Heidelberg is a beautiful city in Germany. Heidelberg Heidelberg
Heidelberg is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. The castle, the old town and the river flowing between the mountains are united into a harmonious ensemble. Poets and artists of the Romantic era found inspiration here. And to this day the city captivates millions of tourists from all over the world.
The ancient city lies comfortably on the banks of the Neckar River, at the junction of the states of Hesse, Baden-Württemberg and Rhineland-Palatinate - in one of the most densely populated regions of Germany. The city is picturesque, cozy, interesting in all respects, very beautiful and rich in attractions.
The oldest university in Germany was founded in Heidelberg (Heidelberg). It bears the name of Charles Ruprecht 1, who in 1386 opened a university with faculties of theology, law, medicine and philosophy.
Today the university has 12 faculties in 160 specialties.
Thanks to Elector Frederick III, in the 16th century Heidelberg became a center of European culture and science, which attracted professors and students from all over Europe to the university.
The old university building, today the rector's office and museum are located here
Among students and teachers of the University of Heidelberg in different time There were German physicists Max Born, Robert Mossbauer, Gustav Kirchhoff, naturalist Robert Bunsen, Dutch physicist Kamerlingh Onnes, American heart surgeon Michael DeBakey (first heart transplant), Federal Chancellor of Germany Helmut Kohl. The list of professors at the University of Heidelberg includes the names of the great philosophers Georg Hegel and Karl Jaspers, the famous sociologist and economist Max Weber. The department of physiology at the university was at one time headed by the great German physicist, physician, physiologist and psychologist Hermann Helmholtz. 8 Nobel laureates came out of the university!
A very beautiful village in an old building.
Many famous Russian celebrities studied here or had internships: composer A.P. Borodin, chemist D.I. Mendeleev, ophthalmologist E. A. Junge, mechanic I. A. Vyshnegradsky, surgeon L. A. Bekkers, embryologist A. O. Kovalevsky, botanist A. S. Famintsyn, mycologist M. S. Voronin, physiologist I. M. Sechenov, historians K. Sluchevsky and S. Solovyov, S. V. Eshevsky. Surgeon N.I. worked here. Pirogov. An outstanding graduate of this university was the traveler, anthropologist and ethnographer Miklouho-Maclay. Somewhat later, poets Osip Mandelstam and Sasha Cherny attended lectures here. The future one studied in Heidelberg Russian empress, wife of Nicholas II (since 1894) Alexandra Feodorovna, nee Princess of Hesse-Darmstadt. The first Russian female mathematician, Sofia Kovalevskaya, graduated from the University of Heidelberg.
Today the university campus has spread over almost the entire city. The old buildings partly serve as a museum.
This building houses the university library
University Clinic
New university building
And the university city itself was first mentioned in 1196. Modern Heidelberg is not only world-famous for scientific research, but also economic and cultural center metropolitan region Rhine-Neckar.
Cozy, charming streets, magnificent squares, richly decorated Renaissance buildings, majestic churches and many other attractions of Heidelberg will not leave anyone indifferent. There are many elegant street cafes, restaurants and colorful bars around.
The historic center of Heidelberg is the oldest part of the city.
Since the Middle Ages, the Market Square (Marktplatz) has been the main center of city life. The city hall, built in the Baroque style (1701-1703), is located here.
In the past, not only fairs were held on the square, but also executions, the burning of witches and heretics.
Nowadays fairs are held here twice a week. In the center of the square there is a fountain from the early 18th century depicting Hercules.
The landmark of Heidelberg is the stone Karl-Theodor Bridge, built by this elector in 1701-1703.
On the Old Bridge there is a monument to Elector Karl-Theodore, and there are other sculptural structures.
Complete Old Bridge city gates and two watchtowers.
The Kornmarkt square is of interest, in the center of which there is a copy of the Madonna on a pedestal (the original is in the museum). Not far from here you can take a lift to the castle.
Another attraction is Heidelberg Castle with its rich history. The famous "Romantic Ruins" is what this castle is called in Germany.
The castle, towering above the city, as if detached from the world, became a symbol of German romance.
The architectural and park complex seems to radiate a very special combination of eternity and mortality, which creates a unique atmosphere. The architecture of the castle mixed several styles: German Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance.
Equipped with towers, casemates and a fortified ditch, the castle was built in 1300 and over the next four hundred years served as a kind of calling card for the Electors of the Palatinate.
But the castle was in for a series of disastrous events. It was destroyed by troops Louis XIV during the War of the Palatinate Succession (1693), and two more lightning strikes in 1537 and 1764. helped turn it into ruins. The castle was only partially restored, as it appears before us.
But the ivy-covered ruins even today testify to the former power of the previous owners - the Wittelsbach dynasty.
The castle complex consists of several buildings, which received their names after the electors under whom they were built (Rupprecht's Corps, Ludwig V's Corps, Frederick II's Corps, Otto-Henry's Corps, Frederick IV's Corps).
In the oldest residential building, the Gothic Ruprecht Building, there is the Museum of the History of Heidelberg Castle, an ancient library, and a fountain. The interior is decorated with a magnificent Renaissance fireplace. 
The Otto-Heinrich building with its richly decorated façade is considered the first palace building in Germany. It is decorated with beautiful sculptures.
The world's first pharmacy was previously located here, on the site of which the Pharmacy Museum is now located, where you can learn a lot of interesting things about the history of pharmaceuticals.
The best preserved building is the building of Frederick IV, the façade of which is decorated with statues of representatives of the Electoral dynasty. Sixteen sculptures are located on the facade of the building - this is a gallery of portraits of the ancestors of the Wittelsbach family.
The Frederick IV Building houses the Heidelberg Barrel with a dance floor on top, it is the world's largest wine barrel, made to store the "taxes" that were levied in the form of wine from the winemakers of the Palatinate (holds 212,422 liters).
Under Frederick V, who dreamed of creating a Garden of Eden on earth, a magnificent park was founded, which was destroyed as a result of military battles. Only the memories of contemporaries remain in descriptions that mention luxurious terraces, flower beds and sculptures, ponds and waterfalls, and even a winter garden with orange trees.
Various events and balls are held in the castle's festive hall, and summer festivals are held in the courtyard.
Fireworks displays are traditionally held here three times a year.
The illuminated castle makes an indelible impression when the Old Town remains in darkness. The first such illumination took place in 1815, when the Austrian King Franz II, the Russian Tsar Alexander 1, the Prussian King Frederick William III and Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria were in Heidelberg.
The castle was visited by such famous people, like the German reform theologian Martin Luther, the writers Victor Hugo, who described the history of the castle in his book "Heidelberg", and Mark Twain, who also mentioned the castle in his works.
Today, Heidelberg Castle is the pride of Germany, a reminder of its former glory and a silent reproach to the ruthless conquerors who destroyed valuables. Every year the castle receives thousands of tourists, appearing before them in all the grandeur of its former glory.
Without a doubt, Heidelberg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, attracting millions of tourists from all over the world. Today's Heidelberg combines historical charm, modern technologies and science. The city's diverse cultural life is rich in concerts, festivals, and lectures.
Heidelberg is the most important business center in the Rhine-Neckar region; Numerous international companies are located here.
Today we will talk about the beautiful German city of Heidelberg, standing among the picturesque green Odenwald massif, on the banks of the Neckar River, and is an ideal holiday destination for fans of ecotourism. Heidelberg, or if correctly read from German “Heidelberg”, is located in the warmest region of Germany, where a lot of exotic, for this country, Mediterranean vegetation grows. Moreover, the city of Heidelberg is famous for its interesting sights.
Current city of Heidelberg, which eventually united several separate villages into a whole, was founded in the period from the sixth to the eighth centuries, but in the chronicles the first mention of it dates back to 1196.
Or "Schloss Heidelberg". A story about interesting historical places It is worth starting Heidelberg with a mention of the ancient fortress of the Counts of the Palatinate, erected here in 1225. Heidelberg Castle is often called “the most famous romantic ruin in Germany”, because in this building three architectural styles harmoniously merged: Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. This huge castle complex, which actually includes several castles, stands on the mountain slope of Königstuhl, which means “Royal Throne”. The buildings were built from local red sandstone. They were constantly expanded and rebuilt, but after destruction in 1693 by the troops of King Louis XIV, the ruins were never restored. But the Friedrichsbau Palace, which was not so badly damaged, was restored by 1900 and today it is one of the most frequently visited tourist attractions in the city of Heidelberg. They are especially surprised by the huge ancient wine barrel “Grosses Fass”, with a volume of two hundred and twenty thousand liters - the largest in the world. Next to this barrel there is a small statue of the court dwarf Perkeo, who used to guard the wine in it. His strange name comes from the Italian expression “Perke no?”, which translated means: “Why not?” They say that this is exactly how the dwarf guard answered anyone who offered him a glass or two. Tourists combine inspection of this barrel with tasting of excellent local wine: white or red. We recommend trying the famous German ice wine, the Eiswein variety. In general, the history of this German castle is so intricate that we recommend purchasing an audio guide at the entrance to the castle, also presented in Russian. Even better, take a tour and walk with a guide through the interior of the castle; visiting them is not included with a regular ticket. In July and August the castle hosts a theater festival.
Or "Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg" - was founded in 1386, over time becoming the most important scientific, cultural and educational center Germany. Despite the fact that the university's departments are scattered throughout the city, the most interesting buildings: the rector's office, the museum, the humanities and social faculties, the punishment cell - are located in the "Old University" - "Alte Universität", located in the very center of Heidelberg in the Altstatt district on University Square. The main university building was built in the Baroque style and amazes with luxury and splendor. By the way, tourists are happy to visit the university punishment cell, where students used to be kept for participating in duels, drunkenness, noise at night, and other offenses. All the walls of the punishment cell are covered with mysterious messages and strange drawings, which even historians have studied, but have not yet figured out their meaning. The university buildings, fortunately, were almost undamaged during the Second World War; only the library was damaged, but it was quickly restored.
Or "Alte Brücke" - real business card German city of Heidelberg. The Karl-Theodor Bridge spans the Neckar River, being a continuation of the Steingasse street and connecting it with another Landstraße street, running along the river bank and at the foot of the Holy Mountain. The bridge was built in 1788 by order of the German Elector Karl-Theodor. Today, the Old Bridge is one of the most visited attractions in Heidelberg. Over the centuries of its existence, it has been sung by writers and poets, and since 2002 it has been included in the list of endangered objects by the World Heritage Fund. The bridge is two hundred meters long and seven meters wide, it has nine arched spans in the Baroque style. The bridge portal is decorated with two imposing “Spitzhelm” towers, so named because of their resemblance to the steel helmets of medieval knights. Today, tourists can visit three damp punishment cells in the western tower, where criminals used to be kept.
Or "Stift Neuburg" - this abbey is also known as the Benedictine monastery of St. Bartholomew. It stands on the banks of the Neckar River, just opposite the “Old Town”, on the slope of Mount Köpfl. This monastery was built in 1130, and by the end of the twelfth century it was transformed into a convent for the education and upbringing of girls from noble families; unmarried ladies and widows also lived here. In 1562, the monastery was disbanded on suspicion of Lutheran heresy, and its rich book collection was included in the Palatine Library, but girls from noble families continued to study there. In the period from 1706 to 1773, the monastery belonged to the formidable Jesuit order, and in 1804 it was transferred to private ownership. In 1926, the monastery was given to the Benedictine Order by its last owner, Alexander von Bern. After the Second World War, the monastery complex was reconstructed in 1962 by master Johann Kleiss; a mechanical organ with thirty-four registers was installed here. In 2011, a reconstruction was carried out, the concept of its design was changed: in the rather ascetic interior, emphasis was placed on interesting color and optical solutions, which received a sacred meaning and symbolic meaning. Today, fifteen monks live in the monastery, who are engaged in the production of farm products and gardening. If you wish, you can stay at the monastery hotel, taking an active part in the life of this German monastery. If you want to learn more about the history of the monastery, you can purchase a tour or take an audio guide.
Or "Kurpfälzisches Museum der Stadt Heidelberg" is the place where the artistic and cultural-historical collections of the city's value are kept. The collection began with the acquisition by the museum of the “Gallery of Antiquities” by Charles Grambert. The museum is located in a house that once belonged to the rector of the University of Heidelberg, lawyer Johann Philipp Morass. The exhibition is located in the building of the former university fencing hall, as well as in the new museum building. There's a ton to be had at this Heidelberg museum interesting information about the life and art of the city, about the archaeological finds made here dating back to the Celtic and Roman periods, about applied art, including a rich collection of textiles: ancient costumes, household items, old dolls. An important place is given to collections of painting, sculpture, and graphics.
– located in the “Old Town”, not far from the Market Square. This square is located on the site where a Franciscan monastery used to stand, which was abolished in 1803. The square is located at the foot of the mountain, so it offers breathtaking views of Heidelberg Castle. As for the architectural ensemble of this square, the buildings are mainly presented in the Baroque style. A remarkable example of this is the house that previously belonged to Karl Mittermeier. Here are the ancient hotels “zum Seppl”, built in 1634, and “zum roten Ochsel”, built in 1703. In addition, there is the beautiful Palais Boisserée, famous for its rich collection of ancient German paintings, which previously belonged to the collector brothers Sulpitz and Melchior Boisserée, and the Grand Duke's Palace, which today houses the Academy of Sciences. In the very center of Karlsplatz there is an interesting fountain, the sculptural composition of which illustrates “Cosmography” in a playful allegorical form. In winter, there is a Christmas market and an outdoor skating rink.
Or "Marktplatz" is the historical core of the German city of Heidelberg. It still performs its original function. The square is bordered on the east by the beautiful Town Hall building, in Baroque style, built at the beginning of the eighteenth century, and on the west by the beautiful “Church of the Holy Spirit”. The Market Square is a pedestrian area, with a large number of cafes that operate in summer time. In the center of the square there is a beautiful baroque fountain “Hercules” - “Herkulesbrunnen”, built in the eighteenth century.
Or "Heiliggeistkirche" - located on the Market Square opposite the Town Hall building, is a Gothic basilica from the late fourteenth century, decorated with Baroque roofs and domes. This is the largest temple in old Heidelberg, built on the site of an even older temple in the late Romanesque style, dating back to 1229. By the way, archaeologists discovered the remains of its apse in 1936. The basilica was built as a ceremonial church and tomb for the Electors of the Palatinate. Of course, over the years of its existence it has been rebuilt and restored several times. The last restoration of the building took place between 1978 and 1985, during which the original colors of the basilica were restored. Here are the graves of King Ruprecht III and his wife Elisabeth of Hohenzollern. In 1936, this church was included in the “Union of Communities of the Evangelical Church of Baden”. Today tourists attend wonderful concerts organ music which are often held here.
Or "Kurpfälzisches Museum" - the most popular museum in the city of Heidelberg, famous for its extensive local history and art collections. The museum is located in a beautiful eighteenth-century baroque palace located on Hauptstrasse.
– located in the part of Heidelberg Castle that survived the destruction. Here in ancient years there was a real pharmacy, and now visitors have the opportunity to get acquainted with the history of the development of pharmacy from ancient times to the achievements of the twentieth century. Here you can see the reconstructed premises of an ancient pharmacy, with a production department, an alchemical laboratory, cabinets and shelves filled with antique retorts and test tubes, vials with old handwritten labels, medieval recipes, dried herbs, sets of other medicinal components, apothecary scales, old tools , with the help of which medicines were prepared in past centuries.
"Fairytale Park" Heidelberg– a great place to take your kids. The park is located on Mount Koenigstuhl and includes a carousel, a children's railway, a mini-autodrome, interesting children's attractions, and in the park pavilions your children will be able to meet their favorite characters from world-famous fairy tales. Among the scenery, which is mysterious forest, enchanted castles, poor people's huts, Dwarf Nose, Rumplestiltskin, Baron Munchausen, the evil queen, Snow White and many others live their fairy-tale lives. The park is open daily from ten in the morning to six in the evening, and in July and August until seven in the evening.
If you want to save money when visiting the city of Heidelberg, we recommend purchasing a two-day HeidelbergCARD, the price of which is thirteen euros for one person or twenty-eight euros for the whole family. With this card you can visit many of Heidelberg's city attractions for free or at a reduced rate, freely use any public transport, including the Bergbahn funicular that takes visitors to Heidelberg Castle, receive a discount on bus tours, as well as a free guidebook. You can buy such a card at the tourist information office located at the main city station of Heidelberg, in the Town Hall building, and some hotels in the city.
In my opinion, if there is a city in Germany that can be described in just one word, it is Heidelberg. And the word is “romantic”. Having come here for the first time almost by accident, I returned again and again and brought friends. What is so unusual about this city?
Firstly, it is a city of thinkers, students and intellectuals. From time immemorial, people have flocked here from all over the world for inspiration and new knowledge. Writers Joseph von Eichendorff and Jean Paul (representatives of German romanticism), Muhammad Iqbal (ideologist of the unification of Muslims), Mark Twain, Goethe and Mandelstam, scientists Bunsen and Kirchhoff (creators of the spectograph) and many, many others lived, worked, taught and studied in Heidelberg . Agree, if a city attracts people of this caliber, there is definitely something special about it.
Secondly, this city is an open-air museum, because it was founded back in the 13th century. In the 17th century, Heidelberg was destroyed by the troops of Louis XIV, but the inhabitants were able to completely restore it. Since then, Heidelberg has stood untouched. Even during World War II, the city was able to avoid bombing, because it was here that the Americans planned to locate their general staff. It is also rumored that there was a secret agreement between Hitler and the allies: Hitler will not bomb and (the latter city is a twin city of Heidelberg), and the allied coalition will not touch Heidelberg and. 
Thirdly, this is simply an incredibly beautiful corner of German land. Heidelberg nestles comfortably on the border of three federal states - Reynald-Palatinate and. It stands on the Neckar River, whose flow cuts through the green hills. Tiled roofs stand out against the backdrop of the calm colors of nature, and the leisurely flow of the river makes you think about the eternal. Heidelberg owes its beauty not only to its ancient architecture, but also to its advantageous topography. The city is located in a hollow between three hills: Königstuhl, Gaisberg and Heiligenberg.
How to get there
Heidelberg is connected to other German and European cities by railways and highways. Unfortunately, there is no airport in the immediate vicinity, but if you are traveling to Heidelberg from afar, Germany's developed transport system will definitely come to your rescue. Below I will tell you in more detail about all the ways to get to this beautiful city.
By plane
The nearest airports to the city are in Frankfurt (78 km) and Stuttgart (124 km). Russian Aeroflot and German Lufthansa operate flights from Moscow to Frankfurt. Aeroflot also flies from Moscow to Stuttgrat. Only Lufthansa flies from St. Petersburg to Frankfurt. There are no direct flights from St. Petersburg to. You can check the prices for air tickets and choose a convenient flight option on aggregator websites or, for example,.
FlixBus buses run from Frankfurt Airport to Heidelberg about three times a day. If you didn’t have time to catch the bus and the next one is a long wait, take the train to Frankfurt (the ticket costs about 4.5 EUR). The train station is located right at the airport. you can download a detailed plan that shows where in the terminal you can find the exit to the train tracks.
So, you have found the train you need. Take it and get off at Frankfurt Main Station ( Frankfurt Hauptbanhof), and then transfer to the Flixbus bus. It departs from Frankfurt station every hour. Ticket price – from 6 to 9 EUR.
In addition, the Frankfurt - Heidelberg route is served by Lufthansa branded buses. Tickets are significantly more expensive - 25 and 46 EUR for one and two ends, respectively. If you arrive at the airport on a company plane, you will be given a small discount of 2 EUR.
You can also travel from Frankfurt or Stuttgart airport to Heidelberg by train. Train stations are located directly in the terminals. The ticket can be purchased in advance on the German Railways website or at the ticket office upon arrival. You don’t need to print anything—all you need to do is show the barcode to the inspector on your phone or tablet.
Traveling by train will cost you more than by bus, but you will arrive at your destination faster. High-speed German ICE trains reach speeds of up to 300 km/h. However, you will have to make one or two transfers at the station in Mannheim, Stuttgart or Frankfurt.
From Stuttgrat Airport to Heidelberg you can again take the Flixbus or train. Schedules and ticket prices can be easily found on the websites mentioned above.
If you want to get to Heidelberg from Europe and save money at the same time, then Frankfurt-Hahn Airport is the place for you. It serves flights from budget airlines Ryanair and Wizzair. There is also a bus service between Heidelberg Main Station and Frankfurt-Hahn Airport. The trip will take just over two hours. The price varies depending on the time of day (a ticket can cost you either 20 EUR or 5 EUR). 
By train
Heidelberg is connected to the nearest cities, Karlsruhe, Mannheim and Frankfurt, by S-Bahn trains, somewhat reminiscent of our metro (in Germany, S-Bahn stations are indicated by a large letter S on a green background and are often located in the same place as the railway stations). Long-distance trains from Munich, Vienna, Hamburg and Cologne arrive at Heidelberg station approximately every two hours. Direct high-speed trains from all major cities in Germany, as well as from some outside it (Zurich, etc.), go to Mannheim, from which you can reach Heidelberg in 15 minutes, transferring to the same S-Bahn. 
Heidelberg in summer
In the first half of summer, Heidelberg is noisy and fun. Thousands of students spend their all free time in the fresh air. The cafe terraces are filled, the embankment is crowded, and all the lawns are occupied. The developed infrastructure of the city provides many opportunities for recreation for citizens and tourists. In Heidelberg you can find equipped barbecue areas, badminton and volleyball courts, children's playgrounds, and a well-developed system of bicycle paths.
In the second half of summer, starting around the end of July, the city becomes a little calmer - students go on vacation. Many return to their hometowns. There are still a lot of tourists in the city, but personally this has never bothered me. I think you can enjoy the pristine atmosphere of the city in any case.
Heidelberg in autumn
Autumn in Heidelberg is no less beautiful than summer. The hills are covered with gold, and the roof tiles glisten in the rays of the soft sun. In the first half of autumn it is still warm and you can fully enjoy the ancient architecture. This is a great time to explore the Philosophers' Path - the views from above are simply mesmerizing. 
Heidelberg in spring
From the beginning of April, the first greenery begins to appear in Heidelberg, and in May spring fully comes into its own. On average, the temperature in spring is about +15 degrees. Walking around Heidelberg in the spring, inhaling the aromas of awakening nature and dreaming of a bright future is a special pleasure, suitable for true romantics.
Heidelberg in winter
Winters in Heidelberg are not very cold compared to central Russia, but are often dank, rainy and snowless. A cold wind blows from the Neckar River, so be sure to take a warm jacket and umbrella with you on a winter trip. The temperature almost always stays above zero, around +4 degrees.
Despite the bare tree trunks and high humidity, Heidelberg remains a lively, noisy and elegant city in winter. This is due to the Christmas market, which lasts a whole month and is one of the favorite events of both tourists and local residents.
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Heidelberg - monthly weather
When is the season? When is the best time to go
Heidelberg - monthly weather
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Heidelberg - monthly weather
Districts. Where is the best place to live?
Heidelberg is a prosperous city. There are no overtly criminal areas where tourists should avoid visiting. The greatest danger, in my opinion, comes from drunken students. 
The city consists of 14 districts. Hotels are mainly located in the most central of them. Below is a map of hotels with approximate prices for a room for two, subject to late booking.
As can be seen on the map, most hotels are located in the areas Alstadt(Altstadt) And Bergheim(Bergheim). Here, in the historical center of the city, the main attractions, as well as bars, coffee and restaurants, are concentrated. Here is the main square of the city and its transport hub - Bismarckplatz ( Bismarckplatz).
A little further west is Weststadt (Weststadt). This is a quiet and peaceful area. There are significantly fewer hotels and restaurants here, and the architecture is no less outstanding than in the very center. Perhaps it best area for accommodation, optimal price/quality ratio.
A number of hotels are located in Kirchheim(Kirchheim). This is one of the largest areas of Heidelberg, where you will find many small shops, doctors' offices, bakeries, restaurants and various workshops. The vast majority of residents are Germans, but there are also immigrants from Turkey and the Balkan countries.
The remaining areas of Heidelberg are residential. They are unlikely to be of interest to you. In general, Heidelberg is a uniform city, and all areas here are somewhat similar to each other.
What are the prices for holidays?
Heidelberg is part of one of the most expensive lands in Germany and is not cheap. Students, like no one else, have to tighten their belts, for example, a small studio apartment thirty minutes walk from Bismarckplatz costs from 300 EUR per month.
Heidelberg will also make tourists shell out money. Even a bed in a hostel is quite expensive here (20-25 EUR). And for a hotel room you will have to pay significantly more.
Travel by public transport will cost you approximately 2.5 EUR. The ticket is valid for one and a half hours after activation. You can buy it directly from the driver.
You can eat for little money in Heidelberg, because this is a city of students who are always hungry! The most cheap food sold in shops run by Arabs or Asians. There you can buy a kebab, fried sausage or wok noodles for about 3-3.5 EUR.
If you don't like restaurant food and prefer to cook yourself, budget stores will help you out PENNY, ALDI And LIDL.
A cup of coffee costs on average 2.5 EUR, and the price of beer starts from 4 EUR per pint. 
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Cost of food, accommodation, transportation and other things
Currency: Euro, € US Dollar, $ Russian Ruble, Rub
The main attractions of Heidelberg are concentrated in the historical part of the city. Here, every building preserves the history of past centuries. So look specifically interesting places you don’t have to - take a leisurely stroll along the central streets, look into the castle, climb the hills and you will get a basic idea of the city. I also advise all tourists to stop by the office upon arrival in German cities. Tourist Information. In Heidelberg, it is located at Willy-Brandt-Platz 1. From April to October, the office is open not only on weekdays, but also on weekends and holidays. Here you can purchase a city map and get answers to all your questions on English language. 
Top 5
Hauptstrasse
We are talking about the longest pedestrian street not only in Heidelberg, but in all of Germany! Its length is 1.8 km. But walking along it, you will never get bored - there are many shops, boutiques, bars, restaurants with traditional cuisine and cozy cafes. In addition, there is a city hall, university buildings and several churches. Hauptstrasse has an incredibly rich history: even before the founding of the city of Heidelberg in the 13th century, an important trade route passed here. At the beginning of the 20th century, tram tracks were laid along the street, and Hauptstrasse became a pedestrian only in 1969. 
Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss)
Heidelberg Castle is absolutely unique! is a country of castles, and I have visited many of them, but I have never seen anything like this anywhere. The whole point is that the castle was destroyed and rebuilt many times, but each time it retained something of its past appearance. Thus, Heidelberg Castle combines Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its history is so complicated that it can be difficult to figure it out even with the help of a guide. In order not to bore you with details, I will simply advise you to buy an audio guide at the entrance to the castle. It is available in several languages, including Russian and English. You can also purchase a guided tour of the castle's interior, which is not covered by a regular ticket. 
In the garden you will find a monument to the German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and an apothecary museum, and in the cellars you will find the world's largest wine barrel (about 220,000 liters), over 200 years old. There is a small statue next to the barrel. All tourists are told that this is a statue of the court dwarf Perkeo, who guarded the barrel, whose name comes from the Italian “Perke no?” ( it. "Why not?"). Allegedly, this is how the dwarf responded to everyone who offered him a glass.
By the way, you can easily combine an inspection of the barrel with a tasting of local wine. In the next room you can buy a glass of white or red, as well as a German sausage or pretzel. Be sure to try the Eiswein variety here. 
Path of Philosophers (Philosophenweg)
They say that the Path of Philosophers owes its appearance to university professors who loved to walk here back in the 19th century. From here you have stunning views of the city. The trail itself is very picturesque and very well maintained. Here, along perfectly smooth paths, you can even find citrus trees, bamboo and Ginko trees, which are extremely rare for Germany. The thing is that the air temperature on the philosophers' path is always 10 degrees higher than in the city center.
The trail starts in one of the most expensive and prestigious areas of the city, Neuenheim, and will require patience and endurance from you. But from above you can fully enjoy the beauty of Heidelberg and the serenity of the local nature. Here you will also find an engraving by Matthaus Merian - an image of Heidelberg as it was in 1620. 
Hill Heiligenberg
Walking along one of the three hills of the city of Heidelberg, the Heiligentberg hill, you can feel how ancient this city really is. On the hill you can see the remains of ancient Celtic buildings and a 10th-century monastery, as well as a deep well of unknown origin. The Tingstätte outdoor amphitheater, built under the Nazi regime to hold propaganda meetings, is also located here. 
Old University (Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg)
The buildings of the University of Heidelberg, which is worthy of the name of the main attraction of Heidelberg, no less than the castle, are scattered throughout the city. However, the most notable buildings are the Old University, mainly located on University Square in the Altschdat district. The main building was built in the 18th century in the Baroque style and amazes with its splendor. Today there is a rector's office, a museum, and an ancient university punishment cell, open to tourists. Previously, students were locked in a punishment cell for dueling, drunkenness and other offenses. The walls of the punishment cell are covered with secret messages and drawings, many of which historians have not been able to unravel to this day. 
Beaches. Which ones are better
There are no city beaches in Heidelberg. If you want to relax by the water, the best thing that can be recommended is to sit on the banks of the Neckar River and watch its leisurely flow.
Churches and temples. Which ones are worth visiting?
In Heidelberg you can find many churches and temples from different eras. Below I will talk about the two most important of them.
Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche)
Built in 1712, the Jesuit Church is another example of opulent Baroque architecture. Inside this light and airy building with white columns there are two organs. If you are lucky enough to get here during the service, you will hear their solemn sound, which always penetrates into the very heart. Admission is free and free. The schedule of concerts that take place in the church can be viewed. 
Church of the Holy Spirit (Heiliggeistkirche)
This is the largest church in the city with a rich and unusual history. In medieval times, the church was the location of the Palatine Library, the oldest in Germany. You can also enter this church completely freely and admire its stunning vaults. In addition, for a small fee you can climb to the top platform and look at the city from above.
The schedule of church services can be viewed. 
Museums. Which ones are worth visiting?
Of course, there are also museums in Heidelberg. Moreover, they are very diverse. Whatever your interests, Heidelberg has something to surprise you with. Below you will find a list of the most interesting and unusual museums in Heidelberg.
Pharmacy Museum (Deutsches Apotheken Museum)
The Pharmacy Museum is located on the grounds of Heidelberg Castle. Entrance to the museum is free with an entrance ticket to the castle grounds. When you enter here, you feel like you are in a secret alchemist's laboratory. Numerous jars, flasks, flasks, test tubes... you name it. Huge mechanisms that look like moonshine stills. Showcase of a medieval pharmacy. Busts of outstanding scientists. Stuffed animals. This is perhaps one of the most mysterious museums I have ever been to. To understand the purpose of each exhibit, you will have to work hard. 
University Museum (Universitätsmuseum)
Here you can learn all about the history of the great University of Heidelberg. The corresponding exhibition is located in three halls. In addition, you will find yourself in a huge assembly hall, striking the imagination with its size and majesty, as well as in the student punishment cell mentioned above.
The museum is open from April to October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from November to March from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The entrance ticket costs only 3 EUR. 
Kurpfälzisches Museum
This museum houses an impressive collection of art objects, mainly paintings and sculpture (from the 12th to the 20th centuries). There are paintings by Flemish masters and French paintings here. I recommend it to everyone who loves to contemplate beauty.
The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 to 18 hours. 
Parks
Heidelberg offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation. In the old city, green areas smoothly transition into city neighborhoods and vice versa. Sometimes you don’t notice how you end up on a forest path from a stone pavement.
The main place of rest for the townspeople is Nekravise (Neckarwiese), a large green area near the river. Students here barbecue, play the guitar and just lie on the lawns. A unique atmosphere of peace and relaxation reigns here. I would say this is one of the most iconic places Heidelberg. But keep in mind that in good weather there are always a lot of people here. 
Tourist streets
The most touristy streets in Heidelberg are located in the very center - you don't have to walk far. This is, first of all, the above mentioned Xaupstrasse.
There is a narrow little street running parallel to Haupstrasse. Plec (Plöckstrasse). This street has many interesting shops and shops that are of particular interest.
The most “party” street in Heidelberg is Untere Strasse (Untere Strasse). Every door here is the entrance to some bar or club. There are also such amazing places as a store of goods from Nepal with its magical owner, who always drinks tea on the hood of her vintage Mercedes, a vinyl record store and a shop with Indian jewelry.
What to see in 1 day
If you are in Heidelberg for just one day, you can easily see the most important things, since the city is small. 
From Bismarckplatz go to the river and cross the bridge. On the other side of the river you will see the beginning of the Philosophers' Path. To go through it all, you will need an hour and a half of time. Going down the slope, you will come to the Altbrücke - the Old Bridge leading to the old town. The bridge ends at the Medieval Gate, which was once part of the city's defensive wall. 
To the left of the gate you will find a sculpture of a monkey with a mirror. This monkey is an approximate copy of the one that stood here back in the 15th century and served as a mockery of spiritual supremacy (the monkey’s back is turned towards Mainz, which was once the residence of the German archbishops).
From Altbrücke go to the Market Square to the Church of the Holy Spirit, and from there go to Heidelberg Castle.
Once you've explored the castle, head down into town and stroll along Hauptstrasse.
What to see in the area
There are many interesting cities in the vicinity of Heidelberg. You can reach them at commuter trains, which run parallel to the Neckar river. One of these cities is Baden-Württenberg, the second largest city on the Rhine River. This city was nicknamed the “City of Squares”, because it is divided into geometrically regular blocks, designated by a combination of letters and numbers (for example, A7 or B9). There is an ancient palace here, as well as a magnificent Luisenpark(Luisenpark) – huge territory with fountains, playgrounds, bars and even a small zoo. 
I also recommend visiting Vanheim, which is 20 km away. from Heidelberg. This is a beautiful old town nestled among the hills. Almost every street here climbs uphill. Toys were lined up along each gingerbread houses in the signature German half-timbered style. In addition, two ancient castles have been preserved in the city. Windeck And Wachenburg, and there is also an unusually beautiful garden Hermannshof, bearing the name "Wisteria Garden". If you are here during the wisteria flowering period, don’t miss it. 
Fans of the Middle Ages will also be interested in visiting the castle Dilsberg(Dilsberg), located just 15 km. from Heidelberg. 
Well, if you prefer to travel by car, then a trip to Heidelberg is an excellent opportunity to repeat the world's first long car journey, which was made by Bertha Benz, the wife of the great inventor of the internal combustion engine. Bertha Benz Memorial Circuit passes through Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, as well as a lot of ancient picturesque towns. A detailed route can be found on this website.
Main attractions. What to see
Food. What to try
In Heidelberg, traditional German meat dishes are excellent - schnitzel, currywurst (fried sausage with curry sauce), bratwurst (white pork sausage) and others.
For desserts, I recommend trying the cake " Black forest» ( Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte). It contains cherry liqueur (Kirschwasser), Morello cherries, dark chocolate, sponge cake and cream. This is a traditional dessert of Baden-Württenberg, originally from the Black Forest. 
If you find yourself in Heidelberg between mid-April and June, be sure to try asparagus dishes - the Germans know how to cook it like no other. Asparagus is cultivated throughout southern Germany, but Baden-Württenberg is perhaps the best place to taste it. It is through this land of Germany that the so-called Asparagus Road(Baden Asparagus Route). You can read more about this gastronomic route.
Other traditional Swabian dishes you can try in Heidelberg are Schwarzwalder schinken(Black Forest ham) Zwiebelrostbraten(roast beef with fried onions), Kasspätzle(pasta and cheese) Maultaschen(similar to Italian ravioli) and Spätzle(another type of pasta).
In addition, in Heidelberg you should try the local wine that is produced in the surrounding area ( Schriesheim, Wiesloch and etc.). To buy it, go to the vineyards located in small towns along Bergstrasse(highway B3). This way you can indulge in tastings in so-called “wine” or “beer gardens”.
If you want to treat yourself to authentic Swabian cuisine in Baden-Württenberg and try any of the dishes listed above, go to the restaurant Zum Weissen Schwanen at Hauptstraße 143. Although this establishment is quite popular among tourists, a cozy, homely atmosphere still reigns here. Prices are affordable. The main course will cost 10-12 EUR, appetizers – 5-7 EUR. 
Budget
The most budget-friendly lunch option is kebabs (from 3.5 EUR). The most delicious kebab in Heidelberg is prepared in a cafe Sahara on the main street (Hauptstraße 167).
For those who want to feel the student spirit, I can recommend the canteen Mensa im Marstallhof. This is perhaps the most beautiful and oldest university canteen in Germany. It is located in a historic building and offers food and beer at low prices to everyone.
If you're tired of German cuisine, go to Sunisas Thai Imiss on Speyerer Str, 1. It serves authentic Thai dishes at affordable prices. There is a veranda, tables by the pool, and cocktails are served. Open from 11:00 until late at night.
I also recommend visiting the food market, which takes place on Saturdays in the main square of the city. Here you can buy delicious regional products.
Mid-level
Nice restaurant with modern German cuisine and reasonable prices – Brunnenstube at Kranichweg 15. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 17:00. There is excellent fish, meat, and many special seasonal offers. In summer there is a veranda. The main course will cost you from 8 to 19 EUR here.
Expensive
Among the many student beer gardens and cheap eateries in Heidelberg, you can also find gourmet restaurants. The most popular is probably Weisser Bock(Grosse Mantelgasse 24). This is a restaurant serving German and European cuisine with an excellent wine list and a consistently high level of service. It is quite popular, so reservations are a must.
Other restaurants in Heidelberg for true gourmets are Qube Restaurant, Alter Monchhof And Restaurant Herrenmühle.
Food. What to try
Holidays
Three times a summer, fireworks are given at the famous Heidelberg Castle in honor of the end of the 30-year war with France in 1693. This colorful event attracts several thousand spectators along the Neckar embankments. You can see how this happens. Unfortunately, the specific date of the holiday becomes known every time last moment.
Another great reason to visit this city is the Christmas market ( Weinachtsmarkt), which runs through all German cities from the end of November and ends a few days before Christmas. This is the most fabulous time of the year: the streets are twinkling with magical lights, the aromas of mulled wine, gingerbread and fried sausages are floating around, and Christmas songs are heard from everywhere.
In addition, a music festival is held in Heidelberg twice a year (in spring and autumn). Heidelberger Frühling, in the fall - theater festival Heidelberger Stückemarkt, and on the last Saturday of September - a street festival Heidelberger Herbst. All dates can be viewed (in German).
Safety. What to watch out for
Heidelberg is a fairly safe city. However, single women walking late at night should take standard precautions.
Also pay attention to the bike paths, which are often painted red. Almost all students in Heidelberg ride bicycles - many have reckless riding habits.
Things to do
If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center, climb the Königstuhl mountain. From the top there is a beautiful view of the city and the Rhine Valley. In good weather conditions, you can see the northern part of the Black Forest mountain range. To get here, take the funicular to Heidelberg Castle. Having risen to the castle, change to the next lift. Upon arrival, you can look at the 100-year-old engine that has just lifted you to a height of 568 m. A ticket will cost you 12 EUR (round trip). You can see the prices for the lift. By the way, you can also climb Mount Köningstuhl on foot using the stairs Himmelsleiter(lit. "heavenly staircase" or "stairway to Heaven"). It consists of 1200 steps. The beginning of the stairs is directly above the castle.
On Mount Königstuhl you can also visit the falcon farm ( Tinnunculus). It is open from April 1 to October 20 from 11.30 to 15.30, except Mondays. The rest of the time the farm does not work.
Shopping and shops
On Bismarckplatz and on Hauptstrasse there are large shopping malls "Galeria" and "Müller". Hauptstrasse is basically considered a shopping street; here you can find many different shops and boutiques from H&M to Sisley. Best time for shopping – Christmas and New Year sales, during this period all stores have discounts from 30 to 70%.
Also in the courtyard of the university canteen Marstal Cafe Sometimes student markets are organized, operating on the principle of a spontaneous flea market. Here you can find everything from fur coats to vinyl records. Some things are even given away for free. The dates of such markets can be found from notices posted in the dining room.
All of the above bars are designed for the average wallet. Of course, there will be a lot of students everywhere - but after a couple of hours in Heidelberg you begin to get used to it.
By the way, if you are of student age and you happen to find out about one of the student parties (of which there are many in the city, but you can only find out about them through word of mouth), you have hit the jackpot. Come in and have fun, but try not to be a tourist.
Also keep in mind that drinking establishments in Heidelberg are not just bars. There are two small breweries in the city just behind the Old Bridge. Kulturbrauerei And Vetter's Brauhaus. The second is famous for one of the strongest beers in the world (Vetter 33).
Clubs and nightlife
You can't expect incredible musical delights from Heidelberg's clubs, but if you want to dance to your heart's content and don't suffer from musical snobbery, there will definitely be a place for such relaxation. Among the most popular clubs are:
Nachtschicht is the city's main student dance venue. There are always a lot of people here. Themed parties and DJ sets are often organized. There is face control at the entrance. Entrance fee – from 10 EUR. Address: Bergheimer str. 147.
- Jinx bills itself as a cocktail bar with a club atmosphere. However, in my opinion it is more of a club than a bar. They dance until they drop here! Open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 20:00 to 05:00. Drink prices are very reasonable.
- 1900 is not at all memorable date, and the club. R"n"B, hip-hop, dance tracks and an atmosphere of light madness. The price of entry to theme parties can reach 30-35 EUR.
- Locals say that the best parties happen in a place called Halle02, at Zollhofgarten 2. It also hosts student garage sales, exhibitions and concerts in a variety of genres. Entrance prices are very reasonable: from 2 to 10 EUR.
- If you're a seasoned metal lover, head to Reichenbacher. This is a small underground club on Savon Wiesenweg 48.
Most dance establishments in the city are open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from evening until early morning. On Sundays the city is quiet.
Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift
From Heidelberg, I advise you to bring local wine and liqueurs (the cost of decent alcohol starts from 10-12 EUR). Other souvenirs that can be found exclusively in this city include small chocolates with images of people kissing. They cost a couple of euros. This is the Heidelberg Kiss. Kissing in advance used to be shameful, so Heidelberg students in love gave each other such chocolates. All this, as well as magnets, figurines and T-shirts, can be bought on Haupstrasse, as well as at the Church of the Holy Spirit.
Things to do
How to get around the city
The city is quite small, but efficient system urban transport, consisting of trams and buses.
I advise tourists to purchase a pass" Heidelberg Card", which gives free access to public transport as well as many museums. It can be purchased at the Tourist Information office. A one-day pass costs 15 EUR, two days – 17 EUR, 4 days – 19 EUR. There is also a family Heidelberg Card (36 EUR for 2 days).
Using public transport in Heidelberg is very convenient. At many stops there are special boards indicating the time remaining until the arrival of a bus or tram. By the way, the DB Navigator phone application will help you quickly find the transport you need.
Sightseeing tour buses also travel around Heidelberg.
Taxi. What features exist
If you need to get to some place in the dark and you are afraid, then use a taxi. Heidelberg even has a special cheap night taxi for women, which is partly financed by the city authorities (“Frauentaxi”). Unfortunately, it is available only to city residents. But if you stay late in some bar, ask the local students - they probably won’t mind sharing the trip with you.
You can either call a regular taxi by phone or find it at the central railway station. The price will be 2.60 EUR for the first two kilometers and 1.60 EUR for subsequent kilometers. Not all machines accept credit cards (Germans generally love cash), so it’s better to find out this point in advance.
Buses
Buses are the second most important public transport in the city. Buses 32 and 33 connect the main station with the historical city center. Detailed maps, schedules and routes can be found on the above website.
Transport rental
Renting a car in Heidelberg is not difficult. You can book a car in advance on one of the international rental websites or use the services of the corresponding offices in the city. To do this, you must be 18 years old and have at least 1 year of driving experience.
Renting a car in Heidelberg costs about the same as in any other European city. In conditions of late booking, you will pay about 120 EUR for two days for a miniature Smart with a manual. The automatic will cost more. Naturally, the earlier you book a car, the lower the price will be. You can select and book a car here
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Germany's oldest and most famous university town retains the charm of its Baroque narrow streets and picturesque tiled-roofed houses. It is famous for its abundance of theaters and museums, excellent pubs and the majestic ruins of a castle on the slope of Mount Königstuhl, which is visited by more than 3 million people every year.
It's worth going to Heidelberg for the romantic atmosphere that Goethe and Twain praised. The medieval expanses of the city create an amazing canvas of landscapes along the green valley of the Necker River, and only the bustling student life brings travelers back to our time. There are a lot of students here, which is why the local pubs are always noisy and cheerful, and young minds everywhere relax or study science on the green lawns.
Its location in the warmest region of the country gives the city a Mediterranean climate. He decorated these lands with lemon, date and almond trees, pomegranates, cypresses and palm trees. Even rare ones of Eastern Europe the necklace parrots chose it as their home. Heidelberg is woven from these colorful contrasts, where ancient buildings intertwine into a medieval pattern of streets with wine cellars, and modern scientific centers adjacent to centuries-old churches.
Flights to Heidelberg
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How to get to Heidelberg
By plane
The nearest international airport is Frankfurt, from where Lufthansa buses depart daily. The bus stop is located next to the Ciao Italia restaurant (Terminal 1, exit B3). A one-way ticket costs €25 for an adult and €12.50 for a child over 14 years old. A round trip will cost 46 € and 23 €, respectively.
By train
Heidelberg's main train station (Hauptbahnhof) is located in the western part of the city and is easily reached by buses 32 and 33 from the Market Square (Marktplatz). From Frankfurt or Stuttgart you can travel to Heidelberg by high-speed trains ICE (Inter City Express). Both cities' airports have train stations inside the terminals. The cost of a one-way ticket from Stuttgart will be 27 €, from Frankfurt - 22 €. Direct train lines also connect Heidelberg with Karlsruhe and Mannheim, and intercity trains connect with Munich, Vienna, Hamburg and Cologne.
By car
The A5 federal highway and the A656 highway connect Heidelberg to Mannheim and allow easy access to the city from any direction. Frankfurt Airport is approximately 60 km from Heidelberg. Travel time will take about an hour.
Hotels in Heidelberg
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There are not many five-star hotels in the city, but finding budget accommodation is much more difficult. The most luxurious options include the Der Europaische Hof Hotel Europa, located within walking distance of the Old Town. The hotel has a restaurant, Kurfürstenstube, which offers one of the best and most delicious menus in the city. The price per room starts from 200 - 250 €. In the same price category is the Heidelberg Suites boutique hotel next to the famous Old Bridge. It is designed in the style of German Romanticism and offers luxury apartments with views of Heidelberg Castle.
The 4-star Crowne Plaza Heidelberg is just a few minutes' walk from the pedestrian area of the Old Town. The rooms are quiet and feature a large work area, including a fax machine, ideal for business travelers. The price for a single room also starts from 200 €.
The design Qube Hotel Heidelberg offers 45 rooms with plenty of... natural light. The hotel features a rooftop terrace that also houses the upscale Qube restaurant. In it, the price for a standard room starts from 100 €.
Shopping in Heidelberg
Heidelberg's main shopping district stretches along the Necker River and includes the streets and alleys between Bismarck Square and the Market Square. The first place in it is occupied by Hauptstrasse, where all the famous brands and shops selling glass, crystal, handicrafts, and other items are collected. Käthe Wohlfahrt is one of the most popular gift shops at Hauptstraße 124. It sells Christmas toys and decorations all year round.
Classic souvenirs in the form of magnets and postcards abound in the Market Square around the Church of the Holy Spirit, which is quite a contrast. Heidelberg is also famous for its farmers' markets in the morning. You can find them on the Market Square on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays on Friedrich Ebert Square. Once a month on Saturdays, the city hosts a flea market along Kirchheimer Weg. The exact dates of the event can be found on the city’s official website. At this market you can see a whole range of trinkets from different eras, and real antiques can be found in the Spiess & Walther store at Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage 23a.
The Leder-Meid store at Hauptstrasse 88 sells very high-quality genuine leather goods, mostly bags, jackets and various accessories. For branded clothing, you should go to Caroline VK, where such famous brands as Hugo, Boss, Etro, Armani are represented. More popular brands under one roof can be found in the Kaufhof shopping galleries; there are two of them in Heidelberg and they are located within walking distance of each other. There are clothes, shoes, and household goods here.
The most original souvenir from Heidelberg can not only be bought, but also tasted at the famous confectionery shops Knösel and Heidelberger Studentenkuß. It consists of sweets with the image of a kissing couple, which is called the “Student Kiss”. The owner of the Knösel cafe came up with this sweet treat so that students and boarding students could use it to show their sympathy without violating the strict boundaries of decency. The game of half-hints turned out to be so intriguing and romantic that the “Student Kiss” turned into another symbol of Heidelberg.
Festival of Lights in the Old Castle
Three times a year, the ruins of Heidelberg Castle glow with bright red flames against the evening sky. Sparks and rising smoke make this spectacle incredibly realistic and exciting. All this is part of the most colorful event in the city - the Festival of Lights.
- How to get to Heidelberg
- Where to stay in Heidelberg
- Sights of Heidelberg
How to get to Heidelberg
Heidelberg (Heidelberg) is the fifth largest city in Baden-Württemberg, located on the banks of the Neckar River and surrounded by several hills. Geographically located in the north of the region, in the Neckar river valley. Heidelberg is both a major tourist center with many preserved historical attractions (the city was not affected by bombing during the Second World War), and a “university” city, since several large higher education institutions are concentrated here. educational institutions, including the ancient University of Heidelberg. This makes Heidelberg similar to another university town - Freiburg.
To get to Heidelberg from Moscow (or other cities), you first need to fly to one of the closest air hubs in the region - Stuttgart or Frankfurt, and then take a train, bus or taxi directly to Heidelberg. There is a longer way - use the services of Russian Railways and get to Karlsruhe on the Moscow-Paris branded train; then from Karlsruhe by train, bus or taxi to Heidelberg. We have already written about how to get from Russia to Baden-Württemberg in different ways in a separate article. Today we will tell you more about how to get specifically to Heidelberg.
How to get from Stuttgart to Heidelberg
The distance between Stuttgart and Heidelberg is approximately 120 km. Heidelberg is located north of Stuttgart. By train you can get from one city to another in 40 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the type of train, by taxi in approximately 2 hours.
By train
Direct trains between Stuttgart and Heidelberg run every half hour, starting at 7.30 am (there are also night trains, but they run less frequently). The cheapest way to get there is to take the RE (regional) train. In this case, the travel time will take about one and a half hours (there will be stops along the way). The fastest, but also the most expensive way is to use the high-speed train type IC (transregional), then the travel time will be only about 40 minutes.
To get to Heidelberg from Stuttgart by train, you need to take the train lines S2 and S3 from Stuttgart airport and get to Stuttgart Central Station (trains run from 5 am to midnight, travel time is about 30 minutes), from there transfer to a direct train to Heidelberg. Train schedules can be found on the official website of the German railways Deutsche Bahn. Tickets to Heidelberg can be purchased in advance on the website or at the ticket office of Stuttgart railway station.
By bus
Buses from the airport and Stuttgart central station to Heidelberg start at 5.45 am. Transportation is carried out by Flixbus, Postbus, Deinbus and others. Travel time is from 2 to 2.5 hours. Buses leave once an hour. The last bus leaves at 23.45 at night. You can view the bus schedule for the Stuttgart-Heidelberg route on the Flixbus website.
By taxi
A taxi is a more expensive way to get from city to city than a train, but this method may be relevant in case of a night flight (trains run less often at night), or in case of a large amount of luggage (on Kiwitaxi you can order a car designed for a different number of passengers and luggage). You can also order a taxi at the information desk at Stuttgart Airport.
How to get from Frankfurt to Heidelberg
Heidelberg is located 90 km south of Frankfurt am Main. You can get from Frankfurt Airport to Heidelberg by train or taxi. By rail the travel time will take a little less than an hour, by highway - also a little less than an hour, depending on traffic congestion.
By train
Arriving at Frankfurt Airport, tourists can immediately transfer to railway transport, since there are 2 stations at the airport itself - from one (Regionalbahnhof) trains go to the city to the main railway station of Frankfurt, from the other (Fernbahnhof) trains go to different cities in Germany. Thus, from Fernbahnhof station you can immediately transfer to the train to Heidelberg, which departs once an hour starting at 8 am (trains run less frequently at night). The only inconvenience of this method is the need to make a transfer in Mannheim, since there are no direct trains from Frankfurt Airport to Heidelberg, but the transfer itself, as a rule, does not take much time (about 10-20 minutes), so it does not greatly affect the overall duration of the trip. The schedule can be viewed on the official website of the German railways Deutsche Bahn.
There is another way to get to Heidelberg - this is to take the train to the main train station at Frankfurt airport from the Regionalbahnhof station, and from there transfer to a direct train to Heidelberg, which runs once an hour, starting at 6 am (less often at night). The travel time will be just over an hour, no transfers are required. Tickets for Heidelberg can be purchased in advance online or at the ticket office of Frankfurt train station.
By bus
You can take the bus to Heidelberg at the airport or at Frankfurt central station. The first bus starts running at 04.45 am, the last one leaves the airport at 0.25 am. Flights are operated by various companies, incl. Flixbus, Postbus, BerlinienBus and others. Travel time is from 1.5 hours to 1 hour 50 minutes. You can view the bus schedule for the Frankfurt-Heidelberg route on the Flixbus website.
By taxi
Taxi is a more expensive way to get from Frankfurt to Heidelberg. On average, such a trip will cost 160 euros or more one way. However, this method can be useful in case of a night flight to Frankfurt, since trains do not run regularly at night and getting to Heidelberg can be problematic. It will also be more convenient to take a taxi if you have a large amount of luggage. You can order a taxi directly at the airport at the information desk in the arrival terminal, or in advance via the Internet on the Kiwitaxi transfer ordering website. The travel time will be about 50 minutes.
How to get from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg
Karlsruhe is a major railway junction in Baden-Württemberg and throughout Germany; trains depart from here to the south - to Baden-Baden, Freiburg, Bodensee, Titisee and further to Strasbourg and other cities in France. International branded Moscow-Paris trains also pass through Karlsruhe station. For those who prefer rail transport to air transport or for various reasons cannot use planes, this option will be an alternative way to get to the cities of Baden-Württemberg. The distance between Karlsruhe and Heidelberg is about 55 km. You can overcome them either by train or by taxi. Travel time by train will be 45 minutes, by taxi – 1 hour 15 minutes.
By train
Direct trains run from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg every hour, including at night. The ticket price depends on the type of train. High-speed options such as ICE and IC will cost more, but the travel time will only take half an hour. Regional trains RE, RER, RB, etc. will cost less, the travel time will be 45 minutes - 1 hour. There are also numerous options with transfers in Mannheim, Bruchsal and other cities. Train schedules can be found on the official website of the German railways Deutsche Bahn. Tickets to Heidelberg can be purchased in advance on the website or at the ticket offices of Karlsruhe railway station.
By taxi
A taxi from Karlsruhe to Heidelberg will cost about 160 euros one way, the travel time is about 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on how busy the route is. You can order a taxi at the information desk at Karlsruhe railway station, or in advance via the Internet on the Kiwitaxi transfer ordering website.
In addition to trains and taxis, another option for traveling around Germany is to rent a car. In order to rent a car in Germany, you must have an international driving license. In Germany, many large rental companies provide car rental services. In Karlsruhe these are Avis, Budget, Enterprise. In Frankfurt these are Global Drive, Budget, Buchbinder, Thrifty, InterRent, Caro, Alamo, Enterprise, etc. In Stuttgart - Alamo, InterRent, Enterprise, Thrifty, Europcar, Budget, Global Drive. In Heidelberg - Hertz, Global Drive, Alamo. The approximate cost of car rental per day is about 40 euros.
How to get from Munich to Heidelberg
You can also get to Heidelberg from Munich, although the cities are administratively located in different regions of Germany. The distance between the cities is 340 km, connected by highway No. A8 through Stuttgart. A longer, but also cheaper way to get from Munich to Heidelberg is by bus. Direct buses depart from Munich Central Bus Station to Heidelberg up to 10 times a day. The earliest one departs at 06.15, the last one at 21.00. Travel time is from 5 to 5.5 hours depending on traffic. Schedule - Flixbus. The cost of a one-way trip starts from 15-17 euros.
There are no direct trains between Munich and Heidelberg, but there are routes with a short change in Mannheim. Travel time will be about 3 hours 20 minutes. Trains run throughout the day, twice an hour. Train schedules can be found on the official website of the German railways Deutsche Bahn.
Where to stay in Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a fairly compact city; most of the city’s attractions can be seen within 1 day, so tourists mainly come here on one-day excursions and rarely stay longer. However, by staying in Heidelberg for a few days, you can explore not only the city itself, but also the picturesque suburbs. These, in particular, include the romantic valley of the Neckar River, the towns of Speyer, Forms, Ladenburg, Wiesloch, Schwetzingen, which deserve special attention from tourists.
The city, due to its compact size, is quite easy to navigate. Typically, tourists prefer to stay in areas such as Bergheim or Altstadt due to their proximity to the city's main attractions. Sometimes tourists choose the Bahnstadt area to stay close to the train station (if necessary, travel by train). The city has hotels of different star categories, most of them provide free Wi-Fi, many hotels have their own parking, and in some hotels breakfast is included in the room price. In general, the level of service in Heidelberg hotels is quite high, as throughout Germany.
Heidelberg Hotels
Heidelberg's hotel stock boasts all star categories, but the most common are 3 or 4 star hotels, as well as B&Bs without stars, which are great for a one-night stay in the city.
Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center, 4 stars
The Leonardo Hotel Heidelberg City Center is located in the Bergheim district, within walking distance of the historical part of the city. The hotel has its own parking, restaurant and free Wi-Fi throughout the entire territory. Outside the hotel there is an outdoor terrace for relaxation. Comfort or superior rooms have air conditioning, safe, hairdryer, telephone, TV, satellite TV, work desk, coffee/tea set. Breakfast may be included in the room rate, or may be paid additionally depending on the room type. The hotel received the highest ratings from guests for its location and professionalism of the staff.
The hotel's reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Standard check-in is from 15.00, check-out is until 12.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel prices for specific dates on the Booking.com booking website.
Hotel Goldene Rose, 3 stars
Goldene Rose Hotel is located in the Old Town area, within walking distance of the city's main attractions. Among the areas to stay in Heidelberg, Altstadt is considered the most convenient for exploring the city. There is also a public transport stop nearby. Parking, free Wi-Fi, summer terrace - all this is offered to hotel guests. All hotel rooms are divided into standard and “comfort” types. The rooms have everything you need, including a work desk, ironing facilities, TV, radio, telephone, hairdryer. Buffet breakfast is included in the room rate. The hotel received the best reviews for its location, cleanliness of the rooms and professionalism of the staff.
Check-in at the hotel is from 14.00, check-out is until 12.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel prices for specific dates on the Booking.com booking website.
Hotel Bayrischer Hof, 3 stars
The Hotel Bayrischer Hof is located in the city center, equidistant from both the train station and historical attractions. There is a public transport stop next to the hotel. The area in which the hotel is located is also great for shopping. The hotel has its own parking, free Wi-Fi throughout, and luggage storage. The hotel has rooms of different categories: standard, superior, twin, junior suite. The standard room has a bathroom with hairdryer, telephone, cable TV, minibar. Breakfast in all types of rooms is paid separately.
The best reviews for the hotel are given for the location, cleanliness of the rooms and professionalism of the staff. Check-in is from 16.00, check-out is until 10.30. You can find out more about availability and hotel prices for specific dates on the Booking.com booking website.
Hotel Heidelberger Hof, 3 stars
The hotel is located in the university district of Heidelberg. The hotel has private parking, a sauna, a fitness room, and you can also rent bicycles. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. The hotel offers standard, comfort and junior suite rooms. The rooms have a TV, safe, work desk, hairdryer, telephone, fan. Some room types include breakfast. Top Ratings the hotel receives for its location and professionalism of the staff.
Check-in is from 14.00, check-out is until 11.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel prices for specific dates on the Booking.com booking website.
Hotel Goldener Hecht
The hotel is located in the old town area near the historical monument - the city gate. The hotel has parking, free Wi-Fi throughout, and a beer garden with views of the historic city center. All rooms are equipped with shower, radio, TV, work desk, telephone. Each room is designed in a specific style. The hotel has superior rooms and even junior suites. Breakfast is available at an additional cost. The hotel receives the highest marks for its location and professionalism of the staff.
Check-in is from 13.00, check-out must be made before 11.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel prices for specific dates on the Booking.com booking website.
Lotte - The Backpackers
Lotte - The Backpackers is a local hostel where you can stay in Heidelberg on a budget. The hostel is located in the historical part of the city and offers both private rooms and places in a shared room for 5 or 6 people. The hostel has parking, and inside you can use free Wi-Fi throughout the entire territory. The hostel also offers use of a shared kitchen where you can prepare breakfast/dinner. The hostel received the best reviews for its location, professionalism of the staff and cleanliness of the rooms. Also among the best, guests also noted the price/quality ratio of the services provided.
Check-in is from 15.00, check-out is until 11.00. You can find out more about availability and hotel prices for specific dates on the Booking.com booking website.
Sights of Heidelberg
Heidelberg (Heidelberg) is one of the most picturesque towns in southern Germany. Situated in the Neckar valley and surrounded by hills and heights, the city miraculously survived the bombing, has the largest number of historical sites in the entire region, and the longest pedestrian street in Europe makes Heidelberg a desirable travel destination. The tourist flow to the city does not dry out all year round. There are also many students here, since the University of Heidelberg is considered the oldest in Germany, and studying here is desirable and prestigious.
The closest international airports to Heidelberg are Stuttgart and Frankfurt (120 and 90 km respectively). From there, Heidelberg itself can be reached by high-speed or regional trains, or by taxi.Also major cities, located next to Heidelberg, Mannheim and Heilbronn are considered, not without their architectural charm.
Most often, Heidelberg is visited on a one-day excursion, this is enough to see the main attractions of the city, however, by staying in Heidelberg longer, you can also get acquainted with the picturesque natural surroundings and nearby suburbs, which also preserve many architectural attractions. It's really worth it.
The infrastructure here is well developed for city guests: public transport and a cable car are designed to make it easier to move around the city, and Heidelberg hotels offer all the necessary services.
The sights of Heidelberg are extremely diverse: these are historical monuments (the central of which is Heidelberg Castle), cultural (many interesting museums, such as the Palatine Museum or the Museum of Antiquity, the German Packaging Museum or the Max Burke Textile Museum), natural (mountains and forests in the area , which have observation decks and walking trails), as well as many park and garden areas.
Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg Castle is included in the list of the 100 most beautiful places in Germany, and this is no coincidence. The huge architectural complex in the style of German romanticism was built 5 centuries ago and served as a home for royalty. Today, the castle, located at the highest point of the city, rises on the ancient quarters and makes an indelible impression on guests and residents of Heidelberg, and the views of the castle are equally attractive both in the daytime and in the evening, when the sun begins to set below the horizon, and at night, when the castle is illuminated by multiple illumination. Heidelberg Castle is consistently ranked among the ten most beautiful castles in Baden-Württemberg.
The castle is open to visitors from 8 am to 6 pm daily, the main inspection is exterior, because The interiors of the castle have not survived. Entrance to the castle costs 6 euros, audio guides – 5 euros (available in Russian).
Old Bridge
The bridge over the Neckar river was built in the 18th century from sandstone. There are only a few bridges of this type in Europe. On the side of the old city, the bridge is decorated with medieval gates, which are also an independent landmark of the city. In addition, the old bridge is decorated with several sculptural groups, in the center of one there is a statue of Prince Charles Theodore (the initiator of the creation of the bridge), in the center of another there is a sculpture of the Roman goddess Minerva. The Old Bridge is entirely pedestrian and is part of the longest pedestrian street in Europe. It is through the bridge that you can get to the old part of the city and further to Heidelberg Castle.
Historical Buildings
Heidelberg is administratively divided into several districts, one of which is Altstadt (literally “old town”). It is here that the largest number of surviving historical monuments is concentrated. In particular, such historical buildings include the building of the old university (founded in 1386), made in the Baroque style, in which more than 30 thousand students from different parts of the world study in 12 different faculties; entrance to the university is free and accessible to tourists.
Karlstor, or Charles's Gate, is another well-preserved landmark located in the eastern part of the city. The construction of the gate dates back to 1775, the architectural style is neoclassical, with elements of Romanesque architecture, the gate is decorated with 4 lions, symbolizing the power and might of the former kings.
The city hall, built in the early 18th century, is a mix of styles. Traditional elements here are mixed with elaborate Rococo details, but this does not create the impression of disunity; rather, on the contrary, it demonstrates continuity in art. This mixture of styles is typical for many buildings in Europe and is associated with the need for alterations and reconstruction. Heidelberg City Hall was last renovated at the beginning of the 20th century.
In the old quarter, some residential buildings are also of interest, for example, the residential building Zum Ritter (“at the knight’s”) dates back to 1592 and is considered the oldest residential building surviving in the city; Also of interest are the Kornmarkt square with the statue of the Virgin Mary, St. Peter's Church, the university library, the Hexenturm tower and others.
City squares, Botanical garden, zoo
The city has preserved several beautiful ancient squares that are perfect for tourist walks surrounded by historical buildings - this is Bismarckplatz, Karlsplatz, Marktplatz, and University Square. In addition to cityscapes, the city is ready to offer several landscaped park areas. These, in particular, include the Botanical Gardens (on the territory of the University of Heidelberg). The Heidelberg Gardens are considered the oldest botanical gardens in Germany (founded in 1593). Here are unique collections of plants and flowers that grow in various eco-systems, for example, in the upper reaches of swamps, alpine meadows, wooded dunes or vineyards.
The Heidelberg Zoo was built relatively recently, but has already gained fame thanks to the collection of animals living on the territory of the zoo. These include lions, tigers, brown bears, pandas, and giant turtles. Also on the territory of the zoo there is an area for feeding fur seals, and there is also a separate area where elephants live. The zoo is organized in such a way that there is a lot of entertainment for children, and there are also places for picnics in the fresh air. The zoo is open daily from 9 am to 7 pm, entry costs 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children. The Heidelberg Zoo is modeled after the zoos in Stuttgart and Munich, but on a smaller scale.
Transport in Heidelberg is provided by tram and bus lines, although the main attractions can be seen by walking along the pedestrian part of the city. If there is a need to get from the historical part of Heidelberg to the new one, then the city has 6 tram and 12 bus routes, the cost of a single journey is 1.10 euros.
Also, tourists traveling by car may need to park their car. In the city, although in small numbers, there are public free parking. You should look for them in the following places: Leo’s Fine Food & Wine (exact address - 69 Cape Street, open parking, designed for 220 parking spaces, maximum parking time - 2 hours); Heidelberg Station (exact address - Yarra Street, open 24-hour parking, capacity for 300 spaces, popular).
What to see in the area
Heidelberg is famous not only for its attractions within the city, but also for its landscapes in the surrounding area. There are many walking routes around the city that allow you to see the city from above from specially organized observation platforms. For those who do not want to climb the mountain on foot, there is a funicular. In addition to the natural beauty, the area around Heidelberg also boasts several picturesque small towns that are renowned for their attractions and atmosphere. These, in particular, include Kirchheim, Ziegelhausen, Rohrbach, and the palace and park complex in Schwetzingen deserves special attention.
Observation platforms and funicular ride
There are several natural viewing platforms around Heidelberg, due to the fact that Heidelberg is located in a valley. The most famous places for exploring the city from top to bottom are the Heiligenberg mountain, the Königstuhl mountain and the Molkenkur mountain.
Heiligenberg is located on the northern side of the city, its height is approximately 440 meters. At the top of the mountain are the ruins of St. Stephen's Abbey, which is another reason to climb Heiligenberg. In addition, on the neighboring peak you can also find the ruins of another abbey - the Abbey of St. Michel. From both points there are picturesque views of the Neckar River valley.
The Königstuhl has a height of 568 meters, from here there are views not only of Heidelberg, but also of the entire Neckar valley and even partly of the Rhine valley. Besides observation deck, you can also find a family theme park and an observatory here.
Mount Molkenkur, which is located just below Königstuhl, also offers spectacular views of Heidelberg and the valley. In addition, you can not only visit here during a guided tour, but also stay longer, since there is a hotel with a terrace view and a restaurant surrounded by a picturesque forest.
The Heidelberg funicular travels along its route to all the most interesting places in the city. Starting at Kornmarkt Square, the carriages pass the Heidelberg Castle station and then climb Mount Molkenkur. Then, if you wish, you can stay here, or you can climb even higher - to Mount Königstuhl, but on another funicular. The cost of travel on the lower funicular is 7 euros, the cost of travel along the entire route, including Mount Königstuhl, is 12 euros. In summer, the funicular operates from 9 am to 8 pm (cars depart every 20 minutes). IN winter time The funicular operates until 5 pm. Cable cars and funiculars are common in the Black Forest and are the most convenient way to explore the local mountains. Similar funiculars can also be found in Baden-Baden and Karlsruhe.
Philosophers' Path
Since the city is considered a "university city", it is not surprising that the walking trail around Heidelberg was also named poetically, and the name itself is associated with education. The Philosophers' Trail runs through the outskirts of Heidelberg, offering the best views of the city and the Neckar valley. Many sites along the route were named after various philosophers - Eichendorff, Merian, Holderlin.
In addition, during the route you can also visit the “gardens of philosophers” - that’s what they call botanical gardens, located on the hills of the valley. Since the climate of Heidelberg is close in its properties to Italian Tuscany, many heat-loving plants have taken root here - Japanese sakura, cypress trees, lemons, bamboos, rhododendrons, gingkos and much more. The landscaped garden has collected so much interesting flora that it has become an independent tourist attraction.
8 km from Heidelberg is the small but colorful town of Schwetzingen. It is famous, first of all, for its palace and park complex, the appearance of which dates back to the 14th century. Previously, the residence of the rulers of the German lands was located here; the palace reached its heyday under the reign of Prince Karl Theodor, at which time extensive (70 hectares) park areas around the palace were designed.
Part of the park area is made in the traditional English style, while the palace garden was made in the Baroque style. There are more than 100 different sculptures in the park, in addition, there are several interesting architectural structures here - the temple of Apollo, a summer house, the design of which is reminiscent of small Italian villas, and, you will be surprised, here you can even find a small mosque with minarets, decorated with oriental ornaments and made in the late Baroque style (the mosque never served religious purposes).
You can also find a lot of interesting things inside the palace, since the original interiors have been preserved here. The Rococo Theater, which can be found in the northern wing of the palace, deserves special attention. You can move around inside the palace only with organized tours, which run daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (until 5 p.m. on weekends). The cost of the excursion is 10 euros. Entrance to the gardens can be self-guided (without a guided tour), the entrance fee is 6 euros. The gardens are open from 9 am to 8 pm in summer, and until 5 pm in winter. If you are interested in exploring “palace” cities, then you will find the towns of Rastatt near Karlsruhe and Ludwigsburg, located near Stuttgart, no less interesting.
