Best Things to do in Heidelberg | Must-see attractions 2025

Speyer Cathedral

Mo-Su 09:00-19:00; Nov-Mar 09:00-17:00

Church

Kleine Pfaffengasse 21 (Domplatz)

View map

Speyer Cathedral, built in the 11th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Romanesque architecture and historical significance as a burial site for emperors.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Guided tours including crypt entry: €7.50/adult, €4/child.

Bruckentor

Open all day

Bridge

Heidelberg

View map

Bruckentor, a 19th-century city gate in Heidelberg, Germany, exemplifies neo-Gothic architecture and offers historical insights into the city's medieval past.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some events may have associated costs.

Sammlung Prinzhorn

Tu,Th-Su 11:00-17:00; We 11:00-20:00

Museum

Vossstr. 2

View map

Sammlung Prinzhorn in Heidelberg showcases significant artworks by mentally ill artists from the early 20th century, featuring a unique collection and rich history.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have an entrance fee.

Bahnhof Heidelberg Karlstor

Not Applicable

Monument

Am Karlstor 1

View map

Bahnhof Heidelberg Karlstor is an 18th-century neoclassical triumphal arch in Heidelberg, Germany, honoring a German prince and serving as a historic city gate.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No charge for entry to the gate; events at Karlstorbahnhof may vary.

Heidelberger Kunstverein

11:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Hauptstrasse 97

View map

Heidelberger Kunstverein is a contemporary art center in Heidelberg, Germany, showcasing modern works and engaging community exhibitions since its founding.

Duration: About 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Body Worlds Museum

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Poststrasse 36/5

View map

The Body Worlds Museum in Heidelberg explores human anatomy and the concept of happiness through 200 unique exhibits and interactive stations, promoting health awareness.

Duration: About 2 to 3 hours.

€14 for adults, €10 for students, and children under 6 are free.

Volkerkunde-Museum der J. und E. v. Portheim-Stiftung

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Hauptstrasse 235

View map

Volkerkunde-Museum der J. und E. v. Portheim-Stiftung in Heidelberg presents art and ethnographic objects, highlighting cultural diversity and history.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Heidelberg Castle

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Castle

Schlosshof 1

View map

Heidelberg Castle is a 16th-century red sandstone ruin in Germany, offering tours, expansive views, and a remarkable wine barrel, attracting over one million visitors annually.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

€8 for adults, discounts available for students and seniors.

Heidelberg Theater and Orchestra

5:00 PM–8:00 PM

Theater

Theaterstr. 10

View map

Heidelberg Theater and Orchestra hosts a rich variety of performances, showcasing drama, musicals, and orchestral music in a historic venue within Heidelberg, Germany.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies. Regular performances typically range from €10 to €40, with discounts for students and seniors.

Neckarwiese

Open all day

Park

Heidelberg

View map

Neckarwiese is a popular riverside park in Heidelberg, Germany, offering open lawns and paths for sunbathing, picnicking, and walking along the Neckar River.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may have associated fees.

The Roadside Theater

4:00 PM–11:00 PM

Theater

Heidelberg

View map

The Roadside Theater in Heidelberg offers a unique performance space with a rich history and cultural significance, ideal for theatrical arts enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Varies by performance. Some events are free while others range from €10 to €30.

Heidelberg Zoo

Apr-Sep PH,Mo-Su 09:00-19:00; Mar,Oct PH,Mo-Su 09:00-18:00; Nov-Feb PH,Mo-Su 09:00-17:00

Park

Tiergartenstr. 3

View map

Heidelberg Zoo is the largest zoo in the Metropolregion Rhein-Neckar, featuring over 150 species, including elephants, tigers, and gorillas in naturalistic enclosures.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

€10 for adults, €5 for children (ages 6-14). Children under 6 enter free.

Jesuitenkirche

May-Sep: 09:30-18:00; Oct-Apr: 09:30-17:00

Church

Merianstr. 2 Close to Old University

View map

Jesuitenkirche in Heidelberg, Germany, is an 18th-century baroque Catholic church known for its red sandstone exterior and white interior. It features a treasury of religious artifacts.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events or concerts may require a paid ticket.

Botanical Garden of the University of Heidelberg

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

Im Neuenheimer Feld 340 Neuenheim

View map

The Botanical Garden of the University of Heidelberg features over 10,000 plant species and expansive greenhouses, offering an educational and serene experience in Germany.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Kornmarkt

Open all day

Square

Heidelberg

View map

Kornmarkt is a historic square in Heidelberg's Altstadt, known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful architecture, serving as a cultural and social hub.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Hauptstrasse

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

Hauptstr.

View map

Hauptstrasse is Heidelberg's main shopping street, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic architecture, making it a vibrant hub for locals and visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Costs for individual stores vary.

Neuburg Abbey

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Stiftweg 2

View map

Neuburg Abbey is a working Benedictine monastery in Heidelberg, Germany, founded in the 12th century, offering tours and spiritual retreats.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special retreats and events require a paid entrance.

Hortus Palatinus

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Garden

Schloß-Wolfsbrunnenweg 16

View map

Hortus Palatinus, a Baroque garden in Heidelberg, Germany, was commissioned by Frederick V in 1614. It is a historical landmark with cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require tickets.

Theodor-Heuss-Brucke

Open all day

Bridge

69117 Heidelberg

View map

Theodor-Heuss-Brucke is a pivotal bridge in Heidelberg, Germany, connecting significant districts and providing access to scenic views along the Neckar River.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free. No charges for accessing the bridge.

Universitatsmuseum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1 Grabengasse

View map

Universitätsmuseum in Heidelberg showcases the illustrious history of Ruprecht-Karls-Universität through historical exhibits, portraits, and documents.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. The ticket includes access to adjacent sections of the museum that may require a paid ticket for special events.

Deutsches Verpackungs-Museum

We-Fr 13:00-18:00;Sa,Su 11:00-18:00;Mo,Tu off

Museum

Hauptstr. 22

View map

Deutsches Verpackungs-Museum in Heidelberg, Germany, explores the art and history of packaging design with unique exhibits and interactive displays.

Duration: 2 hours.

Adults: €8; Children (6-14 years): €4. Free for children under 6.

Heidelberg Collaboratory for Image Processing

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Speyrer Straße 6

View map

Heidelberg Collaboratory for Image Processing is a research facility in Heidelberg, Germany, specializing in the intersection of image processing, artificial intelligence, and technology applications.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Events and workshops may require registration or fees.

Providenzkirche

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Karl-Ludwig-Str. 8

View map

Providenzkirche is a historic church located in Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance and events.

Heimatmuseum Rohrbach

1:00 PM–5:00 PM

Museum

Rathausstr. 76 (Leimerstr.)

View map

Heimatmuseum Rohrbach in Heidelberg displays local history, art, and culture, with exciting exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to modern art installations.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have additional fees.

Castle Rohrbach

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

Weingasse 10

View map

Castle Rohrbach in Heidelberg, Germany, is a historical site featuring medieval architecture and a scenic view, perfect for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require tickets.

Adventgemeinde Heidelberg

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

Schelklystr. 102

View map

Adventgemeinde Heidelberg is a Seventh-day Adventist church in Heidelberg, Germany, focusing on community worship, education, and outreach activities.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours for services.

Free. Special programs may have associated costs.

Halle02

Th-Sa 20:00-05:00

Event hall

Zollhofgarten 2

View map

Halle02 in Heidelberg is a cultural venue celebrating art, music, and events. Its multifunctional space hosts concerts, exhibitions, and community activities throughout the year.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Varies by event. Some activities may be free, while concerts often require tickets.

Kosmodrom

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Event hall

69115 Heidelberg

View map

Kosmodrom in Heidelberg offers an immersive journey into the world of space exploration with exhibits on astronomy, astronaut training, and rocket technology.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adult: €10, Child (6-14): €5, Family: €25, discounts available for students and seniors.

Breidenbach Studios

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Night club

Hebelstr. 18

View map

Breidenbach Studios features contemporary art exhibitions created by local and international artists, paired with multimedia installations and workshops.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops and special events may require a paid ticket.

HebelHalle

2:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

Heidelberg

View map

HebelHalle in Heidelberg hosts diverse cultural events, known for its historical architecture and vibrant community atmosphere.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies by event; many are free, while some special events may require purchase.

Moschee Heidelberg

10:00 AM–7:00 PM

Church

Germany

View map

Moschee Heidelberg is a prominent mosque in Heidelberg, Germany, recognized for its unique architecture and vibrant community activities, offering insights into Islamic culture.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for upkeep and community programs.

Church of the Holy Spirit

Mo-Sa 11:00-17:00; PH,Su 12:30-17:00

Church

69117 Heidelberg

View map

Church of the Holy Spirit in Heidelberg, Germany, offers tours and a climb to its tower for scenic city views, showcasing rich history and significant architecture.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Concerts: €10 (adult), €6 (child); Organ recitals: €4 (adult), €2 (child).

German Pharmacy Museum

10:00 AM–5:30 PM

Museum

Schlosshof 1 Heidelberg Castle

View map

The German Pharmacy Museum in Heidelberg showcases over 20,000 exhibits detailing 2,000 years of medical science and pharmacy history, featuring unique artifacts and interactive displays.

Duration: 1.5 hours.

Paid. Special exhibitions may have additional costs.

Leinpfad

Open 24 hours

Park

Leinpfad

View map

Leinpfad is a scenic park in Heidelberg, Germany, situated between the Old Bridge and the Ernst-Walz-Bridge, ideal for walks and sightseeing.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free.

Thermalbad Heidelberg

9:00 AM–12:00 AM

Spa Center

4 Vangerowstraße

View map

Thermalbad Heidelberg is a modern spa in Heidelberg, Germany, offering thermal baths, saunas, and relaxation areas, ideal for wellness seekers.

Duration: 2-4 hours recommended.

Adults: €22, Children: €12. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Galeria Kaufhof Heidelberg Bismarckplatz On

9:30 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

1 Bergheimer Str.

View map

Galeria Kaufhof Heidelberg at Bismarckplatz offers a diverse range of products, from fashion to home goods, in a historic setting in Heidelberg, Germany.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free entry. Costs for items vary by product category.

CARL BOSCH MUSEUM HEIDELBERG gGmbH

Mo-Su 10:00-17:00; Th off

Museum

Schloss-Wolfsbrunnenweg 46

View map

The CARL BOSCH MUSEUM in Heidelberg examines the life and contributions of Nobel Prize laureate Carl Bosch, emphasizing chemical engineering and historical context.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Paid. Discounts available for students and groups.

Bahnhof Heidelberg-Schlierbach

Open all day

Train Station

In der Aue 2

View map

Bahnhof Heidelberg-Schlierbach in Heidelberg, Germany, is a railway station known for its scenic views and functioning since the late 19th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. There are no ticket costs for accessing the station.

Friedenskirche Heidelberg-Handschuhsheim

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Heidelberg

View map

Friedenskirche Heidelberg-Handschuhsheim, a historic church founded in 1892, features neo-Romanesque architecture and serves as a local cultural landmark.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a fee.

Melanchthonkirche Rohrbach

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Heidelberg

View map

Melanchthonkirche Rohrbach is a Protestant church in Heidelberg, Germany, built in 1958, known for its modern architecture and serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entrance for all visitors.

Quartiersspielplatz

Open 24 hours

Amusement Park

Karl-Von-Drais-Weg (Rudolf-Hell-Strasse)

View map

Quartiersspielplatz in Heidelberg is a community playground featuring modern play equipment, green spaces, and artistic installations, promoting creative outdoor activities for children.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free.

Bahnhof Heidelberg-Kirchheim

Open 24 hours

Train Station

Hardstr. 1

View map

Bahnhof Heidelberg-Kirchheim serves as a key railway station in Heidelberg, Germany, facilitating local and regional train travel.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No ticket required for access to the station.