Heidelberg is one of Germany's most atmospheric historic cities and well suited for short excursions and tours. As the home of the University of Heidelberg, founded in 1386 and among the oldest universities in Europe, the city has acted as a hub for research for centuries and is, to this day, highly influenced by the large amount of research institutions.
Below we give a short overview over the main highlights in Heidelberg. For a more comprehensive guide, as well as a large selection of guided tours offered by the city, see Heidelberg Tourist Information.
One of the main highlights is Heidelberg Castle, which sits above the city on the hillside. You can either walk up or take the funicular which runs from the base of the mountain to the Castle. There you can explore the castle grounds, courtyards, and cellars. A standout feature is the famous Great Wine Barrel, an enormous historic cask that reflects the region’s long winemaking tradition. More information on the castle can be found here. While the castle gardens are free, the most of the interior spaces and museums inside the castle require an entry ticket. These can be purchased at the lower funicular station (Kornmarkt station / city side) or at the castle ticket office at the entrance (make sure to bring sufficient cash). Those interested can also book a guide at these stations.
Visitors can explore the historic Old University in the city center, including the Great Hall and the University Museum, which offer insights into more than six centuries of academic life. Nearby, the famous Student Jail (Studentenkarzer) provides a glimpse into the lighter side of university history, where students once served short sentences for minor offences while leaving their signatures and artwork on the walls.
Down in the Old Town (Altstadt), you’ll find narrow streets, cafés, small shops, and lively squares. It’s very easy to explore on foot, and the atmosphere feels very much shaped by the student population. The main square and the surrounding streets are good places to pause between conference sessions.
In the center of the Old Town you can also find the Church of the Holy Spirit, which once housed the Bibliotheca Palatina, one of the most important scholarly libraries of the Renaissance.
Crossing the river, the Old Bridge (Karl Theodor Bridge) offers one of the best-known views of Heidelberg, looking back toward the castle and the Old Town.
If you want a good view over the whole city we recommend you to go up the Königsstuhl, the tallest hill around Heidelberg. You can either take the 'Himmelsleiter' which is a set of 1600 steps starting behind the castle, or you take the funicular, which costs around 16Euro for a round trip.
The Neckar River itself is also worth experiencing, either on a short boat trip or a walk along the banks. River cruises are a relaxed way to see the city from a different angle, especially with the hills and vineyards in the background. You can find several different options for river cruises here. If you just want to relax along the water we suggest you go to the Nekarwiese, a popular park stretching along the river.
If you have a bit more time, the Philosopher’s Walk on the opposite side of the river gives you a great panoramic view over Heidelberg. It’s an easy 2km walk and a popular spot for both visitors and locals.
For those interested in history beyond Heidelberg’s medieval landmarks, the Thingstätte is an open-air amphitheater located on the Heiligenberg above the city. Built in the 1930s, it is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Germany and offers an opportunity to engage with a complex chapter of twentieth-century history. The site can be reached by a scenic walk through the forest with beautiful views over Heidelberg and the Neckar Valley, it is however a bit steep.