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Ancient university city, Heidelberg is considered one of Germany’s most beautiful villages. Unmissable stop during a holiday in the black forest.
One, or maybe two days are ideal for best appreciating his atmospheres, landscape and his small hidden treasures.
Haupttrasse, Altstadt and Heiliggeistkirche. The old bridge (Alte Brüke) and the path of philosophers. The ruins of the castle … what to see in Heidelberg during a holiday there is really a lot of choice.
WHAT TO SEE IN HEIDELBERG
ALTSTADT AND HEILIGGEISTKIRCHE
The beautiful historic center (Altstadt) is undoubtedly the starting point of what to see in Heidelberg.
His romantic architecture, red roofs and numerous buildings make the idea of why the city is considered one of Germany’s most enchanting.
It will be really pleasant to walk through its alleys, perhaps stopping at one of the many coffees and bistros in the square, slowly enjoying the charm of the city.
Do not miss a visit to the Church of Saint Spirit (Heiliggeistkirche), dating back to the 14th century, which dominates the Marktplatz. Free admission.
The glance from the panoramic tower is beautiful, to 38 meters in height. From here you can enjoy the best panorama of Neckar and the Castle.
To reach it you have to climb about 200 steps. It is necessary to pay the entrance ticket at a cost of 5€ for adults. Children up to 14 years of age enter free.
ALTE BRÜKE
The suggestive pedestrian bridge dates back to 1788. 200 meters long connects the two banks of the Neckar, offering beautiful views of the city.
It was built in 1788 at the behest of the German Prince Carl Theodor, to whom his name is also tied.
A plaque recalls the position in which the revolutionary army in 1849 placed (without success) the explosive. About a century later, however, the bridge was truly skipped. It was 1945 away. Thanks to the many donations, it would have been reconstructed in just 2 years!
Two high white towers and a monument statue arise on the opposite sides of the bridge.
Do not miss what to see in Heidelberg. Especially in the evening, when everything enlightened becomes even more fascinated and suggestive.
BRÜCKENAFFE
Crossing the whole Altstadt, just before entering the bridge, you notice this singular bronze statue depicting a monkey.
Brückenaffe has become a real local icon year after year, immortalized on photos and selfies.
The monkey holds a mirror in his hand. According to a belief, touching it brings luck!
The statue is located in Neckarstaden 66.
WHAT TO DO AND WHAT TO SEE IN HEIDELBERG: THE PATH OF PHILOSOPHERS
For lovers of hiking, Philosophenweg is an unmissable stop on what to see in Heidelberg. This fascinating path climbed in the hills for a couple of kilometers, offering truly unique panoramic points.
About 3 kilometers long, the path can be reached leaving the high Brüke from the opposite bank of the altstadt. The first demanding climb should not discourage: peace to such tranquility await visitors along the path. And along the path you can admire the ruins of the Monastery of Saint Michael of the 11th century and the fascinating Thingstätte Amphitheater.
The name of the path recalls the university philosophers who once loved walking through these places.
HEIDELBERG CASTLE
Dating back to the distant 16th century, Heidelberg Castle is considered one of the best examples of German Renaissance architecture. Without a doubt among the attractions not to be missed on what to see in Heidelberg in one or two days. After the destruction of the French, the perimeter and the primary walls still remain of the castle.
Numerous events and fireworks shows are organized punctually every year among the ruins of the castle.
The surrounding park (Schlossgarten Heidelberg), with many trees, vegetation and fountains are beautiful and well -kept.
You can go up to the castle with the Heidelberg funicular from the city center (Rathaus/Bergbahn station). A cumulative ticket, also available in the convenient family version, allows you to use the funicular and visit German Park and Pharmacy inside the castle. More info from here.
For those wishing to get by car, the closest parking is the Parkplatz Schloss-Wolfsbrunnweg. From 08:00 to 19:00, however, you pay € 1 every 20 minutes. Free from 19:01 to 07:59 of the following day.
HEIDELBERG UNIVERSITY
Photo ©, Ji-Elle
Heidelberg is the oldest university city in Germany, still operational today, founded in 1386!
The old university stands on the south side of the central Hauptstrasse. Here is the Karzer, the old operational student prison for more than 130 years starting from 1778.
The New University was built between 1928 and 1931. In its courtyard stands the so-called Witches’ Tower, around which various myths and legends revolve. The Tower was part of the city’s ancient fortifications and was also used to imprison women accused of witchcraft during the Inquisition.
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