DAY TRIP TO HEIDELBERG

There is a restaurant in New York called Heidelberg, and it always made me want to go to its namesake in Germany. We had the opportunity to do just that when we took a 40-minute train ride from Stuttgart to Heidelberg. Taking the train is always a risk in Germany, and we were confronted with our decision after being told very nonchalantly by a train station employee that, “that train isn’t running today,” as he looked at our previously purchased train tickets for a particular departure. However, once we waited another hour for a new train to come into the station, we were well on our way to see this historically charming city! Read on to see how you, too, could spend a day in Heidelberg:

Start your day off by walking around Altstadt, or the Old Town of Heidelberg. There are many nooks and crannies to explore, and quite a lot of shopping. I wouldn’t load up on bags just yet, as there is quite the hike to come! You will be able to see your next destination in the distance as it looms over the Neckar Valley. Schloss Heidelberg, or Heidelberg Palace, provides a stunning silhouette that greatly contributes to the beauty of Heidelberg. However, you’ll need to walk a steep incline to see it close up!

view from Schloss Heidelberg’s grounds

Schloss Heidelberg was first mentioned in 1225, and over the years became known as a Renaissance masterpiece in architecture. Unfortunately, due to the consequences of war and subsequently of nature, the castle fell into ruins. These ruins (along with breathtaking views of Heidelberg) are what can now be enjoyed by locals and tourists alike! Spend time wandering around the ruins, enjoying the Schlossgarten (Palace Garden), and maybe grabbing a bite to eat at the restaurants situated near the grounds.

Then make your way over to the Karl Theodor Bridge, named after the man who built it in the 18th century. It is also called Alte Brücke, or the Old Bridge of Heidelberg. Unlike the bridges before it, which were made of wood, this bridge was made of Neckar Valley sandstone and though it has undergone the ravages of war and time, it has been preserved through the support of its citizens. I’m not sure if they regret that now though, as the bridge is packed with tourists taking selfies, but despite that I still encourage you to go see it!

Alte Brücke

Crossing over the Neckar River via the bridge allows you to then take part in another hike for incredible views from a different vantage point of the city. Walk the Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Route), which is a scenic stroll on the north side of the Neckar River. You can then pop back on the train to wherever you’d like to go next! As previously mentioned, Stuttgart is only 40 minutes by train, but also Frankfurt is only one hour away by train. Happy travels!

view from Philosophenweg