Medieval Visby
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port
Visby, Gotland, Sweden
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$79
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals not included
Visby is an outstanding example of a Northern European walled Hanseatic town. The city wall dates back to the 13th century and is almost two miles in length. Within the walls lie old stone houses, quaint churches and a complex street system.
Depart the pier and drive past the old Hanseatic harbor at Almedalen, where you'll see the oldest remaining structure in Visby, the Powder Tower, which provided protection for the harbor during the Middle Ages. It earned its nickname in the 18th century when the Swedish state stored gunpowder in the tower.
Walk to the Botanic Gardens offering a broad variety of exotic trees, shrubs, flowerbeds and roses. Visby's mild winters allow such specimens as almond trees, magnolias and acacias to grow beside vivid displays of flowers.
The coach will drop you at the top terrace of Visby where you will set off on a guided walk downhill through the narrow winding streets.
Visit St. Mary's Cathedral, both a place of worship and a cultural treasure. The construction of the cathedral began in the late 12th century, funded by the fees paid by German ships using the port of Visby. Since 1572 it has been the Diocesan church of Visby, and in 2003 it also became the cathedral abroad for the Church of Sweden.
Continue your exploration through narrow alleys flanked by picturesque old houses en route back to the port.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Tour requires 1½ hours of walking and 75 steps at the cathedral. Tour requires walking on cobblestones and other uneven surfaces. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Inside church visit(s) may not be possible if religious services are being held.