Heidelberg Historic Altstadt Art and Architecture Tour

Discover a hidden treasure of Heidelberger: the historic ensemble of Altstadt, masterfully composed of art and architecture, including the splendid sculptural works on the Old Bridge, the exemplary showcase of Baroque architecture in the Market Square, and the best vistas of the Heidelberg Castle from the charming Kornmarkt Square.

Meeting Point

Löwenbrunnen

Grabengasse, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

At the Lion Fountain in the University square, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.

What's included:

• Official Tour Guide

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Old Bridge (Karl Theodor Bridge)

Am Hackteufel, , Heidelberg, 69117, Baden-Wurttemberg

The expedition begins at the Old Bridge, the monumental landmark standing at the medieval gate leading to the quaint little town. Spanning the Neckar River and connecting the skyline of historic buildings with the vast greenery landscapes, the bridge offers numerous terrific viewpoints. The stonework and its beautiful sculptures are also part of the eventful history: it was blown up by the German Nazis just a few days before the end of the Second World War.

10 minutes

Heidelberger Altstadt

69 Heidelberg-Heidelberger Altstadt, Germany

After passing through the fairytale-looking gate, you are in for the enchanting world of Baroque architecture with a dash of classicism, which starts at Stone Valley Street. On both sides of the narrow cobbled lane, bustling cafes, eateries, and small shops nestle between quaint-looking buildings, creating a sense of coziness and joy in the air!

10 minutes

Heiliggeistkirche

Hauptstraße 189, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

At the end of the vibrant street stands the imposing figure of the Church of the Holy Spirit in Gothic and Baroque architecture. Interestingly, outside the stately façade of the church are colorful souvenir shops attached to its niches, a common practice from medieval times.

10 minutes

Heidelberger Marktplatz

Marktpl. 5, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

Then, explore the rest of the charming Market Square. Beautiful old buildings, including the church and the Town Hall, surround the stunning Hercules Fountain. Nowadays, the central square has many restaurants and cafes with delightful outdoor seating and a lively weekly market, especially the popular Heidelberg Christmas Market. But centuries ago, public trials were also held where heretics and witches were burned.

10 minutes

Kornmarkt

Kornmarkt, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

Take a few steps to another stunning yet more quiet square to the south: the Kornmarkt. The lovely square situated not far from Heidelberg Castle delivers one of the best viewpoints of the majestic castle and stunning backgrounds for souvenir photos.

10 minutes

Hauptstraße

Hauptstraße, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

Next, turn back to Hauptstraße, the largest pedestrian street and shopping hub of the historic town. Luxury international fashion brands alternating with quaint traditional shops and historic buildings offer a great opportunity to combine window shopping and sightseeing.

10 minutes

Heidelberg Old Synagogue Memorial

Große Mantelgasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

Head back to the riverfront where the Old Synagogue Memorial unfolds moving stories about the Jewish community that thrived in Heidelberger. The memorial square, built on the foundation of the old synagogue burned by the Nazis, consists of the name plaques of the victims and the outline of the synagogue’s walls in white marble.

10 minutes

Heidelberger Marstall

Marstallhof 1-5, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany

Pass by the Marstall complex just a stone’s throw, one of Heidelberg's few Middle-aged buildings. The picturesque riverside location of the castle-looking building makes it look like a Disney scene in real life where the tour gives way to leisurely strolls or relaxing on comfy benches along the atmospheric river.

10 minutes