracing the city’s royal past. The tour also passes through the Kaisersaal, giving a glimpse into its imperial history, even if just briefly.

According to reviews, the stories and historical details are well delivered, and the app’s GPS keeps you on the right track. As one reviewer, Gavin, remarked, “It was very well done, and I was very impressed with the historical facts and the sights I saw.” For history buffs or those just curious about Frankfurt’s underappreciated streets, this personal narration adds depth and context.

Navigating the Tour

What sets this experience apart is the ability to go at your own pace. You might stop halfway to grab a currywurst or linger longer at a particular landmark. The app keeps you oriented, so you don’t need to worry about missing points of interest. Plus, with lifetime access, you can revisit the tour as many times as you like, which is great if you want to re-explore specific areas or take photos without feeling rushed.

The starting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to reach and to continue your explorations afterward. The tour ends just a short walk from the starting point, wrapping up near St. Paul’s Church, known as a symbol of democracy and political history in Frankfurt.

Who Will Find This Tour Most Useful?

This self-guided tour is particularly suited for travelers who enjoy walking at their own pace and prefer a personalized experience over large group tours. It’s ideal for solo explorers or couples who want to absorb the city’s ambiance without the constraints of a schedule. If you love history, architecture, and discovering hidden city corners, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Price-wise, the $8.99 fee is quite reasonable considering the lifetime access and the quality of content. It’s a smart option for budget-conscious travelers who want more than just a map; they want stories, context, and a bit of local insight.

What Could Be Better?

While this tour generally receives high praise, potential drawbacks include the lack of a live guide, which might be a downside for those who prefer guided experiences with interaction and questions answered on the spot. Also, since the tour is self-guided, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own and using your smartphone.

Some users also mention that the tour covers a specific loop, so if you’re looking for a deep-dive into every corner of Frankfurt or a more extensive sightseeing experience, you may want to supplement it with other tours.

A Word About the Value

Considering the cost, this is an excellent value for what you get. The stories and landmarks highlighted help you see Frankfurt beyond its modern skyline, providing context for its historical significance. It’s a practical way to add depth to your visit without breaking the bank.

Final Verdict: Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates the freedom to explore at your own speed and loves discovering local stories without a big price tag, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect for solo travelers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a flexible, no-hassle way to see the city’s historic core.

However, if you prefer guided groups or are looking for a more comprehensive or guided experience with a live guide, this might not be the best fit. Still, for a quick, insightful walk through Frankfurt’s New Old Town, it’s hard to beat the combination of affordability, flexibility, and quality content.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking can be done at most 8 days before you want to do the tour, but it’s best to do it earlier if you want to secure a spot, especially during peak times.

What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a smartphone with the VoiceMap app downloaded, as well as headphones. No additional tickets or entrance fees are included or required.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
The tour is designed for individual exploration; while it doesn’t have specific family features, it’s generally suitable for anyone comfortable walking and listening to audio narration.

How long does the tour take?
Expect around 35 to 50 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you linger at each spot.

Can I do this tour on my own schedule?
Absolutely. You can start and pause the tour whenever it suits you, making it very flexible.

Is it accessible offline?
Yes, once downloaded, the tour is available offline, which is perfect for avoiding data charges or network issues.

What landmarks are included?
You’ll visit key sights like the Römer, Frankfurt Cathedral, Hühnermarkt, Old St. Nicholas Church, Iron Bridge, Kaisersaal, and St. Paul’s Church.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the ticket price covers the tour content. You may need to pay for museum entries or food if you choose to explore further.

This self-guided audio tour offers a practical, engaging way to uncover Frankfurt’s lesser-known layers. Perfect for curious travelers who want to explore independently but still crave insightful storytelling, it’s a neat little package that doesn’t overpromise but delivers solid value and memorable sights.