Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof is a central hub in one of Germany's most picturesque cities, and I love…read morehow low-key this smaller-scale train station is. It's not overwhelming but seems to always be bustling with travelers, and it surprisingly can be a bit difficult to navigate (especially if you're in a hurry or late to catch a train -- so allow some extra time)! The station is modern and a bit cold except for the really rad piece of modern artwork hanging in the main lobby. It's worth a stop to admire and to snap a quick photo if you have the time. There are a handful of places to grab food and drinks for your train ride, and there is plenty of seating if you have to wait for your platform. Stairs are plentiful, but there are elevators to the platforms that are nice if you are traveling with a bunch of bags or require ADA assistance. The exterior architecture is cold and boring, as is the case with most stations across Germany. I was surprised at how many bicycles were parked out front, it totally looked like Amsterdam with all the bikes! Since this is a University town, I guess it shouldn't be much of a surprise that getting around on two wheels would be a very popular mode of transport. It's pretty easy to get to several hotels nearby, but the the historic Altstadt (Old Town) may technically be within walking distance (it's a good 35 to 40 minute walk), but I wouldn't venture that far with luggage. There's a very clean, safe, and efficient local tram that will take you most places in the city for a few Euros, and it runs directly to and from the station. The station operates as a regional hub, so it's easy to connect to most places throughout the country. There are regional and long-distance routes that run here, including Deutsche Bahn's ICE services and other high speed access to cities like Mannheim, Frankfurt, Cologne, and Stuttgart.

Another good experience on the Train. Clean station and plenty of food. Bathroom is clean and a fee…read moreof 1 euro. Pee on the train it's free.

If you're visitng Heidelberger there is no way you can miss out on taking a ride on the…read moreHeidelberger Straßen- und Bergbahn (which is basically Heidelberger's mountain railway). First, for the unique ride itself. The railway isn't horizontal, but vertical, and takes you straight up the mountain without any zigzagging or spiraling. The glass cab cars allow you to get an amazing view of Heidelberger and the surrounding areas as you go up. The station itself is filled with a lot of informational posters and displays. Being in Germany, this isn't your typical train like we are used to in the US. Everything here is spotless and clean. Which really makes your ride up the mountain that much more enjoyable. But the view once you get to the top is really the main reason for riding this mountain railway. You disembark on a public park (absolutely gorgeous in the fall when all the leaves are changing colors) and the views from the top will leave you breathless. But the main attraction here is the stunning pink palace. You can take tours inside, but even the outside gives you plenty to look at.

We started to walk down to castle Heidelberg and my parents couldn't handle the rocky terrain…read more Dad's knees are just not up for the task with his weak knees and stumbled as he tripped on a rock. Thankfully, the Bergbahn (cable car) was close by and we could all get on. The fare included a round trip and entrance to the Castle below for 12 Euro and 10 Euro for ages 60 and over. The train departs ever 10-15 minutes throughout the day. You'll transfer once to get to the Castle and another time to get to Heidelberg old city. The view from the top is of the Nekar valley below with the Nekar River snaking its way through the country side like a long serpentine constrictor. There is also a patio where you can order a bite and beverage while you wait for your train or simply enjoy the view. On a good clear summer day you can see clear across to the other mountain range or approximately 40 miles.