Discover The Renowned Ruins of Heidelberg Palace Castle

Perched on the lush hillside of Königstuhl Mountain, high above the city, Heidelberg Castle has been an inspiration for poets, artist and travelers since the 13th century. A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, the palace features elaborate plaster ceilings, decorative portals, famous gardens,and iconic red sandstone exteriors. Left in ruins by a 17th century war and two natural disasters, today the castle facade stands as a national monument and historic treasure.Take a guided tour to see the restored palace rooms, visit an apothecary museum,and enjoy splendid views of the Old Town and the Neckar Valley from outdoor observation terraces. Dine at two restaurants and taste the bounty of the Rhine River valley at the wine shop. Once celebrated as the "eighth wonder of the world," the majestic Heidelberg Castle is the most popular castle ruins in all of Germany.

Details

Prices -

Palace admission is € 7 for adults, € 4 for children. Guided tours are an additional € 5 for adults, € 2.50 for children. Visit the website for details.

Hours -

Open daily from 8am-6pm. Last admission is at 5:30pm. Check the tours page for details on guided tour times.

Events

Schlossbeleuchtung Illumination & Fireworks

Vampire Ball

Heidelberg Castle Festival

Activities

Guided Castle Tours
Gardens

Apothecary Museum
Restaurants & Wine Shop

Funicular Railway
Gift Shop

FAQs

Where are the best places to Eat When visiting the castle?

The castle has two restaurants and a wine shop. At Scharff's Schlossweinstube restaurant, romantic white tablecloth dining and award-winning cuisine is on a menu that includes dishes like Imperial Quail and Canadian Lobster.The historic bakery serves rustic German fare surrounded by old world decor for buffet and a la carte dining. Enjoy unique wine, cheese and chocolate tastings in the barrel wine shop.

How do I get from Frankfurt to Heidelberg Castle?

Just one hour away from Frankfurt, Heidelberg is a fun day trip by car or train. To visit by rail, take an ICE train from the Frankfurt Central Station to Mannheim, then ride the S-Bahn express train to Heidelberg. If you're driving, take the A5 to B37 in Heidelberg. Exit at B3 and take Friedrich-Ebert-Anlage to Neue Schloßstraße. Once you arrive, park in the Old Town district and ride the Bergbahn (funicular) up to the castle. For an easy trip, book a guided tour from Frankfurt.