Things to do in Heidelberg

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A historic square with cobblestone pavement, a central fountain, and surrounding buildings with traditional architecture.
A historic town with red-roofed buildings, a prominent church tower, and a river.
A museum with a statue, outdoor seating, and a garden.
A historic stone bridge with arches overlooking a river and a cityscape with red-roofed buildings.
A stone bridge over a river, surrounded by historic buildings and trees.

Heidelberg Attractions

Whether you'd prefer to hit the shops or sample local cuisine, you'll find plenty of fun activities in Heidelberg. This city boasts many exciting attractions that'll keep your to-do list full and your feet on the go. No matter your interests, this place has something up its sleeve for you.

If you're ready to hit the streets of Heidelberg, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have an expert show you some of the most popular tourist attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {135 fun activities in Heidelberg fun activities in Heidelberg} are also worth a look.

Things to do

Heidelberg: Neckar River Sightseeing Cruise with a Drink

Heidelberg: Neckar River Sightseeing Boat Tour with Drink

$26
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Heidelberg: Neckar River Sightseeing Boat Tour with Drink
Mannheim, guided Walking Tour: Discover Mannheim

Mannheim, guided Walking Tour: Discover Mannheim

$17
per adult
Mannheim, guided Walking Tour: Discover Mannheim
Heidelberg: Riverboat Tour to Neckarsteinach and drinks incl

Heidelberg: Riverboat Tour to Neckarsteinach with Drinks

$57
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Heidelberg: Riverboat Tour to Neckarsteinach with Drinks
Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on your Smartphone

Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

$11
per adult
Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Heidelberg: Discover Heidelberg Castle – experience history up close

Heidelberg: Discover Heidelberg Castle – Experience history up close

$44
per adult
Heidelberg: Discover Heidelberg Castle – Experience history up close
Picture 6 for Activity Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights

Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights

$16
per adult
Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights
Scary tour with the executioner's daughter through Heidelberg's alleys

Scary tour with the executioner's daughter through Heidelberg's alleys

$18
per adult
Scary tour with the executioner's daughter through Heidelberg's alleys
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Heidelberg must see attractions

1. Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg) is imperious, mystical and romantic all at the same time. It stands over Heidelberg’s Old Town and the Neckar Valley on the lower slopes of Königstuhl hill. Enjoy views of the city and valley from the pristine garden, peruse a sculpture collection, see an enormous wine barrel and watch a spectacular light show. Heidelberg Castle dates back to the 1300s. Its many buildings showcase the evolution of German architecture.
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A historic castle with a round tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a village in the valley.

2. Marktplatz

Marktplatz (Market Square) is one of Heidelberg’s oldest squares and a landmark in the city’s Altstadt (Old Town). Like a time capsule in the heart of the city, Marktplatz shows a glimpse of Heidelberg’s historic heart. Take a seat at one of the cafés that spill out onto the pavement and explore the square’s heritage highlights.
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A bustling outdoor café with wicker tables and chairs, surrounded by colorful buildings and pedestrians.

3. University of Heidelberg Old Campus

Since 1386, the University of Heidelberg Old Campus has been welcoming students to the banks of the Necker. Today, the campus is home to the humanities departments of the modern university. Many of the university’s most idiosyncratic and best-known buildings are open to visitors anxious to get a taste of student life throughout the ages. Go on a walking tour along the streets of the Altstadt in search of these spots.
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A historic building with ornate lion sculptures and a green-topped tower.

4. Church of the Holy Spirit

The Church of the Holy Spirit (Heiliggiestkirche) dominates the skyline of Heidelberg’s pretty historic center. Admire the arresting façade, spot a set of intricate stained-glass windows and climb to the top of the tower for expansive city panoramas. Attend organ recitals, chamber music and choral performances. Although the Church of the Holy Spirit origination dates back to 1398, building work continued until 1544.
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A historic building with a pointed roof and large windows, surrounded by colorful buildings and a public square with people and outdoor seating.

5. Heidelberg University Library

Browse millions of tomes, ancient manuscripts and historical exhibitions at the Universitätsbibliothek (University Library Heidelberg). With historical documents related to the Baden and Palatinate territories of German and regular exhibitions, the Universitätsbibliothek plays a significant role in the city’s cultural life.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, large windows, and a statue in front.

6. Karl Theodor Bridge

Go for a walk on Karl Theodor Bridge (also known as Old Bridge or Alte Brücke), which crosses the Neckar River from the edge of Heidelberg’s historic Old Town. Admire its classical stone design and artistic ornamentation. Appreciate uninterrupted views of the lush green Neckar Valley and some of the city’s finest monuments. Karl Theodor Bridge has long been an inspiration for artists and has had works written about it by well-known poets such as Friedrich Hölderlin.
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A stone bridge over a river with a castle in the background.

7. Neckarwiese

Bask in the sunshine and temperate climate of one of Germany’s warmest cities at the Neckarwiese. Local families, groups of friends and vacationers alike come to enjoy this stretch of greenery set on the north banks of the Neckar River. Find children’s play areas at Neckarwiese, go for walks along the riverfront and spot city landmarks.
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A bridge over a river with a large tree in the foreground, a castle in the background, and flags on the bridge.

8. Brass Monkey

At the entrance to Karl Theodor Bridge is the Brass Monkey (Brückenaffe), which is said to represent the equality between Heidelberg’s citizens and people from other cities. A monkey sculpture first appeared at the bridge in the 1400s, although it was removed during the Palatinate War of Succession. Today’s Brass Monkey is a 20th-century work of art by the German sculptor Gernot Rumpf.
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A bronze sculpture of a large elephant holding a globe, with a river and buildings in the background.

Recommended things to do in Heidelberg

Number of things to do
135
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
TOP Heidelberg : Private Guided Tour with your mobile: $6
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Heidelberg

Free Things to Do in Heidelberg

A vacation in Heidelberg doesn't have to hurt your hip pocket. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

Maerchen Paradies - Make this place your first port of call if it's fun you're chasing during your escape.

Neue Universitaet - If you're a fan of modern-style architecture, add this landmark to your must-see list.

Heidelberg University Library - If you like delving into bygone eras, this is one attraction you ought to visit.

Dokumentations - Und Kulturzentrum der Deutschen Sinti und Roma - Spend some time here and discover the significance of this place to the local community.

Providenzkirche - Do some quiet contemplation and discover a few things about this site's spiritual significance.

Neckarwiese - Grab your blanket, pack some finger food and find a comfortable spot to appreciate Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Heidelberg with Kids

There's nothing better than spending quality time together as a family. Heidelberg boasts a thrilling selection of family friendly experiences that the entire gang will enjoy:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Heidelberg? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Heidelberg attractions

A historic castle with a round tower, surrounded by lush greenery and a village in the valley.

Heidelberg Castle

9.4/10 (1,224 reviews)
Perched dramatically above Heidelberg, this medieval castle's romantic ruins showcase Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Take the funicular up for panoramic Neckar River views and see the world's largest wine barrel.
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Where to stay in Heidelberg

Find the best Heidelberg areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Heidelberg
Learn more about Heidelberg
A cityscape at sunset with a prominent modern building, a mix of historic and contemporary architecture, and a busy street with vehicles.

Bergheim

Travelers choose Bergheim for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Heidelberg (West) Central Station Tram Stop or Heidelberg Seegarten Tram Stop and check out top sights like Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park.

A historic castle with multiple towers and a surrounding wall, set against a lush green hillside.

Heidelberg City Centre

Historic sites, cafes, and shopping highlight some of the noteworthy features of Heidelberg City Centre. Make a stop by Heidelberg University Library or Church of the Holy Spirit while you're exploring the neighborhood.

A historic stone bridge over a river, with a castle and church in the background.

Neuenheim

Unique features of Neuenheim include the river views and historic sites. Make a stop by Neckarwiese or Karl Theodor Bridge while you're exploring the area.

A cobblestone street with historic buildings, a castle in the background, and a bicycle parked by the roadside.

Weststadt

Weststadt is noteworthy for its historic sites, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park and Schatzkammer.

A historic church with a tall spire, arched windows, and a large wooden door.
Photo by Dave ThBg
Open Photo by Dave ThBg

Handschuhsheim

You'll enjoy the breweries and churches in Handschuhsheim. You might want to make time for a stop at Thingstätte or Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Heidelberg

A large fountain in the center of a square with two large red brick buildings on either side.

Mannheim

A serene pond with a weeping willow tree, lush greenery, and a historic stone tower in the distance.

Schwetzingen

A calm lake with several traditional boats, a distant church, and lush greenery along the shore.

Ladenburg

An aerial view of a densely populated town with a mix of residential houses and commercial buildings.

Leimen

A historic building with a white facade and a red-tiled roof.

Sandhausen

A town with vineyards and a castle on a hill.

Schriesheim

A town by a river with a bridge, surrounded by hills and greenery.

Neckargemuend

A narrow, moss-covered stone bridge over a small stream in a wooded area.

Bammental

Frequently asked questions

Is Heidelberg worth visiting?
Whether you want to experience the local charm and cultural highlights or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Heidelberg.
How do I spend a day in Heidelberg?
Heidelberg Castle and MIRAMAR are two excellent places to start your vacation adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Heidelberg while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Heidelberg?
The top tourist attraction in Heidelberg is Heidelberg Castle, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Heidelberg?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city attractions, including Heidelberg Castle, Heidelberg Zoo and Kurpfälzisches Museum. The average stay in Heidelberg is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Heidelberg City Centre isn't far away.
Is Heidelberg a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Heidelberg, such as Heidelberg Castle and Heidelberg Zoo, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 1 mile from the city center of Heidelberg is Altstadt Heidelberg and Bergheim is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Heidelberg with kids?
Planning what to do in Heidelberg with kids has never been easier. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Heidelberg for adults?
Körperwelten Museum and Deutsches Apotheken-Museum are just a couple of the things to do in Heidelberg. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Heidelberg?
From enjoying parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Heidelberg. If you're stuck for ideas, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Ladenburger Strand is a must for anyone planning to save on their traveling adventures.

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