Things to do in Heidelberg
Romance on the River Neckar
With a red-roofed old town and medieval bridges that span the River Neckar, Heidelberg is a place that serves up German romance straight out of a storybook. Poets, philosophers, and dreamers have long been drawn here, singing the praises of the little town on the river with its stately Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss). In addition to exploring the castle’s ruins and garden, visitors will find no shortage of things to do in Heidelberg. Home to Germany’s oldest university, the city is a lively place that appeals to students, tourists, and locals alike.
Top 4 attractions in Heidelberg
Old Heidelberg University (Alte Universitat)
Karl-Theodor-Bridge (Alte Brucke)
Market Square (Marktplatz)
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When to visit
One of the best times to visit Heidelberg is in the summer, when the weather is warm, rarely too hot, and rainy days are less common. There are fewer students around in the summer months, too, although they’re replaced by tourists who flock here, particularly in July and August. If you want to avoid the crowds, the winter months are mild, and there are events like the Heidelberg Christmas Market and an open-air ice rink. Both are open in the Altstadt (Old Town) district from the end of November.
Getting around
If you plan to base yourself in the Altstadt, you’ll find most Heidelberg sights within walking distance. If you want to use public transport, the city’s trams and trains are easy to figure out and use, although if hiking is high on your list of things to do, it’s worthwhile renting a car. With your own wheels, you can easily access routes like Heidelberg’s famous Philosophers’ Walk, a trek loved for its views over the River Neckar.
Traveler tips
Most travelers will have the Karl-Theodor Bridge and Heidelberg Castle high on their must-see lists, but there’s another attraction worthy of a photo in town. Don’t miss the quirky Heidelberg Tun, which is said to be the world’s largest wine barrel, and is tucked away inside the castle ruins. Mark Twain famously remarked that “an empty cask the size of a cathedral could excite but little emotion in me”—but judging by the lines for photos, many disagree with him.
People Also Ask
Yes, if you want to experience a historic German town with pretty castle ruins, Heidelberg is worth visiting. Keep in mind that it’s not a big city, but it’s a place that works well as a weekend or day trip destination if you’re exploring Frankfurt, the Romantic Road, or even the Rhine Valley.
...MoreHeidelberg has been on the tourist trail since the days of Mark Twain (and probably even before that). Having been spared the World War II bombing campaigns, the city is famous for its intact medieval buildings and bridges, and for its prestigious Heidelberg University—all of which still charm visitors today.
...MoreAfter coffee and shopping in Heidelberg’s Altstadt district, head up the hill to Heidelberg Castle to soak up views of the town and River Neckar. The grounds make a perfect panoramic picnic spot. Later, pose for a photo against the Karl-Theodor Bridge, then follow the locals to the lawns of Neckarwiese (Neckar Park) as the sun sets.
...MoreSurrounded by nature and castle ruins, Heidelberg has always held romantic appeal. Beyond the Altstadt’s well-documented good looks, the landscapes nearby offer a variety of things to do, with hikers drawn to routes like the Philosophers’ Walk and Königstuhl hill. Heidelberg is also a UNESCO-designated City of Literature, with the likes of Max Weber, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and Mark Twain having spent time here.
...MoreNo, popular with an international crowd, Heidelberg is one of the more expensive cities in Germany to visit. Hotels and restaurants in and around the Altstadt are priced higher than many might expect, especially in the popular months of July and August.
...MoreYes, Heidelberg is roughly an hour in the car from the northern stretches of the Black Forest. If you rent a car, take the Black Forest High Road (Schwarzwaldhochestrasse, or B500) south. Popular destinations around here include the spa town of Baden-Baden and Lake Mummelsee.
...MoreHeidelberg information
Number of Attractions | 4 |
|---|---|
Number of Tours | 41 |
Number of Reviews | 367 |
Currency | EUR |
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