Country: Germany Language: German Currency: Euro (€)
CTW Explores
Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a college town in south-west Germany. It is known for having the oldest university in Germany and one of the world’s oldest university still in operation, and the iconic Heidelberg Castle. The university dates back to the late 1300s, and Heidelberg’s origins date back to the year 1196!
The Heidelberg Castle is a ruined castle that sits atop the Königstuhl hillside. It is one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps! Construction began before 1214, was later expanded into two castles, but was then destroyed by lightning and later by wars and fires. The castle runs tours throughout the day, allowing visitors to explore the ruins and gaze upon the historic city below them. The castle also hosts one of Germany's most beautiful Christmas Markets!
To get to the castle, you can walk or take the funicular. There are two options for walking - the short route (with steps) and the scenic route (without steps). The pathways for both are quite steep, but manageable. The funicular can be found behind Kornmarket in the Old Town. The funicular will take you on a 1.5 kilometer journey up the Königstuhl hillside.
The castle and the university aren’t the only things to do in Heidelberg. There is a plethora of museums, including the Bonsai Museum and the Art Association; Alstadt, the oldest part of the city, where you will find historic churches and plenty of shopping; and Heiligenberg, located across the river. In Heiligenberg, you will find the Philosopher’s Walk and St. Michael’s Monastery, where you can enjoy a walk through nature and discover remarkable views across the river toward Heidelberg Old Town and the Castle!
More German Adventures...
Keep your adventure going and check out some of our other German city guides!
Montenegro
Coming Soon!
Dubrovnik
Split
