Tourist Attractions

Heidelberg Castle 

Prince Elector Ruprecht III (1398–1410) arranged to build the Heidelberg Castle as a royal residence. Further reconstruction was made as time goes by.  However, the castle and its garden were destroyed several times during the 30 Years' War and the Palatine War of Succession. As Prince Elector Karl Theodor tried to restore the castle, lightning struck in 1764, and infortunately, ended all attempts at rebuilding. Later on, the castle was misused as a quarry. Castle stones were taken to build new houses in Heidelberg in result of this. The action was stopped in 1800 by Count Charles de Graimberg, who then began the preservation of the Heidelberg Castle. 


The King's Hall was not built until 1934. Today, the hall is used for festivities, such as dinner banquets, balls and theatre performances. During the Heidelberg Castle Festival in the summer, the courtyard is the site of open air musicals, operas, theatre performances, and classical concerts performed by the Heidelberg Philharmonics.


As the garden is open at night, it is recommended to come up and see the illumination of the old town and castle as it incredibly romantic.

Heidelberg Castle is what Heidelberg is famous for- a beautiful old castle that dominates the Heidelberg skyline, looming over the old town with its magical historical markings. Any visitor to Heidelberg must absolutely visit this charming landmark. There are lots of things to feast one's eyes on as well as the rich, fascinating history to soak up in. The Belvedere terrace in the castle is somewhere one should go to as he or she will be rewarded with remarkable views of the old town below, which is a splendid picture opportunity. 

Cost: £3.50 for adults, £2.20 for students (entry fee and a guided tour)

University of Heidelberg

Heidelberg is known for its institutions of higher education, one of the most famous of those is the University of Heidelberg. Founded in 1386, it is one of Europe's oldest institutions. In fact, Heidelberg is the oldest university town of today's Germany. The university has various faculties in several buildings as well as the well-known University Square.

Universitätsplatz or University Square is considered as one of Heidelberg’s historical attractions. What makes the square special is that it has witnessed Nazi’s conquest of Germany. It served as one of the major sites where books were burned and where other Communist or Jewish literature from the University’s library were destroyed. The square is an epitome of haven for history buffs and architecture. While the University Square provides the colorful and fascinating history of the town, it also now serves the purpose as a main venue for students to hang out. Throughout the years, it has also been a center for activities and events hosted by the town.

There is no entrance fee to the university or the garden.

Neckar River Cruise (Rhein-Neckar Fahrgastschifffahrt)

Passenger boats leave from the Old Town for cruises along the Neckar River. Usually lasting around two or three hours, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the lovely scenery of the valley as you gently float past centuries-old villages, towns and their many attractions. The running commentary throughout the boat ride means you can learn about the sights you see. There is a choice of an open-top or covered boats, but the decision-making usually depends on the weather.

The Neckar River Cruise is one of the most charming ways to witness the sights of Heidelberg, which is why it is highly recommended as a touristy activity.

It is 25 Euros for a private boat that can support 35 people.