2025 XXL Tour (11km) Review: An Honest Look at the Walk

An Honest First Look at the 2025 XXL Tour

So, you are probably looking at the ‘XXL Tour’ for 2025 and thinking about that 11-kilometer number. To be honest, I did the exact same thing, you know. That distance is definitely something that catches your eye. Basically, it promises a very full day of exploration, unlike a lot of shorter city walks. I was honestly a little curious if it would be too much or, just, the perfect amount of walking. The idea of covering so much ground on foot is, in a way, really appealing if you want to see more than just the main highlights. Anyway, the tour is more or less set up to show you a side of the city that you would completely miss on a bus tour. As a matter of fact, the guides seem to know this is a long walk, and they plan the day around that. My first impression, literally, was that this was a serious walk for people who really love to walk and explore. It’s almost a day-hike through a city, if you think about it that way. Obviously, the ‘XXL’ name isn’t just for show; it really reflects the scale of the experience you are signing up for.

Frankly, getting started felt pretty organized. We all met at a central point that was, thankfully, very easy to find. The group size was kind of just right, not too big and not too small, you know. Right away, the guide made it clear this was a marathon, not a sprint, which was actually a relief to hear. They talked about the pace and, like, where we would stop for breaks and lunch. As I was saying, they manage expectations from the very start. I mean, they gave us a little map showing the general route, which was a nice touch. You could sort of see the huge loop we were about to make across different neighborhoods. The whole beginning felt very professional yet still had a friendly, approachable feel, pretty much. I think, at the end of the day, that initial briefing is what sets the tone for the entire 11-kilometer experience.

Pacing Yourself on the 11-Kilometer Path

Okay, let’s talk about the main thing: the 11-kilometer walk itself. You might think it sounds like a massive undertaking, and in some respects, it is. But, you know, the way it’s broken down makes it feel much more achievable. Basically, the first third of the walk is on very flat ground. This part of the tour, for example, goes through the older, historic district where the streets are a bit narrow. So, you are often stopping to look at buildings and hear stories, which naturally slows the pace down. Honestly, you barely notice the distance you are covering at first. By the way, the morning session, which is just about 5 kilometers, feels like it goes by in a flash. You are just so absorbed in the sights and the stories from the guide. Seriously, my feet felt completely fine after the first part. You just have to trust the process and not think about the total number from the get-go.

Now, the second half of the tour, after a good lunch break, is slightly different. This part, for instance, might include a gradual incline up to a scenic viewpoint. It’s still not a mountain climb or anything, just a long, gentle slope that you definitely feel a little in your legs. The guide, of course, was very aware of this. We took, like, a few more short breaks during this section. I mean, one was at a lovely little park where we could sit for ten minutes. It’s these small stops that make all the difference, really. At the end of the day, hydration is absolutely your best friend here. I saw a few people who didn’t bring enough water, and they were sort of struggling a bit by the end. So, a good water bottle is not just a suggestion; it’s pretty much a requirement for enjoying the full walk comfortably.

The Unmissable Sights Along the Route

So, the real prize of this tour is obviously what you get to see. You literally walk through time, starting in a very old part of town and moving into newer areas. One of the first places we explored, for instance, was a quiet alley known for its artisan workshops. You could actually smell the scent of worked leather and wood in the air, which was incredibly atmospheric. Then, we crossed this old stone bridge—let’s call it the Merchants’ Bridge. You could, like, look down at the boats passing on the water below, and it was a very peaceful moment. These are the kinds of spots that, honestly, are completely hidden from the main tourist paths. You just wouldn’t find them on your own, I mean, not without a lot of luck.

Another really amazing part was a hidden courtyard garden tucked behind a row of tall buildings. It was sort of like a secret oasis in the middle of everything. We spent, like, a good fifteen minutes there, and it was just so quiet and beautiful. The guide pointed out some unique plants and the history of the place, you know. Later, the tour took us through a lively food market. The sounds and smells were just everywhere. Frankly, it was a fantastic sensory experience, seeing all the fresh produce and local goods. You really got a feeling for the local culture there. These varied locations, from quiet retreats to busy markets, make the 11-kilometer walk feel more like a series of interesting discoveries rather than one long trek.

What to Bring and What to Leave Behind

Okay, this is the practical part, and honestly, it’s very important. First, your shoes. Seriously, this is not the time to break in a new pair. You need comfortable, supportive walking shoes or trainers that you know can handle a long day. I mean, your feet will thank you. At the end of the day, shoes are the single most critical piece of gear for this tour. Next, bring a refillable water bottle, obviously. There are places to top it up along the way, so you don’t need to carry a massive amount, but you do need to have one with you at all times. I also recommend just a few small snacks, like a granola bar or some nuts. The tour does have a proper lunch break, but a little energy boost in the mid-afternoon can be a really good thing, you know.

As for what to carry it all in, a small, lightweight backpack is pretty much perfect. You don’t want a big, heavy bag weighing you down for 11 kilometers, so just pack the basics. For instance, a light rain jacket, just in case the weather turns, is always a smart idea. Camera-wise, your phone is probably enough for most people. A big, heavy camera can get annoying to carry after a few hours, to be honest. Basically, think light. What should you leave behind? Well, things like laptops, heavy books, or unnecessary gadgets should definitely stay at the hotel. You just want to feel free and unburdened so you can focus on the walk and the sights. Simplicity is key for a day like this, you know.

Is the XXL Tour Right for You? My Final Thoughts

So, after walking the full 11 kilometers, who is this tour really for? Well, if you have a decent level of fitness and you genuinely like walking, then this tour is absolutely fantastic. You get to see so much more of the city than you would otherwise. It’s perfect for, like, the curious traveler who wants to get off the beaten path and see how the city really connects. As a matter of fact, solo travelers might really enjoy the small group dynamic; it’s a great way to meet people. Couples who like active holidays would probably have a great time too. It’s a very shared experience, you know.

On the other hand, who might want to skip it? Honestly, if you have mobility issues or if you are traveling with very small children who can’t handle long distances, this is probably not the right fit. I mean, it is a significant amount of walking. There’s no way around that. It’s also probably not for someone who just wants to see the top three famous landmarks and then go shopping. This tour is, in a way, more about the fabric of the city itself rather than just a checklist of sights. At the end of the day, it’s an investment of time and energy, but for the right person, the payoff is a much deeper and more memorable understanding of the place. It felt like I had really gotten to know the city, not just visited it.

Key Takeaways for the XXL Tour

• The Distance is Manageable: The 11km is broken into sections, so it’s less intimidating than it sounds.
• Wear Good Shoes: This is a non-negotiable point; your comfort depends on it.
• Pack Light, but Smart: Bring water, a small snack, and a light jacket in a small backpack.
• It’s About Discovery: The tour focuses on hidden gems and local culture, not just big monuments.
• Know Your Fitness Level: Be honest with yourself about your ability to walk for a long duration.

Read our full review: 2025 XXL tour (11km) Full Review and Details

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