Heidelberg in a Day: Castle, Streets, and Serenity

Discover the enchantment of Heidelberg, Germany, where family adventures come alive.

19 July 2023

Heidelberg, Germany offers a perfect family-friendly vacation destination with a blend of history, natural beauty, and fun activities. Explore the majestic Heidelberg Castle that overlooks the city, embark on scenic walks along the Neckar River, and wander through the charming Old Town with its picturesque streets and bustling market squares. Don't forget to visit the Heidelberg Zoo, where kids can enjoy close encounters with a variety of animals, making it an ideal choice for an unforgettable trip.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Taking Heidelberg by Storm

  • Start your day with breakfast at Café Knösel, a charming bakery known for its flaky croissants and aromatic coffee.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of the Altstadt, admiring the stunning architecture and colorful houses.
  • Visit the Heidelberg Castle, perched on a hilltop, and immerse yourself in centuries of history and breathtaking views of the Neckar Valley.
  • Grab a quick bite at Schnitzelbank, a cozy restaurant offering authentic German dishes, including their famous hearty schnitzels.
  • Explore the charming Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Walk), an enchanting trail winding along the river and offering panoramic vistas of the city.
  • End the day with a boat ride on the Neckar River, enjoying the tranquility and serenity of the surrounding nature. Rest your weary feet and soak in the enchanting ambiance.

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

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