One base, several short directions
Begin with a compact route around the cathedral and town hall. Notice the Bächle in the streets: these small open water channels are a distinctive feature, but also something easily overlooked while looking up at façades. With a pushchair or wheeled bag, deliberately using suitable crossings is easier than making repeated last-minute diversions.
A second loop can follow Gerberau, Fischerau and the commercial canal towards Augustinerplatz. The setting differs from the larger squares. Add a substantial indoor visit, perhaps to the Augustinermuseum, only if its current programme interests you. Being close to the rest of the old town does not turn a collection into a brief intermediate stop.
For accommodation, the label 'old town' is too broad by itself. Compare the exact approach from the station, possible stairs and the location relative to your evening plans. A room above a lively street may feel different from one overlooking a courtyard. Ask specifically where necessary, rather than using distance from the cathedral as a substitute for all other considerations.
Choose Schlossberg or the Dreisam first
The Schwabentor area connects with Schlossberg. The hill is immediately beside the old town, but involves climbing. Select a viewpoint you can comfortably reach and check the return route. A short ascent is different from a lengthy woodland circuit; neither should be planned under the same vague label of 'a walk'.
The Dreisam offers another direction for a green break. Decide how far you want to follow the river and where you will turn back towards town. A riverside path is not necessarily equally surfaced throughout or accessible without steps from every entrance. Specific route information matters for particular mobility requirements.
With two nights, you can distribute these outdoor areas across different days. With one afternoon, choose according to weather and energy. A viewpoint benefits especially from clear conditions, whereas a short river section depends less on a distant panorama. In rain, the old town and a suitable indoor visit still make a complete programme. Freiburg does not need an additional excursion to make the stay worthwhile.
