The German word "Schloss" is very efficient. It can mean castle, palace, chateau and even…read more"padlock." This can be confusing when you're looking for old castles to explore and wind up at what is more accurately described as a large manor. When I arrived at Schwetzingen Schloss I was surprised that it wasn't more of a castle, but it's vast, beautiful landscape and interesting history made me glad I had come. Like most old buildings and grand constructions, Schwetzigen Schloss started as a place to entertain the constituents of a rich, influential man. The striking statues, winding paths and ornate buildings really make it hard to not be impressed. I imagine arriving here from a smaller village in Germany, unable to even see the other side of the enormous garden. There are a few different buildings which each had their own purpose, which through the years had changed. My favorite was the Orangerie, a tropical greenhouse of sorts. The ingenuity of these past Germans will surprise you, and their method to produce an Orange where an Orange has no business growing is really something. Wandering in between buildings you may find yourself enjoying the journey at least as much as the destination. I found many little "dead ends" which were so comfortable it was hard not to take out a book and enjoy the serenity for a while. Symmetry is the name of the game here, and I encourage you to stop at every intersection and look around. You'll likely notice that someone paid very close attention to angles and lines. This makes for a remarkably sane experience as you are almost unable to get lost. The buildings are beautiful, but you might find yourself unable to break away from the calm water, cozy paths, and enveloping nature. I went during Fall. The skies were grey and it was chilly. I know I'm in the minority here but I absolutely recommend you do the same. The colors were indescribably vivid and the calmness of the environment was only enhanced by my girlfriend and I finding ourselves alone more often than not. Usually, most people want to come when it's nice out. (We actually tried to, but it turned into a classic Fall day which, just like the "Schloss", was a surprise that turned out alright) While there is an English brochure available at the beginning which has a handy map, every display I came across had only German writing. Keep that in mind if you aren't with someone who can translate for you, or if your girlfriend doesn't want to read every single sign Luke we have to go it's been 3 hours I don't want to read about Oranges any more. Schwetzingen Schloss isn't a castle, but it's absolutely incredible.

The Carl Benz Museum in Ladenburg is housed in the former Benz & Sons factory, where for many years…read moreBenz produced the earliest cars, and then later supplied parts to the mother company Mercedes-Benz. After the factory closed, the private Carl Benz Museum took the opportunity to move into the historic building in 2006. Benz and Mercedes cars from all ages are presented, along with a car that was actually built in this factory. You can get up close to all cars, and take your time while enjoying the rich heritage. A must-visit museum for any automobile fan, and especially at the birthplace of the automobile. The house of Carl Benz is about 1 km down the road (only open on special occasions), and he is buried in the local cemetery.

I'll start off by saying the museum itself was beautiful and impressive, from the detailed…read moreapartments recreating the Palatinate era to the archaeology collection. I was excited when I saw it included was a children's museum (called Museum of Pedagogy), since I have a five-year-old in tow. Then, the weirdest thing happened. I would ask someone in the museum where the children's museum was (I showed them the words on my phone since I don't speak German) and they would ultimately point me to another end of the museum. So I'd go from one person to another to another, and ultimately ended up in circles. At one point, a staffer said, "This is a MUSEUM. We don't have kids stuff." I left frustrated and ultimately perplexed about the existence of this mysterious children's museum that was depicted on the maps and museum signs.

I'm a lover of museums so this was an absolute must to stop by. But you don't have to be in love…read morewith art or museums to enjoy your time here (though fair warning, you might leave as one). Inside a a beautiful courtyard that's brilliantly designed and filled with statues and greenery, you're treated to a peaceful and royal aesthetic before you even walk inside. Like most museums, you'll be able to take a self guided tour, so if you don't know anything about art, this will guide you. Everyone is sure to find something they like since the small museum is filled with a diversity of time periods and styles. The atmosphere here is so casual and simple that it makes the perfect break from exploring the city. (Or a great cover from the rain like I had to use).

Heidelberg is on of my favorite cities in Germany. The old part of town has a main and many little…read morestreets lined with cedes, shops and restaurants. Really fun, no cars, safe and great for people watching on a nice day. Highly recommend visiting Heidelberg and this old-town European charm in a vibrant German city!!

Beautiful historical town. Lots of restaurants and touristy stuff to do and super crowded. But…read moreloved this place a lot.