Heidelberg is a town in southwestern Germany. It’s known for venerable Heidelberg University, founded in the 14th century. Gothic Heiliggeistkirche church towers over the cafe-lined Marktplatz, a town square in the Altstadt (Old Town). The red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle, a noted example of Renaissance architecture, stand on Königstuhl hill. 

Heidelberg is particularly well known for its castle ruins. Every year, thousands of tourists flock here from all over the world. You can see the castle from miles away – it presides over the city like a king on his throne.

Heidelberg is one of the “classic” Germany tourist stops and you will definitely sense that wandering around town.

While you walk around the essential places to visit in Heidelberg, you constantly bump into sights that seem to have come out of a fairy tale. 

Heidelberg Castle (in ruins) is not only the major historical monument of the town, but it’s also an unusual and mystical castle that, in addition, offers some of the most exceptional views of Heidelberg.