What to expect
Germany's grandest Gothic castle overlooks the River Nekar in this scenic student center
When to go
Late September for the Heidelberg Fall Festival of music and theater
What to do
Explore the Altstad, climb to Philosophenweg, sip coffee in Marktplatz, shop on Hauptstrasse
Local colour
Head to the Neckarwiese for sunbathing, mingling, and resting by the river
Don't miss
Take Bergbahn railway to the Castle for Gothic relics, gorgeous views, and royal history
Don't forget
All shops are closed on Sundays