What to do in Heidelberg, Germany: Travel Guide and Tips

Explore Heidelberg in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, through its historic castle, university, old town, and scenic river valley.

Heidelberg is a charming city in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. It is famous for its historic castle, university, picturesque old town, and scenic river valley. Heidelberg is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the culture, history, and beauty of Germany.

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Here are some tips and suggestions on what to do, see, and eat to make the most of your trip in Heidelberg, Germany.

Table of Contents

Brief History of Heidelberg Germany

Heidelberg Germany has a long and rich history that dates back to the 5th century BC, when it was inhabited by Celtic tribes. Later, it became a Roman settlement and then a medieval town. In the 14th century, Heidelberg became the capital of the Palatinate, a powerful state within the Holy Roman Empire. It was also the birthplace of the Protestant Reformation in Germany, as Martin Luther defended his 95 Theses at the Heidelberg Disputation in 1518.

Heidelberg Germany reached its golden age in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it was a center of art, science, and literature. It was home to many famous figures, such as Johannes Kepler, Friedrich Schiller, and Mark Twain. However, it also suffered from wars, fires, and plagues that destroyed much of its buildings and population. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Heidelberg Germany was rebuilt and modernized, becoming a hub of industry and education. It also attracted many romantic poets and painters who were inspired by its beauty and atmosphere.

In the 20th century, Heidelberg Germany faced more challenges and changes, as it was occupied by French and American troops after World War I and World War II. It also became a hotspot of student protests and social movements in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, Heidelberg Germany is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that preserves its heritage while embracing innovation and diversity.

Where is Heidelberg Germany

Heidelberg Germany is located in the southwest of Germany, about 80 km south of Frankfurt and 120 km northwest of Stuttgart. It is situated in the Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan Region, which is one of the largest and most dynamic economic areas in Germany. It has a population of about 160,000 people, of which about 30,000 are students.

How to go to Heidelberg Germany

Heidelberg Germany is well-connected by various modes of transportation. You can reach it by:

Plane: The nearest international airport is Frankfurt Airport (FRA), which is about an hour away by train or car. You can also fly to Stuttgart Airport (STR) or Baden Airpark (FKB), which are about 90 minutes away by car.
Train: Heidelberg Germany has two main train stations: Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof (central station) and Heidelberg Altstadt (old town station). You can find direct or connecting trains from major cities in Germany and Europe, such as Berlin, Munich, Cologne, Paris, Amsterdam, Zurich, etc.
Bus: You can also take long-distance buses from various destinations in Germany and Europe to Heidelberg Germany. Some of the bus companies that operate in Heidelberg are Flixbus, Eurolines, BlaBlaBus, etc.
Car: You can drive to Heidelberg Germany via several highways (Autobahnen), such as A5, A6, A61, A656, etc. However, be aware that parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center.

Some services and transfer that can help your planning:

Heidelberg Card for 1, 2 or 4 Days
- With just one card valid for 1, 2, or 4 days you can discover the city of Heidelberg at your own pace. With the Heidelberg Card you get entrance tickets to Heidelberg Castle, a cable car ride up to the castle, and many discounts and special offers.
From Frankfurt: Heidelberg & Baden-Baden Full-Day Tour
- Visit romantic Heidelberg on the Neckar, one of the most beautiful old cities in Germany. In the afternoon, drive over the motorway to Baden-Baden, one of the most famous spa cities in Germany.

What are the best times to visit Heidelberg Germany

Heidelberg Germany is a year-round destination that offers something for everyone in every season. However, some of the best times to visit Heidelberg are:

Spring (March-May): This is when Heidelberg Germany comes alive with colorful flowers and greenery. The weather is mild and pleasant, and there are many festivals and events to enjoy.
Summer (June-August): This is the peak season for tourism in Heidelberg Germany. The weather is warm and sunny, but also humid and rainy at times. The city is bustling with activities and attractions, such as open-air concerts, boat tours, beer gardens, etc.
Autumn (September-November): This is when Heidelberg Germany shows its romantic side with golden foliage and crisp air. The weather is cool and comfortable,
and there are fewer crowds and lower prices.
Winter (December-February): This is when Heidelberg Germany turns into a winter wonderland with snow-capped roofs and sparkling lights. The weather is cold
and cloudy but also cozy and festive. The city offers many winter attractions,
such as Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, mulled wine stalls etc.

Where to stay in Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers of different budgets and preferences. You can choose from resorts, hotels, hostels, and bed and breakfasts.

Some of the best areas to stay in Heidelberg are:

The Old Town: This is the heart of Heidelberg, where you can find many attractions, restaurants, shops, and bars. The Old Town is also very walkable and has a lot of charm and character.
The Weststadt: This is a residential area that is close to the main train station and the university. It is quieter and more relaxed than the Old Town, but still has some nice cafes and restaurants.
The Neuenheim: This is a trendy and modern area that is across the river from the Old Town. It has a lot of green spaces, parks, and gardens. It is also home to some of the best views of the castle and the city.

Some of the best places to stay in Heidelberg are:

Hotel Zum Ritter St. Georg: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of the old town, in a historic building dating back to 1592. The hotel features spacious rooms with antique furniture, a restaurant serving regional cuisine, and a terrace overlooking the main square.
NH Heidelberg: This modern hotel is situated near the main train station, with easy access to the city center and the castle. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, a spa, and a bar.
Steffis Hostel Heidelberg: This cozy hostel is a great option for backpackers and budget travelers. The hostel has dorms and private rooms with shared bathrooms, a kitchen, a lounge, and a garden. The hostel is close to the river and the old bridge.
Heidelberg Apheartments: The well equipped apartments offer free WiFi and some of them also feature a balcony or terrace. The accommodations is located just 1640 feet from Heidelberg Castle.

There are also some other accommodation options in hotels, hostels and inns, be sure to check them out at Booking.com page.

What to do in Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg has many attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. You can explore the city’s history, culture, art, and nature. Some of the things you can do in Heidelberg are:

Visit the Heidelberg Castle: The castle is the most iconic landmark of Heidelberg. It is perched on a hill overlooking the city and the river. The castle was built in different styles over several centuries, and was partly destroyed by wars and fires. You can admire the architecture, visit the museum, see the world’s largest wine barrel, and enjoy the panoramic views.
Stroll through the Old Town: The old town of Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved in Germany. It is full of narrow streets, colorful houses, quaint shops, cafes, and churches. You can see the Old Bridge, the Church of the Holy Spirit, the Old University, and the Market Square.
Enjoy the Philosopher’s Walk: The Philosopher’s Walk is a scenic path along the opposite bank of the river from the old town. It was named after the university professors who used to walk there to meditate and discuss ideas. The walk offers stunning views of the city, the castle, and the valley. You can also see some gardens, monuments, and ruins along the way.
Discover the Heidelberg Zoo: The zoo is a fun place to visit for families and animal lovers. The zoo has more than 1,000 animals from different continents and habitats. You can see lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, monkeys, penguins, and more. The zoo also has a playground, a petting zoo, and a restaurant.

Sightseeing Cruise on the Neckar River – Board a sightseeing cruise on the Neckar River in Heidelberg. See the Old Bridge and marvel at views of Heidelberg Castle from a unique perspective, and sip on a cup of warming mulled wine in winter.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg has many attractions that will appeal to different tastes and interests. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Heidelberg Castle: This is the landmark of the city and a must-see for any visitor. The castle is a mix of different architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, and offers stunning views of the city and the Neckar river. You can explore the castle grounds, visit the German Pharmacy Museum, and see the world’s largest wine barrel.
Old Bridge: This is another iconic sight of Heidelberg, a stone bridge that crosses the Neckar river and connects the old town with the opposite bank. The bridge dates back to the 18th century and features a beautiful gate tower and statues of saints and heroes.
Old Town: This is the heart of Heidelberg, where you can wander through narrow streets and alleys, admire the colorful houses and churches, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The old town is home to many shops, cafes, restaurants, and cultural venues, such as the University Museum, the Palatinate Museum, and the Church of the Holy Spirit.
Philosophers’ Walk: This is a scenic path that runs along the hillside on the opposite bank of the river. It offers panoramic views of the city and the castle, as well as a peaceful escape from the crowds. The walk is named after the philosophers and scholars who used to stroll here in search of inspiration.

BODY WORLDS Museum Entrance Ticket – Go on an exciting journey under the skin through interactive exhibits with an entrance ticket to the newly redesigned BODY WORLDS Museum in Heidelberg. See unique plastinates that explain the body’s most important functions, organs, and diseases.

Heidelberg Zoo: This is a great place to visit with kids or animal lovers. The zoo has more than 1,000 animals from different continents, including lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, penguins, and more. You can also enjoy shows, feedings, and interactive exhibits.
Market Square: This is the main square of the old town, where you can find the Town Hall, the Hercules Fountain, and a statue of Martin Luther. The square is also a popular spot for events and festivals, such as the Christmas Market in December.
Student Prison: This is a unique attraction that showcases the history and traditions of Heidelberg University. The student prison was used from the 18th to the 20th century to detain students who committed minor offenses, such as dueling or drinking. The walls are covered with graffiti and drawings made by the inmates.
Botanical Garden: This is a green oasis in the city center, where you can admire more than 10,000 plant species from around the world. The garden has different sections, such as tropical greenhouses, alpine gardens, medicinal plants, and more.
Thingstätte: This is an open-air amphitheater that was built by the Nazis in 1935 as a propaganda venue. Today, it is used for cultural events and concerts, especially on Walpurgis Night (April 30th), when thousands of people gather here for a bonfire and music.
Königstuhl: This is the highest point of Heidelberg, at 568 meters above sea level. You can reach it by car or by cable car from the old town. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Night Watchman Historic Adventure Tour – Discover the history of Heidelberg in an interactive and unique way on a walking tour led by a Night Watchman. See the city’s sights as you hear stories about those less fortunate, and uncover the secrets of its medieval history.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit Heidelberg

If you only have one day to visit Heidelberg, you can still see the main attractions and get a taste of the city. Here are some suggestions for how to spend your day:

Start your day with a visit to the Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive and iconic landmarks of the city. You can take a funicular or walk up the hill to reach the castle, which offers stunning views of the city and the Neckar river. You can explore the castle grounds, admire the architecture and learn about its history at the museum.
After visiting the castle, head down to the old town, where you can stroll along the Hauptstrasse, the main pedestrian street that is lined with shops, cafes and restaurants. You can also visit some of the historic buildings and churches, such as the Old Bridge, the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Old University.
For lunch, you can choose from a variety of options in the old town, ranging from traditional German cuisine to international dishes. You can also try some local specialties, such as Heidelberg student kiss (a chocolate praline) or Heidelberger Schlossgeist (a liqueur made from herbs and spices).
In the afternoon, you can continue exploring the old town or take a boat trip on the Neckar river to enjoy the scenery and relax. You can also visit some of the museums and galleries in Heidelberg, such as the Kurpfälzisches Museum (a museum of art and history) or the Deutsches Apotheken-Museum (a museum of pharmacy).
For dinner, you can head to one of the many bars and restaurants in Heidelberg, where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and a variety of food and drinks. You can also experience some of the nightlife in Heidelberg, which offers live music, comedy shows and clubs.

Private 3-Hour Tour with Castle Visit – Discover the picturesque old town of Heidelberg and its castle ruins on this private 3-hour historical walking tour. Stroll along one of the longest pedestrian zones in Germany, admire the beautiful Old Bridge, and see the Church of the Spirit.

Where to eat in Heidelberg – Tips for bars and restaurants

Heidelberg has a lot of options for eating and drinking, catering to different tastes and budgets.

Some of the traditional German and local specialties that you should try are:

Schnitzel: This is a thin slice of meat (usually pork or veal) that is breaded and fried. It is often served with fries, salad, or potato salad.
Spätzle: This is a type of egg noodle that is soft and chewy. It is usually mixed with cheese or meat sauce.
Flammkuchen: This is a thin crust pizza that is topped with sour cream, bacon, onion, and cheese.
Lebkuchen: This is a type of gingerbread that is spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and honey. It is often shaped into hearts or stars and decorated with icing or chocolate.
Glühwein: This is a hot mulled wine that is flavored with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and orange peel. It is a popular drink during winter and Christmas markets.

Here are some tips for where to eat in Heidelberg:

If you want to try some authentic German food, you can go to Schnitzelbank, a cozy restaurant that serves hearty portions of schnitzel, sausages and other meat dishes. You can also try Zum Roten Ochsen, a historic tavern that has been serving beer and food since 1703.
If you want to taste some international cuisine, you can go to Red – The Steakhouse & Bar, a modern restaurant that specializes in steaks and burgers. You can also try Maharaja Palace, an Indian restaurant that offers a buffet and a la carte menu.
If you want to have a drink or a snack, you can go to Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a brewery that produces its own beer and serves pretzels and other snacks. You can also go to Destille, a pub that has a large selection of beers, wines and spirits.

Culinary city tour with delicious samples – Experience the culinary diversity of Heidelberg on this food tasting tour. Try regional specialties, international cuisine, and exquisite desserts while getting to know the city.

Key tips and practical information of Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a relatively easy city to visit, but there are some things you should know before you go. Here are some key tips and practical information of Heidelberg:

The best time to visit Heidelberg is from April to October, when the weather is mild and sunny. The peak season is from June to August, when the city is crowded with tourists. The off-season is from November to March, when the weather is cold and rainy.
The best way to get around Heidelberg is by public transport or by foot. The city has a good network of buses and trams that cover most of the areas. You can buy tickets at machines or kiosks. You can also rent a bike or use a taxi if you prefer.
The best way to get to Heidelberg is by train or by car. The city has a main train station that connects it with other major cities in Germany and Europe. You can also drive to Heidelberg via highways A5 or A656. There are parking lots and garages available in the city center.
The currency used in Heidelberg is the euro (EUR). You can exchange money at banks or ATMs. You can also use credit cards or debit cards at most places. You should tip around 10% at restaurants and bars.

Heidelberg is a city that will enchant you with its beauty, history, and culture. It is a place where you can enjoy both nature and urban life. Whether you are looking for romance, adventure, or education, Heidelberg has something for everyone.

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