Heidelberg—Germany's oldest university city

One of three metropolises of Germany's Rhine Neckar Metropolitan Region, Heidelberg is one of the country's most attractive university cities with a plethora of historic buildings and monuments. Heidelberg is well known for its institutions of higher education including the University of Heidelberg, the oldest and most famous in the country. Founded in 1386, the university continues to be a leading center of medical and scientific research and attracts thousands of students and tourists to the city each year.

Heidelberg's baroque old town, located at the southern side, is dominated by the ruins of the Heidelberg castle, which together with the medieval stone bridge are among the city's most famous landmarks. The castle itself is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles and dates to 1214.

The city's location, nestled in the hills near the Neckar River, together with its narrow cobblestone roads downtown, and its picturesque red-roofed townscape, give it a Mediterranean feel. Heidelberg is also a great place to be active, as there are many parks throughout the city, with numerous cycling and hiking paths giving anyone who wishes to enjoy the outdoors plenty of opportunities.

Heidelberg's border is surrounded by higher ground, and the Neckar River restricts the available residential areas. At the moment Altstadt, Neuenheim, the Schlossberg, and the Weststadt are the most popular living areas.

Throughout the year there are different regular festivals and events hosted and organized in Heidelberg. In February, the Ball der Vampire (similar to the Mardis Gras) takes place, and in November the Mannheim-Heidelberg International Filmfestival.