Where to Stay In Heidelberg: Ultimate Accommodation Guide

Let me tell you that Heidelberg is one of the best destinations in Germany for any traveler! It's located in southwest Germany at the Neckar, and it's the perfect spot if you want to relax a little while visiting one of Germany's most beautiful cities.

Not only is Heidelberg famous for its stunning Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg) and prestigious Heidelberg University, but it's also filled with beautiful traditional German architecture, amazing restaurants, and cozy cafes. And if you happen to visit during winter, you'll experience some of Germany's best Christmas markets!

Now, when it comes to choosing where to stay in Heidelberg, it doesn't have to be complicated. As someone who recently visited this charming German gem, let me share with you my favorite areas and hotels in Heidelberg.

Best areas to stay in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming little town with just a handful of areas to consider, which actually makes decision-making so much easier.

For first-timers, I suggest staying in the Old Town (Altstadt). It's the heart of Heidelberg, where you'll find most of the city's sights and stunning architecture.

Budget travelers should consider the area of Bergheim as an option. It's conveniently located near the train station and within walking distance of the Old Town.

If you're looking for a quieter and less touristy vibe, Neuenheim is perfect. It's an ideal area for families and those who want to take it easy but still want to be close to the city center.

1. Where to stay in Heidelberg for the first time: Old Town (Altstadt)

If you're visiting Heidelberg for the first time, I highly recommend staying in Altstadt, the Heidelberg Old Town. It's absolutely charming with its beautiful architecture, cobblestone streets, and amazing food and shopping options.

Here, you'll also be close to iconic landmarks like Heidelberg Castle and Heidelberg University, as well as many museums and popular landmarks.

When it comes to accommodation in the Old Town, the hotels here can be a bit on the pricey side. However, many of them have a super cool traditional charm and offer amazing traditional German cuisine, so staying here is worth it!

Best area for:

• First-timers

• Couples

• History buffs

Things to do in Heidelberg Old Town

Heidelberg's Old Town is packed with things to do and sights to see. One of the absolute highlights is Heidelberg Castle, a jaw-dropping medieval fortress that overlooks the city. The gardens surrounding the castle are free to explore, and if you fancy going inside, you can easily book a guided tour.

Another spot you can't miss in Old Town is the iconic Alte Brücke (Old Bridge). It offers fantastic views of the city and the Neckar River. Plus, it's the perfect place to snap some amazing photos and enjoy street performers.

Of course, it wouldn't be Germany if there weren't some stunning churches to visit, and Old Town has its fair share. The Church of the Holy Spirit (Heiliggeistkirche) is a must-visit, with its stunning architecture and intricate details.

One of my favorite things to do is to wander around at the Heidelberg Market Square, where you'll find everything from souvenirs to local goodies. While you're there, make sure to visit the fascinating Heidelberg Pharmacy Museum, which showcases the history of medicine in Germany through its unique exhibits.

Lastly, another must-do is either taking the cable car up to Königstuhl for some truly amazing views or, if you're feeling a little more adventurous, hiking all the way to the summit. If you're in good shape, the hike shouldn't take you longer than an hour. Just make sure to bring enough water, especially on hot summer days!

Best hotels to stay in Heidelberg Old Town

($$$) Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg

This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Old Town, just a short walk from Heidelberg Castle. Hotel Europaischer Hof Heidelberg offers elegant rooms, an on-site spa, and multiple restaurants serving delicious cuisine. It's most likely the most luxurious and romantic hotel in Heidelberg, making it perfect for couples and honeymoons.

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($$$) Heidelberg Marriott Hotel

Another luxury option in Old Town, the Heidelberg Marriott Hotel offers spacious rooms with upscale amenities and a modern design. It also has a fantastic indoor swimming pool and an on-site restaurant that serves American steakhouse-style food.

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($$) Hotel am Schloss

Hotel am Schloss is one of the best hotels in the old town, located just a few steps away from Heidelberg Castle. The hotel offers beautiful and spacious rooms with traditional German design and modern amenities.

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($$) Hotel zum Ritter St. Georg

Hotel Zum Ritter St. Georg is a charming hotel with a history dating back to the 16th century. The rooms are cozy and unique, featuring traditional German decor. Plus, the hotel's restaurant offers a delicious German breakfast buffet.

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($) Arthotel Heidelberg

For a more budget-friendly option, Arthotel Heidelberg is an excellent choice. This boutique hotel offers stylish and modern rooms and is one of the best cheap hotels in the city center.

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2. Where to stay in Heidelberg for budget travelers: Bergheim

If you're on a budget or want easy access to and from Heidelberg city centre, the best spot to stay is definitely Bergheim.

It's the commercial district of Heidelberg, close to the Heidelberg train station and centrally located. You can easily walk or take a tram to the Old Town, where you'll find all the historical landmarks.

While Bergheim may not have the same architectural charm as the Old Town, it's still packed with cool restaurants and bars. Plus, since it's not right in the touristy central area of Heidelberg, accommodation prices here tend to be a bit more affordable.

Best area for:

• Budget travelers

• Easy access

Things to do in Bergheim

Bergheim may not be as popular as the Heidelberg Atlstad/Old Town, but it still has plenty of things to do and see. One of the must-visit spots is the Body Worlds Museum (Körperwelten), an anatomical museum that displays real human bodies in different poses to showcase how our bodies work.

For some delicious coffee and a cozy atmosphere, head over to the stylish Cafe Nomad. They offer a variety of coffee options and tasty pastries, making it the perfect spot for a little break while exploring the city.

And if you're looking to learn more about Heidelberg's history and culture, consider taking a walking tour around the city. Many companies offer guided tours that cover different aspects of the city, from its architecture to its cuisine.

Best hotels to stay in Bergheim

($$$) NH Collection Heidelberg

Located just 10 minutes from central Heidelberg, NH Collection Heidelberg is a modern and stylish hotel with spacious rooms and great amenities. The hotel even offers a steam room and sauna.

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($$) Qube Hotel Bergheim

Qube Hotel Bergheim is one of the best budget-friendly Heidelberg hotels. The rooms are clean, comfortable, and tastefully decorated. Plus, the hotel offers a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Heidelberg.

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($$) Hotel Restaurant Krokodil

Hotel Restaurant Krokodil is a charming family-run hotel that offers cozy and affordable rooms. The on-site restaurant serves hearty German cuisine, perfect after a day of exploring. The German breakfast buffet was my personal favorite!

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($) Steffis Hostel Heidelberg

For a budget-friendly option, Steffis Hostel Heidelberg is the perfect choice. It offers both private rooms and dormitories, making it ideal for solo travelers or groups.

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3. Where to stay in Heidelberg for families & relaxation: Neuenheim

Situated on the northern side of the Neckar River, Neuenheim offers a quieter vibe compared to the Old Town, yet still has plenty of exciting activities to keep you entertained.

You'll find lush green spaces like the Neckarwiesen and the Philisophenweg und Philosophengarten, perfect for outdoor fun with the family.

Don't miss the chance to explore the botanical gardens of the University of Heidelberg. If you're up for some action or want to visit the castle, just cross the old bridge, and you'll find yourself in the Old Town in no time.

When it comes to accommodations, Neuenheim offers a variety of different options. They also tend to be more affordable than the hotels in the Old Town, which is great news if you're traveling with a larger group.

Best area for:

• Families

• Groups

• Relaxation

Things to do in Neuenheim

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to do in Neuenheim. One of the top attractions is the Heidelberg Zoo, which houses over 1,200 animals from all over the world. It's a great way to spend the day, especially when you're traveling with the kids.

For some outdoor fun, hike up to the Monastery of St. Michael. The trail can be challenging, but the views from the top are definitely worth it.

And if you're interested in plants and nature, make sure to wander around the botanical gardens of Heidelberg University.

And no trip to Germany is complete without trying some traditional German cuisine. Head over to Kyffhäuser for some delicious Schnitzel (they have so many variations!) or Bratwurst, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of this family-run restaurant.

Best hotels to stay in Neuenheim

($$$) Rafaela Hotel Heidelberg

Located just 15 minutes from the Old Town, Rafaela Hotel Heidelberg offers modern and spacious rooms with great amenities. The hotel also has a lovely garden terrace and a kids' playground.

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($$) Hotel-Pension Berger

Hotel-Pension Berger is a charming family-run hotel that offers cozy and comfortable rooms. The location is perfect for exploring Neuenheim, and the hotel even has its own seasonal outdoor swimming pool.

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($$) BS Boutique Hotel

BS Boutique Hotel is a charming hotel situated in a quiet residential area of Neuenheim. The rooms are cozy and elegant, and the hotel offers a delicious breakfast buffet every morning.

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($) Hotel Heidelberg Astoria

For a budget-friendly option, consider staying at Hotel Heidelberg Astoria. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the hotel is just a short walk away from the old town and many popular attractions.

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Where to stay in Heidelberg – Frequently Asked Questions

🛫 How do I get to Heidelberg?

The most convenient way to reach Heidelberg is by flying into Frankfurt International Airport and then making your way to Heidelberg. You have the option to either rent a car or take the train for a hassle-free journey. Either way, you'll be there in just about 1 hour.

🚶‍♀️ How do I get around in Heidelberg?

Heidelberg is a charming city, with most main attractions conveniently located within walking distance. But don't worry if you prefer not to walk or want to explore farther out areas – Heidelberg also offers a pretty good public transportation system.

🏰 What is there to do in Heidelberg?

Heidelberg is a great place to relax and explore Germany's history and culture. From visiting the iconic Heidelberg Castle to taking a boat tour on the Neckar River, there's something for everyone in this charming city. You can also check out numerous museums and galleries or simply wander around the Old Town and discover some hidden gems.

🗓️ How many days should I spend in Heidelberg?

I recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Heidelberg to fully experience everything the city has to offer. This will give you enough time to explore the main attractions, try some traditional German cuisine, and take relaxing strolls around the charming streets. However, if you have more time, you can easily spend around 5 days here as well and explore some of the surrounding countryside.

🌷 When is the best time to visit Heidelberg?

The best time to visit Heidelberg is during spring or autumn, which would be in May or April or in September or October when the weather is mild and pleasant. It can get pretty hot in Germany during the summer. However, this also means it's peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the winter months, but be prepared for colder temperatures. Visiting in the winter will also give you the opportunity to visit Heidelberg's famous Christmas markets.

Where to stay in Heidelberg – Final Words

Heidelberg definitely deserves a spot as one of my favorite tourist destinations to visit in Germany and I love taking visitors from overseas around and showing them all the special places. It's just the perfect little magical town that you imagine when you think of Germany. You'll get to enjoy a stunning castle overlooking the town, traditional German architecture, and of course, plenty of delicious German food.

What makes Heidelberg even more special is its famous university located right in the city center. Alongside its historic charms, there's also a great student vibe here with loads of events and things going on.

I really hope that my little guide on where to stay in Heidelberg helps you find your ideal hotel and neighborhood to book your next trip.