10 insider tips for tourists in Heidelberg - Discover the hidden treasures of this picturesque city!
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Anyone who welcomes tourists from all over the world every day eventually hears the same phrases: "Castle, Old Bridge, Main Street – we've seen it all, what's next?" But Heidelberg has so much more to offer. This list is what I recommend to real visitors when they ask me what they absolutely shouldn't miss.
The links will take you directly to the location on Google Maps.
Contents
- Philosophers' Walk
- Heiligenberg (Saints' Mountain)
- Königstuhl (King's Chair)
- Karlstor (Charles' Gate)
- Manuscript Department of the University Library
- Heidelberg Sugar Shop
- Botanical Garden
- Antiquarian Bookshops in the Old Town
- Heidelberg Breweries
- Fairy Tale Paradise Park
1. Philosophers' Walk
The Philosophers' Walk is no longer an insider tip – but many visitors still skip it because it involves a bit of walking. A shame, because the view of the Old Town, castle, and Neckar from up here is completely different from below.
A nice alternative: start at the Köpfel Indoor Pool, walk up through the forest paths via the Moltkehütte and the Schlangenweg, catch your breath on the Philosophers' Walk, and finish with a detour to the Bismarck Tower. Good shoes are not a luxury.
2. Heiligenberg (Saints' Mountain)
Even many Heidelberg residents don't really know the Heiligenberg. But there's a lot waiting up there: the ruins of St. Stephen's Monastery, one of the oldest Christian sites in the region, and the Thingstätte – an open-air theater from the Nazi era, which alone gives one pause for thought.
It's best to park at the hiking car park; from there, it's a short walk.
3. Königstuhl (King's Chair)
550 meters high, Heidelberg's highest point – and a view you won't soon forget. If you take the mountain railway, you should get on at the Kornmarkt and change at Molkenkur. The railway itself, by the way, is one of Germany's oldest electrically operated mountain railways – almost an excursion destination in itself.
4. Karlstor (Charles' Gate)
The Karlstor is located at the eastern end of the Old Town and is often passed by without much notice. Yet it is an impressive Baroque building – less photographed than the Brückentor (Bridge Gate), but often to be enjoyed in peace.
5. Manuscript Department of the University Library
This is one of my personal favorite tips for anyone who wants to get a little away from the tourist crowd. In the University Library, you can see truly impressive medieval manuscripts – and hardly anyone knows about them. Opening hours: Mon–Thu 10 AM–4 PM, Fri 10 AM–3:30 PM.
6. Heidelberg Sugar Shop
If you don't know the Heidelberg Sugar Shop yet, you've missed out. Sweets have been sold here for over 100 years – including, of course, the Studentenkuss (student's kiss), Heidelberg's most famous souvenir. A quick warning: you rarely leave without a bag.
7. Botanical Garden
Right in the city, directly at the university, and yet surprisingly quiet: the Botanical Garden is an underrated place. Well suited for anyone who simply wants to catch their breath after a few hours in the Old Town.
8. Antiquarian Bookshops in the Old Town
If you want to stroll slowly through the Old Town, you should turn into the small antiquarian bookshops. Old books, city views, occasionally real finds – if you bring time, you will be rewarded. And it's a nice change from the usual souvenir shops. (Yes, I know what I'm saying with that.)
9. Heidelberg Breweries
Heidelberg has an active brewing culture that goes beyond the usual tourist beer. A visit is worthwhile – and if you need a recommendation for the evening, it's best to ask in the shop. We know all about it.
10. Fairy Tale Paradise Park
A little outside, but perfect for anyone traveling with children: the Fairy Tale Paradise Park. Not an Instagram hotspot, but real fun for the little ones and a pleasant deceleration for everyone else.
11. Souvenirs from Heidelberg
This is, of course, not an insider tip. But if you're looking for a small souvenir at the end of your tour: we are in our little shop by the Church of the Holy Spirit. And if you have any questions about Heidelberg – just come in, we'll be happy to answer them.
