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Best Guided Tours in Heidelberg, Germany

• by Marco Polo

Heidelberg's old town has a lot to offer, and this 1.5-hour walking tour is a great way to get a taste of it. With a knowledgeable tour guide, you can see for yourself why Heidelberg is regarded as one of Germany's most attractive cities.

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Take a sail down the Neckar River to see Heidelberg from a different angle. Views of Heidelberg Castle, Neuemheimer Villas, and Town Hall may be seen as you float by Heidelberg's Old Bridge on this tour.

From Heidelberg to Neckarsteinach, take a riverboat cruise to discover the beauty of the Neckar Valley. Pass through the Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park as you cruise through castles.

Tickets to the newly refurbished BODY WORLDS Museum in Heidelberg allow you to embark on an exciting trip beneath the surface of the skin through interactive exhibits. Various plastinates show the most important functions, organs, and diseases of the human body.

Heidelberg can be explored at your own speed with a single card valid for 1, 2, or 4 days. The Heidelberg Card includes admission to Heidelberg Castle, a trip on the castle's cable car, as well as a slew of discounts and benefits.

Embark on an informative bus tour of Heidelberg with an experienced guide, which will be followed by a visit to Heidelberg Castle's grounds.

You can take a morning tour from Frankfurt to Heidelberg, one of Germany's most attractive cities nestled on the Neckar River. Discover Germany's oldest university and Heidelberg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take a Segway tour around Heidelberg to see the city's landmarks. To get to Heidelberg Castle, take the Philosophenweg, which winds through the Neckar Valley and past Wolfsbrunnen Restaurant.

On this 3-hour private historical walking tour, you'll see Heidelberg's charming old town and the remnants of its castle. Stroll around one of Germany's largest pedestrian areas, enjoy the Old Bridge, and have a peek inside the Church of the Holy Spirit.

It's the perfect way to see Heidelberg, and it's all thanks to an app. Visit the Old Town and Bismarckplatz Park by resolving puzzles depending on the attractions you're visiting.

It's the perfect way to see Heidelberg, and it's all thanks to an app. You can visit the Old Town and Bismarckplatz Park by solving puzzles that are related to those places.

A tasting tour of Heidelberg's street food and craft beer culture can be tailored to your preferences. Take in the sights and sounds of the local sausage-making tradition, and sample a variety of local delicacies along the way.

Visit Heidelberg, one of Germany's most attractive historic towns on the Neckar River. In the afternoon, take the autobahn to Baden-Baden, one of Germany's most renowned spa towns.

Learn about Heidelberg's history and culture from a unique vantage point: a boat. Explore Heidelberg's history, culture, and natural beauty from the banks of the Neckar River.

Explore Heidelberg Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the valley of Heidelberg. Located on a steep hill above the valley level, the Königstuhl, the Odenwald's Odenwald Castle, stands over the beautiful green forest.

Explore the Heidelberg Mountain Cemetery on a city tour that's a little out of the ordinary. Your guide's explanations are laced with stories and anecdotes from the area.

Explore Heidelberg's Christmas markets in all their splendor. You and your guests will get to see the best of Heidelberg's Christmas market on this private walking tour.

You'll first visit Heidelberg, the "old city" on the Neckar River, which attracts more than a million tourists each year from all over the world. Drive to Nuremberg, a city steeped in history, later.

You'll get a first-hand look at the "terrifying" woodland as woodsman Hubertus Heimd takes you on a tour of the "eerie" and "historical" events that have taken place there.

This beer-themed bachelor party beverage is available in Heidelberg and the surrounding area. Enjoy tasty beers from the area, a photo rally, and other fun activities.

In addition to a visit to Heidelberg Castle, you'll be given a personalized tour of the city by a licensed guide. On this three-hour trip, you'll see some of the city's most important historical sites. If you prefer, you can use a combination of walking and public transportation or private transportation to get around. On the spot, the trip can be further tailored. There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to tour dates and times.

Discover Heidelberg's hidden gems on your own terms with a personal walking tour guide. Take a stroll around the Old Town's markets and pedestrianized streets, peer into the Student Jail's centuries-old cells, and enjoy free access to Heidelberg Castle's panoramic views of the city.

On this guided tour of Heidelberg's Old Town and its castle, you'll discover the city's hidden treasures. It's possible to see some places that independent visitors would miss while hearing interesting comments about the city's architecture, art, and culinary culture. Stroll through the Old Town for a taste of history, then enter the castle for a look at the castle garden, courtyard, and wine cellar for yourself.

Take a kayak tour of the Neckar River.

From the river, you can see Heidelberg in a whole new light!

Book a small-group tour with a local guide to get the most out of your wine and sightseeing experiences in Heidelberg. Just 15 people in your party will allow for a leisurely tour of Heidelberg's old town and the Schloss Heidelberg cellar, where you may sample some of the region's best wine. Please keep in mind that you are responsible for your own transportation to and from the castle.

Let us know if there is anything else we can do for you in Heidelberg. You may play an outdoor escape game while strolling through Neckarstadt with myCityHunt. Your team must work together to solve a crime in Heidelberg's historic old town. Many intriguing riddles await you as you make your way around Heidelberg's inner city, many of which you must solve in fictitious locales. As a result of this, you will be closer to solving the criminal case, convicting the offender, and uncovering digital wealth.

Book a small-group tour of Heidelberg's old town with a knowledgeable guide to get the most out of your beer time there. Visits to a microbrewery, a traditional student pub, and a more contemporary bar are interspersed throughout the tour to provide you with a well-rounded picture of the city's bar culture. In addition to that, you'll have the company of a local guide who will tell you all about Heidelberg's fascinating history while also ensuring that you drink only the best beer.

A private, customized tour of the stunning Black Forest is the perfect way to experience it all. Travel in style and only stop to see the things you really want to see. Take a walk or just admire the scenery. If you're looking for a pleasant and relaxed day in the great outdoors, you can't go wrong.

Visiting the permanent display in Heidelberg is like going on a voyage into the depths of one's own soul! The exhibits in the museum provide insight into the intricate design of the human body. Transparent longitudinal and cross-sectional body slices and spectacular whole-body plastinate specimens are used to demonstrate the interplay between various organ systems and their blood vessels in an approachable manner.

A chance to step off the beaten path and see some of Heidelberg's lesser-known attractions.

Discover what it's like to live in the most beautiful city in Germany and get a taste of what it's like to visit.

A private e-bike trip around Heidelberg will allow you to enjoy the countryside without exerting yourself. The e-bike is a pleasant and efficient way to tour the area known as the Philosopher's Walk while saving you some gas money. You'll be able to travel at your own pace with a guide for your small group, avoiding the craziness of larger bike tours.

You'll skip the boring history excursions and see the city from the perspective of a resident on one of our walking trips. The people you meet and the locations you visit will become as important as the sights you see on this tour.

Coffee and cake are on the menu for a leisurely stroll through Heidelberg.

Find out all there is to know about Heidelberg's past and present. Relax in the cafe of your choice, savoring a slice of cake and a cup of joe.

This self-guided audio tour will take you through Heidelberg's Old Town ("Altstadt") and its many attractions. When you choose a self-guided tour, you have the flexibility to decide when the tour begins and how long it will last. With the help of a local's on-board commentary, you can learn about Heidelberg's long history, terrible floods, huge pretzels, and other must-see sights.

From the comfort of your own home, you may take a virtual trip to Heidelberg. Learn about its history, take a virtual tour of the most important landmarks, and listen to an entertaining and educational commentary while you do so.

Get out of Heidelberg and see the surrounding countryside on a leisurely bike ride along peaceful, car-free country roads. Just a short drive from the center of Heidelberg, you can find yourself in the quiet of nature.

On this short walking tour of medieval Heidelberg, you'll see the oldest university in Germany, the Church of the Holy Spirit, and other highlights. In addition, your guide will teach you more about the region's history and notable philosophers than you could discover on your own.

Take a private tour of Heidelberg with a local expert on your own schedule. Get a sense of Heidelberg's rich and interesting past, which includes its ties to England's Royal Family, the French invasion of 1692, and its pride in being the site of Germany's oldest university.

Hiking through some of Heidelberg's most beautiful natural areas is a great way to relax and unwind.

Never settle for the mundane! Go for amazing vacation adventures!

We collaborate with the world’s largest and most recognized travel businesses to develop a selection of tailored guided tours for your convenience. If you decide to purchase any of them, we earn a tiny affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

What are guided tours?

It’s common for guided tours to be all-inclusive group trips that are led by a local guide and follow a set itinerary for a specific tourist attraction or local thing to do. It’s possible to go on a guided sightseeing tour, buy a ticket to skip the line at popular attractions, go on a group tour, try food or wine, and even get a ride to the airport.

Should I use guided tours on my vacations?

Explore and experience your destination like a local.

It’s time to find some hidden gems! There are guided tours of places and activities that you didn’t know about!

Avoid scams and pay better prices.

It’s best to book your guided tours in advance from the comfort of your own home, then enjoy your trip when you’re overseas on holiday.

I have a tight budget, can I still buy a guided tour?

With so many guided tours to choose from, you’re likely to find one that fits your budget.

Save time, and Get the most out of your trip.

Finding local tours in your destination is a waste of your precious vacation time.

With scheduled guided tours, you save time as you can pack your schedule with lots of fun activities.

Check reviews before buying a guided tour

Overwhelmed with options and unsure about which guided tour to select? Determine which activities are most suited for you by checking out other user reviews

No risk to you. Free cancellation

For many of the guided tours, you can change your mind and cancel your booking without penalty up to 24 hours before the date of the activity. This is very helpful in the event your travel plans changes last minute

Meet people all over the world, make new friends on your next vacation

Your guided tours are a great way to meet new people from all over the world.

Types of guided tours available for your vacation

Depending on the city you are traveling to, there are almost any guide trips and activities for everyone. There are outdoor guided tours, water activities, Nature trails, Music festivals, Local food trips, Workshops and Classes, Arts Performances, Hidden Gems expedition, beer or red wine drinking and tasting tours, special television & Movies trips, romantic couple tours, kids’ activities, trips to Parks and Gardens, Island expedition trips, check out famous landmarks, Museum guided tours and tickets, Airport transfer services, Memorials for you to check out to under the local culture and history, go up Towers & seeing platforms to get a birds-eye view of the landscape, shopping tours, theaters and concert halls, come by ports and harbors, sightseeing cruise, bikes for leasing, helicopter rides, ferry tickets, Jeep and SUV for rental, yacht services and sailboat leasing.

How to Visit Germany’s Heidelberg Castle

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

Thinking about visiting Heidelberg? With its beautiful castle, old town, bridge, and hiking trails, it’s a Germany must-see.

This guide will help you help you plan you visit to this historic university town and its famous Heidelberg Castle. If you want to discover enchanting Heidelberg beyond the castle, be sure to check out our Heidelberg guide here.

Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss in German) is a popular castle and castle ruin in Germany and a major landmark of Heidelberg.

The city of Heidelberg is located in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg in southwest Germany, along the Neckar River. Situated atop a hill overlooking the Neckar Valley, the castle attracts people from all over and is definitely worth visiting.

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Aaron and I have been to Heidelberg many times over the years and always enjoy wandering the cobblestoned streets, exploring the castle, and taking walks on the Philosophenweg trails.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Schloss Heidelberg!

• 1 Why Visit Heidelberg & Heidelberg Castle
• 2 What You Need to Know About Visiting Heidelberg Castle
• 3 Brief History of Heidelberg Castle
• 4 What To See In Heidelberg Castle
• 5 Bergbahn: Yes or No?
• 6 Other Famous Castles in Germany

Why Visit Heidelberg & Heidelberg Castle

So many reasons! First, Heidelberg is a famous university town and home to Heidelberg University, which is the oldest and one of the most prestigious universities in Germany. A friend of mine studied there and her student housing was in the historic city center just steps from the Heiliggeistkirche!

Second, the Heidelberg Altstadt is known for its romantic architecture, historic sites, and unparalleled riverside views. And while there are tourists in Heidelberg, it’s not just a tourist destination.

Third, the city is quite easy to navigate and easy to get around on foot, so you can definitely see Heidelberg Schloss and other important landmarks in a day.

Your first stop should be Altstadt (Old Town) where you’ll find picturesque streets lined with cafés, medieval buildings, and churches. Highlights include the Marktplatz (main square), the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the Rathaus (town hall). 

Another must see is the Alte Brücke (old bridge), a stone bridge spanning the river Neckar and connecting two sides of historic Heidelberg. Take a stroll or book a river cruise to get great views and a unique perspective of the castle and the city.

What You Need to Know About Visiting Heidelberg Castle

Getting to heidelberg.

You can travel to Heidelberg by train or car. The main train station in Heidelberg is centrally located and has service to both regional towns and major cities, the nearest ones being Frankfurt and Stuttgart. To find the best train or route to take, check out the Deutsche Bahn website (German Rail).

On the Deutsche Bahn website you can check train schedules and book point-to-point tickets or regional tickets. This is where I book all of our Germany train tickets.

If you’re driving a rental car, take the Autobahn (motorway) A5 or A 656 (via Darmstadt, direction: Karlsruhe/Basel) and exit at Heidelberg motorway interchange or at “Heidelberg/Schwetzingen” which will take you to the city center.

If you don’t want to worry about transportation, consider booking a day tour! This guided tour from Frankfurt provides private bus transportation and brings you to the main tourist attractions of Heidelberg.

Directions to Heidelberg Castle

To get to Castle Heidelberg from the central train station using public transportation, take bus line 33 or bus line 20 to the stop “Bergbahn.” Once there, you have to take a short ride via the funicular railway all the way up to the “Schloss” station. For more info on the Bergbahn, scroll to the end of this guide.

Alternatively, you can also walk from the train station to Old Town and then to the castle. You can find the uphill path that leads up to the castle (called Burgweg) next to the Rathaus and Kornmarkt. You can choose between the short route (with steps) or the scenic route (no steps). For both paths, follow the signs that lead to the castle. It’ll take 45-60 minutes to walk up to the castle from the main train station.

If you’re driving, keep in mind that there aren’t many parking spaces close to the castle. There are a few parking spots with fees about 500m from the main entrance of the castle grounds, further uphill of the garden area. Take note that the one way street uphill to the castle is closed to the public on weekends. It’s easier to park in a larger public lot and then walk to the castle enjoying the town along the way.

Visitor Information : Opening Hours & Tickets

Heidelberg Castle is open Mondays to Sundays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Viewing the interior is only possible through a guided tour. The guided tours in English are done at the following times: 11:15 am, 12:15 am, 2:15 pm, and 3:15 pm (at the time this guide was written).

The areas that are open without a tour are the castle gardens, inner courtyard and terrace, wine barrel cellar, and the German Apothecary Museum.

You can access all of these places with the standard entrance ticket which costs 9,00€. It also includes round trip use of the funicular.

The guided tours have an additional fee of 6,00 € for adults. You can buy tickets at the castle ticket counter (visitor center or Burgweg).

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How to Reserve A Guided Tour

If you’d like a guided tour of the castle or the castle and town with an English speaking guide who can give you insider information and tips, here are 3 great options that are all very highly rated.

This 1.5 hour castle tour is perfect if you’re short on time or want to easily combine a tour with exploring on your own.

If you’d like to combine a Heidelberg city tour with a castle tour, this 2-hour tour is perfect for you.

And if you’d prefer a private tour – especially if you’re traveling together with friends or family – book a private tour.

Brief History of Heidelberg Castle

The Heidelberg Castle has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 13th century. The earliest structure was constructed in 1214 and continued expanding until it became two castles. It was first used as a royal residence by Prince Elector Ruprecht III, the King of Germany during a short period in the early 15th century.

Originally a fortified castle with outer defensive walls, Heidelberg Castle continued to expand  into a combination of several buildings. Succeeding Prince Electors of the Palatinate built several residential halls, which resulted in the property looking like a mix of a castle and palace.

Unfortunately, the castle also suffered a lot of damage. In the 17th century, it was destroyed by the French army during the Nine Years War. Parts of it were rebuilt but it was damaged again by lightning strike twice in the 18th century, leaving the castle uninhabitable and in ruins. 

It was never completely restored but the ruined castle now stands as a symbol of German Romanticism. The vestiges of the past with the restored structure all highlight a different period of German architecture which attracts over millions of tourists annually. 

What To See In Heidelberg Castle

German Apothecary Museum

The German Apothecary Museum is an interesting glimpse into the history of pharmaceutics. The exhibition showcases everything from natural remedies from medieval times to antique lab equipment. The museum is located on the lower floor of the Ottheinrich Building.

Heidelberg Tun 

The Heidelberg Tun is the world’s largest wine barrel. It was built by Prince Elector Karl Theodor to hold over 220,000 liters (58,124 gallons) of wine. The giant barrel stands at 7 meters (23 feet) high, and is 8.5 meters (28 feet) wide. It even has a dance floor built on top of it! 

Friedrich Building

The Friedrich Building is the royal family’s ancestral hall. It’s filled with statues of emperors and kings displaying the idealized royal lines as built by Friedrich IV. You can admire some of the statues and sculptures that are on the facade of the building but the original ones are displayed inside.

Ottheinrich Building and the Imperial Hall

The Ottheinrich Building houses the grand Imperial Hall, one of the most ornate and beautiful rooms in the castle. The ceremonial hall also managed to keep many of its original parts like the door frames, sandstone ornaments, and some sculptures. The second floor has now been repurposed into a special venue for exhibitions and receptions for weddings.

Castle Gardens and Courtyard

The castle gardens, constructed by garden architect Salomon de Caus, are a beautiful sight in itself. As you stroll through the romantic palace garden, you’ll stumble upon vibrant flower beds, intimate garden alcoves, mazes and man-made grottoes, a heated greenhouse with orange trees, and fish ponds. 

There are also several patios around the castle with amazing views of the city below so don’t miss those!

Heidelberg Castle Lighting and Illumination

The castle lighting and illumination is a special event that takes place three times a year, usually  the first Saturdays in June and September, and the second Saturday in July. It’s done in memory of the three times when the castle was on fire. The event begins with a light show of the castle being illuminated to simulate the fire. It’s then followed by a spectacular firework show launched from the Old Bridge over the Neckar river.

Even if you aren’t able to see the special castle lighting, you can admire the beautifully lit castle every evening after dusk. The best places to see the illuminated castle are the Alte Brücke, the Philosophenweg, and the market squares in the Alt Stadt.

Bergbahn: Yes or No?

If you have the time, we recommend getting the Panorama Ticket at the Bergbahn station in the Alstadt that gives you entrance into the castle, as well as a ticket to ride the Bergbahn all the way up to Königstuhl, then back down the castle, and finally, back into the Altstadt.

Here’s what we did when we visited the castle. First, we bought our Panorama tickets at the station in the Alstadt. Then, we rode the first Bergbahn to the second stop. You can either get on the second Bergbahn or take a few minutes to get a coffee at the terrace cafe. We immediately got on the second Bergbahn. Got the very front or the very back of this Bergbahn for great views!

Rode the Bergbahn to the top of Königstuhl. We spent 30-40 minutes enjoying the amazing view, sitting the Königstuhl (King’s Chair), and just wandering around the area (there’s a falconry, hotel, artwork, trails, and a fun spot for kids). Before going back down the hill, be sure to take the stairs down to the Bergbahn machine room viewing area. There you can see the inner workings of the Bergbahn.

Then we rode the Bergbahn back down to the castle. If we’d had more time and the weather been nicer, we would have loved to have hiked down. Next time! We spent an hour or so touring the castle (there was a thunderstorm towards the end of our visit so we cut it a bit short).

We could have taken the Bergbahn back into the Altstadt but we instead opted to the take the stairs. It was a short walk through the pretty neighborhood below the castle.

Other Famous Castles in Germany

Germany is full of castles just as beautiful and fascinating as Heidelberg Castle. In fact, there’s said to be over 25,000 castles all over the country waiting to be added to your itinerary!

We have several guides that can help you choose which to visit. Start by reading our ultimate guide of the best castles to visit in Germany .

We also have a guide on the top castles to visit near Cologne and Frankfurt .

Lastly, because we can’t talk about castles without mentioning Neuschwanstein Castle, here are our tips on how to plan your Neuschwanstein day trip from Munich.

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

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Hello! And a warm welcome to Henry Heidelberg Tours

I provide exclusive, private tours of the many interesing sites and things to do in Heidelberg, Germany. From wine tasting in the cellar of the Heidelberg Castle to following the footsteps of Goethe along the stunning ‘Philosophenweg’ hiking trail, it’s my pleasure to lead private tour groups of all sizes through this unique and beautiful city.

Heidelberg Tours

Explore, ‘the most beautiful Town in Germany’ – it’s charming Old Town, famous Castle, it’s ancient University (1386 AD) & it’s ideal location surrounded by forests.

Tours Nr. Heidelberg

 Discover the ‘Real Germany’ – within 20 mins are amazing Gardens, impressive Cathedrals, cool Castles, quaint villages & lovely country-side.

Riesling & so much more – Discover how good German wine is & how beautiful the wine country is. 5 different wine regions are all within 1 hour of Heidelberg.

The Black Forest & Nature Tours

35% of Germany is forest – home of the Fairy Tales. Engage with all the wonderful local Nature. Discover delightful rural areas & the quieter side of Germany.

Alsace Tours

French Style combined with German organization makes Alsace a truly special place to visit. Visit remarkable Strasbourg & it’s stunning Gothic Cathedral & don’t miss the exceptional country-side & oodles of pretty villages.

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• Travel Planning Guide

Should You Visit Heidelberg?

Are you thinking about visiting Heidelberg, Germany? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.

• Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?

Reasons to Visit Heidelberg

• In the Summer?
• In the Autumn?
• In the Winter?
• In the Spring?

What is Heidelberg most famous for?

• What is Heidelberg most known for?

What is the most famous sight in Heidelberg?

• How touristy is Heidelberg?

How long should I spend in Heidelberg?

Is heidelberg worth visiting.

Yes, it's worth visiting this town for one to three days because of the many great activities. During our first trip to Heidelberg in the summer of 2022, we fell in love with its charming old town that's filled with historic architecture and cobblestone streets. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Heidelberg is a beautiful city with an impressive castle and a quaint old town. The city has great local restaurants and it's a fun place to wander around for a few days. The castle on the hill offers a beautiful backdrop for a stunning city. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in U.S. News Best Places to Visit in Germany .

Is Heidelberg worth visiting in the Summer?

Summer is the high season for travel in Heidelberg, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is quite touristy, so in the high season it's busier than usual. You'll see larger crowds and longer lines, as well as higher prices. On the other hand, there's plenty to see and do at this time of year because everything is open.

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 21°C (69°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 25°C (78°F).

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable town, especially in the nice weather. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to browse around the old town and take advantage of the local nightlife.

Is Heidelberg worth visiting in the Autumn?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Heidelberg. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 12°C (54°F).

Soaking up that old town charm in the autumn is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery, the historic old town, and the quaint atmosphere.

Is Heidelberg worth visiting in the Winter?

The weather in Heidelberg can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 3°C (37°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

The low season for travel in Heidelberg is during the winter. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. This is a great time of year to taste delicious cuisine, admire the historic sights, and grab some drinks at a bar.

Is Heidelberg worth visiting in the Spring?

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Heidelberg. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 11°C (52°F).

The scenery of the town this time of year is absolutely beautiful. Admire the gardens, parks, and fantastic architecture, too. Soaking up that old town charm in the spring is one of the favorite activities of visitors. The quaint scenery combined with the weather this time of year is quite nice. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to find the best deals at the shops, admire the quaint atmosphere, and take in the beautiful scenery. Also, you'll be able to browse around the old town and dance the night away.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Heidelberg

Not As Family-Friendly While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.

The Cost Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Heidelberg might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Heidelberg here or see if Heidelberg is expensive here .

Heidelberg is most famous for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. People visit this impressive town for its great historical sights. Also, it's known for food and nightlife. Many people love the shopping, too. It is often described as charming, scenic, character-filled, historic, quaint, energetic, and lively.

The most popular sight in Heidelberg is The Heidelberg Castle . You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Heidelberg on our travel costs page .

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for The Heidelberg Castle and other attractions here .

How touristy is Heidelberg? Is it a popular town to visit?

Heidelberg is a popular town for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• Kayak-Tour in Heidelberg on river Neckar: $75
• 2 1/2h Guided Bicycle Tour Discover Heidelberg: $46
• Alternative Heidelberg Tour.: $71
• Experience the Local Food around Mannheim: $64
• Food & Fables Tour of Heidelberg: $131
• Guided tour of Heidelberg: $15
• Esslingen fountain tour with picnic from a local's perspective: $38
• Mannheim Castle Tour: $54

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Germany ‎ > Heidelberg > Free Heidelberg Walking Tour   

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Free Heidelberg Walking Tour:

Walking Tour Location : Old Town Heidelberg Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided )  Start : The Old Bridge ( Alte Brücke ) End : Scheffel Terrace (Scheffelterrasse) Walking Distance : 2.2 Miles ( +.5 miles each way for Philosopher’s Path Lookout ) Time : 90 Minutes For Walk ( with attractions 5-6 hours ) Fun Scale : 9.5 out of 10

Overview of Old Town Heidelberg:

While the North side of the Neckar River was home to Celtic and Roman settlements, the Southside blossomed in the Middle Ages into the well-preserved Old Town Heidelberg you can tour today.  Heidelberg served as the capital of the Electoral Palatinate of the Rhine for 600 years ( 1085–1690 ) and was one of the main residences of the powerful Wittelsbach family for just as long ( 1214–1803 ).

With powerful standing in the Holy Roman Empire, Heidelberg grew under the shadow of its mighty castle which is still one of the best to visit in Germany.  One this free Heidelberg walking tour, we will take you through the sights that shaped Old Town from the impressive castle and Germany’s oldest university ( founded in 1386 ), through Medieval Squares and over one of the most romantic bridges in Central Europe.

Heidelberg Walking Tour:

1a. the old bridge ( alte brücke ):.

About The Old Bridge : Strolling along the cobblestoned Old Bridge is one of the best things to do on our free Heidelberg walking tour and a great place to get introduced to the town’s history.  Further upstream, near the Neckar Park, there was once a single wooden bridge over the river established by the Romans in the 1st Century.  The bridge was rebuilt in stone in 100AD, but after it collapsed there wasn’t a new one spanning the Neckar River until 1284.  That might sound crazy to have no bridge for 1,000 years but there are surprising a lot of challenges with both flooding and ice along the Neckar River.  These problems have also plagued the bridge’s current location of the which is on its 9th version since Medieval times.

The Neckar River once served as the border between the Electorate Palatinate of the Rhine ( South ) and the Electorate of Mainz ( North ) which required the bridge to be heavily fortified during the Middle Ages.  On Sebastian Münster’s engraved drawings of Heidelberg ( Cosmographia ) from 1550, we get a glimpse of what the Old Bridge looked like through Medieval times.  It shows us that the bridge had a wooden roof over it and in addition to the preserved double-tower gate on the Southern end, it also had the Monkey Tower Gate ( Affenturm ) on its Northern end.

Most of the rebuilds over the centuries were because of ice damage and although the Old Bridge survived invasions during the 30 Years War in 1622, it was leveled in the Nine Year’s War in 1689.   For almost 20 years after, there was once again only a ferry to cross the Neckar River.  Rebuilt twice more ( 1706 & 1788 ) the middle of the bridge was damaged in 1945 by retreating Nazi forces as the Americans closed in and had to be repaired.

1b. Old Bridge Statues :

About The Statues : In peak Medieval times the Old Bridge in Heidelberg was covered with a roof and filled with market stalls, so it is difficult to gauge how many statues it once had.  Today there are three wonderful carved stone sculptures from the last rebuild of the Old Bridge in the 1700s which help to give it the old-world feel like Charles Bridge in Prague, albeit on a much smaller scale.  A additional 4th bridge statue of the Heidelberg Monkey we will also see later on this free Heidelberg walking tour.

Starting on the Northern end of the 9-pillar Old Bridge, there has been a large statue of the Roman Goddess of Wisdom, Minerva  ( 7th pillar ).  Originally carved in 1730 and placed on the former location of a bridge guardhouse, the current copy was created in 1793 after being damaged a massive flood 9 years earlier.  Below Minerva is a wide base with 4 reliefs and 4 allegorical statues starting in the front with Justice leaning on books with her scales, a veiled Pietas holding a cross ( our favorite of them ), a winged-hat Hermes baring coins, and Ceres with a cornucopia.

Next to Minerva was once a statue of the martyred John Nepomuk ( 9th pillar ) which was added in 1738.  After Nepomuk’s statue fell into the Neckar River during the Flood of 1784, it was moved along the Northern river bank where it sits overlooked by tourists today.  His statue’s tumble into the river was slightly ironic as the Saint had been murdered by being tossed into the Vltava River in Prague in 1393.  At the riverbank below the Nepomuk Statue, you’ll find the romantic Love Stone ( Liebesstein ) where visiting couples are encouraged to leave love locks.  The large sandstone slab is where the famous lyricist Joseph von Eichendorff and his beloved Katharina Foerster ( nicknamed Kaethchen ) often met in 1808.

As you take in the views and head South toward Old Town Heidelberg, the final stone statue on the Old Bridge is of Elector Karl Theodor ( 2nd pillar ) who stands above his own coat of arms.  Karl is the ruler who commissioned the current reconstruction of the Old Bridge ( 9th overall ) in 1786-1788.  In the Middle Ages, this was the location of a guardhouse and the figures below Karl symbolize the territories around the Danube, Isar, Mosel, and Rhine rivers which he ruled at the time of the build.

2. Old Bridge Tower ( Brückentor ):

About The Bridge Gate Towers : The 92-foot-tall twin towers of the Old Bridge Gate leading into Heidelberg is the town’s second most iconic feature after the mighty castle.  There have been round twin towers above this entrance into town since at least 1400s when they were part of Heidelberg’s Medieval fortifications.   The earliest depiction of this wonderful gate was from a woodcut image of town by Sebastian Münster in 1527 as well as some engravings from 1550.

After surviving floods and wars over the centuries, the gate towers were fitted with their current canopy roofs in 1714.   The Western Tower ( called the Guild tower ) has three Medieval dungeon rooms and the Eastern Tower has a spiral staircase that leads up to the small apartment of the bridge guard over the middle archway above the gate.  Paid tolls were enforced at the gate for any foreigners crossing the bridge until 1878.

3. Bridge Monkey Statue ( Brückenaffe ):

About The Bridge Monkey Statue : The playful Bridge Monkey Statue is one of the most photographed things on our free Heidelberg walking tour, but few tourists know the meaning behind it.  Now on the Southern end of the Old Bridge, originally the statue sat at the Northern end in as early as the 1400s.  That side of the river was the domain of the Bishop of Mainz and the monkey grabbed his butt pointing in that direction to let the Bishop know he had no jurisdiction in Heidelberg.  The early version of the Bridge Monkey Statue also held a mirror which was important to remind local citizens to have self-reflection as they traveled.  City goers and country folk were reminded that neither was better than the other as they crossed into each other’s realms.

During the Palatinate War of Succession ( 1689-1693 ) the original Bridge Monkey Statute disappeared and the neighboring Monkey Gate Tower was damaged.  Luckily Professor Gernot Rumpf installed a modern bronze version of the Heidelberg Bridge Monkey on the Southern end of the Old Bridge in 1979 to bring the legend back to life.  Every day you can see lines of tourists waiting to insert their heads into the statue to form a helmet-like monkey mask , but there is still a lot of hidden symbolism.

Instead of grabbing his butt, the current Bridge Monkey’s free fingers point to form the Horned Hand ( mano cornuta ) to ward off the Evil Eye ( malocchio ) which provides good luck or a return to Heidelberg if rubbed.  It’s said that also rubbing the mirror in the monkey’s other hand will bring you money which seems a little weird since the self-reflection should instead bring your humility.

Next to the statue are a pair of bronze mice ( a signature of the artist ) which said to bring luck with fertility and a plaque showing of the words of Baroque-era writer Martin Zeiler’s 1632 poem about the Bridge Monkey Statue.  The poem basically mocks people who only stand around staring at the statue and invites you to participate by placing your head inside it.

4. Neckar Riverboat Cruises :

About The River Boat Cruises : Heidelberg may only be 60-90 minutes by train to the heart of Rhine River cruising, but a relaxing boat ride along the Neckar River is also very enjoyable.  Between two companies there are two main options for your Neckar River cruises including a local 50-minute cruise and a longer 3-hour tour which visits other villages upstream.  We have done both options and will give you an overview below.

For the 50-minute local cruise, we chose to ride on the solar-powered Neckarsonne Boat ( website , Neckarstaden #25 ) which leaves near the Old Bridge.  A large portion of the Neckarsonne boat has retractable glass walls which help you to get panoramic views as you quietly glide along the river.  There is interesting commentary in both English and Germany throughout the cruise, but it is so relaxing that we actually tuned most of it out as we gazed onto the castle and village.  The Neckarsonne does have food, drinks, and beer available but you will want to board a little early if you are hungry as the fresh snacks are in limited supply.

The other option in Heidelburg is called Weisse Flotte ( website , Neckarstaden #25 ) and leaves from near the State Hall Theater.  This company also has a 50-minute local tour which is a little more focused on food, but is not as quiet at the unique solar-powered Neckarsonne.  Weisse Flotte’s best cruise is the 3-hour round trip with the option to layover in the village of Neckarsteinach known as the City of Four Castles .  It really does have four castles packed right into one tiny village which is pretty cool.  This cruise is one of the best ways to recharge and relax for a few hours if you are feeling burnt out from traveling.

Neckarsonne 50-Minute Cruise : April & October  Tuesday to Sunday at 11:30am, 1 pm, 3 pm, & 4 pm; May-September Tuesday to Sunday 10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 3pm, 4pm, & 6pm.  No Cruises Mondays.  Cost : 9€ for adults or 3.50€ for kids.  Weisse Flotte 50-Minute Cruise : April & October Wednesday to Monday at every 30 minutes from 10am-5:30pm.  No Cruises Tuesdays.  Cost : 9€ for adults or 3.50€ for kids. Weisse Flotte 3-Hour Cruise : April-October departures at 10am, 11am, Noon, 2pm, & 3pm.  No meaningful layover option in Neckarsteinach on the last round-trip cruise for the day.  Weekday times limited in April & October.  Cost : 17€ for Adults or 8€ for kids.

5. Horse Stables & Arsenal ( Marstallhof ):

About The Horse Stables Arsenal : Six years after Heidelberg was attacked during the Landshut War of Succession in 1504, a mighty arsenal was completed here to defend the city from war.  The massive red sandstone complex in one of the few buildings in the heart of Old Town Heidelberg to have largely remained intact over the centuries of conflict.  Across an open inner courtyard, the Southside of the complex became the military horse stables ( Marstall ) in 1590 but much of that area was damaged during the Palatinate War of Succession in 1693 also known as the Nine Year’s War.

Today, the former arsenal and horse stables are part of the Heidelberg University and serve as the popular University Cafe.  We love the cafe as it is open to the public and is the best place to get a great meal on a budget in Heidelberg.  Even if you only stop in to take a break in the inner courtyard and check out the preserved Medieval architecture, it is still a very enjoyable stop on this free Heidelberg walking tour.

6. State Hall Theater ( Stadthalle ):

About The State Hall Theater : From the former Horse Stables & Arsenal, it is a very short walk to the Art Nouveau-style State Hall Theater built in 1803.   The Western facing main entrance into the theater is one of the most beautiful buildings in Heidelberg.  We also like to visit as the small Anniversary Square Park ( Jubiläumsplatz ) across from the main entrance is a wonderful place to rest your feet for a few minutes while surrounded by only locals.  You can also get a great view of the famous Neckar River Park ( Neckarwiese ) just across the river as a preview if you plan on visiting it which we recommend.  The narrowest home in Heidelberg can also be seen just in front of the State Hall Theater at Untere Neckarstraße #38.

Note : The interior of the theater is under renovations into 2022.  Time Required : 5 minutes ( 15 if you stop to rest ).

7. Main Street ( Hauptstraße ):

About Main Street : At one-mile-long, the Hauptstraße is the longest pedestrian zone in Germany and is filled with shops you’ll actually want to visit.  There are countless restaurants and cafes adding to the energy of the pedestrian zone, but the Conditorei-Café Schafheutle ( website , #94 ) is one that you shouldn’t miss.  Since 1833, this delicious cafe has been known as the “Sweet Heart of Heidelberg” thanks to its unmatched coffee, cakes, and chocolate.  The best thing about the cafe is the peaceful greenhouse-like seating area hidden in the back which is one of the more relaxing spots in town and a great retreat from the busy street outside.

Further down the Main Street, you will find one of the best Christmas stores in Germany at Käthe Wohlfahrt ( website , #124 ).  Based out of Rothenburg Germany, this is the most iconic Christmas shop in Europe and it gives you a taste of the Advent markets any time of year.  Next to Käthe Wohlfahrt, you can get a feel for the where the Medieval wall once ringed Old Town Heidelberg based off the fortified buildings and the open square with the Lion’s Well Fountain which once was a dry moat ditch ( graben ).  Next to the large Art-Nouveau building on the corner ( #126 ) where the Middle Tower ( Mitteltor ) stood from Medieval Times until 1827.

8. Palatinate Museum ( Kurpfälzisches ):

About The Palatinate Museum : Sitting on Heidelberg’s main pedestrian, the Palatinate Museum is the best museum in town and far more interest than most visitors expect.  The museum was founded inside the former Morass Mansion in 1870 and covers a very wide range of art and archaeology focusing on the Palatinate region of Germany.

There are wonderful paintings at the Palatinate Museum going back to the 1500s, exhibits on the findings from Heidelberg Roman settlement, and a copy of the jaw bone from the 600,000-year-old Heidelberg Man.  We especially love the wide range of artifacts and priceless items telling the history of the Electoral Palatinate which ruled the region from 1214 to 1803.  Our three favorite works are the bronze Roman statue from 100AD, the famous painting of Heidelberg’s Castle Gardens by Jacques Fouquières from 1620, and the Flemish version of the Tower of Babel painting from 1587.  It is also impossible to not be impressed by the interior of the mansion itself which is furnished to look like it would have in the 1700s to 1800s.

The inner courtyard as you approach the entrance to the Palatinate Museum is also gorgeous.  Make sure to look up at the wrought-iron Golden Swan Pub sign from 1790 ( replica on display ) from Michelfeld with the coat of arms from Gemmingen Manor.  Further into the courtyard is the Restaurant Garibaldi which although it beautiful have fairly poor service ratings.  The outdoor area of the restaurant is free to visit however and filled with statues from 1712 from the convent that was demolished for the nearby University Library in 1901-05.  We will see the facade of the stunning library next on this free Heidelberg walking tour.

Museum Hours : Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm; Closed Mondays. Cos t: Weekdays 3€ and Weekends 1.80€ for Adults; kids free; includes English or German audio guide.  Website : Here .  Time Required : 60-90 minutes ( museum lovers 2 hours, best visited on a multi-day visit to town ).

9. Heidelberg University Library :

About The University Library : While it is two very short blocks off of the main pedestrian street, the stunning University Library is one of the most beautiful buildings in Heidelberg.  The huge Renaissance-style structure was completed in 1905 with the intent of matching the style of the Heidelberg’s powerful city center castle.  Complete with a red sandstone facade , the final result of the construction was worthy of the timeless library which was first established in 1388 when the University of Heidelberg purchased a large chest of books.

If you stop to see the wonderful facade of the library, make sure to also see the historic Saint Peter’s Church right across the road which is the oldest in Old Town.  The Romanesque chapel has it’s own defensive wall and was first built in 1196 ( expanded in 1496 ) and has been part of the University of Heidelberg since 1896.  The interior is very basic, but the outside has five centuries worth of tombstones as a famous oak tree planted in memory of Martin Luther’s 400th birthday in 1883.

Visiting Hours : One most weekdays, it is free to visit the main common areas of the library but the pretty part is the outside.

10. Student Prison ( Studentenkarzer ):

About The Student Prison : Heidelberg University was founded in 1386 and is the oldest in higher education institution in Germany and it has many stories to tell.  One of the most interesting aspects of Heidelberg Univerisity is the famous Student Prison which was used to detain unruly students for minor offenses from 1778-1914.  This was actually a quite common thing in German universities starting in the 1600s and students would be detained for anywhere from 3 days to 4 weeks, but still allowed to attend lectures during the day.

Eventually, being tossed into the Student Prison became a rite of passage among and students would purposely get in trouble to stay they did their time.  Over the centuries the countless students detained on house arrest here turned their boredom into carving and painting artwork onto every surface of the Student Prison.  Today the preserved artwork of slogans, jokes, and profile portraits completely covers the former prison cells, hallways, stairwells, and ceilings.  Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of detail describing the artwork as you visit but touring the multi-leveled historic property is very beautiful and unique.

Hours : April to August daily 10am-6pm; September & October Monday-Friday 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sundays & public holidays 10am-4pm; November to March Monday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Closed on Sundays in Winter.   Cos t: 3€.  Website : Here.  Time Required : 15-30 minutes.

11. Hotel Of The Knight Saint George ( Hotel Zum Ritter St. Georg ):

About Hotel Zum Ritter : In 1592, a wealthy Belgian cloth merchant moved to Heidelberg from France and built Old Town’s most beautiful home on the main square for his wife.  The German Renaissance-style facade is a marvel and the mansion is the oldest stately home surviving in Heidelberg .  Due to an attack during the Thirty Year’s War in 1622 and also the War of the Palatinate Succession ( 1688-1697 ) known as the Nine Year’s War most of the other buildings in Heidelberg’s Old Town were completely destroyed.  Luckily the Hotel Zum Ritter survived and today it is our favorite hotel in Heidelberg thanks to its history, location, and great value.

The nickname Saint George comes from the figure of the fabled knight carved into the facade under the gable.  The Knight Saint George was a Medieval folk hero who slew the dragon that was carrying the plague into villages in Europe.  As you inspect the other statues on the red sandstone facade, make sure to look at the right oriel window on the 2nd floor ( 3rd story for Americans ) where you can still carvings of the original owner and his wife.  The interior of the 37 room hotel also carries over many elements from the mansion’s early history making it a delight to stay in.  There are other great values nearby for accommodations including Hotel Goldener Falke (also on the main square), but we like the atmosphere of Zum Ritter the best.

12. Church of the Holy Spirit ( Heiliggeistkirche ):

About The Church of the Holy Spirit : Dominating Market Square on a massive scale, the Medieval Church of the Holy Spirit is the largest and most important church in Heidelberg.  The beautiful church was first mentioned in a manuscript from 1239 and grew to its current size when it was rebuilt by Elector Ruprecht III starting in 1398.  He became the Ruprecht I, King of Germany, two years later intended the new formidable church to become the burial place of the Electors of the Palatinate and as it became the new official Parish of Heidelberg ( formerly was Saint Peter’s ).

Construction of the new church took much longer than expected and the soaring bell tower wasn’t completed until 1544.  On May 22, 1693 invading French troops during the Palatine War of Succession ( Nine Year’s War ) rounded up locals into the church and burned it.  What was left of the severely damaged Church of the Holy Spirit was then plundered requiring it be rebuilt in its current form with Gothic interior pillars and a Baroque bell tower.

While most of the royal tombs were ruined during the French invasion, the sandstone sarcophagus of King Rupert I and his wife was preserved and is still on display.  One of the more interesting things of the re-build is that in 1706 a divider was added inside the church to dedicate space for both Protestant ( Nave ) and Catholic ( Choir ) congregations to both worship  inside the church.  This barrier stood for 230 until it was removed in 1936 and the church is now Protestant.

As you explore the interior of the Church of the Holy Spirit, consider taking the steps up the bell tower to the 38-meter-high observation platform for views over Market Square.  Hornblowers used this tower in Medieval times to look for fires who in 1798 were replaced by official Nightwatchmen.  You also won’t be able to miss the dozens of tacky souvenir stands filling the gaps between the buttresses ringing the outside of the church.  The awnings of the stands are packed with tourists and they are surprisingly a great place to get cheap gifts to bring home for your friends or family.

Visiting Hours : Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm; Sundays 12.30pm-5pm.  Organ Recitals : 30-minute performances on Fridays & Sundays at 5:15pm; on Saturdays they are 60-minutes with a choir at 6:15pm.

13. Market Square ( Marktplatz ):

About Market Square : Since as early as the 1300s, the bustling Market Square has been the center of life in Heidelberg’s Old Town ( Altstadt ).   It was here next to the Holy Ghost Church that Medieval commerce flourished and also where both witches and heretics were burned alive at the stake.  Around the central fountain is also where the stocks were to hold people convicted of petty crimes on public display often in a hanging cage.

The fountain in Market Square was re-built with its heroic Hercules statue from 1706-1709.  The stoic statue is a reminder of the colossal effort needed to rebuild Old Town after the damage from attacks in both the 30 Years War in 1622 and again in 1689 during the Nine Year’s War.  The Town Hall ( Rathaus ) along the Eastside of the square was one of the larger buildings to be rebuilt in 1701 ( fire damage in 1908 ) after French Troops destroyed it in 1689.

We love the outdoor dining in Market Square, especially later in the evening as the tour bus groups have all started to leave Heidelberg.  It is during those hours when the day trippers leave that relaxing in Market Square while admiring Hercules becomes even more meaningful.  The most magical time in the square is during Advent when it becomes Heidelberg’s main Christmas market although it is also used for many other festivals throughout the year.

14. Grain Market Square ( Kornmarkt ):

About Grain Market : F With its amazing views of the mighty castle and stunning central statue of the Virgin Mary, Grain Market Square is one of the most delightful spaces on this free Heidelberg walking tour.  From the end of the 1200s, the picturesque square was home to the large Holy Spirit Hospital which was torn down in 1557 to make way for an additional market place space.  The market ( first called New Market ) was important to boost the economy of the growing village as out of the 6,380 residents in 1588, 1400 of them were widowed or unmarried women.  The thriving market specialized in agricultural products which led to the name Grain Market ( Kornmarkt ).

The focal point of the Grain Market today is the timeless Virgin Mary Statue added in 1718 by the Jesuits who were looking to help motivate the townspeople into Heidelberg’s conversion back to Catholicism during the Counter-Reformation.  The religious change had been going on since 1685 by decree by the Elector Philip and never fully latched on Heidelberg.  Remember that in Heidelberg’s main church both Protestants and Catholics shared the worship space until the 1930s.  Regardless, the Virgin Mary Statue with her gold gilded crown of 12 stars and divine rays is an excellent piece of art.  The base has cherub angels holding up the earth topped with Mary as the Queen of Heaven holding the baby Jesus.  The depiction of the baby Jesus is interesting as he is doing a blessing motion with one hand while the other drives a long cross into the head of a serpent meant to represent Protestantism.

Hidden along the Northern end of the Grain Market is the outline in the pavement where the tiny chapel for the hospital once stood until 1557.  Next to the chapel outline, you can also see the original location of the former Milk Fountain ( Milchbrunnen ), one of three well that once flowed in the Grain Market Square.

15. Karl’s Square ( Karlsplatz ):

About Karl’s Square : The surprisingly tourist-free Karl’s Square is a huge public space with excellent panoramic views along the entire facade of the Heidelberg Castle towering directly above you.  Similar to how the Grain Market Square was once filled with a large hospital in Medieval times, today’s Karl’s Square was home to a Franciscan monastery complex ( Barfüsserklosters ) until it was cleared in 1803.

The square is named after Grand Duke Karl Friedrich of Baden who was the local Elector at the time but it still pays homage to the monastery with this central fountain.  The artistic fountain created in 1978 is in honor of Sebastian Münster who was a cosmographer and humanist that worked at the monastery from 1521-1529.  Münster is most famous for his very detailed engraved drawings of various towns including one of Heidelberg from 1550 before it was ravished by numerous wars.  Who life’s work gives us valuable insight into many cities during the Middle Ages.

The gorgeous Plane Trees lining each end of Karl’s Square are very beautiful any time of year.  The well-groomed Plane Trees ( Plantanen in German or Platanus in Latin ) are a type of Sycamore that get their unique stubby branch appearance from constant pruning.  We love to visit the outdoor tables at Gasthaus zum Eisernen Kreuz among the trees late in the afternoon in the Summer for a beer and very affordable light meal.  While all of the squares in Heidelberg are festive during the Christmas season, Karl’s Square is unique as it is turned into a large outdoor ice skating rink.

16. Hill Funicular Lift ( Bergbahn ):

About The Hill Funicular Lift : If you aren’t using the Bergbahn Funicular Lift to get up the Heidelberg Castle you are doing it all wrong.  Not only is the cost for riding the lift included for free with your castle ticket, but it turns a very steep 10-15 minute hike into an easy glide up to the entrance.  The hike up is enjoyable it just makes sense to save the energy to better enjoy the castle.  While the electric lift cabins are very modern a spacious today, the Bergbahn Funicular has been operating since 1890 .  If you choose to ride all the way up to King’s Chair at the top of the mountain you actually get to the ride the vintage pully system cars the final 20 minutes up to the top which adds to the amazing views as you ascend.

Hours : Summer Daily every 10 minutes from 9am-8pm; Winter until 5:10pm.  Cost : 12€ Heidelberg Castle ticket includes roundtrip lower lift ticket ( 9€ one-way ride without the castle interior ).  To ride all the way to the King’s Chair 20 minutes further up the mountain is an additional 7€ roundtrip upper lift ticket ( 5€ one-way ).  Finding the Entrance : The entrance to the lift is under the large parking lot building you come to at the start of the hiking trail up to the castle.  You just have to enter the underpass and walk to the back right corner of the building.  You can buy your ticket for the castle at the lift entrance.

17. Heidelberg Castle ( Schloss Hiedelberg ):

About Heidelberg Castle : The biggest highlight of our entire free Heidelberg walking tour is the romantic castle towering above Old Town.  Not only is Heidelberg Castle one of the most impressive urban castles in all of Europe, it was also one of the most important castles in Medieval Germany.  The stunning property is a testament to the power of the regional Prince-Electors ( people who chose the Holy Roman Emperor ) had in the Middle Ages.

While no one is quite sure how old Heidelberg Castle is, the fortress was 1st mentioned in 1214 when Duke of Bavaria Louis I ( House of Wittelsbach ) received it as a gift from Holy Roman Emperor Friedrich II ( House Hohenstaufen ).  This early castle was further up the hillside as the funicular lift stop called Molkenkur and was nicknamed the Upper Castle once as a second one known as the Lower Castle was built at the present spot prior to 1303.  The dual Upper and Lower Castles can be seen in the famous engraving of the Heidelberg cityscape by Sebastian Münster in 1527

In 1401 Ruprecht became the King of Germany and greatly expanded the two-level castle, but the upper area was eventually struck by lightning in 1537 and laid to ruin.  The Lower Castle was spared from the fire, but 150 years later it was besieged by the French in the Nine Year’s War.  Although the Lower Castle was rebuilt, it too was struck by lightning in 1764 and badly damaged by fire.  In the age of Romanticism ( Historicism ) of the 1800s, poets and artists like Victor Hugo latched onto the timeless castle ruins and saved them from being leveled.  The efforts also saved the mighty castle from being totally rebuilt and the beautiful decay of the ruined areas was preserved.

Today you can visit all of the outside areas and lookouts for free including the Elizabeth Gate, fallen towers, and vantage points around the dry moat, but buying a ticket is well worth it.  As you pass over the former drawbridge into the vast inner courtyard you are blessed with a visual explosion of red sandstone buildings.  The most impressive building is the statue covered Fredrich Hall, whose basement is home to the largest wine barrel in the world .  Known as the Tun, the enormous wooden vat was constructed in 1751 and could hold 58,000 gallons ( 220,000 liters ) of wine when it was in use.  This barrel, along with the cellars at one point stored over 2 million liters of wine for the local Electors.

The shells of both the Ottheinrich Hall and English Hall are also gorgeous and were the most important buildings architecturally in the early German Renaissance .  Across the 11 lower level rooms and Gothic cellars of the Ottheinrich Hall is the renown German Apothecary Museum ( pharmacy ).  There are in total 20,000 items on display including Medieval laboratory equipment and a number of complete pharmacies shop interiors from the 1600-1800s which were moved to Heidelberg Castle.

Castle Interior Hours : Daily 8am-6pm ( last admission ) 5:30pm; exteriors open 24 hours.  Pharmacy Museum Hours : Daily 10am-6pm ( last admission ); closes 30 minutes early in Winter.  Cost : Exteriors areas are FREE or 12€ for the interior courtyard and buildings which includes the museum and Bergbahn Funicular Lift.  Time Required : You can whiz through in an hour but most visitors spend around 2-2.5 hours exploring.

Related Article : Best Castles In Germany .

18. Palatinate Gardens & Scheffel Terrace ( Hortus Palatinus ):

About The Castle Gardens : While the South-Eastern corner of Heidelberg Castle was long used for defensive purposes, in 1614 Elector Frederick V began to turn the entire area into a large pleasure garden for his wife Elizabeth Stuart ( daughter of the King of England ).  The uneven ground was leveled into a series of board terraces and a massive Italian-style garden.

Known as the Garden of the Palatinate ( Hortus Palatinus ), the outdoor space was the greatest garden in Germany and called the 8th Wonder of the World by writers.  The spaces were filled with statues, grottos, decorative flowers, 30 oranges trees, a menagerie of exotic animals, a monkey house, and a series of fountains.  Unfortunately,  in 1619 Elector Frederick V got a little overzealous and accepted the crown of Germany by the Protestants in Prague which was in direct conflict with the Holy Roman Emperor and started the 30 Years War .  Frederick was defeated in battle and exiled after the war, but later his Garden of the Palatinate gave the French easy access to attack and ruin the castle in the Nine Years War ( 1688-1697 ).

Today the terraces of the Garden of the Palatinate are mostly void of their former statues and flower, but some elements remain.  There is one excellent grotto which has been preserved as well as a stunning fountain.  Almost every area of the gardens have dreamy elevated views of the Heidelberg Castle, but the best area is the Scheffel Terrace ( Scheffelterrasse ).  With 66-foot-tall  ( 20 meters ) arches, this narrow area of the garden directly East of the castle was meant to hold a large greenhouse, but now has the best views in Heidelberg, Old Town, and the Neckar River Valley.  The terrace was named after a statue of poet Joseph Victor von Scheffel, which stood here from 1891 to 1942 before it was melted down.  This section of the gardens is accessible 24 hours a day for free and provides dreamy sunsets all year .

Garden & Terrace Hours : 24 hours a day, trail lit from dusk until around Midnight.  Cost : Free, but you will need a castle ticket to use the Bergbahn lift otherwise it is a 15-minute steep hike from town.  Time Required : Most visitors spend around 30-60 minutes exploring the entire garden and terrace area.  We love to come before sunset and relax until after dark.

Other Sights Near Old Town:

19. philosopher’s path ( philosophenweg ):.

About The Philosopher’s Path : If you want to get one of the most peaceful and iconic views of Heidelberg, you have to hike up to the Philosopher’s Path.  The terrace-like trail had been used by professors of the Heidelberg University for centuries and in the 1800s became a formal trail with benches and viewing areas.  The perspective of the Heidelberg Castle, the village, the Neckar River, and Old Bridge all in one elevated frame is an image you will remember forever and we highly recommend making the effort.  The trail is also perfect to visit on very sunny days as most of it is shaded and tree-lined.

How To Reach The Path : It takes around 0.5 miles each way from the Northern end of the Old Bridge to hike up to the main area of the Philosopher’s Path.  This route only takes most hikers 15-20 minutes as you wind up the switchbacks of the Snake Way ( Schlangenweg ) corridor up the hill.  Time Required : 1 hour round trip with relaxing at the top although we have done it in as quick as 30 minutes.

20. Neckar River Park ( Neckarwiese ):

About The Neckar River Park : The luscious green space along the Northside of the Neckar River is one of the most enjoyable public parks in Europe.  We love the park for the energy that springs from the college population in Heidelberg that is always playing lawn games a grilling out along the wide swathe of riverfront park.  One of the most fun things to do outside of sunbathing is to rent a small motorized rowboat to cruise the river while visiting the park.

It is an extra half mile out of your way from either Old Town or the Philosopher’s Path to reach the Neck River Park, but it is one of the top 10 things to do in Heidelberg during the Spring through the Fall.  This lively area is also where the Romans set up their military encampment in the 1st century.

21. The King’s Chair ( Königstuhl ):

About The King’s Chair : The highest point in Heidelberg is the top of the mountain that the castle is located on known at the King’s Chair ( Königstuhl ).  From the top, you will have unrivaled views of the entire Neckar River Valley and straight across to the Holy Mountain ( Heiligenberg ) and into the Rhine River lowlands.  In total, the journey takes you from the valley floor all to over 1,800 feet above town ( 550 meters ).

While there are excellent views, a small cafe, a children’s amusement park, hiking trails, and a live falconry show at the top of the hill, the real attraction is the funicular ride up to the top.  While the lower level has sleek modern cabins, the upper section is still used century-old vintage funicular cars on a historic pully lift system that has been in place on the mountain since 1890.  The steady and peaceful climb up the mountain leads to more scenic views the further you make it.  It is very common for hikers to ride up the mountain on a one-way ticket and then hike back down through the wilderness to return to town.

Time Required : The lower lift takes 10 minutes to the Molkenkur stop where switch lines for a 20 ride further up to the Königstuhl.  Lift Summer Hours : Daily every 20 minutes ( lower section every 10 ) from 9am-8pm ( last descent 7:48pm ) in the Summer or 9am-5:10pm in Winter.  Cost : 12€ for roundtrip lower lift ticket ( 9€ one-way ) and 7€ roundtrip upper lift ticket ( 5€ one-way ).  Time Required : Assume 60-90 minutes including your round trip ride on the upper lift.

22. Holy Mountain ( Heiligenberg ):

About The Holy Mountain : For those visitors looking to push their hiking further above the Philosopher’s Path (Philosophenweg), a trek up Holy Mountain ( Heiligenberg ) is very rewarding.  The hilltop had been settled by the Celts ( 5th century BC ), Romans ( 1st century ) with a temple to Mercury, and two monasteries ( 9th & 11th centuries ) which led to the name Holy Mountain in 1265.

The first church was built on the top of Holy Mountain around 870 in a Romanesque-sty;e over part the Roman Temple and was dedicated to the archangel Michael.  This then grew into the Monastery of Saint Michael in 1023 which was expanded in the 13th century.  There was also a second monastery dedicated to Saint Stephen halfway up the hillside.  Unfortunately, political unrest led to the collapse of the monasteries from 1460-1503 and they eventually turned to ruins.

In 1934 the Holy Mountain saw its biggest modern transformation when an open-air theater called the Thingstätte was constructed by Heidelberg resident Albert Speer for the Nazis.  The Thingstätte theater today looks like an ancient Roman ruin and can hold approximately 8,000 seats or 15,000 standees.  This project was the start of Speer’s rise in the Nazi party as he became the chief architect as well as the Reich Minister of Industry and War Production.  Although imprisoned for 20 years, Speer was one of the only high-ranking officials to not be sentenced to death in the Nuremberg trials as he claimed to have not known about the Holocaust which seems far-fetched.

On the one-hour hike up Holy Mountain you pass the Bismarck Tower ( 1903 ), the Heiligenberg Tower ( 1800s ) next to the ruins of Saint Stephen, the Monastery of Saint Michael ( 1023 ) with traces of the Roman temple to Murcery ( 1st century ), and the Nazi Thingstätte ( 1934 ).

23. Karl’s Gate Tower ( Karlstor ):

About The Karl’s Gate : This stand-alone triumphal arch was built from 1775-1781 to replace the Medieval Jacob’s Gate in honor of Elector Karl Theodor.  Karl is best known in Heidelberg for supporting the sciences and for re-building the Old Bridge in its current form after the flood of 1783.  In addition to his titles of the Palatinate, he also became the Elector and Duke of Bavaria and moved to Munich in 1777.  While he never became as popular in Bavaria, Karl still remained influential in Heidelberg.

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Things to Do in Heidelberg (Germany)

15 Best Things to Do in Heidelberg (Germany)

Up there with Germany’s favourite tourist destinations, Heidelberg is a historic university town that has survived unscathed since the 18th century. You have to come for the Baroque architecture and the phenomenal ruins of the Renaissance castle, which for hundreds of years was home to the Imperial Prince Electors of Heidelberg.

Those ruins have inspired generations of people, most famously the Romantics at the start of the 19th century. And part of that allure comes from the Odenwald terrain, as Heidelberg is couched in a wooded valley by the Neckar where hills on both sides of the river offer storybook vistas of the city.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Heidelberg :

1. Altstadt

Heidelberg’s glorious old town rests in the shadow of the ruins of Schloss Heidelberg.

The Altstadt has many of the things people love about German old quarters; sociable squares with bar terraces at Kornmarkt and Marktplatz, cobblestone streets and a catalogue of historic landmarks.

These can be Gothic or Baroque churches, or monuments like the statue of Mary on Kornmarkt from 1718, a symbol of Heidelberg’s complicated relationship with Catholicism.

One of the interesting features of the Altstadt is that it has a uniform Baroque appearance, a result of fires caused by a French assault in 1693 during the Nine Years’ War.

The Town Hall was built in the aftermath and dates to 1701, still featuring the electoral coat of arms sculpted by Hungarian artist Heinrich Charrasky.

2. Schloss Heidelberg

Perched 80 metres above the Altstadt and Neckar is the former seat of Heidelberg’s Prince Electors, now one of the most beautiful ruins in the world.

The castle was begun as a fortress in the 13th century, but in the 15th and 16th century was expanded into a palace fit for Heidelberg’s imperial rulers.

The next 300 years weren’t exactly kind to Schloss Heidelberg as the property suffered fire from thunderbolts and repeated destruction during the Thirty Years’ War in the 1600s and the Nine Years’ War less than 100 years later.

From then the complex was only partly reconstructed, and its ruins inspired Germany’s Romantics and were depicted by Turner during two separate stays.

Visit for an audio tour of the extraordinary Renaissance ruins, and for the Pharmacy Museum, which we’ll cover later.

3. Alte Brücke (Old Bridge)

Crossing the Neckar between the Altstadt and the Neuenheim district on the right bank, the Alte Brücke dates in its current form to 1788 during the rule of Elector Charles Theodore.

Despite being more than 200 years old, this structure is the ninth bridge to be built on this spot.

Each bridge built from the 1200s to the 1700s was wrecked by ice floes in spring, but the current one has survived because it was the first to be built entirely from stone.

The bridge is embellished with two sets of sculpture, one paying homage to Charles Theodore and another to the Roman goddess Minerva.

These are replicas, and the originals were transferred to the Kurpfälzisches Museum for safekeeping.

On the bank of the Altstadt is a pair of towers from Heidelberg’s Medieval fortifications.

4. Kurpfälzisches Museum

Heidelberg’s Palatinate Museum is in the 18th-century Palais Morass and has painting, sculpture and applied arts, as well as archaeology recording the long human history of the Lower Neckar Valley and Heidelberg’s time as the Electoral Palatinate residence.

Bridging a host of disciplines, there are many memorable exhibits to look out for, like the Renaissance sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider’s Altar of the Apostles from 1509 or paintings by Lucas Cranach the Elder, Anselm Feuerbach and Max Beckmann.

There are also rooms furnished in the styles of the 1700s and 1800s and rich with glassware, period clothing and porcelain made by the feted 18th-century Frankenthal Factory.

5. Deutsches Apotheken-Museum

Across 11 rooms in Schloss Heidelberg is a museum documenting the history of pharmacies and medical science in Germany.

There are 20,000 pieces on display here, but what really captures the imagination are the seven complete pharmacy sets, the earliest dating back to the Renaissance.

The museum has what is claimed to be the world’s largest collection of 18th-century earthenware, as well as valuable majolica, faience and technical glass containers and equipment from the 1600s to the 1800s.

There are also fascinating home or portable pharmacy kits, including a sensational example made mostly from silver in Augsburg in 1640. And you can learn more about the strange things that went in these pots, like bezoar stones, mandrake root and mummia (sometimes made from powdered Egyptian mummies!).

6. Heidelberg Tun

In the cellar of Schloss Heidelberg is a marvel that also needs its own entry.

The Heidelberg Tun is an enormous wine barrel.

It was built in 1751 during the reign of Charles Theodore and when it was completed was able to hold 221,726 litres.

Since then its capacity has shrunk by a couple of thousand litres as the wood has aged.

A container of this size required timber from130 oak trees! The Heidelberg Tun is in fact the fifth in a line of outsized wine barrels at the palace, going back to the first barrel from the 16th century that was destroyed in the Thirty Years’ War.

The barrel has only been used for wine a few times in its history and was filled just three times.

This was done from the floor above via a hole in the ceiling of the cellar.

7. Philosophenweg

On the right bank of the Neckar is a two-kilometre path on high ground presenting views over the city and Schloss Heidelberg across the river.

The path climbs from the Neuenheim district up the Heiligenberg Hill, but you can also access the trail from the Alte Brücke on the east side.

If you do start the walk in the west you’ll start by passing villas and the university’s physics institute in one of Heidelberg’s most affluent neighbourhoods.

Later you’ll arrive at the Philosophengärtchen, a supreme terrace garden where the best views down to the Altstadt and over the Upper Rhine Plain can be had.

Amongst other monuments in the garden there’s a bronze relief of one of the most famous Romantics, Freiherr von Eichendorff, who would use this walk to ruminate, as well as a sandstone platform from which the 17th-cenetury engraver Matthäus Merian captured the city.

8. Heiligenberg

You can take a detour off the Philosophenweg to spend some time exploring the Heiligenberg.

This sandstone hill is 440 metres high and features Heidelberg’s oldest signs of habitation.

The oldest of all is the Celtic defensive wall going back to the 4th century BC. Keep going to the summit and you’ll be met by the ruins of the 11th-century Monastery of St Michael, which was abandoned almost 500 years ago.

There are also two viewing towers you can climb: The Heiligenbergturm dates to the 19th century but was actually built with sandstone blocks from the defunct 11th-century Monastery of St Stephen.

There’s also a tower honouring the first German chancellor Otto von Bismarck, erected in 1903.

9. Church of the Holy Spirit

Heidelberg’s main church first took shape in the 13th century, but was at the turn of the 15th century that it got its current Late Gothic design.

For centuries this building was the burial place of the Palatinate’s Prince Electors.

Today only tomb effigies for the 15th-century Rupert, King of Germany, survives as the 53 others were destroyed in an attack by the French during the Nine Years’ War.

Although this church is protestant today, it changed denomination several times in its past, and for more than 200 years up to 1936 had a barrier so that both Catholics and Protestants could worship here.

Monday to Saturday it’s also possible to scale the tower to look over Heidelberg from the tower’s platform at 38 metres.

10. Studentenkarzer

On Augustinergasse in a Baroque building at the back of the Old University is a small jail where students were temporarily locked up for minor offences.

The jail was in use from the 1770s to the dawn of the First World War, and students would end up here for any number of reasons.

For many it was because of drunken behaviour, practical jokes on the university or city authorities or even duelling, which remained a common activity right up to 1914. Students would be released to attend lectures, but were expected to return to the jail to stay out their sentence, which could last for up to a month.

The reason you have to see the Studentenkarzer is for the graffiti and pictures covering the walls of the jail by students bragging about their exploits.

11. Haus zum Ritter (House of the Knight)

Any visit to Heidelberg’s Altstadt requires a stop at this marvellous building, the oldest burgher house in the city.

The Haus zum Ritter was built in 1592 for the cloth merchants Franziska and Carolus Belier, protestants who had fled Habsburg-controlled Valenciennes.

It is the only burgher house to have survived Heidelberg’s fire in 1693 during the Nine Years’ War and has only recently taken on its current role as a hotel, even if it served as a guest house for a time 300 years ago.

The name of the house comes from the bust of St George in knight’s garb on the pediment.

12. Neckarwiese

The largest green space in the centre of Heidelberg has an idyllic position along the right bank of the river at Neuenheim.

The Neckarwiese cuts inland for an average of 50 metres and between its large lawns are groves of alders, lime trees, poplars and willows, as well as avenues traced by chestnuts.

This space was an ancient ford of Heidelberg’s Roman bridge, which collapsed in the 3rd century.

One of the reasons the Neckarwiese has been left free of housing is because of the annual floods, which still occasionally inundate the park in spring.

On sunny summer days the park is full of people out relaxing enjoying picnics and barbecues.

13. Jesuitenkirche

Located in what was once Heidelburg’s jesuits’ quarter, this Baroque church was built in two phases between 1712 and 1759. Straight away you might sense something unusual about the Jesuitenkirche, because the building isn’t oriented towards the east like most churches, but to the south instead.

For a Baroque church the inside is relatively understated, save for the 18th-century altar painting.

In the northeast corner of the building is the simple tomb for the 15th-century Elector Palatine Frederick I (The Victorious).

14. Königstuhl

On the opposite side of the Neckar Valley from the Heiligenberg is another tall hill, crested by communications masts.

The hill is named the King’s Seat as Heidelberg Palace is on its lower reaches, presents another picturesque view of the city and rises to 567 metres.

You can get up there by taking the Heidelberger Bergbahn, a two-leg funicular railway departing from Kornmarkt in the Altstadt and also serving the palace.

But Königstuhl isn’t just about the views: There are forest walking trails, a small theme park for younger children known as “Märchenparadies” and a falconry.

But maybe the most fascinating thing here is the observatory where the astronomer Karl Wilhelm Reinmuth made almost 400 significant discoveries between 1912 and 1957.

15. Heidelberg Thingstätte

Something else to see at the summit of Heidelberg is a relic from the Nazi period.

The Thingstätte is an amphitheatre built in 1934/35 for Thingspiele.

Essentially, these were propaganda theatre performances, normally rooted in romanticised German folklore.

Very few of these arenas survive, and the dimensions are almost mind-boggling.

Heidelberg’s Thingstätte could seat 8,000 people and has room for another 15,000 standing spectators.

On Walpurgis Night, on the 30 April the arena is filled with people celebrating by lighting traditional bonfires.

15 Best Things to Do in Heidelberg (Germany):

• Schloss Heidelberg
• Alte Brücke (Old Bridge)
• Kurpfälzisches Museum
• Deutsches Apotheken-Museum
• Heidelberg Tun
• Philosophenweg
• Heiligenberg
• Church of the Holy Spirit
• Studentenkarzer
• Haus zum Ritter (House of the Knight)
• Neckarwiese
• Jesuitenkirche
• Heidelberg Thingstätte

Heidelberg - Old Town tour Including Castle visit

• Official Tour Guide exclusively for you and your group.
• Heidelberg Castle and Funicular Ticket for 2 Pax.
• Entry/Admission - Schloss Heidelberg
• Löwenbrunnen, Grabengasse, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany At the Lion fountain (Löwenbrunnen), the tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard. Meeting point can also be fixed at your hotel (if centrally located).
• Heidelberg Palace, Schlosshof 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany The drop-off location can be changed as per your preference.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Alte Universitaet
• Schloss Heidelberg
• Old Bridge (Karl Theodor Bridge)

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Löwenbrunnen Grabengasse, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany At the Lion fountain (Löwenbrunnen), the tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard. Meeting point can also be fixed at your hotel (if centrally located). See address & details
• Pass by Alte Universitaet
• 1 Church of the Holy Spirit Stop: 10 minutes See details Pass by Heidelberger Marktplatz
• 2 Old Bridge (Karl Theodor Bridge) Stop: 10 minutes See details Pass by Philosopher’s Walk Altstadt (Old Town)
• 3 Schloss Heidelberg Stop: 60 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• You'll end at Heidelberg Palace Schlosshof 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany The drop-off location can be changed as per your preference. See address & details

More to explore in Heidelberg

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Heidelberg - Old Town tour Including Castle visit provided by BlackBuck Travels

One Day in Heidelberg Itinerary: A Day Trip from Frankfurt

Last Updated on February 25, 2024

by Paola Drexler

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Planning a one day in Heidelberg itinerary is an excellent idea for those looking for a quick getaway to a historic German city within easy reach of Frankfurt. Whether you visit for a day trip or for an overnight, there’s no denying that it is a lovely destination.

As soon as you reach the town your eyes will find the magnificent Heidelberg Palace tower above the city. Located on the Neckar River and south of Frankfurt, the city of Heidelberg is a perfect place to visit. With its eternal beauty and deep history, you might even be enchanted to stay longer.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Heidelberg?

As a beautiful and historic city with a charming market square and imposing castle, you may be wondering how many days to spend in Heidelberg in order to do it justice and see the top site.

The good news is, if you’re short on time, just one day in the city is enough to take in the central highlights. In fact, it can even be visited as a day trip from Frankfurt!

Its compact nature means that a one-day itinerary for Heidelberg is an excellent way to see the city.

However, if you have more time, there are still plenty of things that can keep you occupied in and around the city.

For example, for people wanting to spend 2 days in Heidelberg, you’ll be able to wander outside the central area and explore the northern parts of the Neckar River or different museums that interest you.

If you are planning to spend 3 days exploring the city and its surrounding area you can add a stroll around the zoo or botanical garden.

No matter the length of your trip, you’ll find ways to perfectly fill your days and experience the city to the fullest. If you need help deciding how many days are right for you, continue reading to better plan your perfect visit to Heidelberg.

Getting To & Around Heidelberg

If you want to go on an organised day trip to Heidelberg from Frankfurt there are several options. This half-day tour and this guided day tour focus on the highlights of the city with a professional guide.

Other options include this full-day tour from Frankfurt that combines Heidelberg and some of the Rhine Valley or this full-day tour that goes to Heidelberg and Baden-Baden in the Black Forest.

If you want to do the trip independently, getting from Frankfurt to Heidelberg is as easy as hopping on an ICE high-speed train at the Frankfurt Central Station headed to Mannheim, then switching there to an S-Bahn to Heidelberg.

The trip should take less than an hour and you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful countryside on the way.

There are also buses that can take you to the desired destination. You can reach the city conveniently from most European cities such as Hamburg , Brussels , Cologne or Dusseldorf . You can view train and bus schedules here .

Of course, Heidelberg is also easily accessible through other modes of transportation. For example, if you’ve rented a car then you can drive to the city following the signs leading to Heidelberg. You can browse rental car options here .

If you’re getting to the city by rail, Heidelberg’s main train station is located a bit outside of the city’s old town and historic centre, so you will likely want to use the public transport system to, at the very least, get to all of the main sites.

Once you arrive in the city centre you’ll be able to get around on foot since most of the main attractions are very close to each other and you can opt for a tram or bus ride to any of the further points of interest. Like in most German cities, you’ll have the option to buy single-ride tickets or a HeidelbergCard .

With the HeidelbergCard you’ll have the added bonus of unlimited rides on public transportation, as well as free entry or discounted prices at main attractions and restaurants in the city.

1-Day Heidelberg Itinerary

This route through Heidelberg will guide you through the highlights of the city within the confines of a single day.

Heidelberg Old Town

Once you arrive in the city, you’ll start your journey at the Altstadt, the old town of Heidelberg. This part of the townhouses numerous shops, pubs, restaurants and more. Of the war-damaged areas, Old Town was luckily not one of them. From here you have a perfect view of the striking castle on the hill.

As you walk around, you’ll come across a famous street called Hauptstraße that runs through the entirety of the Old Town. The road is also known for being one of Europe’s oldest and longest pedestrian zones.

You can organise an Old Town walking tour here .

Heidelberg Castle

After getting a feel of the Old Town, you’ll make your way towards the hill to Heidelberg Castle or Schloss Heidelberg in German.

Once a full castle made for royalty, it is now left in ruins after centuries of damage from war, fires, and natural decay. The first construction of the castle dates back to the 13th century, with the most recent additions dating to the Renaissance. Soak in the historic atmosphere when you visit the ruins.

Right below the castle, you can have a look at the world’s largest wine barrel in the Heidelberg Tun. Down in the castle’s wine cellar you can experience the grand barrel and all its glory and learn about its history while sipping on some wine or dancing on top of the barrel.

There’s no doubt that this beautiful castle is one of the best places to visit in Heidelberg.

Kornmarkt and Heidelberg Marktplatz

After the castle, on your way to the iconic Alte Brücke, you’ll pass two stunning and quaint city squares – the Kornmarket and Heidelberg Marktplatz.

You’ll notice that although near to each other in the heart of the city, the squares are unique and beautiful in their own way. Annually in December, you can visit the city’s Christmas market in the cute Kornmarkt, which not only brings in the holiday joy and spirit but also people from far and near.

As the main gathering spot for centuries, the Heidelberg Marktplatz has seen its fair share of terror back in the Middle Ages when the square was used for executions of criminals.

However, now you can shop on most days and stroll the fresh market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, in case you visit Heidelberg on one of those days you’ll know where to buy fresh produce, flowers and more.

Heiliggeistkirche

As you continue towards the river, you will see the Heiliggeistkirche, or Church of the Holy Spirit in English, which holds tons of the city’s history and is conveniently located right in the middle of Old Town. It’s an unmissable stop on a Heidelberg day trip itinerary.

This church was where Heidelberg University was founded and it holds the church’s founder’s grave in it.

Visitors can climb up 208 steps to enjoy a lovely view of the city. If you continue on Hauptstraße, you’ll pass by a historical yet well-preserved house that was one of the few to survive the Palatinae War in the city called the Haus zum Ritter or the house to the knight St. Georg.

Additionally, along the way, you can take a peek inside the charming Jesuitenkirche, or Jesuit Church, which is the heart of the city’s Roman Catholic community.

Alte Brücke and Philosophenweg

Next, you’ll walk across the Alte Brücke (Old Bridge), less commonly known as the Karl Theodor Bridge named after its creator. Before getting all the way across, stop around halfway and take a look back at the castle. Visiting the Old Bridge is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Heidelberg.

The magical view you’ll get has been printed on countless postcards and now you get to see it in person. Once you get across you can follow the Neckar west to reach the snaky path known as the Philosophenweg.

The peaceful Philosophenweg, its name is thought to come from philosophers and university professors walking the same path, can spark some inspiration and give you a taste of nature.

Heidelberg University

Established in 1386 and thanks to its ripe old age of 636 years, the university is the oldest university in Germany. Its official name is the Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg, but people usually call it Heidelberg University. The school ranks high in not only Europe but also compared to other prestigious universities around the world. You can admire the university on your own.

To finish off your day with some calm and mesmerising sights, after the university, you can wander around the park along the river called the Neckarwiese.

Now that you’ve successfully completed your one day in Heidelberg, you can decide to extend your trip or head back to Frankfurt.

Have 2 or 3 Days in Heidelberg?

While Heidelberg in one day is enough time to see most of the city’s popular sights, if you wish to extend your trip by a few days, there are definitely additional activities and fun things to do in Heidelberg.

For those looking to spend 2 days exploring Heidelberg, there are excellent and slightly longer walks or hikes you can do to get into nature and see the city through a different lens. 

On your second day, you can head north of Old Town and across the Neckar River to find Heiligenberg, also referred to as All Saints’ Mountain.

Also on the Heiligenberg, you can walk through the Heidelberg Thingstätte which is an open-air theatre that is now a cultural monument but is also used for events. The seating and stage look quite spectacular as it appears to be built into the hill and allows for great acoustics.

To get a breathtaking view of Heidelberg and the river from higher up, you can hike the Odenwald Mountains up to the Königstuhl hill. On King’s Seat Mountain, visitors can hop on a historical train that takes you to the top where you can get an incredible panorama extending to even the Black Forest.

On the Odenwald, you’ll also find the Dilsberg Fortress, which is a castle ruin that was built around the 12th century. You can walk around the village and castle grounds, as well as enjoy a full 360° view of the surrounding Odenwald forest and river.

If you still haven’t had enough palaces, just around 15 minutes by car or about 45 by public transportation, you can visit the Schwetzingen Palace.

For travellers who want to see more of the city and plan to do 3 days in the city, the city is your oyster and you’ll find plenty to do.

If the weather allows it, you can visit the Heidelberg Zoo on your third day or tour the oldest botanical garden in Germany. In case the weather is better on the second day, you can always exchange the days or mix and match certain activities.

If you’re interested in archaeology and art you can find it at the Kurpfälzisches Museum in the Palais Morass.

If apothecary history is more your style, you can tour the Deutsches Apotheken-Museum and learn all there is to know about the city’s pharmaceutical history located right in the Heidelberg castle. 

Where to Stay in Heidelberg

Hotel Zur Alten Brücke – Located near the Old Bridge, this 3-star hotel is an excellent choice for visitors to Heidelberg. They have a range of lovely rooms on offer, an excellent breakfast available in the mornings and the perfect location for exploring this beautiful German city.

Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg – Those looking for luxury will love this opulent hotel located in the centre of old Heidelberg. They have countless plush rooms available, a number of great amenities available, castle views and there is even a spa for guests to enjoy.

Staycity Aparthotels Heidelberg – These apartments are a great choice for those who want to have their own space in Heidelberg. They have a great central location, all of the amenities and convenience of a hotel and a number of fully-furnished flats to choose from.

Lotte – The Backpackers – If you’re visiting Heidelberg solo or on a budget, then this hostel is an excellent place to rest your head. They have a range of dorms and some private rooms to choose from, a great location for exploring the city and good common areas and self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Heidelberg hotels!

As you will soon see for yourself, spending one day will definitely allow you to get to know the dreamy and sweet city of Heidelberg. However, if after your first day, you feel like you want some more time in this fairytale destination then it’s no problem, there’s plenty to add to your Heidelberg itinerary. Just don’t forget your crown and enjoy your trip!

Are you planning to visit Heidelberg? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Munich or Frankfurt: Which German City to Visit?

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Hamburg Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Dusseldorf Itinerary

About Paola Drexler

Paola is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the state of Arizona in the USA, she lived in Germany before moving to the United Kingdom. Paola loves spending her free time travelling in Europe and sometimes ever further afield.

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• At a glance: visitor information
• App „Monument BW“
• How to find us
• At a glance: visitor experience
• Castle & garden
• Hidden treasures

German Apothecary Museum

• At a glance: interesting & amusing
• History of design
• Collections
• Conferences & Celebrations
• At a glance: Press & media
• Press releases
• Press images
• Media contact
• At a Glance: monuments
• Monasteries
• Declaration on barrier-free access

Visitor Information

Opening times.

Viewing the interiors is only possible in a guided tour; for times of tours see below.

all year long

Palace garden.

Open to the public during daylight hours

1 April to 7 january

8 january to 31 march, guided tours, 6 november to 31 march, 1 april to 31 october, 1 april to 31 october.

Group tours, also outside opening times, available by arrangement. Special tours as per schedule and by arrangement.

Palace Ticket

Includes use of the Funicular Railway, Courtyard, Great Tun, German Apothecary Museum

Guided Tours (additional fee)

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7 Castles We Visited In Germany That Should Be On Your 2024 List

• Germany's 25,000 standing castles span various architectural periods, offering a glimpse into its rich history and culture.
• Cochem Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Hohenzollern Castle are must-visit fairytale-like structures with fascinating histories.
• Plan your visit to these fairytale German castles in advance and enjoy the scenic routes, guided tours, and breathtaking views they offer year-round.

Did you know that there are 25,000 castles still standing in Germany ? These beautiful structures from the Medieval, Romantic, Renaissance, Romanesque, and even Gothic architectural periods are still well-preserved and give us a glimpse into Germany's long history.

Germany has this magical talent for making us feel like we've stepped through the pages of a fairytale, and Germany's must-see castles are no exception! Walking through the ornate halls, stone walls, and even dungeons of these fortresses always makes me think of the people who used to live there hundreds of years ago and the lengths we've gone to preserve their history. Each one is unique and is one of the many things I enjoy most about living in Germany.

If you're visiting in 2024, be sure to add these castles in Germany to your bucket list, which I've visited and can highly recommend!

12 Unique Foods In Germany You Should Not Miss Out On

Cochem castle, cochem, this imperial castle was built during the middle ages and sits perched above cochem and the mosel river.

Cochem Castle (or Reichsburg Castle) is the crowning jewel of Cochem, a small town that sits on the Mosel River. It was first built in the 12th century during the Middle Ages and later restored in the 19th century.

If you're visiting Cochem for the day, I highly recommend taking the 10-15 minute hiking route up to the castle. There is an option to take the shuttle, but the hiking path is much more enjoyable, and you get some pretty breathtaking views on the way up. Plus, the path is very clearly marked, so it's pretty hard to get lost.

You can take a guided tour of the Imperial Cochem Castle which takes place every 15 minutes. All tours are in German during the week, but they offer guided tours in English on Saturdays and Sundays at certain times throughout the day .

Cochem Castle's hours change during the summer and winter seasons and holidays.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Bavaria

This was one of the last castles ever built in germany and it remains unfinished.

Neuschwanstein Castle, the famous castle that inspired Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle , sits at the foothills of the Bavarian Alps in southern Germany and has a fascinating history!

The castle was built in 1869 for King Ludwig II (the "Mad King") in a very secluded area so that it wouldn't be disturbed by strangers. However, King Ludwig II only lived in the castle for 172 days before he died, and the castle still remains unfinished to this day. Because it's still unfinished, the tour of the castle only lasts for about 25 minutes, but it's still worth seeing!

It's best to purchase tickets for Neuschwanstein Castle early online. That way, you can make your way straight to the castle without waiting in the queue. Afterward, you can walk to Queen Mary's Bridge to get a staggering view of the castle and make your way back down the footpath to the village.

Drive Germany's Romantic Road To See An Ancient Roman Route & Medieval Castles

Heidelberg castle, heidelberg, heidelberg castle is 810 years old and has been rebuilt several times.

About one hour south of Frankfurt is a gorgeous town on the Neckar River called Heidelberg. Similar to Cochem, Heidelberg Castle sits above the town overlooking the Altstadt (Old Town) and the river below. It was home to the Palatinate Electors for centuries and was partially destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. Over the centuries, every ruler who lived here would add new structures to the castle.

Today, you can explore the ruins of the castle and see hints of Renaissance, Gothic, and Late Renaissance architecture. You can access the Palace for about €9 and take a German or English guided tour of the castle for €6. Heidelberg is the perfect one-day road trip destination and offers so much to explore!

Burg Eltz, Wierschem

Eltz castle has never been conquered or destroyed and is still owned by the eltz family.

By far one of my personal favorite fairytale castles in Germany is Burg Eltz , located in the Eifel Region. This is a very unique structure and is one of Germany's most amazing castles that will make you feel like royalty !

Burg Eltz is tucked away in the Mosel Valley and surrounded by nothing but forests and streams. Because of its advantageous position, the castle has never been conquered or destroyed and is one of only three castles in this region that remains intact.

There's a 15-minute hike you'll have to take to get to the castle, and it costs €14 to enter the grounds and go on an in-depth guided tour. While you're there, stop at the Burg Eltz restaurant for a bite and enjoy views of the valley down below.

10 Incredibly Preserved Historic Places in Germany That You Won't Believe Exist

Burg rheinstein, trechtingshausen, you can spend the night in this medieval castle on the rhine river.

Located on a steep overhang on the Rhine River, this romantic castle is a sweet hidden gem in a town called Trechtingshausen that's overflowing with history, homemade foods, and wine. This medieval castle is located right in the middle of sweeping vineyards in the Middle Rhine region, which is a large producer of wines , particularly Rieslings.

What makes Burg Rheinstein so special is that it is family-owned and run. Everyone is so welcoming and the atmosphere is 100% family-friendly. It's also a great spot for a romantic date night. You can enjoy dining at the castle restaurant or café, sip a glass of wine, tour the rose gardens, and even spend the night in the castle.

Lichtenstein Castle, Baden-Wrttemberg

This beautiful castle in germany is both medieval and romantic.

I know it sounds confusing, but this castle is not located in the small micro-country of Liechtenstein. Lichtenstein Castle , located in Baden-Württemberg in southern Germany, is a small, fairytale-esque castle that rests on a clifftop.

Inside, you'll find a treasure trove of medieval artifacts, including suits of armor, tapestries, and antique furniture that reflect the Medievalism and Romanticism of the period it was built in.

Guided tours of Lichtenstein Castle are around 30 minutes since the castle is small, but I promise it's worth it. This area near the castle is also home to the most incredible Christmas markets in Germany , so I recommend revisiting it during the winter!

Hohenzollern Castle, Hechingen

This medieval castle has been rebuilt three separate times.

Last but certainly not least on the list of castles to visit in Germany, Hohenzollern Castle is the most romantic and imposing hilltop castle in Germany and is a must-see this year! Plus, Hohenzollern Castle is only a 40-minute drive from Lichtenstein Castle.

This medieval castle was built on the top of Mount Hohenzollern in the early 11th century and has been destroyed and rebuilt three times. The latest version that we see today was completed in 1867, two years before Neuschwanstein Castle was built, making Hohenzollern Castle one of the last castles to ever be built in Germany.

I recommend visiting Hohenzollern Castle during the summer or fall when the mountain is covered in fall colors.

UEFA EURO 2024 Trophy Tour continues through Germany

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Article summary

The Henri Delaunay Cup is making its way through Germany ahead of UEFA EURO 2024, and fans in the host cities of Frankfurt, Cologne, Dusseldorf, Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen have now seen the iconic trophy up close.

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We’re just seven weeks away from the start of UEFA EURO 2024, and the festivities have already started in Germany as the Trophy Tour has been continuing to make its way through the ten host cities.

The event kicked off in Stuttgart on 22 March and has since been to Frankfurt, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund and Gelsenkirchen, with fans across western Germany getting the chance to see the iconic Henri Delaunay trophy and meet some special guests.

Excitement builds across the country

The second stop on the Trophy Tour was Frankfurt, where the silverware embarked on a photo tour through the city, including Frankfurt Arena, which will host five matches at UEFA EURO 2024.

The trophy was then put on display at the MyZeil shopping centre, where tournament ambassador Célia Šašić was in attendance alongside Host City ambassador and former Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Alexander Meier, who signed autographs for fans before taking part in a Q&A session with other local guests. Meanwhile, 11-time table football world champion Chris Marks showed off his skills, with two more tables available for fans to use.

The Tour then moved onto Cologne, which will also host five EURO 2024 matches. Tournament director Philipp Lahm accompanied the trophy on a photo tour ending at the German Sports & Olympic Museum, where fans were able to take pictures with the cup. Lahm then took part in a talk with Mayor Henriette Reker and Host City ambassador Toni Schumacher, who won the 1980 UEFA European Championship with West Germany.

In Düsseldorf, Lahm met Host City ambassadors Sandra Mikolaschek, a two-time Paralympian in para table tennis, and Selin Oruz, Olympic bronze medallist in hockey, following a photo tour taking in the sights of the city and inviting local football clubs to join in the fun. The Merkur-Spiel Arena will stage five EURO 2024 games, including the third quarter-final on Saturday 6 July.

The next stop was Dortmund, where fans were treated to an afternoon of fun family-friendly activities at Friedensplatz, including football-themed games and plenty of food and drink options. The trophy was paraded through the city, with stops including the German Football Museum and BVB Stadion, which will host six EURO 2024 matches, culminating in the second semi-final on Wednesday 10 July.

The trophy then made the short trip to Gelsenkirchen and the Arena AufSchalke, where four EURO 2024 matches are scheduled to take place. It was greeted at the stadium by Host City ambassador, 43-cap Germany forward and Schalke 04 legend Gerald Asamoah. Along with former teammate Émile Mpenza, Asamoah took part in a penalty shootout challenge before watching a tournament for local youth teams with mascot Albärt. Schalke players were also in attendance and signed autographs for the children, who could take photos with the trophy.

The Trophy Tour’s final stops

The UEFA EURO 2024 Trophy Tour now heads to the capital Berlin before making its last three stops in Leipzig, Hamburg and Munich, where it ends on 14 May, exactly a month before the tournament kicks off.

Through its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Strategy , UEFA EURO 2024 aims to be a reference point for sustainability in the world of sports, and a driving force for sustainable development in Germany and beyond. The Trophy Tour is playing an important role by bringing the festivities to supporters across Germany, while fostering ties with local organisations and supporting grassroots football.

Keep up to date with all the latest UEFA EURO 2024 news .