Heidelberg Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Heidelberg

Heidelberg is located on the Neckar River and is Baden-Württemberg’s fifth-largest city. One-quarter of the approximately 160,000 residents are students. Heidelberg University was founded in 1386 and is Germany’s oldest and one of Europe’s most prestigious universities. In addition, Heidelberg is home to internationally acclaimed research facilities, including four Max Planck Institutes. The UNESCO Creative Cities Network named Heidelberg a “City of Literature.”

Heidelberg has been a center of human habitation for millennia. In 1907, a jawbone from an ancient human was discovered nearby and is Europe’s earliest human artifact. A Celtic fortress was built in Heidelberg in the 5th century BC. The Romans built a wooden bridge and occupied the area from 40 AD to 260 AD.

The Bergheim village was established around 769 AD. Modern Heidelberg can be traced to the founding of the 12th-century Schonau Abbey. Throughout medieval times, Heidelberg was the seat of the Electorate of the Palatinate.

Heidelberg was involved in the damaging Thirty Years’ War from 1618 to 1648. This war was fought as part of the European wars of religion. The struggle was between Lutheran and Catholic states and a fight between Austria, Spain, and France for European domination. Heidelberg was sieged by enemy forces in 1622. The war finally ended when the Peace of Westphalia treaties were signed in 1648.

During the Nine Years’ War from 1688 to 1697, French troops attacked the Electoral Palatinate. Heidelberg Castle was set on fire twice during the Nine Years’ War. Heidelberg Castle remains in ruins but this beautiful location is Heidelberg’s top tourist destination.

The 1693 fire damaged most of Heidelberg’s buildings. The House of the Knight, originally built in 1592, was one of the few buildings that survived. The famous French writer Victor Hugo was particularly impressed by its beauty during his stay in Heidelberg in 1838. So will you.

Today’s visitors can explore Heidelberg University’s history by visiting the Old University Building and the Student Prison. Visit St. Peter’s Church and the Church of the Holy Spirit to immerse yourself in Heidelberg’s long religious history. Heidelberg is known for its cultural and community events, and its Main Street is one of Europe's oldest shopping streets.

Take this self-guided tour to explore Heidelberg’s most notable sights.