Heidelberg, nestled in the hills along the Neckar River, is one of the most picturesque destinations in Germany. It was saved by Allied bombers in WWII and preserves many of the city’s historical treasures that placed it at the center of 18th-century romanticism.
From Heidelberg Castle to the university, to scenic walks through the vineyards and along the Neckar River, these are the best things to see and do in Heidelberg.
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Walk to Heidelberg Castle
Direction
Schlosshof 1, 69117 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 6221 658880
Web
Visit the website
The ruins of Heidelberger Castle sit on a rocky hill above the Altstadt (Old Town) of the city. Heidelberg Schloss is one of the most impressive castles in Europe and a highlight along the German Castle Route.
An estimated 1 million visitors head to the castle each year. Walk through the gardens and sculpted gardens for free while taking in views of the city and river, before paying for a guided tour of the remaining rooms.
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Explore the old town of Heidelberg
Direction
69117 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 6221 540
Web
Visit the website
At the foot of the Schloss , explore Heidelberg’s Altstadt (Old Town) for architectural gems.
Visit the Rathaus (City Hall), the University, 1592 Renaissance House Knight St. George, and unique market squares. Start at Hauptstraße , Heidelberg’s main pedestrian street lined with shops, and find the historic Bismarckplatz . At Marktplatz , look for the Hercules Fountain. In medieval times, this is where petty criminals were chained to be humiliated.
03
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Reflect on the Heidelberg Philosopher’s Walk
Direction
Philosophenweg, 69120 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Follow in the footsteps of Heidelberg’s many philosophers and poets on the 300-year-old Philosophenweg (Philosopher’s Walk). It is a scenic hike, but quite steep, to the top of a hill.
Thanks to Heidelberg’s mild climate, exotic plants like Japanese cherries, cypresses, bamboo, gingko and lemon trees flourish along the way. Luminaries like Hegel, Jaspers and Hannah Arendt came here to behold. Visitors enjoy the stunning views from across the river valley from Heidelberg Castle.
04
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Be blessed by a monkey on the old bridge
Direction
Karlstrasse, 69120 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Web
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Heidelberg’s Alte Brücke (Old Bridge) is an impressive stone bridge built in the 18th century, but actually dates back to the Middle Ages. The original structure was made of wood and destroyed by fire. Stroll across the bridge for more fabulous views of Heidelberg, as well as its twin-tower neighbor Brückentor .
The bridge, which spans the Neckar River and leads to the old town, has several towers (with dungeons) and various monuments and sculptures. One of the most recognized is the Heidelberg monkey. He is holding a mirror that is rumored to bring wealth if you touch it. The monkey also brings other gifts such as a return to Heidelberg if you touch his fingers and the children if you touch the mice.
05
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Party with the students
Direction
Untere Str., 69117 Heidelberg, AlemaniaGet directions
Heidelberg is home to the oldest university in Germany, which today has more than 30,000 students. If you want a taste (and maybe a drink) of Heidelberg’s vibrant university life, head to Untere Strasse.
The narrow cobblestone street, which runs parallel to the river and the main pedestrian street in the old town, is lined with cheap bars, cafes and restaurants.
06
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Spend some time in the student prison
Direction
Augustinergasse 2, 69117 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 6221 543554
Web
Visit the website
Dueling, excessive drinking and joking were punishable offenses for Heidelberg students until 1914. The culprits were forced to spend time in the Karzer (student prison), only allowed to attend class. To pass the time, they decorated the cells with paintings, graffiti, verses and works of art.
The prison is now open to the public and is located on Augustinergasse , just behind the Old University in the old town.
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Soak up the scene on the banks of the Heidelberg River
Direction
Uferstrasse 17, 69120 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 6221 5810580
Web
Visit the website
Take a break at Neckarwiese , on the banks of the Neckar River, near the old town. In addition to the unobstructed views of Heidelberg Castle, the grassy stretch along the river offers plenty of space to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the tranquility of the river valley and forests beyond. If you want to be more active, you can also rent a rowboat.
08
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Take the seat of the king
Direction
Königstuhl, 69117 Heidelberg, GermanyGet directions
Head 7 km east of Heidelberg to Königstuhl (King’s Seat), a high hill that rises above the valley for magnificent views. The summit is part of the Odenwald Mountains and is accessible via the Heidelberg Mountain Railway. This is the same funicular that visitors can use to reach Heidelberg Castle.
