The 10 Top Things to Do in Heidelberg
Welcome to Heidelberg – a city that makes you feel at home instantly. Heidelberg has this warm, easy-going charm that makes you feel at home straight away. As soon as you wander through the Old Town, stroll along the Neckar or look up at the Heidelberg castle for the first time, you sense why the city is loved by so many. Everything is close together, the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and whether you're travelling solo, as a couple or with family, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Heidelberg without rushing around.
To get you started, here are a few practical tips.
Practical Info Before Your Trip
- Getting there: Heidelberg is easy to reach by train, sitting right on the route between Frankfurt, Mannheim, Karlsruhe and Stuttgart. If you’re driving, take the A5 or A656. From Frankfurt Airport, the journey takes roughly an hour by train.
- Getting around: The city is compact, so you can explore most Heidelberg attractions on foot. For longer distances, we recommend taking public transport. The historic funicular makes the ride up to the castle or the Königstuhl extra easy.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal with mild weather, fewer crowds and lovely colours. Summer is lively and great for outdoor activities. Winter in Heidelberg has a magical feel thanks to the Christmas market and festive lights.
The 10 Top Things to Do in Heidelberg
Keep reading if you’d like to discover a mix of classic Heidelberg tourist attractions, insider tips and activities for every season. Perfect if you're wondering what to do in Heidelberg, what to visit, or which top activities should be on your list.
1. Explore the Old Town
Heidelberg’s Old Town is the heart of the city and your first stop for sightseeing in Heidelberg. It’s packed with history yet feels young and vibrant thanks to cafés, boutiques and little alleys. You’ll naturally stumble across beautiful corners, hidden courtyards and old houses as you wander.
Highlights include:
- the Market Square with the Church of the Holy Spirit
- 1,4 km long pedestrian shopping street
- the lovely Kornmarkt, one of the prettiest squares in the Old Town
- small side streets perfect for a spontaneous detour
If you're interested in best places to visit in Heidelberg, start here – the Old Town gives you exactly the atmosphere the city is famous for.
2. Heidelberg Castle – the city’s most iconic attraction
Perched above the Old Town, Heidelberg Castle is easily one of the top Heidelberg tourist attractions and a true must-see. Part ruin, part preserved palace, dating back to the 13th century, it’s dramatic, romantic and full of stories.
Up at the castle, you can enjoy:
- sweeping views over the city and the river
- the famous Great Barrel
- the German Pharmacy Museum
- peaceful gardens perfect for a relaxing walk
You can walk up or take the historic funicular – both are part of the experience. For many visitors, the castle is one of the top things to see in Heidelberg and an absolute classic.
3. Philosopher’s Walk
The Philosopher’s Walk sits on the sunny side of the Neckar and is famous for offering the best panoramic views of the castle and Old Town. It’s one of the most beloved Heidelberg places to visit, and once you’re up there, you’ll understand why.
The walk is perfect for:
- relaxed strolls
- sunset-viewing
- photography
If you walk a bit further, you’ll reach the Bismarck Tower, another peaceful viewpoint. It's one of the best places to visit in Heidelberg if you enjoy scenery and nature.
4. Old Bridge & Bridge Gate
The Old Bridge, officially known as the Karl Theodor Bridge, connects the Old Town with Neuenheim. With its historic bridge gate, statues and the view of the castle, it remains one of the most popular places for sightseeing in Heidelberg and a true classic among Heidelberg attractions.
The bridge is usually quiet in the morning and lively in the evening, with both times worth paying a visit. While there, don’t miss out the bridge monkey monument – a popular stop for a funny holiday photo.
5. Neckarwiese & Boat Tour – a relaxing break by the water
The spacious green space of Neckarwiese is the meeting place for everyone who likes to slow down. Students, families and travellers stretch out on the grass, look at the water, read or enjoy a picnic together. If you’re searching for peaceful places to go in Heidelberg, this is a great choice.
If you like being active during your holidays, here you can:
- take a boat trip
- rent a canoe or SUP
- stroll or cycle along the banks of the Neckar
It’s one of the best spots to take a break or to experience Heidelberg from a quieter side, and a lovely option for fun activities in Heidelberg.
6. Museums
Heidelberg also offers plenty of indoor activities, perfect for rainy days or the colder months. Whether you’re visiting in winter or simply want to explore Heidelberg’s history and culture, you’ll find no shortage of things to do.
A good selection of museums includes:
• Kurpfälzisches Museum, featuring extensive historical collections
• German Pharmacy Museum, a small gem located within Heidelberg Castle
• Palatinate Museum, an art and history museum
• Carl Bosch Museum, dedicated to the renowned inventor Carl Bosch
For anyone searching for things to do in Heidelberg in winter, a museum visit guarantees you won’t get bored.
7. Heidelberg Zoo – one of the most popular family destinations
The Heidelberg Zoo has a modern layout, is easy to explore and offers a wide variety of attractions. It’s an ideal destination for families and one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Heidelberg for younger visitors.
Highlights include:
- a large elephant enclosure
- a big cat area
- a petting zoo
- many learning and play areas
It’s perfect as a half-day activity or combined with a walk along the River Neckar, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do in Heidelberg with your kinds.
8. Day Trips from Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a great starting point for day trips. The region is full of existing places, from historic sites to peaceful nature spots.
Particularly worthwhile:
- Schwetzingen, with its huge palace gardens
- Neckarsteinach and its four castle ruins
- Dilsberg Castle, quiet and idyllic
- the Black Forest, perfect for walks and panoramic views
- small wine villages along the Neckar
Whether you prefer hiking, culture or short walks, you’ll find many beautiful destinations around the city. These make for some of the best things to do near Heidelberg.
9. Nature & Hiking
The city is surrounded by hills and forests, making it ideal for active experiences. You can get sporty here or simply take a leisurely stroll through a forest.
Popular activities include:
- hiking up the Königstuhl, the highest point in the city
- riverside walks or boat tours along the Neckar
- short hiking trails between the castle, forest and viewpoints
- cycling along the Neckar river
For many travellers, these greener corners are among the most impressive Heidelberg must see places, especially if you love fresh air and scenery.
10. Food, Drinks & Heidelberg Nightlife
Heidelberg’s food scene is as mixed as its visitors. From traditional German dishes to modern restaurants, wine bars, cafés and student pubs – you can choose whatever mood you’re in.
If you would like to explore Heidelberg nightlife, head to the Untere Straße. Here you’ll find a lively mix of bars, pubs, and restaurants.
Try:
- regional dishes like Maultaschen
- traditional and speciality cakes at one of many cafes
- local wines in a “vinothek”
- international food (there’s a surprising amount of choice)
After a day full of sightseeing, having a hearty meal with a drink or two is the perfect way to unwind.
Heidelberg is one of those cities where you can see the main highlights in a day – but staying for two or three days lets you enjoy the full mix of history, nature, great views and relaxed city life. Whether it’s the castle, the Old Town, the Philosopher’s Walk, surrounding villages or outdoor spots along the Neckar, Heidelberg offers plenty of unforgettable experiences.
Book your stay with Leonardo Hotels in Heidelberg and enjoy the city to its fullest!
