Weekend Adventure: Heidelberg's Castle & Charm

Experience the charm of Heidelberg, where history, culture, and nature merge into one.

03 May 2023

Heidelberg is a charming and picturesque city in southwest Germany, famous for its historic old town and spectacular castle. A visit to Heidelberg offers an enchanting blend of culture, history, and nature, with plenty of amazing attractions to explore. From strolling along the charming streets of the Altstadt to admiring the stunning views of the Neckar River and the city skyline from the castle, a trip to Heidelberg is an unforgettable experience for any tourist.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Castles, Bridges, and Schnitzel

  • Hotel recommendation: Hotel Zum Ritter St. Georg
  • Start your day with a guided tour of Heidelberg Castle, navigating its gardens and admiring the views of the Neckar River.
  • Walk across the iconic Old Bridge (Alte Brücke) and soak in the sights of the picturesque town.
  • Get a taste of an authentic German meal at Schnitzelbank, a restaurant famous for its schnitzel and cozy atmosphere.
  • Take a stroll through the charming streets of the old town, stopping by the Church of the Holy Spirit, and the Kurpfälzisches Museum.
  • Cap off the evening with a beer at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, one of the oldest breweries in town, and toast to a day well-spent.
Day 2

Panoramic Views and Philosopher's Walk

  • Start your morning with breakfast at Café Gundel, a local favorite for pastries and coffee.
  • Take a short funicular ride up to Königstuhl, the highest peak of the nearby hills, for breathtaking views of Heidelberg.
  • Embark on a stroll along the Philosopher's Walk, a scenic path that offers views of the town, the river, and the castle.
  • Indulge in some retail therapy at Hauptstraße, a famous shopping street known for its fashion boutiques and local souvenir shops.
  • For dinner, head to Red Ox Inn, a cozy restaurant with a romantic ambiance serving modern German cuisine with a twist of culinary art.
  • End the night by enjoying a drink at the popular Student Jail Bar, a quirky spot that was actually once a prison for student revelers.
  • Heidelberg offers a mix of medieval history, charming streets, and stunning views, making it a perfect destination for a short yet unforgettable trip.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Heidelberg by plane is to fly to Frankfurt Airport (FRA) and then take a direct train to Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Heidelberg by car is to drive via the A5 motorway and exit at the Heidelberg/Schwetzingen exit. From there, follow the signs to Heidelberg city centre.

Train

The best way to get to Heidelberg by train is to take a direct train to Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof from major German cities such as Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin.

Boat

While there are no direct boat connections to Heidelberg, the best way to travel to Heidelberg by boat is to take a river cruise along the Neckar River and disembark at a nearby town such as Neckarsteinach or Mannheim. From there, take a train or bus to Heidelberg.

Bus

The best way to get to Heidelberg by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major German cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, or Cologne. The bus will arrive at the Heidelberg central bus station next to Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof.

Destination

Heidelberg

Home to a castle that has been standing since the 13th century and more beer gardens than you can shake a pretzel at, this city is a firm favorite among tourists and locals alike. Just don't forget your lederhosen and dirndl.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

4 Days in Heidelberg: Budget-Friendly Adventure

Heidelberg is a charming city filled with culture, history, and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for a budget-friendly trip. From strolling along the famous Philosopher's Walk to exploring the iconic Heidelberg Castle, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy. With affordable accommodations and access to delicious local cuisine, visitors can experience all the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Affordable Adventures: Two Days in Heidelberg

A trip to Heidelberg, Germany on a limited budget may include exploring the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and historical buildings. The city offers many picturesque walks around the Philosopher's Way and the Heidelberg Castle ruins. Dining at local street food markets and staying at budget-friendly hostels can help save money, while still allowing for an enjoyable experience in this beautiful city.

The Ultimate 5-Day Heidelberg Adventure Guide

As a tourist in Heidelberg, Germany, you can explore the historic old town and visit the magnificent Heidelberg Castle, a widely recognized landmark. You can also enjoy beautiful views of the River Neckar while strolling over the Old Bridge, or shop for souvenirs in bustling pedestrian zones. Lastly, indulge in delicious regional cuisine and sample local beers and wines at one of the city's many cozy pubs or restaurants.

A Memorable 4-Day Weekend Getaway in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming university town nestled in the heart of southwest Germany. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which boasts cobblestone streets, baroque architecture, and stunning views of the Neckar River. Must-see attractions include the Heidelberg Castle, the Philosophenweg hiking trail, and the iconic Old Bridge.