Heidelberg: Budget-Friendly Bites and History

Discover Heidelberg's historic charm without breaking the bank.

22 June 2023

Heidelberg is a charming university town in southwest Germany, filled with breathtaking views, historic architecture, and a vibrant student scene. For budget travelers, there are plenty of affordable accommodations available within walking distance of the city centre, where you can explore the ancient castle ruins, stroll along the idyllic Philosopher's Way, and sample traditional German cuisine at local markets and cafes without breaking the bank. With its rich culture and affordable charm, Heidelberg is the perfect budget-friendly destination for anyone looking to explore the heart of Germany.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Heidel-Bites and History

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Frischhut, known for their fresh pastries and coffee.
  • Walk along the Philosophenweg, a scenic path offering stunning views of Heidelberg Castle and the Neckar River.
  • Visit Heidelberg Castle, a magnificent ruin steeped in history. Take a guided tour or explore it on your own.
  • Grab a quick and affordable lunch at Schnitzelbank, serving traditional German dishes like schnitzel and sausages.
  • Check out the Studentenkarzer, a former student prison filled with graffiti and stories of rowdy students from the past.
  • End your day with a cold beer or glass of wine at Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, a classic German brewery and restaurant.
  • Heidelberg offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and cuisine. With just one day, you can capture the essence of the city and create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank.

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

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Type of trip

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