What to do in Heidelberg

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic square with cobblestone pavement, a central fountain, and surrounding buildings with traditional architecture.
A historic town with red-roofed buildings, a prominent church tower, and a river.
A museum with a statue, outdoor seating, and a garden.
A historic stone bridge with arches overlooking a river and a cityscape with red-roofed buildings.
A stone bridge over a river, surrounded by historic buildings and trees.

Things to do

Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on your Smartphone

Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

฿380
per adult
Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Heidelberg: The University in the Old Town

Heidelberg: The University in the Old Town

฿764
per adult
Heidelberg: The University in the Old Town
Heidelberg Castle Gardens: A Self-Guided Tour of its Ruins

Heidelberg Castle Gardens: A Self-Guided Tour of its Ruins

฿301
per adult
Heidelberg Castle Gardens: A Self-Guided Tour of its Ruins
Mannheim, guided walking tour: Pulsating Jungbusch

Mannheim, guided walking tour: Pulsating Jungbusch

฿570
per adult
Mannheim, guided walking tour: Pulsating Jungbusch
Hockenheimring: Insider Tour of Legendary Racetrack

Hockenheimring: Insider Tour of Legendary Racetrack

฿497
per adult
Hockenheimring: Insider Tour of Legendary Racetrack
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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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A historic castle with a round tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a village in the valley.

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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A bustling outdoor café with wicker tables and chairs, surrounded by colorful buildings and pedestrians.

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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A historic building with ornate lion sculptures and a green-topped tower.

4. 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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A historic building with a pointed roof and large windows, surrounded by colorful buildings and a public square with people and outdoor seating.

5. 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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A historic building with ornate architecture, large windows, and a statue in front.

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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A stone bridge over a river with a castle in the background.

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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A bridge over a river with a large tree in the foreground, a castle in the background, and flags on the bridge.

8. Brass Monkey

At the entrance to Karl Theodor Bridge is the Brass Monkey (Brückenaffe), which is said to represent the equality between Heidelberg’s citizens and people from other cities. A monkey sculpture first appeared at the bridge in the 1400s, although it was removed during the Palatinate War of Succession. Today’s Brass Monkey is a 20th-century work of art by the German sculptor Gernot Rumpf.
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A bronze sculpture of a large elephant holding a globe, with a river and buildings in the background.

What to do in Heidelberg

Stay near popular Heidelberg attractions

A historic castle with a round tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a village in the valley.

Heidelberg Castle

9.4/10 (1,224 reviews)
Perched dramatically above Heidelberg, this medieval castle's romantic ruins showcase Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Take the funicular up for panoramic Neckar River views and see the world's largest wine barrel.
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Where to stay in Heidelberg

Find the best Heidelberg areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Heidelberg
Learn more about Heidelberg
A cityscape at sunset with a prominent modern building, a mix of historic and contemporary architecture, and a busy street with vehicles.

Bergheim

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Bergheim. If sightseeing is on the list, Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park 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.

A historic castle with multiple towers and a surrounding wall, set against a lush green hillside.

Heidelberg City Centre

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

A historic stone bridge over a river, with a castle and church in the background.

Neuenheim

Unique features of Neuenheim include the river views and historical sites. Make a stop by Neckarwiese or Karl Theodor Bridge while you're exploring the area.

A cobblestone street with historic buildings, a castle in the background, and a bicycle parked by the roadside.

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.

A historic church with a tall spire, arched windows, and a large wooden door.
Photo by Dave ThBg
Open Photo by Dave ThBg

Handschuhsheim

You'll enjoy the breweries and churches in Handschuhsheim. You might want to make time for a stop at Thingstätte or Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park.

Day trip destinations from Heidelberg

A large fountain in the center of a square with two large red brick buildings on either side.

Mannheim

A calm lake with several traditional boats, a distant church, and lush greenery along the shore.

Ladenburg

A narrow, moss-covered stone bridge over a small stream in a wooded area.

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.