The Saale runs north–south through the city and the path along its banks is the easiest way to see how Halle sits in its landscape. Start at the bridge below the cathedral and walk north past the Peißnitz island, the boathouses, and the Burg Giebichenstein at the city's edge.
The whole route is around 5 km return and rewarding even in mid-winter. Add a short detour up the steps behind the Giebichenstein ruins for the best long-distance view of the old town's five towers.