What to do in Heidelberg

Activities, attractions and tours

Heidelberg
Heidelberg
Heidelberg
Heidelberg
Heidelberg

Heidelberg Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Heidelberg has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Heidelberg, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Heidelberg with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Heidelberg, and make it a breeze to explore Heidelberg and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Heidelberg to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Heidelberg, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Heidelberg.

Heidelberg attractions

Heidelberg has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Heidelberg to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Heidelberg.

Looking for things to do in Heidelberg can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Heidelberg or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Heidelberg attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

Things to do

Heidelberg: Riverboat Tour to Neckarsteinach and drinks incl

Heidelberg: Riverboat Tour to Neckarsteinach with Drinks

£43
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Heidelberg: Riverboat Tour to Neckarsteinach with Drinks
Tour through Heidelberg in the footsteps of the night watchmen

Tour through Heidelberg in the footsteps of the night watchmen

£14
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Tour through Heidelberg in the footsteps of the night watchmen
Picture 6 for Activity Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights

Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights

£12
per adult
Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights
Heidelberg: The University in the Old Town

Heidelberg: The University in the Old Town

£17
per adult
Heidelberg: The University in the Old Town
Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on your Smartphone

Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

£10
per adult
Heidelberg Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Mannheim, guided Walking Tour: Discover Mannheim

Mannheim, guided Walking Tour: Discover Mannheim

£13
per adult
Mannheim, guided Walking Tour: Discover Mannheim
Heidelberg: night watchman tour through the old town

Heidelberg: night watchman tour through the old town

£14
per adult
Heidelberg: night watchman tour through the old town
Heidelberg: Discover Heidelberg Castle – experience history up close

Heidelberg: Discover Heidelberg Castle – Experience history up close

£34
per adult
Heidelberg: Discover Heidelberg Castle – Experience history up close
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Most fun & popular experiences in Heidelberg

Tours & day trips

See all 113 activities
Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from Frankfurt

Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from Frankfurt

Activity duration is 5 hours and 30 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 135 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is £108 per adult
Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from FrankfurtOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 48 activities
Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from Frankfurt

Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from Frankfurt

Activity duration is 5 hours and 30 minutes
9.6 out of 10 with 135 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is £108 per adult
Heidelberg Castle and City Day Tour from FrankfurtOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 15 activities
Tour through Heidelberg in the footsteps of the night watchmen

Tour through Heidelberg in the footsteps of the night watchmen

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 56 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is £14 per adult
Tour through Heidelberg in the footsteps of the night watchmenOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 9 activities
Heidelberg: Culinary city tour with delicious samples

Heidelberg: Culinary city tour with delicious samples

Activity duration is 3 hours
8.0 out of 10 with 1 review
Free cancellation available
Price is £38 per adult
Heidelberg: Culinary city tour with delicious samplesOpens in new tab

Holiday & seasonal tours

See all 6 activities
Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights

Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town Highlights

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is £12 per adult
Heidelberg: Entertaining Guided Tour to Old Town HighlightsOpens in new tab

Recommended things to do in Heidelberg

Number of things to do
119
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Heidelberg Interactive City Tour: £7
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Heidelberg

Popular places to visit

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle

This ruined Renaissance castle stands majestically on a hilltop and presents incredible views of the Neckar Valley from its beautiful garden.

Heidelberg Castle
Marktplatz

Marktplatz

Go for a stroll and view the pretty heritage streetscape around Heidelberg’s traditional market square, which is anchored by an impressive Gothic church.

Marktplatz
University of Heidelberg Old Campus

University of Heidelberg Old Campus

With some of the city’s most historically and architecturally interesting sites, Germany’s oldest university forms the beating heart of the Heidelberg Altstadt.

University of Heidelberg Old Campus
Church of the Holy Spirit

Church of the Holy Spirit

Enjoy superb views of Heidelberg’s Old Town from the tower of this 14th-century church, which took nearly 150 years to build.

Church of the Holy Spirit
Karl Theodor Bridge

Karl Theodor Bridge

Heidelberg’s oldest bridge is an architecturally impressive landmark decorated with an imperious gateway, detailed sculptures and a curious monkey statue.

Karl Theodor Bridge
Heidelberg University Library

Heidelberg University Library

Whether you come to study, read or simply take a walk around an impressive building, the principal library of the University of Heidelberg is a fascinating place to visit.

Heidelberg University Library
Neckarwiese

Neckarwiese

Pack a picnic to have on the green lawns, try boating activities and appreciate uninterrupted views of Heidelberg’s Old Town from this riverside park.

Neckarwiese
Brass Monkey

Brass Monkey

Legend says this statue serves as a reminder to those crossing the river that they are no better than the person coming from the opposite side.

Brass Monkey
Heidelberg Student Jail

Heidelberg Student Jail

Heidelberg’s 500-year-old university has seen numerous troublemakers. Take a tour of the cells used to imprison carousing students for minor offenses.

Heidelberg Student Jail

Where to stay in Heidelberg

Find the best Heidelberg areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Heidelberg
Learn more about Heidelberg
Heidelberg Bergheim und Weststadt

Bergheim

Consider exploring the abundant dining options in Bergheim. If sightseeing is on the list, Neckar Valley-Odenwald Nature Park is a top attraction. Hop on the metro at Heidelberg (West) Central Station Tram Stop or Heidelberg Seegarten Tram Stop to see more of the area.

Heidelberg City Centre

Historical sites, cafes and shopping are some highlights of Heidelberg City Centre. Make a stop by Heidelberg Student Jail or Heidelberg University Library while you're exploring.

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 historical sites. Make a stop by Neckarwiese or Karl Theodor Bridge while you're exploring the area.

Weststadt

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

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.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Heidelberg

Mannheim

Mannheim

Schwetzingen

Schwetzingen

Ladenburg

Ladenburg

Aerial view around the old town of the city Leimen, Germany on a cloudy spring day

Leimen

Heimatmuseum Sandhausen or Old town hall at Sandhausen village in Heidelberg, Germany

Sandhausen

Schriesheim

Schriesheim

Bammental

Bammental

Dossenheim

Dossenheim

Frequently asked questions

Is Heidelberg worth visiting?
Heidelberg has an interesting mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or regional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Heidelberg?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Heidelberg Castle and MIRAMAR. Then, explore different areas of Heidelberg for a quick bite and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Heidelberg?
Don't go home without visiting Heidelberg Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Heidelberg.
Is three days enough to stay in Heidelberg?
Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, such as Heidelberg Castle, Heidelberg Zoo and Kurpfälzisches Museum. The average stay in Heidelberg is two days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Heidelberg City Centre isn't far away.
Is Heidelberg a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Heidelberg. Several attractions, such as Heidelberg Castle and Heidelberg Zoo, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Heidelberg's neighbourhoods, Altstadt Heidelberg is 2 kms (1 mile) away from downtown, while Bergheim is 2 kms (1 mile) away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Heidelberg with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Heidelberg with kids.

What to do in Heidelberg for adults?
Deutsches Apotheken-Museum and Körperwelten Museum are just a couple of the things to do in Heidelberg. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Heidelberg?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Heidelberg is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Teltschik Tower is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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