Start your tour at the Lion Fountain in Universitätsplatz, located in front of the main portal of the Old Assembly Hall. Here you will pass by Heidelberg University, founded in 1386, which is the oldest university in Germany and one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world. The university has long been recognised for its academic excellence and remains highly ranked internationally. Universitätsplatz itself is one of the most popular squares in Heidelberg’s Old Town and serves as a lively meeting point for students and visitors, surrounded by historic university buildings and cafés.

Continue your walk along Hauptstrasse, one of the oldest and most famous pedestrian shopping streets in Europe. As you make your way through the heart of the Old Town, you will arrive at the Church of the Holy Spirit, the largest and most prominent church in Heidelberg. Located in the centre of the historic district, the church was constructed between 1398 and 1515 and features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Over the centuries, it has served as an important religious and cultural landmark for the city.

Just outside the church lies the Marktplatz, the historic marketplace of Heidelberg and the oldest square in the city. Dating back to the medieval period, the square has existed since the early development of Heidelberg and has long been the centre of civic and commercial life. Today it remains a lively gathering place where visitors can admire the historic Town Hall as well as the impressive Church of the Holy Spirit, both of which frame this picturesque square.

From the Marktplatz, continue towards the Neckar River to reach the Old Bridge, officially known as the Karl Theodor Bridge. This elegant stone bridge, with its distinctive arches, has stood on this site since 1788 and was commissioned by Elector Charles Theodore. Over the past 700 years, nine different bridges have been built at this crossing. Today, it is one of Heidelberg’s most iconic landmarks and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hillsides, the Old Town, and the river. At the southern end of the bridge, you will also see the historic bridge gate towers, which provide a popular photo opportunity.

After crossing the river, you will walk along the Philosopher’s Walk, a scenic path located on the northern bank of the Neckar River. This peaceful trail is said to have been frequented by philosophers, scholars, and artists who sought inspiration while enjoying the tranquillity and views of the city. The path offers spectacular panoramic vistas of Heidelberg’s Old Town, the Neckar River, and the famous Heidelberg Castle rising above the rooftops.

Return to the Old Town and pass through the Kornmarkt, one of Heidelberg’s most charming squares. From here you can enjoy one of the best views of Heidelberg Castle standing prominently on the hillside in the background. At the centre of the square stands the Kornmarkt-Madonna, a column with a statue of the Virgin Mary created in 1718 by Peter van den Branden, accompanied by three decorative fountains. The square has long been a focal point of the Altstadt, and it is said that the American writer Mark Twain visited this area during his stay in Heidelberg in 1874.

Your tour concludes at Heidelberg Castle, one of the most famous and romantic castle ruins in Germany. The origins of the castle date back to before 1214, and over the centuries it served as the residence of the Electors Palatine. Although it suffered damage from lightning strikes, fires, and wars, the castle remains one of Heidelberg’s most significant landmarks. Within its cellars you will find the Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel, with a capacity of approximately 58,000 gallons. From the castle grounds, visitors can also enjoy spectacular views over the Old Town and the Neckar Valley.