Heidelberg is located in the state of Baden W�rttemberg, between the cities of Frankfurt and Stuttgart. The city is over 800 years old and is situated on the Neckar River in a wide valley. The northern bank of the river acts as a beach area in summer and on warm fall and winter days, attracting families and groups of friends for picnics, recreational sports and leisurely strolls.

The city is not that large, relatively speaking, with a population of about 140,000 people.

In 1945, the US Army took control of the city and there is still a large presence of Americans in the region today. Thankfully, the city was not bombed during the war and as a result, the city has a wonderful look and feel that cannot be found in other cities such as Frankfurt and Cologne, which were badly damaged during the war.

Hauptstrasse/Shopping in the Altstadt

The cobbled Hauptstrasse or main street running through the old town claims to be the longest pedestrian zone in Europe. While I have not measured it myself, I have walked it many, many times. The Hauptstrasse is lined with stores, small shops, booksellers, restaurants, cafes and a couple of cinemas. Many of the stores are part of large retail chains that can be found in any sizeable German city. To find more unique and owner-run shops, stray onto the side streets and Untere Strasse (the lower street), which runs parallel to the Hauptstrasse.

Most stores are open until 20:00 nowadays, although smaller, non-chain establishments may close earlier. Sunday shopping is, of course, verboten, as Sunday is still considered a day of rest and a day for family in Germany.

As a result of the American presence and the University in the city, English can often be used in the shops and stores.

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberger Schloss is the most famous attraction in the city. The castle ruins dominate the city as it overlooks the Neckar River. It is a mix of styles and was damaged and rebuilt several times during its history. Entry costs 3 euros.

Heidelberg Castle lays claim to the largest wine barrel in the world, called the Heidelberg Fass. It has a capacity of about 55,000 gallons of wine and was actually used to store wine! This is included in your entrance fee.

Your entrance fee also entitles you to see the Pharmaceutical museum in the castle.

Historically, the geometrically-designed castle gardens were royal and extravagant. Unfortunately, they have not been restored to their former glory. But they are free to stroll and lead to terraces with fantastic views of the city and the river. They are perfect for a romantic stroll on a beautiful summer day.

You can walk up to the castle from the Kornmarkt in the Altstadt. Take note though, the streets rise sharply and are cobbled � not great if you have bad knees or are not moderately fit. You can also take the funicular railway from the Kornmarkt to the castle. The cost of a return ticket is 5 euros.

Heidelberg is one of the best, if not the best, city to see in Germany. It is fun, lively, beautiful, full of history, and much, much more. I highly recommend a visit to Heidelberg!