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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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
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
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
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
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
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
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 Neckarwiese.

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 by Andreas Spieler

Ladenburg

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 kilometres away from downtown, while Bergheim is 2 kilometres 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.