Category
Viewpoints in Heidelberg
Because Heidelberg lies in a narrow gap between two hills where the valley opens out, the city is a paradise for viewpoints. Almost every rise gives you a different angle on the castle, the Old Town and the Neckar.
The best views
The Philosophenweg (Philosophers' Walk) is considered the finest viewing balcony of them all, and it is where visitors shoot the classic castle panorama. The castle terraces show you the Old Town from above. From the Königstuhl, on a clear day, the view carries across the Rhine plain to the Palatinate and the Odenwald hills.
Tips on light and timing
For photos from the Philosophers' Walk, late afternoon is ideal, when the sun hits the castle head on. For sunsets, the Scheffelterrasse is the place to be. The Heiligenberg, with its Thingstätte amphitheater and monastery ruin, gives you a view with a side of history and far fewer people.
Sights in this category (2)
Philosophers' Walk Heidelberg: Best Views, Trails and Photo Spots
The Philosophenweg (Philosophers' Walk) runs along a sunny hillside on the far side of the Neckar and delivers the single most famous view in Heidelberg: the castle, the Old Bridge and the red roofs of the Old Town all in one frame. Here is how to get up there, when the light is best and how much time to plan.
Königstuhl Heidelberg
The Königstuhl (King's Chair) is a mountain in the city of Heidelberg. It is located on the eastern edge of the old town and is the highest point of the city with a height of 570 meters. Although this only makes it the 21st highest mountain in Baden-Württemberg, it is still the highest mountain in the small Odenwald region and offers an impressive view.
Keep exploring Heidelberg
Every sight in this category has its own page with history, directions and practical tips. The background stories behind them are collected under Heidelberg facts.