You will you want to visit Heidelberg when your travels take you anywhere nearby. I planned a two-week European trip last year and decided not to include Heidelberg, though I read about it. I wasn’t quite convinced we should go. But when weather (snow in summer!) caused us to change our plans in the middle of our trip, we added in a visit to this stately German city. And I’m so glad we didn’t miss out on Heidelberg! We ended up thoroughly enjoying our time here. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it, too. Here are a few of the reasons I recommend that you experience Heidelberg.
Walk on The Old Bridge
The graceful arch bridge known as the Old Bridge crosses the Neckar river and is a symbol of Heidelberg. Photos of the bridge have always intrigued me, and I wanted to see it in person. The current bridge is actually the ninth on this site. Earlier versions made of wood burned. This one, built in 1788 of sandstone, stands firm. Walking across it connects you not only with the other river bank but also with history.
A sculpture of the Greek goddess Minerva decorates the bridge, along with sculptures representing important rivers.
So many German bridges fell victim to the destruction of World War II, but the Old Bridge remained undamaged. The best explanation is that the Allies were saving Heidelberg to use as a postwar base.
It’s especially stunning at sunrise. I recommend making your way here early in the morning to beat the crowds, if you can. It was pretty much just me and the ducks.
Find Medieval Heidelberg
The white ramparts on the city side date from a Medieval iteration of the bridge. They are visible from near and far and are a reminder of life in Heidelberg centuries ago.
Explore the Heidelberg Palace
This world-famous castle perches on a hill above the Old City looking picturesque in all lights. It’s a ruin of a castle that dates to the 1200s. It’s built of red sandstone, which gives its many buildings a unified architecture. You can easily spend half a day exploring the castle. We’ll take a closer look in a future post, but here are a few photos to give you a sense of the castle.
Ride A Funicular Railway
The funicular railway takes you from the edge of the Old City up to the castle, but you can also stay on for a longer ride up the mountain. The views from the top are breathtaking.
Ramble up the Philosopher’s Walk

This steep path winding up from the Neckar River provides amazing views of the river, the Old Town, and the castle on the opposite hill.
The name, Philosopher’s Walk, is said to come from the fact that Heidelberg University professors and philosophers walked here and discussed deep matters. The solitude of the forest for privacy and the breathtaking glimpses of the city are thought to have provided inspiration. The university, founded in 1388, is the oldest in Germany and one of the oldest in Europe. So scholars have walked this stone path for more than 600 years. And you can follow in their footsteps.
Notice the stone walls and stairways that hold together without mortar.
Stop and catch your breath in the Philosopher’s Garden. This is a cleared area of lawn and flower beds benches. Sit, relax, and enjoy the pleasant vistas below.
Heidelberg is full of character and beauty. Don’t hesitate to plan a visit!
Want to read more about Germany? Start here:
Castles on the Rhine
Walking the Wall in Rothenburg
Exploring Berlin: 5 Favorites
Nuremberg, Germany: 5 Reasons to Visit
Planning a trip to Germany? Get expert help with these guides and maps.
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27 Comments
Thanks for this detailed post! We are visiting Germany in May and I will deff be referring back to this helpful guide! Heidelberg looks so stunning!
What amazing photos of a great place to see!
I am now dying to visit Heidelberg!! Your photos capture this magical town perfectly!
Such amazing photos! Heidelberg looks like such a fascinating and picturesque place!
What a beautiful city! It looks so homey like I could live there! We may have to make this part of our Europe trip when we go!
Oh, I visited Heidelberg quite a few years ago, but only for 1 day. This just reminds me that I would love to go back. Thanks for all the great info!
Spectacular photography!
We visited Heidelberg in 2016. Only there for a day but we fell in love. (unfortunately one of our fellow travel companions forgot about the left right when crossing a road and got hit by a truck – alive but spent the rest of the cruise in hospital. It was touch and go at first)
Looks like a beautiful place to visit! I’ve been trying to figure out German cities to visit so I’ll definitely keep this one in mind!
The wanting to see all of these, is more than enough reason to visit the place. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Wow – amazing photos of this charming city!
Wow I had never heard of Heidelberg but it looks gorgeous! Will have to visit soon, thank you for the inspiration!
Looks like a charming place in Germany! Your photographs are simply stunning! I have not done much in Germany but when I do, I will certainly look up Heidelberg. 🙂
I love beautiful old European towns and Heidelberg looks gorgeous!
I love your photos and have yet to visit Heidelberg. Now we will be sure to include this on our itinerary, thanks. By the way, I love the ducks!
Stunning photos of this beautiful city! The views & slopes of the hills reminded me of my visit to Florence.
Your photos are so lovely! I lived in Heidelburg for summer and this is where my husband and I had our engagement dinner. It is a fun city though does get crowded with tourist in the summer. I walked every day along the river it was the best. They have a small playground on the bank of the river and I would take my children there to play. Have a lovely week!
Like a fairyland!
Thank you for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2020/02/cinnamon-apple-pull-apart-bread.html
Amazing photos! Thank you!
Am glad you made the choice to go to Heidelberg, anyway! Wonderful details, Sharon. This city is also quite loved by the Germans themselves, so it has also that strong German flavor of Germany in present times.The ramparts, the castle, the beautiful bridge, and the red roofed houses are such delightful views to show for All Season! Many thanks and have a lovely week.
PS loved your comment as a parent and grand parent, and from your blog it is apparent that you love freedom, so I know you would pass that on to your children and grand children:)
We were In Heidlelberg in March last year but it was only a short walking tour of the town. Love your photos.
Happy Tuesday!
What a wonderful place to visit, I love old historic artwork. That bridge is just magical!
Feel free to share at My Corner of the World
Heidelberg looks stunning through your lens. Thanks for reminding me of my visit to this gorgeous city. Happy travels!
Wow! great photos from trip Heidelberg
I’m so glad to see you at ‘My Corner of the World’ this week!
My Corner of the World
Thank you for sharing your adventures around Heidelberg. It looks amazing!!! Your pictures help bring it to life.
Merry Christmas! 2022, The pictures of Heidleberg are beautiful. I have been to Germany but never to Heidleberg, Germany.
I hope to travel more in the future and visit my family in Germany…. I want to visit Heidleberg.
Merry Christmas 2022 and Happy New Year 2023!!! Remember Jesus is the reason for the season….