Quick Answer: Best Hotels in Heidelberg, Germany

1. Across from the Old Bridge of Heidelberg: Hotel Zur Alten Brücke
2. River View & Near Marktplatz: City Partner Hotel Holländer Hof
3. Boutique Hotel in Old Town: Arthotel Heidelberg
4. Contemporary Hotel on Edge of Old Town: Hotel Panorama
5. At the Foot of Heidelberg Castle: Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg
6. Where We Stayed (has kitchenette!): GuestHouse Heidelberg
7. Premium Amenities: Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg
8. Near Heidelberg Main Train Station: Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center
9. Near Heidelberg Main Train Station: NH Collection Heidelberg

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Where to Stay in Heidelberg: Our Recommendation & Tips

Accommodation in Heidelberg is easy to find. There’s a range options from historic hotels to comfortable chains to guesthouses.

When choosing your Heidelberg accommodation, we highly recommend staying in the Altstadt (Old Town) area of the city. The Old Town has a unique, historic atmosphere and you’ll be surrounded by picturesque streets and architecture. It’s especially beautiful at night when the castle on the hill is lit up.

Staying in Old Town will also put you in close proximity to many of the city’s main landmarks including Schloss Heidelberg (Heidelberg Castle), Alte Brücke (Old Bridge), Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit), Universität Heidelberg (Heidelberg University), Heidelberger Marktplatz (Heidelberg Market Square), Jesuitenkirche (Jesuit Church), and more.

Many of these are within walking distance from one another, which gives you the time to explore as much of the city during your stay. Altstadt is also full of cafes, restaurants, and shops which makes it extra convenient. All of the hotels we recommend are either in or a short walk from the Old Town.

For more information on the best things to see and do in Heidelberg, check out our full city guide here!

Best Hotels in Heidelberg

1. Across from the Old Bridge of Heidelberg: Hotel Zur Alten Brücke

Across the Old Bridge of Heidelberg

Hotel Zur Alten Brücke

Pros:

• Right across Alte Brücke on Neckar river
• Restaurant on site
• Some rooms with air conditioning
• Public parking nearby

Cons:

• Family rooms only fit up to 3 people

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LOCATION: Hotel Zur Alten Brücke is right across the street from the famous Alte Brücke (Old Bridge) in the beautiful Old Town.

PERFECT FOR: Those in search of Heidelberg hotels that overlook the Neckar River

GUESTS SAY: “The location is very central easy to walk to old town. The room is spacious and comfortable. The staff we came across are friendly and helpful. Breakfast and dinner are delicious.“

SUMMARY: The Hotel Zur Alten Brücke is situated in the heart of the Old Town, directly at the Alte Brücke. The hotel features cozy, modernly furnished rooms and suites with amazing views of the riverside and bridge. There’s also an on site restaurant serving local cuisine, beer, and fine wines. Guests can also enjoy the breakfast buffet in the inner courtyard during summer.

→ Click here to check availability at Hotel zur Alten Brücke!

2. Near Heidelberger Marktplatz: City Partner Hotel Holländer Hof

Near Heidelberger Marktplatz

City Partner Hotel Holländer Hof

Pros:

• Prime location near Market Square, Old Bridge & Heidelberg Castle
• Family rooms
• Some rooms with A/C
• Breakfast buffet

Cons:

• No on-site parking

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LOCATION: Hotel Holländer Hof has an excellent central location. It’s right around the corner from the historic market square (Heidelberger Marktplatz) where you can find the Church of the Holy Spirit and the town hall. It’s also just steps away from the Old Bridge. (Alte Brücke).

PERFECT FOR: Those looking for Heidelberg hotels in Old Town within walking distance to many of the city’s main tourist attractions

GUESTS SAY: “This hotel is so cute and located perfectly for exploring the old town area of Heidelberg. We visited during the holidays and it was nicely decorated. Breakfast was great and the views were magnificent. We highly recommend staying here and we will definitely stay again when in Heidelberg.”

SUMMARY: Hotel Holländer Hof is a 3-star historic hotel with an ideal location near the River Neckar and the town main square. The classical-style rooms are individually furnished with some offering air conditioning and scenic views of Philosophers’ Way and the river. There are various rooms to choose from including family apartments that combine smaller rooms to accommodate families. Each day big breakfast buffets and lighter business breakfasts are available.

→ Click here to check availability at City Partner Hotel Holländer Hof!

3. Boutique Hotel in Old Town: Arthotel Heidelberg

Arthotel Heidelberg, Heidelberg

Pros:

• Room service
• Restaurant
• Private parking
• Cocktail lounge
• Summer-time roof or courtyard terrace
• Laundry service available

Cons:

• No pool or spa
• No kitchenettes

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LOCATION: 5-minute walk to the center of Old Town and close to university

PERFECT FOR: Those looking for a boutique hotel with modern amenities near the Old Town and castle

GUESTS SAY: “Excellent hotel and excellent location. Best part was the staff. All very friendly and helpful.”

SUMMARY: This boutique design hotel in Heidelberg features modern accommodations behind a historic façade. It is located beside the university in the Old Town and only 5 minutes’ walk to the center of the Old Town. The Heidelberg castle is only 2625 feet away.

The rooms and suites feature wooden flooring, a flat-screen TV and a bathtub and free sparkling water is provided on arrival. A rich breakfast buffet is available in the Romer Restaurant and guests are welcome to relax with a cocktail in the Romer Lounge. During the summer months meals and drinks can be served on the roof terrace or courtyard terrace.

4. Contemporary Hotel on Edge of Old Town: Hotel Panorama

Hotel Panorama, Heidelberg

Pros:

• 24-hour front desk
• Air conditioning
• Soundproofing
• Some rooms w/ river view
• Bar
• Elevator
• Private Parking w/reservation
• Laundry service available

Cons:

• No pool, spa
• No restaurant
• No kitchenettes

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LOCATION: On the river, halfway between the Old Town center and train station

PERFECT FOR: Those in search of modern convenience and value in a good location just outside of Old Town.

GUESTS SAY: “The breakfast is superb, and there are a lot of selections. Every employee, from the front desk, breakfast waitstaff, to room cleaners are very friendly and accommodating. The decors and furnishings are contemporary but very elegant. Our room with river view is great and entertaining. The bank atm is next door. The location for what we want is perfect.”

SUMMARY: Hotel Panorama is located beside the River Neckar in the center of Heidelberg.
It’s located between the center of the old town and the main train station – about a 20-min walk to both. The main shopping street is nearby. The hotel features modern rooms, and A breakfast buffet is served every morning. On-site parking is available for a charge.

5. At the Foot of Heidelberg Castle: Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg

At the Foot of Heidelberg Castle

Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg

Pros:

• Near Heidelberg Castle
• Parking on site
• Restaurant and beer house on site

Cons:

• No air conditioning

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LOCATION: Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg is located just 2 minutes away from the Neckar River. Schloss Heidelberg is also easily accessible from the hotel at just a short walking distance.

PERFECT FOR: Those in search of hotels near Heidelberg Castle

GUESTS SAY: “Location at end of Heidelberg old town’s cobbled Main Street on a charming square near castle. Spacious high ceiling room in old building with king bed, table & chair and sitting chair. Large marble bathroom with tub and separate shower. 50 restaurants in walking distance. The on-site restaurant and beer garden around the corner (by the reception desk) is definitely worth a visit.”

SUMMARY: Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg is a unique hotel housed in both the main building of a traditional brewery and an adjoining annex. The rooms are bright and modern featuring scenic views of the castle. There’s an in-house brewery and a beer garden where guests can enjoy delicious local beer and a wide range of dishes.

→ Click here to check availability at Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg

6. Where We Stayed: GuestHouse Heidelberg

Where We Stayed

GuestHouse Heidelberg

Pros:

• Close to Old Town and public transportation
• Spacious studio apartment
• Kitchenettes in rooms

Cons:

• No family rooms

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LOCATION: This apartment-style hotel is just blocks away from Old Town. It’s also conveniently located less than a minute’s walk from the nearest tram stop and is only a short walk from the train station. When we stayed here, we walked everywhere.

PERFECT FOR: Those looking for flexible and comfortable apartment-style hotels in the center of Heidelberg

GUESTS SAY: “The room had everything we needed, location was super central and well connected to the main train station. Very good location – just a couple of minutes to a very busy place with lots of food opportunities and Altstadt.”

OUR REVIEW: We choose GuestHouse Heidelberg because it included a kitchenette and were pleased with our stay. Our room was comfortable and we loved having a kitchenette so we could keep drinks cold in the fridge and make coffee and a healthy breakfast in the morning. While there was no A/C, our room came with a fan, and we slept comfortably on our mid-summer visit. We’d be happy to stay here again.

→ Click here to check availability at GuestHouse Heidelberg

7. Premium Amenities: Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg

Premium Amenities

Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg

Pros:

• Air conditioning
• Parking on-site
• Indoor swimming pool
• Spa and wellness center
• 2 restaurants

Cons:

• No river view

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LOCATION: Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg is located in Old Town, just 10 minutes away from the University of Heidelberg.

PERFECT FOR: Those who want to treat themselves to an luxurious stay with in an elegant hotel with top-notch amenities

GUESTS SAY: “Outstanding, no other words could describe our stay at the Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg. From the room bed to the spa, all hotel amenities, meals. location, attention from the hotel staff were outstanding.”

SUMMARY: This upscale hotel in the Altstadt (Old Town) features individually styled rooms with premium furnishings. There are a variety of rooms that can accommodate families of 4. A highlight of this hotel are the amenities, which include an indoor swimming pool, two restaurants serving gourmet European and international cuisine, a spa and fitness center, and a roof terrace with castle views.

→ Click here to check availability at Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg

8. Near Heidelberg Main Train Station: Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center

Near Heidelberg Main Train Station

Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center

Pros:

• Walk to Heidelberg Old Town & train station
• Air conditioning
• Family rooms
• Restaurant/bar on site

Cons:

• No parking

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LOCATION: This hotel is located a 10 minute walk from Old Town and 15 minute walk from the Heidelberg Main Train Station

PERFECT FOR: Those who want to stay in a hotel in Heidelberg that’s near both the Heidelberg Main Train Station and the Old Town

GUESTS SAY: “The stay was wonderful! Excellent location, in walking distance to the old city and to the train station. Great view of the city especially in the top floors! Very friendly staff.”

SUMMARY: Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg is a reliable and centrally located hotel in between the Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof and Altstadt. The hotel offers rooms that are modern and quite spacious as well as complete amenities like air conditioning, room service, family rooms, and a restaurant/bar on site.

→ Click here to check availability at Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center

9. Near Heidelberg Main Train Station: NH Collection Heidelberg

NH Collection Heidelberg

Pros:

• Variety of rooms
• Air conditioning
• Bar and restaurant
• Fitness Center
• Spa available

Cons:

• Parking is extra

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LOCATION: The NH Collection Heidelberg is a 10-minute walk from the main station and 15 minutes from the beautiful Old Town.

PERFECT FOR: Those in search of a deluxe hotel close to the main station

GUESTS SAY: “Staff fantastic, lots of space in the room, large bathroom, beautiful entrance and breakfast room flooded with light and very good breakfast.”

SUMMARY: The 4-star NH Collection Heidelberg provides large, air-conditioned rooms, regional food, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center and a spa. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Heidelberg Train Station and the River Neckar can be reached on foot in 5 minutes. The building was originally a brewery in 1907, and now offers rooms with dark woods and warm colors. An excellent breakfast is available, and drinks are served all day in the bar.

→ Click here to check availability at the NH Collection Heidelberg

Heidelberg FAQ

Does Heidelberg have a Christmas market?

Yes, Heidelberg holds a Christmas market during the advent season. It takes place in the main pedestrian street Hauptstrasse in Old Town and along the surrounding squares of the pedestrian area.

Does Heidelberg have an airport?

No, Heidelberg doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest one is Frankfurt Airport (around 50 miles/80 km away) or the Stuttgart Airport (80 miles/130km).

Does Heidelberg have Uber?

Yes, Heidelberg has Uber.

What is there to do in Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has several activities and attractions to see like the Heidelberg Castle, Alte Brücke, Heidelberg University, Philosophenweg (The Philosopher’s Walk) and more. For more ideas, check out our full guide of the best things to see and do in Heidelberg!

Is Heidelberg worth visiting?

Yes, Heidelberg is a beautiful destination with a castle ruin, historic Old Town, a river, hills, and lots of natural beauty. It’s a university town so it’s an historic town a young, fun vibe. We’ve enjoyed visiting Heidelberg for many years.

Is Heidelberg safe?

Yes, like many cities in Germany, Heidelberg is a safe for both locals and tourists. All you need to do is take basic safety precautions like being aware of your belongings and surroundings, particularly in touristy sites.

Why is Heidelberg so famous?

Heidelberg is famous for being home to one of the oldest universities in Germany (Heidelberg University) and the historic Heidelberg Castle.

In which state is Heidelberg?

Heidelberg is in the state of Baden-Württemberg in the southwest of Germany.

What are some good day trips from Heidelberg, Germany?

We recommend doing day trips to Schwetzingen Palace, Speyer, and Worms. If you want to travel a bit further, look into the Black Forest region (Baden-Baden, Freiburg im Breisgau, Triberg), Strasbourg, France, Frankfurt or Stuttgart.

The post Where to Stay in Heidelberg in 2025 appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

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.

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!

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).

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.

The post How to Visit Germany’s Heidelberg Castle appeared first on My Germany Vacation.

Heidelberg is located in the state of Baden-Württemberg about an hour south of Frankfurt. Its location makes for a the perfect first stop after flying into in Frankfurt if you’re on your way to the Black Forest, Munich or the Alps.

In this article we show you the best things to do in Heidelberg and share important travel information that will help you plan your trip.

Is Heidelberg Worth Visiting?

Yes! Heidelberg, Germany is one of the best places to visit. It’s home to beautiful architecture and culturally significant monuments like the Heidelberg Castle, the Alte Brücke (old bridge), and the oldest university in Germany.

We’ve been to Heidelberg many times over the years during all seasons and always wish we could stay just a little longer.

Aside from learning about the city’s past in the historic university town, you can really get a feel of the city and culture by exploring the charming cobblestone streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) where you’ll find market squares, shops and boutiques, and many cafes and restaurants.

The city is also surrounded by amazing natural landscapes with the Neckar River flowing through it and the Odenwald mountain range in the distance. You can go on a boat tour, take easy hikes in the nearby hills or go on peaceful strolls in the forests. Some of my favorite memories of Heidelberg are the walks I took on the Philosophenweg (Philosopher’s Way) with a friend who lived there. So peaceful and beautiful!

Heidelberg also hosts several events and festivals throughout the year like the Heidelberg Spring Music Festival (Heidelberger Frühling), the Castle Illuminations, and the Heidelberg Christmas Market.

These events offer visitors the chance to experience the city with a unique festive atmosphere. But whichever time of the year you go, Heidelberg is sure to be a worthwhile destination if you’re looking for a mix of history, culture, and natural landscapes.

Where is Heidelberg Located?

Heidelberg is located in the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg about an hour south of Frankfurt am Main and an hour north of Stuttgart.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Best Time to Visit Heidelberg

Heidelberg is beautiful year-round but the best time to visit would be during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) months when the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are smaller.

That said, summer is a time great for attending outdoor events and festivals. Winter may bring the cold, rain, and maybe even snow, but it’s also the season for Christmas markets and holiday festivities.

How Much Time to Spend in Heidelberg

If you want to focus on the main attractions and get a feel for the city, a 1-2 day trip would be enough. Heidelberg is also a great day trip destination from Frankfurt am Main (1 hour), Mannheim (20 minutes) or Stuttgart (1 hour).

We’ve visited Heidelberg several times over the years, both on packed day trips and longer, mellower long weekend trips. Both options were enjoyable and satisfying.

How to Get to Heidelberg

The best way to reach Heidelberg is by train or car. The main train station serves 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).

Take note: Heidelberg’s main train station is a 20-30 minute walk from the Old Town but there are buses, trams, and taxis for those who don’t want to walk.

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.

Where to Stay in Heidelberg

Finding accommodation in Heidelberg won’t be a problem. One of the most popular areas to stay in is the Altstadt (Old Town), which has many options from hostels to luxurious at various price points. From the Altstadt you can easily see all of Heidelberg’s sights on foot.

Here are some excellent options that come highly recommended:

• TOP PICK! Hotel zum Ritter – The Hotel Zum Ritter is a lovely hotel in a beautiful old building. It’s in a terrific old town location, steps away from many important sites. This 3-star hotel has a buffet breakfast, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk and a concierge service. Here’s what one of our clients said about their stay:

• Hotel Holländer Hof – Located right on the Neckar River in the old town, the Hotel Holländer Hof is steps from the old bridge and other downtown attractions. This 3-star hotel has classical-style rooms and views of the scenic Philosophers’ Way across the river.
• Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg – A 5-star luxury hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a relaxing spa center, gym, restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with stunning castle views.
• Hotel Zur Alten Brücke – The Hotel Zur Alten Brücke is set in the heart of the Old Town, directly at the Alte Brücke (old bridge) and close to the castle. Its cozy rooms and suites feature views of the river and bridge, the castle, the romantic courtyard or the roofs of the Old Town.
• Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center – Modern and centrally located hotel that’s a short walk away from many tourist attractions in Old Town. It has comfortable, spacious rooms with amenities like a fitness center and restaurant/bar on-site.
• Guesthouse Heidelberg – We stayed here on our last visit because it was close to the Altstadt and had a kitchenette, which was perfect for making a healthy breakfast and keeping drinks cold. The updated rooms were comfortable, and we enjoyed our stay here.

If you can’t stay in the Altstadt, there are also lots of hotels and hostels along the river in the neighboring district of Bergheim.

Tip: if you have our Germany Travel Planner you’ll find recommended hotels on our interactive planning map. Seeing where these hotels are in relation to the top sights makes it a lot easier to find the perfect place to stay. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

TIP: if you have our Germany Travel Planner be sure to check out the interactive planning map so you can see where the best sights are located. Seeing where these sights are on the map, along with our up-to-date photos and tips, makes planning your trip SO much easier. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

What to Do and See in Heidelberg in 1 or 2 Days

You can easily see Heidelberg’s main sights in 1 long or 2 relaxed days. Here are the must-sees in this charming town. If you’d prefer to take a tour of Heidelberg, scroll down for recommended tours!

Alte Brücke Heidelberg (Old Bridge of Heidelberg)

Officially known as the Karl Theodor Bridge, the Alte Brücke (Old Bridge) is one of Heidelberg’s most recognizable architectural landmarks. This baroque bridge crosses the Neckar River and connects the old city with the eastern part of the Neuenheim district.

The bridge has a rich history. It was first made of wood in the 18th century, but it repeatedly suffered damage because of war and floods so it was reconstructed with stone.

The bridge has several statues and monuments. The most prominent ones are the two towers at the southern end which used to be dungeons. Some of the statues include the Roman goddess Athena, the Prince Elector Carl Theodor and a large bronze sculpture of what’s known as the Bridge Monkey that’s a famous picture spot for tourists.

Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg)

Another of Heidelberg’s top attractions is the Heidelberg Castle. It dates back to the early 13th century and was originally used as a royal residence. It eventually expanded to become a fortress with different buildings and structures. However, at the end of the 17th century, it was destroyed during the Nine Years War and then struck by lightning, never to be fully restored again. 

But with the steady reconstruction during the 19th century, the castle ruins became a famous symbol of German Romanticism. It now houses interesting sites like the Deutsches Apotheken-museum (German Pharmacy Museum) and the Ottheinrich Building, featuring many of the castles’ ornate sculptures and original furnishings. It’s also home to the Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel (seriously, it’s gigantic).

For more information, read our Heidelberg Castle guide!

We recommend booking a guided tour to better appreciate the castle’s history and beauty. This 1.5-hour tour is perfect for those who have a full day and have other planned activities.

But if you have more time, this private tour is a great option, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family. If you’re looking to combine a full Heidelberg city bus tour with a castle tour, then this option is the most ideal.

Universität Heidelberg (Heidelberg University)

The University of Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest university. The prestigious university is located in the heart of the city and features beautiful historic buildings, sprawling gardens, and charming courtyards.

One of the most important university buildings is the Old University. It houses the Great Hall, a magnificent auditorium used for academic ceremonies as well as the University Museum which offers an exciting tour and special exhibitions.

Another of the top things to see here is the student prison located in the back of the Old University. This was an old detention center where university students were punished for small offenses in the past. In its current form, it’s been preserved to showcase the walls and ceiling with different drawings and poems made by the students.

Altstadt (Old Town of Heidelberg)

The Altstadt, the oldest part of the city, sits just below the Heidelberg Castle grounds and gardens. Simply exploring the charming old town is one of the best ways to get to know the city.

As you make your way through the narrow streets, you’ll stumble upon lively market squares, historic buildings, and beautiful churches. Don’t forget to stroll down Hauptstrasse, the main shopping street and a beautiful pedestrian zone filled with both international brands and traditional shops as well as restaurants and cafes.

This is a great place to relax with a cup of coffee, a glass of local wine or a mug of beer and soak in the vibe of Heidelberg.

Book this walking tour led by a qualified tour guide to discover all the must-sees and hidden gems of the romantic city of Heidelberg.

Heidelberg Marktplatz (Heidelberg Market Square)

The Marktplatz is a vibrant and bustling central square located in the heart of Old Town. Standing in the middle of the square is the Hercules Fountain, a Baroque fountain symbolizing the city’s fortitude and strength.

Another important tourist attraction in the square is the Rathaus (town hall), a Renaissance building dating back to the 18th century. On the other end, you’ll also find the Church of the Holy Spirit. During the holiday season, the market square is used for the city’s main Christmas market.

Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit)

The Church of the Holy Spirit is an important Heidelberg church, having witnessed many of the city’s historic events since its completion in the early 16th century. Admire its remarkable Gothic-style features, including its soaring spire, which is visible from almost anywhere in the city. You can actually climb up the tower to get amazing views of the Altstadt and the Neckar River.

Jesuitenkirche (Jesuit Church)

The Jesuit Church is another important church in the Altstadt. It was built by the Jesuit order in the early 18th century following the style of Baroque architecture, featuring an ornate facade adorned with sculptures and intricate designs. Aside from being a church, it was used for many purposes over history such as a military hospital and a university library.  It is now also home to the Museum of Ecclesiastical Arts.

Neckar River

The Neckar River runs throughout the city and is the perfect place to get spectacular views of Heidelberg’s beautiful scenery. It’s a major tributary of the Rhine River and has its source from the Black Forest. The river is surrounded by picturesque landscape, forests, and vineyards.

One of the best things to do is to go on a boat trip and take everything in. Book this stunning 3-hour riverboat tour that takes you from Heidelberg to Neckarsteinach. You’ll get to experience sailing under one of the arches of the Old Bridge, admire the Heidelberg Castle from afar, and even spot some wildlife as you pass the Neckartal-Odenwald Nature Park.

Philosophenweg (The Philosopher’s Walk)

The Philosopher’s Walk is a popular walking trail named after the philosophers and scholars who enjoyed this path for its peace and solitude. The path is located in the northern banks of the Neckar River and goes for around 2 kilometers (1.2 miles).

The walking path is a simple and picturesque trail with landmarks like the Philosopher’s Garden, a small garden with exotic vegetation and flowerbeds, and incredible scenic views of Heidelberg.

Königstuhl (King’s Seat)

Königstuhl (King’s Seat) is a mountain situated in the Odenwald mountain range, located in the eastern edge of the Old Town. It’s easily accessible from Old Town since there’s a funicular railway (Heidelberger Bergbahn) which includes stops at the Heidelberg Castle and the mountain top.

At the summit, you’ll be welcomed by one of the best views of the city and the Neckar Valley. There’s also a variety of activities to enjoy like hiking, visiting the astronomical observatory and falconry, walking the different forest trails, or grabbing a bite in one of the kiosks and restaurants. You can also sit in the wooden Königstuhl – the King’s Seat.

Königstuhl Bergbahn

The fastest and easiest way to reach Königstuhl is the Bergbahn (funicular). You can buy tickets and board in the Alstadt and go right to the top. Then you can either hike back down or take the Bergbahn to the castle. Tip: buy the Panorama ticket that includes admission to the castle and the funicular to both Königstuhl and the castle.

Kurpfälzisches Museum Heidelberg

The Kurpfälzisches Museum, also known as the Palatinate Museum, is a museum of art and archaeology. The museum houses a wide variety of collections from sculptures, paintings, archaeological artifacts, and applied arts like furnishings, jewelry, and coins. All of these showcase the history, art and rich cultural heritage of the region, from prehistoric times to the present day.

View Heidelberg Castle at Night

Don’t miss seeing the beautiful Schloss Heidelberg lit up after dark! The best places to see the castle is from the Alte Brücke, Philosophenweg, and the market squares in the Altstadt.

Heidelberg Zoo

Heidelberg Zoo is a popular destination for those visiting with children. The zoo is home to over 150 different animal species like red pandas, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers and red Cuban flamingos. One of the zoo’s main focuses is conservation and experiential education. Because of this, there’s a wide range of interactive and educational events like workshops, lab tours, and exhibitions for all ages and interests. 

Monastery of St. Michael

The Monastery of St. Michael is found at the top of hill Heiligenberg. The hill is home to many historic sites including a Celtic hill fort, the Heiligenberg Tower, and several monasteries. What remains of the Monastery of St. Michael are its ruins, which visitors can explore. The peaceful surroundings of the monastery provide a great place for a nice walk or a quiet picnic. 

Best Tours In Heidelberg

If you’d like to maximize your time in Heidelberg or dive deeper into the history of the city, here are tours to book:

• Private 3-hour Heidelberg Tour with Castle Visit – Discover enchanting Heidelberg with your own private guide.
• Neckar River Cruise – Relax and enjoy the sights from a romantic river boat.
• Heidelberg Altstadt tour – Discover the hidden gems in Heidelberg’s famous Old Town.
• Hills and Wine Region Segway Tour – Venture beyond the Alstadt the fun way.
• Heidelberg Castle and Sightseeing Bus Tour – Combine a full Heidelberg city bus tour with a castle tour.
• 1.5 Hour Castle Tour – Tour the castle complex and sample local wine next to the largest wine barrel in the world.

Next Steps For Planning Your Trip:

• Start planning an unforgettable trip to Germany here!
• Book a personalized travel consult or itinerary review with Cate.
• Join our friendly Facebook group.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

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