Heidelberg is one of Germany's most beautiful cities – and the Old Bridge sits right in the centre of its most famous sights. From here you can reach Heidelberg Castle, the Philosophers' Walk and the Old Town within a short walk.
This guide lists the most important attractions in Heidelberg with distances from the Old Bridge, notes on admission and opening hours, and practical tips for your visit.
Heidelberg Castle is one of the world's most famous castle ruins and the city's landmark. From the castle garden and the terrace you get the iconic view down onto the Old Bridge and the Old Town. Inside, don't miss the Great Tun (the world's largest wine barrel), the German Pharmacy Museum and the lavish Renaissance apartments.
At 568 m, the Königstuhl is the highest mountain in the region and offers some of the finest viewpoints over Heidelberg. The historic funicular has been running since 1890 in two sections from Kornmarkt via the castle up to the summit. At the top, a wide panorama over the Neckar valley, the Odenwald forest and the Rhine plain awaits – especially spectacular at sunset.
The Philosophers' Walk runs along the wooded slope on the opposite bank of the Neckar and is considered one of Germany's most beautiful promenades. It is named after the philosophers of Heidelberg University who once strolled here. It offers the most famous view of Heidelberg: the Old Town, the castle and the Old Bridge from the classic postcard angle.
Heidelberg's Old Town with its Hauptstraße pedestrian zone is home to one of the longest shopping streets in Europe. Half-timbered houses, boutiques, cafés and beer gardens line the way from the Karlstor gate to University Square. In between you will find the Marktplatz with the Church of the Holy Spirit and plenty of traditional restaurants serving German cuisine.
The late-Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit on Marktplatz is the largest church in Heidelberg. It took over 150 years to build and once housed the famous Bibliotheca Palatina, whose books are now scattered around the world. A lively book market regularly takes place in front of the church.
Heidelberg University was founded in 1386 and is the oldest university in Germany. At University Square you can visit the Student Jail, a historic student prison from the 18th century whose walls are covered with graffiti left by former students. The Old Assembly Hall (Alte Aula) is also worth a look.
Find all the details on opening hours, best photo spots, history and getting to the Old Bridge Heidelberg on the homepage.
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