Heidelberg Palace: A Majestic Ruin
Explore the majestic ruins of Heidelberg Palace, a symbol of German Romanticism, offering breathtaking views, rich history, and architectural splendor in the heart of Heidelberg.
Heidelberg Palace, a captivating blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, stands majestically overlooking the city of Heidelberg. Once home to Palatine electors, the palace evolved over centuries, becoming a symbol of German Romanticism. Though largely in ruins due to war and lightning, its red sandstone facade, grand courtyard, and the famed Great Vat (a giant wine barrel) continue to draw visitors from around the globe. Explore the German Apothecary Museum, wander through the gardens, and imagine the lavish festivities that once filled these halls. The palace offers guided tours, providing insights into its rich history and architectural significance. A visit to Heidelberg is incomplete without experiencing the allure of this iconic landmark, a testament to both the grandeur of the past and the enduring power of art and architecture.
A brief summary to Heidelberg Palace
- Schlosshof 1, Heidelberg, Heidelberger Altstadt, 69117, DE
- +496221658880
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase a combination ticket for the funicular and palace entrance to save time and money.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the palace grounds have uneven surfaces and require a fair amount of walking.
- Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the palace's history and architectural features.
- Visit the Great Vat (Grosses Fass) in the cellar, one of the world's largest wine barrels.
- Check the schedule for special events, such as the castle illuminations or open-air theater performances.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take bus line 33 or 20 to the 'Bergbahn' stop. From there, transfer to the Bergbahn funicular, which ascends directly to the 'Schloss' (castle) station. A single bus fare is approximately €3. The Bergbahn 'Castle ticket' (Kornmarkt – Castle – Molkenkur) costs €11 for adults, including round trip on the lower funicular and admission to the castle courtyard, Great Vat, and German Apothecary Museum. Note that on Sunday, April 27, 2025, traffic obstructions are expected around the castle between 9:00 am and 12:40 pm due to the annual ATOS Half Marathon.
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Walking
From Heidelberg's Altstadt (Old Town), follow signs towards the Kornmarkt. From Kornmarkt, you can either take the Bergbahn funicular or walk uphill to the castle. The Burgweg path, located next to the Rathaus and Kornmarkt, offers a scenic but steep walk (45-60 minutes). Alternatively, a staircase near the Bergbahn building provides a more direct route (10-15 minutes, approximately 300 steps). No costs are associated with walking.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof to the Kornmarkt (base of the Bergbahn) will cost approximately €13-€16 and takes around 6 minutes, depending on traffic. From Kornmarkt, transfer to the Bergbahn funicular (€11 for the Castle ticket). Note that Neue Schlossstraße is currently closed to vehicles, so direct access to the castle by taxi is not possible. Also note that on Sunday, April 27, 2025, traffic obstructions are expected around the castle between 9:00 am and 12:40 pm due to the annual ATOS Half Marathon.
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Driving
Driving directly to Heidelberg Castle is restricted. Limited parking is available at the P12 multi-story car park (Kornmarkt) near the Bergbahn base station. Parking costs approximately €2.50 per hour. From there, take the Bergbahn funicular (€11 for the Castle ticket) to the castle. Alternatively, a public parking space is available in Schloss-Wolfsbrunnenweg, about 500 meters from the castle, and is free from 7 p.m. on. Note that Neue Schlossstraße is currently closed to vehicles, so direct access to the castle is not possible. Also note that on Sunday, April 27, 2025, traffic obstructions are expected around the castle between 9:00 am and 12:40 pm due to the annual ATOS Half Marathon, affecting access to the parking lot above the castle.
Discover more about Heidelberg Palace
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