With its romantic alleyways, quaint traditional pubs, and historic buildings, the Old Town is considered the heart and historic center of Heidelberg.

It is world-famous for its unique triad of city, mountains, and river. Around 10,000 Heidelberg residents live in the Old Town and, like visitors, appreciate the short distances, the large number of cultural and leisure facilities, the attractive shopping opportunities, and the extensive range of restaurants and hotels. In addition, the Old Town is the founding seat of Germany's oldest university, the "Ruperto Carola". Students from near and far visit Heidelberg University and give the Old Town its lively, youthful, and international flair.

The old town covers about 1,380 hectares, of which only 9.8 percent are built on. The district is characterised by the forest area of the Königstuhl, which at 564 metres is one of the highest mountains in the Odenwald.

Highlights:

The Castle
The Funicular Railway
Market Sqaure
University Library
Hauptstraße
Old Bridge
Kornmarkt
Untere Straße
Theatre
University Square
Karlstor