A city famed for its invention and innovation, Mannheim has attracted curious creators for decades. Perched at the meeting point of the Rhine and Neckar Rivers, this leafy city has become a hip cultural hub with a burgeoning music scene and great food, too. Whether you’re here for the automobile history, the farmers’ markets or the old churches, our pick of the best places to stay in Mannheim is a brilliant base for exploring the city’s top spots.

Unsually for a German city, Mannheim is laid out in a grid pattern, making it appealingly easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Begin at the lively Marktplatz Square, where farmers bring their fresh produce on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and cafés spill out onto the street. The baroque Mannheim Palace with its fascinating historic exhibits and the University of Mannheim buildings, are well worth a guided tour. Wander further afield to step into pretty churches, or to fill your bags with pieces by independent designers on the Planken shopping street.

Soak up the sunshine with a stroll through riverside Luisenpark, or the art nouveau gardens of Freidrichsplatz. Boat trips on the Neckar and the Rhine are wonderful in the summer months, as are open-air gigs and pop-up art installations. A member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, the city is deservedly proud of its reputation for innovation; something you’ll see reflected in the design of the best places to stay in Mannheim, too.

The Best Places to Stay in Mannheim

For Contemporary Cool

• Speicher7 Hotel, a former mill-turned-trendy-design-hotel, sits right on the waterfront. Light-filled rooms are spacious and airy, with clean lines, crisp linens and swish bathrooms. Savour craft cocktails at the bar, fusion dining at Marly restaurant, and soothing yoga and meditation classes in the studio. A delight, with a seriously cool vibe.

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 to Mannheim City Airport if travelling from within Germany, or to Frankfurt Airport from further afield. Frankfurt is just a swift 30-minute train or 50-minute car journey from Mannheim. Many hotels will be happy to arrange an airport 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 24°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 Frankfurt.
• 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.