Karlsplatz: Heidelberg's Heart
Discover Karlsplatz in Heidelberg: A historic square with stunning castle views, vibrant markets, and charming student pubs, all in the heart of the Old Town.
Karlsplatz, named after Grand Duke Karl Friedrich of Baden, is a central square in Heidelberg's Old Town, offering stunning, unobstructed views of Heidelberg Castle. Once the site of a Franciscan monastery demolished in 1803, the square now hosts the Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and the Palais Boisserée. It's a vibrant hub, especially during the Heidelberg Christmas Market, when an ice rink transforms the space. The Sebastian Münster Fountain, created in 1978, commemorates the humanist and cosmographer who once worked at the monastery. Karlsplatz is surrounded by historic buildings, student pubs like Zum Seppl and Zum Roten Ochsen, and is conveniently located near the Hauptstrasse, making it a must-see for any visitor exploring Heidelberg.
A brief summary to Karlsplatz
- Hauptstraße 214, Heidelberg, Heidelberger Altstadt, 69117, DE
- +49622127585
Local tips
- Visit during the Heidelberg Christmas Market for a magical experience with an ice rink and festive atmosphere.
- Explore the nearby student pubs, Zum Seppl and Zum Roten Ochsen, for a taste of Heidelberg's unique student culture.
- Take advantage of the P13 parking garage located directly under Karlsplatz for convenient parking.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Hauptbahnhof (main train station), follow the Hauptstrasse (main street) east for approximately 1.5 km. The walk is mostly flat and takes about 20-25 minutes. Karlsplatz will be on your left, just before you reach the Kornmarkt (Corn Market) and the Rathaus (City Hall). Look for the open square with the Sebastian Münster Fountain and the unobstructed view of Heidelberg Castle.
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Public Transport
From the Hauptbahnhof, take tram line 21, 24 or 26 to the 'Peterskirche' stop. From there, walk east along the Hauptstrasse for about 5 minutes. Karlsplatz will be on your left. A single ticket costs €3.40. Alternatively, a day ticket for Heidelberg costs €8.90 and allows unlimited travel within the city.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from the Hauptbahnhof to Karlsplatz will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €10-€15. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Hauptstrasse entrance to Karlsplatz.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs for 'Altstadt' (Old Town) and then 'Karlsplatz'. The P13 Karlsplatz/Rathaus parking garage is located directly underneath the square. Hourly parking rates are approximately €2.50, with a daily maximum of around €20. Be aware that traffic in the Old Town can be congested, especially during peak tourist season.
Discover more about Karlsplatz
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