How it works

An overview and FAQs on how the self-guided Gistory audio tour works and what to expect. 

What you get

Upon purchasing a tour, you will get instant access to a downloads page:

Download your files user interface

From the downloads page, save the following files to a save place within your phone's file system:

  1. The MP3 audio files which contain all the stories, including bonus tracks which provide more color on the city’s culture, food or famous personalities.
  2. A mobile optimized PDF guide
  3. The Google Maps walking tour route 
    Screenshots of the MP3 audio files, Google Map and PDF guide

     

    You'll also receive two emails:

    1. A confirmation email including your order number
    2. A separate email with links to the downloadable files. 

     

    The MP3 audio files

    Make sure to download the ZIP file containing the MP3 files, which also include the bonus tracks. Ideally, do this download over wifi if you're on an expensive international data plan. 

    Once you've downloaded the files, you'll need to unzip the file to get access to the individual walking tour tracks. In case you don't know how to do this, here are some instructions for:

    Remember where you extract the files, so you can access them on the tour. 

    These files will never expire, so it's fine to plan early and buy the tour in advance.

     

    The PDF guide

    This is a mobile optimized guide to help you prepare for the audio tour, and to act as a fallback map and guide, in case you happen to lose internet while on the tour. 

    After downloading the PDF, make sure to save it somewhere safe within your files app, so you can get back to it easily on the tour.

    The PDF contains:

    • Preparation, including tips on how to get to the starting point
    • Links to the maps 
    • A screenshot of the map, which can be used offline
    • A list of all the walking tour stops, including category
    • A list of all the bonus tracks for the tour
    • Photo highlights of the tour
    • Further recommendations for other things to do in the city

    Screenshots of the PDF guide

     

    Walking Tour Maps

    Google Maps

    We've providing a Google Map with a suggested walking route. Along with the route, this also shows all the tour stops along the way. After clicking on the link to the map, it will most likely display in a browser. If this happens, we recommend looking for the 'Open' button on that screen which will launch the Gistory app into the Google Maps app. This will also save it within the saved maps section of the app, for easy access during the tour. 

    Navigating the route on Google Maps with Live View

     

    Felt online-only map

    We’ve also provided an online-only Felt map which you may find easier to follow if Google Maps is being problematic. You can find a link to this within the PDF guide above the map.

    If you press the location icon, you should be able to see your current location and guide yourself with this feature.

    Gistory Felt Map

     

    Troubleshooting

    Losing the Gistory map in Google Maps

    The Google Map is the recommended mapping option however, we’ve found that it’s easy to lose the Gistory Walking Tour map within the app.

     If you have previously clicked on the link and opened it within the Google Maps app, a copy of the map should be saved within Google Maps. To access it, tap on the ‘Saved’ tab in the bottom tab bar and then scroll down past any recently saved maps to find the ‘Maps’ icon. Here you’ll find a list of your previously used maps, including the Gistory tour.

    Finding saved maps in the Google Maps app

    Another easy way to bring back the map is to use the Google Map link in the PDF guide. Finally, you can also get back to it by returning to the original digital download email receipt and click on the Google Maps link again. 

    Screenshot of quick links to walking tour maps in the PDF guide

     

     

    FAQs

    Do I have to do the tour in order?

    No! Although we've provided a suggested itinerary and walking route, you don't need to do it strictly in order. Feel free to do it in reverse, or wander off-the-path whenever you desire. The best thing about Gistory self guided tours is that there are no rigid schedules you need to follow.

    Can I skip stops?

    Of course. Feel free to skip stops along the way. Some people like to listen to stops that they missed at a later time after the tour.

    Will my digital tour files expire?

    No! You can download all the files and use them whenever you want. There are no time limits on when you have to use the tours by.

    Do I need internet to do this tour?

    If you download all of the files before starting the tour, you don't need internet, if you're okay navigating with the map in the PDF.

    However, it is recommended to have some mobile internet, for better navigation using the route we've provided in Google Maps.

    One trick you can use to limit data usage on Google Maps is to type 'okay maps' into the search bar while you're on wifi—this will download the map area to your phone.

    If you are planning to do the tour without internet, please test that the MP3 files have downloaded properly and have been unzipped before you heading out.

    Do I have to walk? Can I use other transport?

    Although this is designed to be a walking tour, you may be able to do some parts on a bike, scooter or using public transport.

    Can I do this tour without an iOS or Android phone?

    You should have no problems doing the tour with any modern phone, so you don't need an iOS or Android phone.

    As long as you can download the audio files and play them. You can also navigate using the PDF guide in case you don't have any internet.

    Do I need to wear my headphones the whole time?

    No. The audio tracks correspond to stops on the walking tour, so you can remove your headphones and soak in the sounds of the city while walking between sights.

    However, if you would like to listen to more information while walking, each tour comes with additional bonus tracks which usually cover topics like local curiosities, famous people, architectural details and important events.

    Can I do this with friends?

    You can do it by yourself or with friends. It's certainly nice to talk with friends after each stop. It's your choice!