Elizabeth Gate: A Testament to Love at Heidelberg Castle
Step through the Elizabeth Gate at Heidelberg Castle, a monument to a royal love story and a gateway to centuries of history, offering breathtaking views and architectural splendor.
The Elizabeth Gate, or Elisabethentor, stands as a romantic and historical landmark within the Heidelberg Castle complex. Erected in 1615 by Prince Frederick V as a surprise birthday gift for his wife, Elizabeth Stuart, the daughter of King James I of England, this triumphal archway symbolizes their love and the strong ties between the Electoral Palatinate and England. The gate, designed by architect Salomon de Caus, is adorned with intricate carvings and leads towards the English Wing, once intended as Elizabeth's palace. Today, the Elizabeth Gate offers a picturesque photo opportunity and a glimpse into the castle's rich history and architectural beauty, surrounded by lush greenery and offering stunning views of the Neckar River and Heidelberg's cityscape. It's a must-see for visitors seeking a touch of romance and history.
A brief summary to Elizabeth Gate
- Heidelberg, Heidelberger Altstadt, 69117, DE
- +496221658880
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for the most enchanting lighting and photo opportunities at the Elizabeth Gate.
- Combine your visit with a guided tour of Heidelberg Castle to fully appreciate the history and significance of the Elizabeth Gate and the English Wing.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the castle grounds have cobblestone paths and some steep inclines.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof (central train station), take bus line 33 or 20 to the 'Bergbahn' stop. From there, transfer to the Heidelberger Bergbahn (funicular railway) which ascends to the 'Schloss' (Castle) station. The Elizabeth Gate is a short walk from the Schloss station, near the visitor center. A round trip funicular ticket, which includes entry to the castle courtyard, Great Tun and German Apothecary Museum, costs €11 for adults. Bus ticket is around €3.
-
Walking
From Kornmarkt in the Altstadt (Old Town), follow the Burgweg (castle path) uphill. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes and leads directly to the castle entrance and the Elizabeth Gate. Note that the path is steep in places. Alternatively, a staircase with around 300 steps is available to the left of the Bergbahn building.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof to Heidelberg Castle costs approximately €16-€20 and takes around 8 minutes, dropping you off near the castle entrance. From there, it's a short walk to the Elizabeth Gate.
-
Driving
Driving to Heidelberg Castle is possible, but parking is very limited. There are only 6 bus parking spaces available at the castle, and car parking is available only in exceptional cases. Reservation is necessary. The driveway to Heidelberg Castle is generally only allowed for the use of the parking lots. An exception is made for access to hotels and restaurants in the castle area with a written reservation. It is easier to park in the Altstadt (Old Town) at the P12 (Kornmarkt/Bergbahnstation) or P13 (Rathaus) car parks and then walk or take the Bergbahn. Bus parking costs €36 for the first 90 minutes, each additional hour costs €20. An evening flat rate of €50 applies from 7 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Discover more about Elizabeth Gate
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Heidelberg Tun
0.1 km
Discover the Heidelberg Tun, an iconic wine barrel and a historic marvel nestled in the picturesque city of Heidelberg, Germany.
Stadt Heidelberg
0.4 km
Discover Heidelberg's heart at the Rathaus and Marktplatz, where history, architecture, and vibrant community life converge in the Altstadt, creating an unforgettable experience.
Hauptstraße
0.4 km
Discover Heidelberg's Hauptstraße: A historic pedestrian zone with diverse shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions in the heart of the Old Town, offering an unforgettable experience.
Neckarmünzgasse 12
0.4 km
Discover Heidelberg's enchanting Altstadt from Neckarmünzgasse 12, a picturesque gateway to iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, and authentic German charm, offering an unforgettable experience.
Church of the Holy Spirit
0.4 km
Discover Heidelberg's iconic Church of the Holy Spirit: a historic landmark blending Gothic architecture, religious significance, and vibrant market life in the heart of the Old Town.
Brücke-Tor
0.5 km
Step through time at Heidelberg's Brücke-Tor, a medieval gateway offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich history, connecting past and present.
Heidelberg Free Walking Tour
0.5 km
Uncover the beauty and history of Heidelberg with a captivating free walking tour led by knowledgeable local guides.
Universität Heidelberg - Alte Universität
0.6 km
Explore Germany's oldest university, a Baroque masterpiece in Heidelberg's Old Town, and discover centuries of academic excellence and historical significance.
Peterskirche
0.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of Peterskirche, Heidelberg's historic Evangelical church that enchants every visitor.
Heidelberger Villa
0.7 km
Explore the Heidelberger Villa, a historical gem in Heidelberg, showcasing stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage in a picturesque setting.
Kurpfälzisches Museum
0.9 km
Explore Heidelberg's captivating history and art at the Kurpfälzisches Museum, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to masterpieces of the 20th century in a stunning baroque palace.
Schlangenweg
0.9 km
Ascend Heidelberg's historic Schlangenweg for breathtaking panoramic views of the Old Town, the Neckar River, and the iconic Heidelberg Castle, a rewarding climb through history and nature.
Philosophers’ Way
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Heidelberg's Philosophers' Way, a picturesque trail along the Neckar River offering stunning views.
Hölderlin-Anlage
1.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hölderlin-Anlage, a memorial park in Heidelberg dedicated to the poetic legacy of Friedrich Hölderlin.
Sprunghöhe
1.0 km
Discover Sprunghöhe in Heidelberg: A serene forest escape with exotic trees, historical landmarks, and panoramic views, offering a unique blend of nature and history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stückgarten Schloss Heidelberg
0.0 km
Explore the enchanting Stückgarten at Heidelberg Castle, a tranquil garden with stunning views and rich history, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Torturm
0.1 km
Discover the historic Torturm in Heidelberg Castle, where breathtaking views and rich history await every traveler.
Thick Tower
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views from Thick Tower, a must-visit landmark in Heidelberg, Germany.
Heidelberg Castle
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Heidelberg Castle, a historic fortress with stunning views, rich heritage, and captivating architecture in the heart of Germany.
Heidelberg Palace
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Heidelberg Palace, a historical gem with stunning views, rich heritage, and captivating architecture in the heart of Germany.
Nordwall
0.1 km
Uncover the historic charm of Nordwall in Heidelberg, where ancient city walls meet breathtaking views and serene strolls through time.
Lift Heidelberg Castle
0.1 km
Soar above Heidelberg and discover the majestic castle with a scenic cable car ride offering stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.
Barrel Building
0.1 km
Explore the iconic Barrel Building in Heidelberg, a historic attraction showcasing the city's winemaking heritage and stunning views of the Neckar River.
German Pharmacy Museum
0.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of pharmacy and medicine at the German Pharmacy Museum in Heidelberg, nestled within the majestic Schloss Heidelberg.
Heidelberger Bergbahnen
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and nature's beauty at Heidelberger Bergbahnen, Heidelberg's premier mountain cable car experience.
Seilbahn, Station Molkenkur
0.3 km
Discover breathtaking views and scenic beauty aboard the Molkenkur Cable Car in Heidelberg, a perfect blend of adventure and culture.
Schlossgarten Heidelberg
0.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical charm of Schlossgarten Heidelberg, a serene park filled with lush gardens and stunning views.
Karlsplatz
0.3 km
Karlsplatz - The vibrant heart of Heidelberg, where history meets modern charm in a picturesque setting filled with culture, cafes, and captivating sights.
Muttergottesbrunnen (Kornmarkt-Madonna), Heidelberg - Peter van den Branden (1718)
0.3 km
Explore the stunning Muttergottesbrunnen in Heidelberg, a baroque fountain featuring the Kornmarkt Madonna, a must-see cultural landmark.
Heidelberger Weihnachtsmarkt am Kornmarkt
0.3 km
Experience the magic of Heidelberg's Christmas market at Kornmarkt, featuring delightful crafts, festive food, and a warm holiday atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
Scharffs Schlossweinstube im Heidelberger Schloss
0.1 km
Experience fine dining at Scharffs Schlossweinstube in Heidelberg Castle—where culinary excellence meets historical elegance amidst breathtaking views.
Persepolis Heidelberg
0.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of Persia at Persepolis Heidelberg – where authentic cuisine meets vegan delights in a charming setting.
Alte Gundtei
0.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish flavors at Alte Gundtei in Heidelberg - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant zur Herrenmühle
0.4 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant zur Herrenmühle in Heidelberg—where culinary artistry meets a charming atmosphere.
Trattoria Toscana
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at Trattoria Toscana in Heidelberg's historic Altstadt, where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.
Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus
0.5 km
Discover authentic German flavors at Vetter's Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus, where tradition meets taste in Heidelberg's charming Old Town.
Palmbräu Gasse
0.5 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in Heidelberg's historic Altstadt at Palmbräu Gasse - where tradition meets flavor.
Hotel-Restaurant Hackteufel Heidelberg
0.5 km
Experience authentic German cuisine and warm hospitality at Hotel-Restaurant Hackteufel in historic Heidelberg.
Wirtshaus zum Nepomuk
0.5 km
Experience authentic German cuisine at Wirtshaus zum Nepomuk in Heidelberg - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Oskar Restaurant u. Vinothek
0.5 km
Discover culinary artistry at Oskar Restaurant u. Vinothek in Heidelberg, where exquisite dishes meet an extensive selection of local wines.
Tavern Spreisel
0.5 km
Discover authentic German cuisine at Tavern Spreisel in Heidelberg - where tradition meets taste in a cozy tavern setting.
Sahara Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Sahara Restaurant in Heidelberg – a haven for food lovers offering vegan options and warm hospitality.
Hotel Schnookeloch
0.5 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in the heart of Heidelberg's Old Town at Hotel Schnookeloch.
Restaurant Romer
0.6 km
Experience authentic German cuisine in Heidelberg at Restaurant Romer - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Chambao
0.6 km
Discover the delightful fusion of flavors at Chambao in Heidelberg - where local cuisine meets international flair in a charming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Andenken&Mitbringsel
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and boutique treasures at Andenken&Mitbringsel in Heidelberg, ideal for capturing memories of your visit.
Souvenir from Heidelberg
0.4 km
Explore unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at the Souvenir from Heidelberg, capturing the charm and history of this beautiful city.
Lindt Boutique Heidelberg
0.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Lindt Boutique Heidelberg, where every chocolate is a masterpiece waiting to delight your senses.
Heimat - Original Heidelberg
0.5 km
Discover authentic souvenirs and local delicacies at Heimat - Original Heidelberg, a treasure trove in the heart of the Old Town.
FriDa Heidelberg
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local art at FriDa Heidelberg, where every item tells a story and captures the essence of this historic city.
Weltladen Heidelberg Altstadt
0.5 km
Explore a world of ethically sourced treasures at Weltladen Heidelberg Altstadt, a charming variety store in the heart of Heidelberg's Old Town.
Fe-Sho-Room
0.5 km
Discover unique fashion at Fe-Sho-Room, a trendy clothing store in Heidelberg's charming Old Town, perfect for stylish tourists.
UNICORN Heidelberg
0.6 km
Explore the charm of Heidelberg at UNICORN: your go-to destination for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and exquisite wines.
Unishop der Universität Heidelberg
0.6 km
Explore the Unishop der Universität Heidelberg for unique gifts, clothing, and souvenirs that embody the spirit of this historic university town.
Glück
0.6 km
Explore Glück in Heidelberg for unique fashion finds and a touch of local style in a charming boutique atmosphere.
Close Up GmbH
0.6 km
Explore Close Up GmbH in Heidelberg for unique gifts, figurines, and posters that embody the city's vibrant culture and artistic spirit.
ADORABLE Collections
0.6 km
Discover the perfect fusion of fashion and vegetarian delights at ADORABLE Collections in Heidelberg's enchanting Old Town.
Dinge und Inge - Heidelberg
0.7 km
Explore a unique gift shop in Heidelberg, featuring vintage clothing, thrift finds, and eclectic home decor in a cozy atmosphere.
Käthe Wohlfahrt Heidelberg
0.7 km
Discover the magic of Christmas year-round at Käthe Wohlfahrt Heidelberg, where unique gifts and festive decorations await every visitor.
Eckhaus Heidelberg
0.7 km
Discover unique fashion and personalized service at Eckhaus Heidelberg, a stylish clothing store in the heart of the city's historic district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Orange Cafe Bar
0.3 km
Experience Heidelberg's nightlife at Orange Cafe Bar - a cozy bar offering local brews, cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town.
Bent Bar - Heidelberg
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Bent Bar in Heidelberg, where friendly service meets a diverse drink menu in a cozy atmosphere.
Mel's Bar - Heidelberg
0.4 km
Discover the lively charm of Mel's Bar in Heidelberg, where locals and tourists gather for drinks and unforgettable nightlife experiences.
Frollein Bent
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Frollein Bent, a cozy bar in the heart of Heidelberg's Old Town, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Max Bar
0.4 km
Experience Heidelberg's vibrant nightlife at Max Bar, where excellent drinks and a lively atmosphere await you in the heart of the city.
BOHO Bar - Heidelberg
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Heidelberg at BOHO Bar, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
WINE`s Bar, Bistro & more
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and exquisite wines at WINE's Bar, Bistro & More in the heart of Heidelberg's historic district.
Musikkneipe Eckstein - Heidelberg
0.5 km
Musikkneipe Eckstein in Heidelberg offers a lively atmosphere with rock music, sports, and a diverse drink selection, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Reichsapfel & Lager - Heidelberg
0.5 km
Discover the lively Reichsapfel & Lager in Heidelberg, a perfect lounge bar for tourists seeking unique drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
Shooter Stars Heidelberg
0.5 km
Unwind in Heidelberg's lively Shooter Stars Bar, where vibrant nightlife and friendly atmosphere await. Enjoy cocktails, games, and unforgettable evenings.
La Fée Bar Café
0.5 km
Discover the charm of La Fée Bar Café in Heidelberg, where delightful coffee, cozy ambiance, and friendly service create a memorable experience.
JINX Bar & Club
0.6 km
Enjoy an unforgettable night at JINX Bar & Club in Heidelberg, where vibrant music, friendly ambiance, and delicious drinks await.
Weinloch
0.6 km
Experience the charm of Weinloch in Heidelberg, where exquisite wines and delightful cuisine come together in a cozy setting.
Destille
0.6 km
Experience the lively ambiance and extensive drink selection at Destille, Heidelberg's premier bar for tourists and locals alike.
Sonder Bar (Pinte) - Heidelberg
0.6 km
Discover the charm of Sonder Bar in Heidelberg, a lively pub offering local beers and cocktails in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
