Heidelberg — fairytale Germany on the Neckar
Heidelberg is like something out of a fairytale. The ruined castle above the old town, the river Neckar winding through the valley, the cobbled streets and the ancient university atmosphere make it one of the most romantic and visually stunning cities Nicola has seen in Germany.
Castle, Old Town and the Neckar
Heidelberg Castle sits in ruins above the town, looking out over the river Neckar and the surrounding valley — the kind of view that explains why the city has such a reputation for romance. Below it, the Old Town's cobbled streets and the centuries-old university give the whole place a lived-in, storybook atmosphere that few German cities match.
It's a smaller city than Cologne, Berlin or Munich, and doesn't need a long stay to leave an impression — but it's absolutely worth building time into any Germany trip for.
Heidelberg — Germany turned storybook ✨
Heidelberg Castle
The ruined castle dominates the hillside above the city and is central to Heidelberg's romantic, storybook appearance.
The Neckar
The river gives Heidelberg its beautiful valley setting, with the city and surrounding hills unfolding along its banks.
Old Town
Cobbled streets and historic buildings make the Altstadt the part of Heidelberg you'll want to wander rather than rush through.
University atmosphere
Heidelberg's centuries-old university gives the small city a lively, lived-in character alongside all that history.
Book Heidelberg experiences with GetYourGuide
Castle tickets, Old Town walking tours and river Neckar boat trips.
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Cologne
The city Nicola called home for a year.
Explore Cologne →Berlin
History you can feel on every street.
Explore Berlin →Munich
Biergartens, Bavaria and a visit to Dachau.
Explore Munich →Frankfurt
One night in Germany's skyline city.
Explore Frankfurt →