What to do in Heidelberg

Activities, attractions and tours

Heidelberg
Heidelberg Church of the Holy Spirit which includes heritage elements and a city
Heidelberg
Heidelberg Castle featuring heritage elements, views and a city
Heidelberg
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Top places to visit

1. Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg) is imperious, mystical and romantic all at the same time. It stands over Heidelberg’s Old Town and the Neckar Valley on the lower slopes of Königstuhl hill. Enjoy views of the city and valley from the pristine garden, peruse a sculpture collection, see an enormous wine barrel and watch a spectacular light show. Heidelberg Castle dates back to the 1300s. Its many buildings showcase the evolution of German architecture.
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Heidelberg Castle showing tranquil scenes, a small town or village and heritage architecture

2. Marktplatz

Marktplatz (Market Square) is one of Heidelberg’s oldest squares and a landmark in the city’s Altstadt (Old Town). Like a time capsule in the heart of the city, Marktplatz shows a glimpse of Heidelberg’s historic heart. Take a seat at one of the cafés that spill out onto the pavement and explore the square’s heritage highlights.
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Heidelberg

3. University of Heidelberg Old Campus

Since 1386, the University of Heidelberg Old Campus has been welcoming students to the banks of the Necker. Today, the campus is home to the humanities departments of the modern university. Many of the university’s most idiosyncratic and best-known buildings are open to visitors anxious to get a taste of student life throughout the ages. Go on a walking tour along the streets of the Altstadt in search of these spots.
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With some of the city’s most historically and architecturally interesting sites, Germany’s oldest university forms the beating heart of the Heidelberg Altstadt.

4. Heidelberg University Library

Browse millions of tomes, ancient manuscripts and historical exhibitions at the Universitätsbibliothek (University Library Heidelberg). With historical documents related to the Baden and Palatinate territories of German and regular exhibitions, the Universitätsbibliothek plays a significant role in the city’s cultural life.
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Whether you come to study, read or simply take a walk around an impressive building, the principal library of the University of Heidelberg is a fascinating place to visit.

5. Church of the Holy Spirit

The Church of the Holy Spirit (Heiliggiestkirche) dominates the skyline of Heidelberg’s pretty historic center. Admire the arresting façade, spot a set of intricate stained-glass windows and climb to the top of the tower for expansive city panoramas. Attend organ recitals, chamber music and choral performances. Although the Church of the Holy Spirit origination dates back to 1398, building work continued until 1544.
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Heidelberg Church of the Holy Spirit which includes a statue or sculpture, a square or plaza and a fountain

6. Karl Theodor Bridge

Go for a walk on Karl Theodor Bridge (also known as Old Bridge or Alte Brücke), which crosses the Neckar River from the edge of Heidelberg’s historic Old Town. Admire its classical stone design and artistic ornamentation. Appreciate uninterrupted views of the lush green Neckar Valley and some of the city’s finest monuments. Karl Theodor Bridge has long been an inspiration for artists and has had works written about it by well-known poets such as Friedrich Hölderlin.
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Karl Theodor Bridge featuring a bridge, night scenes and a river or creek

7. Neckarwiese

Bask in the sunshine and temperate climate of one of Germany’s warmest cities at the Neckarwiese. Local families, groups of friends and vacationers alike come to enjoy this stretch of greenery set on the north banks of the Neckar River. Find children’s play areas at Neckarwiese, go for walks along the riverfront and spot city landmarks.
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Pack a picnic to have on the green lawns, try boating activities and appreciate uninterrupted views of Heidelberg’s Old Town from this riverside park.

What to do in Heidelberg

Popular places to visit

Heidelberg Castle showing tranquil scenes, a small town or village and heritage architecture

Heidelberg Castle

4.5/5(33 reviews)

This ruined Renaissance castle stands majestically on a hilltop and presents incredible views of the Neckar Valley from its beautiful garden.

Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg

Marktplatz

Go for a stroll and view the pretty heritage streetscape around Heidelberg’s traditional market square, which is anchored by an impressive Gothic church.

Marktplatz
University of Heidelberg Old Campus

University of Heidelberg Old Campus

4.5/5(9 reviews)

With some of the city’s most historically and architecturally interesting sites, Germany’s oldest university forms the beating heart of the Heidelberg Altstadt.

University of Heidelberg Old Campus
Heidelberg University Library

Heidelberg University Library

Whether you come to study, read or simply take a walk around an impressive building, the principal library of the University of Heidelberg is a fascinating place to visit.

Heidelberg University Library
Heidelberg Church of the Holy Spirit which includes a statue or sculpture, a square or plaza and a fountain

Church of the Holy Spirit

Enjoy superb views of Heidelberg’s Old Town from the tower of this 14th-century church, which took nearly 150 years to build.

Church of the Holy Spirit
Karl Theodor Bridge featuring a bridge, night scenes and a river or creek

Karl Theodor Bridge

Heidelberg’s oldest bridge is an architecturally impressive landmark decorated with an imperious gateway, detailed sculptures and a curious monkey statue.

Karl Theodor Bridge
Philosophenweg

Philosophenweg

You can find out about the history of Heidelberg with a stop at Philosophenweg. Wander around the forests or experience the area's museums.

Philosophenweg
Neckarwiese

Neckarwiese

4/5(2 reviews)

Pack a picnic to have on the green lawns, try boating activities and appreciate uninterrupted views of Heidelberg’s Old Town from this riverside park.

Neckarwiese
Heidelberg which includes outdoor art and interior views

Heidelberg Student Jail

Heidelberg’s 500-year-old university has seen numerous troublemakers. Take a tour of the cells used to imprison carousing students for minor offenses.

Heidelberg Student Jail

Explore areas of Heidelberg

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Heidelberg City Centre

Historical sites, cafes and shopping are some highlights of Heidelberg City Centre. Make a stop by Heidelberg Student Jail or Heidelberg University Library while you're exploring.

Heidelberg City Centre
Heidelberg featuring food

Bergheim

4.5/5(10 area reviews)

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Bergheim. If sightseeing is on the list, Körperwelten Museum is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Heidelberg (West) Central Station Tram Stop or Heidelberg Seegarten Tram Stop to see more of the area.

Bergheim
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Weststadt

Weststadt is noteworthy for its historical sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park and Schatzkammer.

Weststadt
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Neuenheim

5/5(3 area reviews)

Though “New” is in the name, this is one of the oldest districts of Heidelberg, with natural havens just across the river from the Altstadt.

Neuenheim
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Bahnstadt

3/5(1 area review)

Though Bahnstadt may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Heidelberg Zoo and Heidelberg University Library.

Bahnstadt
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Kirchheim

4/5(2 area reviews)

Visitors to Kirchheim enjoy its restaurants, and if you want to do some exploring, Roadside Theater is worth a stop.

Kirchheim

Day trip destinations from Heidelberg

Friedrichsplatz which includes a fountain, a park and a sunset

Mannheim

Photo "Bammental" by Zwiadowca21 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Zwiadowca21 (CC BY-SA)

Bammental

Frequently asked questions

Is Heidelberg worth visiting?
Heidelberg has an interesting mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or regional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Heidelberg?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Castle and MIRAMAR. Then, explore different areas of Heidelberg for a quick bite and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Heidelberg?
Don't go home without visiting Heidelberg Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Heidelberg.
Is three days enough to stay in Heidelberg?
Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, such as Heidelberg Castle, Heidelberg Zoo and Kurpfälzisches Museum. The average stay in Heidelberg is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Heidelberg City Centre isn't far away.
Is Heidelberg a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Heidelberg. Several attractions, such as Heidelberg Castle and Heidelberg Zoo, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Heidelberg's neighbourhoods, Altstadt Heidelberg is 2 kilometers away from downtown, while Bergheim is 2 kilometers away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Heidelberg with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Heidelberg with kids.

What to do in Heidelberg for adults?
Deutsches Apotheken-Museum and Körperwelten Museum are just a couple of the things to do in Heidelberg. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Heidelberg?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Heidelberg is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Teltschik Tower is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.