Heidelberg is one of the most romantic cities in Germany and is located on the Neckar River in southwest Germany. It is the perfect destination for any visitor who wishes to experience the old bridge, castle ruins, lush woodlands and old-town architecture. Many tourists consider the city as an essential stop on any European tour. Nothing is very far away in Heidelberg – and there are so many to discover and experience!
TOP 8 PLACES TO VISIT
1.HEIDELBERG CASTLE
The 16th century castle, built of red Neckar sandstone is standing 195 meters on a terraced hillside above Heidelberg and is one of the best examples of German Renaissance architecture. After the destruction by the French in the 17th century the castle remains one of the largest ruins in Germany. Festivals and theatrical performances, concerts and fireworks are held on regularly in the evocative courtyard.
2.THE KING’S SEAT
The historic wooden funicular train is situated on the slopes of King Seat Mountain. The train takes visitors to the view the breathtaking Neckar River and Black Forest from the top. You can also choose one of the hiking trails from there network of trials. Due to the clear air the mountains is a popular place for star viewing. The Heidelberg-Königstuhl State Observatory opened here in 1898.
3.SCHLOSS SCHWETZINGE
This 18th century place was built as the summer residence of the Electors of the Palatinate, but today it is well known for its superb program of summer concerts as it is for its lovely gardens. The place contains a number of 18th century building including a Rococo Theater and a mosque. During later April through mid-June various operas, symphonic, choral and chamber concerts as well as recitals and dance performances are held here.
4.THE GERMAN PHARMACY MUSEUM
The museum can be found on the grounds of the Heidelberg Castle. It covers the history of apothecaries during the 18th and 19th centuries. On exhibit are old instruments, tools of the trade, as well as examples of the preparations used by these early pharmacists. Other highlights include furnishing of the pharmacies, manuscripts, pharmacy emblems and books.
5.THE PALATINATE MUSEUM
The late 1870’s Baroque Palais Morass can be found hallway along the Hauptstrasse in Heidelberg. The museum also home to a cast of the lower jaw of the 500,000-year-old Heidelberg Man. Also on display in The Applied Arts collection are examples of porcelain, medallions, coins, and glassware. Other highlights are numerous sculptures from the 12th to the 20th century and old gravestones and early baroque sculptures.
6.KARL THEODOR BRIDGE
The bridge was ordered and named after the Prince Elector in 1780. The pedestrian only sandstone bridge connects the old town quarter with the north side of the city. At the medieval gate on the west visitors often pause to have their photograph taken before the Heidelberg Bridge Monkey, while the other bridge gate was once part of the town’s fortifications.
7.HEIDELBERG ALSTADT
The oldest part of the city sits just below the castle and is extending along the river for a mile with Karlstor on the one end and Bismarckplatz on the other. Some of Heidelberg most popular attractions such as a combination of baroque buildings, narrow streets, market squares, shops, restaurants and pubs can be found here. The main pedestrian street Hauptstrasse is where most of the shopping is centered.
8.HEILIGENBERG
Heidelberg is also know as All Saints’ Mountain and it rises above the city on the north shore of the Neckar River. Highlights is the remnants of a medieval monastery, an ancient Roman temple, a Celtic Fort building in the 4th century, B.C, artifacts that have been excavated dating back to the Neolithic Era and the open-air theatre built during the Third Reich. It is also offering great views of both the river and the plains of the Rhine Valley.
OTHER PLACES TO SEE
- Heidelberg Marktplatz
- Philosophenweg
- Old University Heidelberg
- Heiliggeistrkirche
- Kornmarkt
- Hauptstrasse
- Hauz zum Ritter
- Neckarstaden
- Schloss Schwetzingen
- Heidelberg Zoo
- Germany’s Oldest Botanic Garden
- Church of the Holy Spirit, Heidelberg
- Heidelberger Bergbahn
- Monastery of St. Michael
- Heidelberg Tun
- Mercedes-Benz Museum
- Wurzburg Residence
- Studentenkarzer
- Thingstatte
- Hohenschwangau Castle
The best way to get around in Heidelberg is by tram, bus, car, taxi and bicycle.
The best time to visit Heidelberg is between May and October when the weather is at its best with average temperatures of 20°C.
