Among the multitude of urban centers I've explored globally, this German city stands out as my undisputed favorite.
Travelling the globe is no small feat, but Helene Sula and her spouse Michael have managed to conquer it, setting foot in hundreds of incredible cities. Out of all the places they've explored, one city stands out above the rest, a city that seems to have been plucked straight from a fairy tale - the enchanting Heidelberg, Germany.
From the cobblestone streets to the mystic river flowing through the city, and the imposing castle towering above, Helene feels like she's stepped into a dream. The city is a hidden gem that she believes is underrated, particularly for American travelers.
Originally, Helene and her husband moved to Germany in search of a new adventure. They hadn't been to the country before and picked Heidelberg as their base, unaware of the magic that lay ahead. The city captured their hearts the moment they set foot in it, and they've been enamored ever since.
One reason Heidelberg feels so magical is its charming, classic vibe. Unlike larger cities, like Munich, that offer an abundance of attractions and are easy to reach, Heidelberg offers a more authentic, less overwhelming experience. The city, home to approximately 180,000 inhabitants, is nestled amid hills with multiple walking and hiking trails, offering stunning views and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle.
When Helene began researching European cities to call home, Heidelberg seemed like the best fit. She finds it incredibly underrated, with a rich cultural feel that can be fully absorbed in just a few days. The city may not be small, but it's manageable, allowing visitors to quickly get a feel for the place.
One of Helene's favorite trails in Heidelberg is the hike up to the Philosophenweg in Neuenheim, the oldest part of the city. It's a challenging climb, but the scenic route is worth it, passing beautiful houses and offering breathtaking views of the Neckar and Heidelberg Castle.
The city's weather is another charming aspect. Although it can get warm in the summer, temperatures rarely exceed 32 or 33 degrees. Winters are mild, with snow being a rarity.
Another reason Helene loves Heidelberg is that it's a down-to-earth university city with friendly locals. The University of Heidelberg, one of the oldest universities in Germany, brings a youthful energy to the city, featuring a diverse mix of students, artists, and cultural enthusiasts.
American writer Mark Twain even spent some time in Heidelberg, finding the city enchanting enough to inspire some of his works. Despite the city's wealth, it offers an affordable food scene and accommodation options, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers.
Heidelberg is an excellent option for those seeking a European adventure with a classic charm, friendly residents, and an affordable price tag. If you have the chance, visit Heidelberg, especially during the Christmas season - its festive markets and magical atmosphere are sure to leave a lasting impression.
- Helene Sula, while agreeing with many travelers, finds Heidelberg to be underrated, especially for American travelers, as it offers an authentic, less overwhelming experience.
- The writer, Helene Sula, believes one reason Heidelberg feels so magical is its charming, classic vibe, which can be absorbed in just a few days, making it manageable for visitors to quickly get a feel for the place.
- Helene Sula and her husband chose Heidelberg, Germany, as their base when they moved to Europe in search of a new adventure, and they found the city enchanting enough to capture their hearts.
- The city's picturesque landscape, with multiple walking and hiking trails, offers stunning views and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle, such as the scenic hike up to the Philosophenweg in Neuenheim, one of Helene Sula's favorite trails.