Ulm City Guide

Local dishes include Spätzle, Maultaschen, and Zwiebelrostbraten. There are Italian, Asian, and Turkish options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Most places close by 10 or 11 PM; some kebab shops stay open later.

Nightlife centers on bars and pubs near the university and city center. Clubs exist but are few. Evenings are more relaxed than lively.

Coffee scene mixes traditional cafes with new specialty shops. It is developing but not large.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Usually 5-10% or rounding up the bill in restaurants. Taxi drivers expect rounding up. Other services rarely tipped unless exceptional.

SIM cards are sold at Telekom, Vodafone, O2 stores, and electronics shops. Telekom and Vodafone have the best coverage. ID or passport is required. eSIMs are increasingly available.

Ulm is very clean with efficient waste and recycling programs.

Limited 24/7 options. Late-night pharmacies rotate emergency duty. Few late-night food places mainly fast food or kebabs.

Supermarkets like Edeka, Rewe, Lidl, Aldi, and Netto cover most needs. Weekly fresh markets are held on Münsterplatz. Shops close Sundays and holidays. Bargaining is not common.

Cards are widely accepted in big stores and restaurants. Smaller shops and cafes may prefer cash.

ATMs from Sparkasse, Deutsche Bank, and Commerzbank are common. Withdrawal fees depend on your bank; partner networks can reduce costs.

Ulm has public German-language schools. The International School of Ulm/Neu-Ulm offers English instruction. Early applications are advised for international schools.

Community is small but growing, centered around coworking spaces and university events. Nomad meetups are occasional.

Large parks like Friedrichsau and the Danube riverbanks provide ample green space.

Popular running spots include the Danube paths and Friedrichsau Park. Running groups and local races are active.

Several gyms and sports clubs offer fitness and sports activities.

Tennis courts available at clubs like TC Ulm. Equipment and coaching offered.

Padel is less common but growing, with some courts at sports centers.

Multiple yoga studios with various styles and English-speaking instructors.

Clubs offer Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing, Muay Thai, and BJJ. English instruction is sometimes available.

Small ski resorts in the Swabian Jura are 1-2 hours away, offering slopes mainly for beginners and intermediates.

Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Danube are common in summer. Sailing and windsurfing are possible on lakes a couple hours away.

No suitable surfing spots nearby.

No recreational diving opportunities.

Ulm has high-quality public and private healthcare facilities. Universitätsklinikum Ulm is the main hospital. Many staff speak English. Pharmacies offer common meds and have emergency duty schedules.

Tap water is safe and tastes good.

Many parks and playgrounds like Friedrichsau Park. Family-friendly cafés and attractions such as the Ulm Zoo and Donaubad leisure pool.

Generally open and safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, though the scene is quieter than in bigger cities.

Pet-friendly city with many parks allowing dogs on leash. Vet services and pet stores are available.