Heidelberg has maintained its traditional character with its old squares, streets pubs, museums and, of course, its Gothic-Renaissance fortress from 1400.
The romantic heart of Heidelberg, Schloss Heidelberg (or Heidelberg Palace as it’s usually known) sits pretty amid the dense green forest that surrounds the boundaries of the city. This ruined castle encapsulates traditional Renaissance romanticism and a walk around its grounds offers you more than just glorious views. Book a tour and explore the interiors or head up the cobbled trail to the manicured gardens.
Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University (Ruprecht-Karls-Universität) is the oldest university in Germany bringing along with it a wealth of art and culture. A walk to the university will bring you up close to a building that has stood the test of time, spared from destruction in World War II and the site of many protests over the years, the building carries a rich and varied past. Nearly 28,000 students now study under its roof, making the city one of the oldest and best-known education centres in the world.
For a bird’s-eye view of the city, head up 208 stairs to the top of Heiliggeistkirche, Heidelberg’s famous church and gaze across the expanse of the city that lies beneath your feet. Built between 1398 and 1441, the church has fought through many trials and tribulations and has been a top visitor attraction for hundreds of years – it’s the perfect way to capture the real beauty of Heidelberg.
There is no better place to sit and be creative than in Heidelberg and that’s just what world-famous poet Goethe and British artist William Turner did in the late 18th and early 19th century. The location inspired some of their greatest creations that can be seen around museums in the city to this day. Explore the same romantic settings that inspired them nearly 200 years ago.
Which cruise lines sail to Heidelberg?
