One of the exciting aspects of relocating to a new city, especially one abroad, is that we begin to notice our surroundings much more keenly—paying attention to details that regular residents might overlook.
This is precisely what I’ve experienced over the past two and a half months while living in the enchanting city of Heidelberg, a place that seems to leap straight from the pages of a fairytale, much like the dreams of Romantic authors.
Most tourists spend only 2-3 days here, which is sufficient to explore a city of about 150,000 residents. However, through various interactions with visitors, I’ve realized that many miss out on what truly makes Heidelberg special. If you’re planning to visit or are considering a return, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.
Heidelberg Castle
The first landmark that any observant visitor will notice is the striking Heidelberg Castle (or “Heidelberger Schloss” in German). Whether you’re a casual tourist or an adventurous backpacker, this site is a must-visit. This year, it has been ranked as the second most popular tourist attraction in Germany by the German National Tourism Board. Yet, it’s not only the castle that captivates visitors.
A common oversight among tourists is leaving the castle and immediately returning to the city. Instead, I recommend turning left; this path leads you to the castle gardens, which were once considered the eighth wonder of the world when they were first constructed. Make sure to stroll to the end of the gardens and then take a left to reach the long terrace.
If you visited recently, you might have noticed a metallic structure partially obstructing the stunning view of the Castle, the city, the Old Bridge, and the valley. Fortunately, this structure has been removed, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery that has inspired countless writers and poets throughout history.
On your return, be sure to stop by the Ginkgo tree, a unique tree planted in the garden in honor of a poem by Goethe. Just be cautious of where you step; stepping on one of its fruits will leave an unpleasant odor on your shoe!
Old Part of the City
As you make your way back to the old part of the city, known as Altstadt (avoid the expensive funicular; the views are not worth it), you will encounter several majestic buildings adorned with various flags, showcasing architecture that harmonizes with the castle’s style. Many of these buildings belong to student fraternities associated with Germany’s oldest university, which, I must note, are not particularly well-loved.
The Philosophers’ Way
Another remarkable sight in Heidelberg is the Philosophenweg (Philosophers’ Way), situated just across the river. This path was named by university students due to its romantic and inspirational ambiance.
Less crowded than the castle, the Philosophers’ Way is an ideal spot to relax, enjoy a beer, and take in the views from across the river, especially at night when tourists have departed and only a few locals remain.
The Old Bridge
When exploring the Altstadt, dedicate at least an hour to wander through its charming streets lined with Baroque-style buildings, walk down to the river, and, of course, cross the Old Bridge (Alte Brücke). If you retrace your steps from the bridge into the city, you’ll soon spot a bar called Vetter on your left. This tavern boasts the world’s strongest beer, as recognized by the Guinness World Records, with an alcohol content of 33%, and brews some of the finest beers in the city.
Untere Straße
Lastly, if you’re looking for nightlife, Untere Straße is the place to be. Although Heidelberg may not have the liveliest party scene, you’ll find open pubs every night. If you’re unsure where to go, make your way to Destille, a uniquely decorated pub featuring a mix of music genres from classic rock to modern indie. And if you enjoy beer (and who doesn’t in Germany?), be sure to try their Kellerbier or “unfiltered beer”.
Having lived in England since 1998 and traveled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries across five continents, Marco is a writer, blogger, and photographer passionate about adventure and travel. He enjoys uncovering off-the-beaten-path destinations that haven’t yet become popular with tourists. Marco shares valuable independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.
