Welcome to Heidelberg, one of the most picturesque cities in Germany! With its medieval architecture, old streets, and beautiful castle, Heidelberg is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this part of Europe. But Heidelberg isn’t just about the history and sights; it also boasts a lively cultural scene, great food, and outdoor activities that will cater to every taste. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the best attractions and things to do in Heidelberg. So, whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history, admiring nature, or indulging in some delicious German cuisine, read on and get ready to fall in love with Heidelberg!

The 10 Best Family Activities in Heidelberg

1. Heidelberg Adventure Date for Couples on Your Phone
2. Heidelberg Tour With a Professional Guide Including Castle Visit
3. Heidelberg Sightseeing Bus and Castle Tour
4. Walking Tour of the Old Town of Heidelberg
5. Heidelberg Private Walking Tour
6. Heidelbergcard With Castle Ticket and City Map 1 Day
7. Heidelberg Self Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Walking Tour
8. Heidelberg 2 Hour Walking Tour With Night Watchman
9. Heidelberg 50 Minute Sightseeing Cruise on the Neckar River
10. Heidelberg Tour Witches Dance and Monks Death

The 10 Best Family Activities in Heidelberg

1. Heidelberg Adventure Date for Couples on Your Phone

Explore Heidelberg in a unique and exciting way with your partner through an interactive smartphone game. Step away from reality and become immersed in a fun couples game as you solve tasks and answer tricky questions to unlock clues to your next destination. Get to know each other better as you form a deeper bond with your partner and the city by creating new memories together. Access bonus content once you have completed the game and enjoy the added support of a live tour guide. This experience is not your typical sightseeing tour, but rather an adventure for couples to enjoy together.

2. Heidelberg Tour With a Professional Guide Including Castle Visit

Explore one of Germany’s most picturesque cities with a private half-day tour of Heidelberg. Admire its rich cultural attractions including Heidelberg Castle, the Old Bridge and the Church of the Holy Spirit. Your guide will provide you with an in-depth history of the city along the way. This tour is perfect for travelers interested in culture and history and is customizable to suit your needs. Please note that entry fees to the attractions cost extra. The tour includes an English speaking guide and meeting and pickup from Hauptstraße or from your centrally located hotel. The end point is at Botanischer Garten. It’s important to note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible but is easy accessible via public transportation. Most travelers can enjoy the experience.

3. Heidelberg Sightseeing Bus and Castle Tour

Explore the beauty and history of Heidelberg on a sightseeing bus and castle tour. Join a certified guide on a comfortable bus tour where you will learn about the city’s past and witness amazing views of the Heidelberg Castle. The tour offers an opportunity to explore the beauty of the castle’s grounds, including the inner courtyard and the famous Great Heidelberg Tun. After visiting the castle, enjoy a ride on a funicular railway back to the Old Town. The tour includes a bus tour, a certified guide, castle entrance tickets, and funicular ride. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of Heidelberg with this exciting tour.

4. Walking Tour of the Old Town of Heidelberg

Look behind the scenes of Heidelberg on this walking tour of the old town with qualified guides. Explore the enchanting alleys and squares of Heidelberg’s old town, including the Jesuitenviertel and the main street. See popular attractions such as the Church of the Holy Spirit and Germany’s oldest university with its Students’ Prison. Learn about the history of Heidelberg and what it has to offer from the knowledgeable guides. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the romantic, funny, and always entertaining stories that Heidelberg has to offer. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to discover the past and present of Heidelberg in a unique way.

5. Heidelberg Private Walking Tour

Picturesque Heidelberg is a hub for academics and artists and has inspired many for centuries. This private walking tour will take you on an in-depth exploration of the city’s historical landmarks, including the Old Town, the Student Jail, the University, and Charles Bridge. Led by a local guide, you’ll get a rich overview of Heidelberg and its significance. See the Student Jail where detained students used to leave centuries-old scrawls on the walls, and tick off top landmarks as you walk through the colorful Old Town. The tour departs every hour, and the meeting point is Obere Neckarstraße, right in front of the Tourist Office. Customizing the tour with your guide on the spot is possible, and gratuities are included. Come and discover what makes Heidelberg so unforgettable on this private tour!

6. Heidelbergcard With Castle Ticket and City Map 1 Day

Discover Heidelberg at your own pace with the HeidelbergCARD with Castle Ticket and City Map for one day. This comprehensive card includes entrance tickets to Heidelberg Castle, a cable car ride to the castle, free use of public transport, and many discounts and special offers for tours, culture, museums, restaurants, and shopping. With the HeidelbergCARD, you can explore the city of Heidelberg with ease and convenience. Ride on the city’s VRN metro buses, trams, and authorized trains for free, including 2nd-class seats on Deutsche Bahn: Regional-Express, Regionalbahn, and S-Bahn in the greater Heidelberg area. In addition, you will get a travel guide and a pocket-sized city map to help you navigate the city. Don’t miss out on the best attractions and things to do in Heidelberg- make your visit even better with the HeidelbergCARD with Castle Ticket and City Map.

7. Heidelberg Self Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Walking Tour

Get to know Heidelberg at your own pace with this interactive scavenger hunt walking tour. Combining a tour with the fun of a scavenger hunt, you’ll decipher riddles, interact with the city’s most important attractions, and unlock interesting facts and legends. Perfect for first-time visitors, couples, groups, families, and children, this tour offers an ideal outdoor activity that can also serve as a great team-building exercise. With the mobile app and login credentials provided, you’ll be able to explore Heidelberger Altstadt (Old Town) and discover hidden gems of the city. You can stop at any time to snap as many pictures as you want. However, please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The tour guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drink, and entrance fees are not included.

8. Heidelberg 2 Hour Walking Tour With Night Watchman

Immerse yourself in the spooky world of werewolves, ghosts, and vampires on this two-hour walking tour led by a costumed night watchman in Heidelberg. Hear exciting lore and legends about Heidelberg while exploring the dark corners of the old town. The night watchman guides you through the picturesque streets in the evening, taking you to the locations of vicious murders and teaching you all about wild students and terrible monsters. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the detailed historical costumes of the night watchman and feel a cold shiver down your spine at the mention of supernatural beings and events. Book your walking tour today and experience the dark side of Heidelberg like never before.

9. Heidelberg 50 Minute Sightseeing Cruise on the Neckar River

Immerse yourself in the charm of Heidelberg with the Heidelberg 50 Minute Sightseeing Cruise on the Neckar River. This tour offers a unique perspective of the city from the serene waters of the Neckar River. You’ll get to see the Old Bridge and the famous Heidelberg Castle from a whole new view.

While on board, you can choose to purchase enjoyable food and drinks as you listen to the captain’s announcements and learn important facts and stories about the city. This family-friendly tour is perfect for all ages and offers an unforgettable experience.

As the boat approaches the Heidelberg Castle nestled atop a hill, you’ll get to see the historic monument overlooking the old city. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to capture some of Heidelberg’s most famous sights from a different angle. Book your Heidelberg 50 Minute Sightseeing Cruise on the Neckar River now.

10. Heidelberg Tour Witches Dance and Monks Death

The Heiligenberg Tour Witches Dance and Monks Death offers an original event tour in Heidelberg that has been running since 1996. You’ll have the opportunity to experience legends and spookiness at Heiligenberg, an old Celtic ring wall, a mysterious ritual, and the ruins of a monastery, which are the ingredients for this atmospheric adventure. Don’t be scared by the story of the black rider, because if it doesn’t scare you, you’ll be spooked by the spirits of a “headless” woman from the time of the Crusades, mutinous monks, and a mysterious crypt where you’ll find the ghosts of three monks murdered one stormy night.

Follow the grand ducal woodsman Hubertus Heimbold on his hunt through the “terrifying” forest and hear tales of eerie happenings and historical events. The tour includes a tour guide in historic costume, allowing you to discover Heidelberg off the beaten track. Come and immerse yourself in the history of one of the oldest urban areas in the region, whose remains await you deep in the woods.

Most Frequently Asked Questions About the City of Heidelberg Answered

If you’re planning a trip to Heidelberg or have just arrived, you may have some questions about this picturesque city on the banks of the Neckar River. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Heidelberg, answered.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Heidelberg?

Heidelberg is a popular tourist destination year-round, but the climate is most comfortable in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these seasons, the temperature is mild, and there is less rainfall. However, the summer months (June to August) offer plenty of outdoor festivals and events, and the winter months (December to February) have their own charm with the city adorned in holiday decorations.

2. How do I get to Heidelberg?

The closest airport to Heidelberg is Frankfurt Airport, which has excellent international connections. From there, you can take a train or rental car to Heidelberg. If you’re coming from within Europe, there are many high-speed train connections to Heidelberg from cities like Munich, Amsterdam, and Paris.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Heidelberg?

Heidelberg Castle is undoubtedly the most iconic attraction in the city. You can take a guided tour of the castle or explore on your own. Other attractions worth visiting include the old town, the Karl Theodor Bridge (also known as the Old Bridge), the Jesuit Church, and the Philosophers’ Walk (a scenic walking trail with panoramic views of the city).

4. What is the food like in Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a rich culinary tradition that blends German and international cuisine. You’ll find many beer gardens, cafes, and restaurants serving traditional German dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and potato salad. But there are also plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions. Heidelberg is also known for its excellent local wine, which you can enjoy in many of the city’s wine bars and restaurants.

5. What are the best day trips from Heidelberg?

If you have time, there are many great day trips from Heidelberg. The charming town of Mannheim is just a short train ride away, and nearby cities like Frankfurt and Stuttgart are also easily accessible by train or car. The Rhine River Valley, with its vineyards, castles, and picturesque villages, is also a popular day trip from Heidelberg.

6. What should I pack for a trip to Heidelberg?

The most important thing to pack for a trip to Heidelberg is comfortable walking shoes, as the city’s cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet. Beyond that, pack clothing appropriate for the time of year you’re visiting, especially if you’re visiting in the winter months. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle and a daypack for carrying snacks, maps, and other essentials while exploring the city.

7. What is the nightlife like in Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. There are cozy pubs and wine bars, trendy cocktail bars and clubs. The city is also home to the oldest student club in Germany, known as the ‘Karzer’, which is now a museum. If you’re looking for a night out in Heidelberg, there are plenty of great options available.

8. Is Heidelberg a safe city to visit?

Heidelberg is a very safe city, with low rates of crime and violence. However, as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your surroundings. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, does occur in busy tourist areas, so it’s also wise to keep an eye on your belongings.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a picturesque city in southwest Germany that offers a perfect blend of a dynamic modern lifestyle and impressive historic architecture. The city is located on the banks of the Neckar River, and it is renowned for its beautiful scenery that includes the ruined castle, charming streets, and impressive gardens. If you are planning to visit Heidelberg, you should prepare a plan of activities in advance to maximize your time and enjoyment. In this guide, we will offer you comprehensive insights into the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Heidelberg.

1. Visit the Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle is undoubtedly the most popular tourist attraction in the city, and it is a must-visit destination for tourists. This scenic castle is a combination of different architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance, and it offers breathtaking views of the city from the castle balcony. You can explore the castle’s state rooms, gardens, and courtyards, and learn about the castle’s rich history through the different exhibitions in the castle museum.

2. Stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk

The Philosopher’s Walk is a picturesque walking path that is situated on the opposite banks of the Heidelberg Castle. This quiet and peaceful path offers stunning views of the Neckar River and the city. The walk is named after the many great thinkers who used to walk along this path searching for inspiration. You can take a relaxing stroll along this path while enjoying the magnificent views of the castle.

3. Explore Old Heidelberg City

Old Heidelberg City is the historic center of the city, and it offers a unique experience for visitors. The city is characterized by narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming cafes and restaurants. You can explore the historic town square, visit the Heidelberg University, and stroll along the Alte Brücke Bridge that spans the Neckar River.

4. Take a tour of Heidelberg University

Heidelberg University is one of the oldest universities in Germany, dating back to the 14th century. The university is renowned for its distinguished professors, Nobel Laureates, and impressive buildings. You can take a guided tour of the university and explore the different faculties, historic halls, and libraries.

5. Visit the Kurpfälzisches Museum

The Kurpfälzisches Museum is an art and history museum that displays collections from the city’s rich history, including paintings, sculptures, and scientific tools. The museum is located in the historic Palais Morass building, and it offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s past and culture.

6. Take a boat cruise on the Neckar River

A boat cruise on the Neckar River is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Heidelberg from a different perspective. You can take a 50-minute boat tour down the river that offers stunning views of the Heidelberg Castle, Old City, and Neckar Valley.

7. Enjoy the nightlife in Heidelberg

Heidelberg offers a vibrant and buzzing nightlife, and there are several places to enjoy nightlife in the city. The city has a diverse range of bars, clubs, and pubs that cater to different tastes and budgets. You can enjoy live music, cocktails, and dancing in different venues across the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Heidelberg is a perfect destination for tourists who are looking for a combination of rich history, scenic beauty, and modern lifestyle. In this guide, we highlighted the top activities to do in Heidelberg, including visiting the Heidelberg Castle and Old City, exploring the Philosopher’s Walk, taking a tour of Heidelberg University, visiting the Kurpfälzisches Museum, taking a boat cruise on the Neckar River, and enjoying the nightlife. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Heidelberg.