A famously beautiful Baroque town on the banks of the Neckar River, Heidelberg is an unmissable destination for romantics. Brilliant for a weekend break, this historic city brims with heritage buildings, including a crumbling castle and charming old town framed by verdant hills. The town’s gorgeous edifices include its lovely hotels and guesthouses, with the best places to stay in Heidelberg promising river views and romance in spades.

Heidelberg’s beauty has been immortalised in countless songs, poems and paintings, but nothing beats strolling the streets of the old town for yourself. Lose yourself along cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, step into little galleries, boutiques and cafes, or take a guided tour of Heidelberg University, parts of which date back to the 14th Century. Don’t miss the unusual Holy Spirit Church, a Gothic-inspired landmark in which both Protestant and Catholic devotees worshipped at the same time.

Clamber up or take the funicular to the half-ruined fortified castle for an insight into Heidelberg’s past. Venture further still to the 'King's Throne', 1800 feet up, for expansive river views and a well-deserved drink in the beer garden. Four centuries ago, Heidelberg was home to the Hortus Palatinus, landscaped gardens deemed 'The Eighth Wonder of the World’. An artful arrangement of plants, fountains and statues remain, which are wonderful for laid-back strolls. Riverside walks or cycles, crossings of the Old Bridge, and leisurely boat trips complete the Heidelberg experience. Retreat to one of the best places to stay in Heidelberg for delicious gourmet fare and sensational spa treatments.

The Best Places to Stay in Heidelberg

For Boutique Style

• ArtHotel Heidelberg, housed in a historic building, has light-filled contemporary interiors with clean lines and a minimalist feel. Think hardwood flooring, crisp white linens and occasional pops of yellow in the form of distinctive armchairs. A popular pied-à-terre, complete with a great regional restaurant.
• Bergheim 41 is a stylish spot in the centre of town. The 32 white-on-white guest rooms have deep purple details and smart bathrooms, whilst the relaxed cafe offers breakfasts of fresh pastries and all-day snacks. Head up to the roof terrace for dazzling views, or step outside into the heart of the action. Affordable urban style.
• Villa Marstall, just a short distance from the centre of the old town, sits right on the riverfront. The 10 simple yet elegant rooms have a classic feel, with draped four-poster beds, cream sofas, hardwood floors and coffered ceilings. Brilliant for riverside strolls and offering reasonable rates.

For Luxury

• Heidelberg Suites, perched just across the famous 'Old Bridge' from the old town and the castle, is gorgeous. Think elegant modern interiors in a sleek cream and black palette, with big cosy beds, sink-into armchairs, black-framed mirrors and painted beams. The river views are sensational, as are the rooftop bar, superb spa and unusual gourmet restaurant, which sits on a boat. Hugely romantic.
• Hotel Europäischer Hof is a five-star extravaganza of glittering chandeliers, opulent gold and cream textiles, and heavy sash curtains. The Panorama Spa is dazzling, and the gourmet restaurant a foodie favourite. A lavish luxury hotel for a memorable city break.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly into Frankfurt Airport or Stuttgart Airport, with stations inside the terminals which will take you on the high-speed ICE train (running at 180mph) to Heidelberg. Alternatively, arrive by train from hubs across Germany. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport or train station pick-up in advance.
• Baden-Württemburg is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit during the summer months for temperatures averaging around 22°C in July and August. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays in May or September.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Mannheim.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Baden-Württemburg.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Heidelberg