A real-life fairy-tale—hilltop castles in a sleepy valley
Unwind in the fairy-tale setting of Heidelberg, a picturesque town set along the banks of the sleepy Neckar river. Nestled in the Rhine Rift Valley in southwestern Germany, Heidelberg's Old Town features brick streets lined with charming shops and cozy cafes. A Heidelberg vacation rental serves as the perfect spot to explore other notable attractions, including historic churches, public squares, and Heidelberg University, Germany's oldest and one of its most revered institutions. The ruins of the majestic Heidelberg Castle sit perched high above the city, serving as the town's dramatic and iconic backdrop.
Did we mention the castles and classrooms?
No trip to Old Town is complete without a visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, the famed fort and royal palace that dates to the 13th century. Perched more than 250 feet above town on the side of Konigstuhl hill, the castle is accessible via a funicular railway. Make sure you also explore the ornate Church of the Holy Spirit, and Marktplatz, an Old Town square dotted with bars and cafes. Founded in the 14th century, Heidelberg University is the oldest university in Germany and home to an impressive botanical garden. Heidelberg Zoo is just steps from the campus.
Time to strike a thinker's pose (then go for a drink)
Get in touch with your intellectual side as you explore the Philosophers' Walk, a 1.5-mile elevated pathway which the university's most esteemed professors famously used while pondering life's greatest questions. If you're still looking to stretch your legs, make your way to the city's famed 18th-century Old Bridge and soak up the panoramic views of the Old Town. Enjoy a leisurely saunter down Hauptstrasse, a mile-long pedestrian-only street dotted with restaurants, shops, and pubs. The city hosts special festivals throughout the year, many of which celebrate such art forms as theater, jazz, and filmmaking.
Rejoice! Leave the snow boots and galoshes behind
No matter what time of year you book your Heidelberg vacation rental, you'll enjoy pleasant weather in a city blessed with somewhat mild year-round temperatures. Winter is Heidelberg's coldest season, but daytime temperatures hover around the low 40s, unlike the freezing conditions that plague the surrounding region. Spring and fall see daytime highs in the 50s and 60s. There's very little rain in the valley throughout the year, but May and June are the wettest months. Things really heat up during the summer, particularly in July, when daytime highs can reach the mid-80s.
Exploring the natural landscape of Heidelberg
Whether you're an active traveler or just want to take in the scenery, Heidelberg is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. These are some of the area's most stunning natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Bonsai Center (3.6 mi / 5.8 km)
- Luisenpark (10.2 mi / 16.4 km)
- Thermen & Badewelt Sinsheim (14.7 mi / 23.7 km)
- Neckarwiese (0.4 mi / 0.6 km)
- Sankt Leoner See (10.1 mi / 16.2 km)
- Marbach-Stausee (18.5 mi / 29.8 km)
Transportation options to and around Heidelberg
Fly into Frankfurt Airport (FRA), the closest airport, located 44.7 mi (71.9 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Mannheim (MHG), which is 9 mi (14.5 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Heidelberg-Weststadt/Südstadt S-Bahn, Heidelberg Central Station and Heidelberg-Altstadt Station are the main stations in the city. Consider catching the metro at Heidelberg Seegarten Tram Stop or Heidelberg (West) Central Station Tram Stop if you're interested in seeing more of the city.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing