The Heidelberg Mountain Railway, a modern and efficient funicular, offers an exciting journey from the Kornmarkt to the castle. This brief trip reveals the rich history of the former residence of the Electors Palatine as you stroll through the castle courtyard and gardens.
Within the castle grounds, two remarkable features await. The King's Hall building houses the entrance to a cellar, home to the legendary Great Barrel. Crafted in the 18th century from 130 oak logs, this world's largest fillable wine barrel can hold over 219,000 litres of wine. Adjacent to this, the German Pharmacy Museum provides a fascinating journey through time, offering insights into the history of medicine from antiquity to the present day.
From there, take a nostalgic ride on the upper funicular railway to the Königstuhl. At an altitude of 568 meters, you'll find yourself far removed from the city's hustle and bustle. The local mountain of Heidelberg offers awe-inspiring views over the Neckar Valley, the Rhine Plain, and on clear days, even as far as the Vosges Mountains. Savour these vistas with a glass of wine (or grape juice or water) before a comfortable van whisks you back down to your starting point.
