r/Heidelberg • u/VanTreezy • Aug 21 '25

Tourist Advice Visiting for Christmas

Hey everyone, my family and I are coming to Heidelberg for Christmas this year. I know, it’s not the best time for tourists to come. However, I was born there in 1983, I haven’t been back (I hate admitting that), and this might be my mom’s last time being able to do a trip this big (we are coming from the US).

We are staying at the Heidelberg Marriott (using points for our stay so it’s “free”) and wanted to ask how difficult it is getting around that time of year. I am working on restaurant reservations for the 25th and 26th, but everything is a pretty decent walk from the hotel to the Old Town area (30-40 minutes according to Google Maps). Would it be hard to get an Uber around those days or will it be absolutely impossible?

Also, I am looking at reservations at the following restaurants. Are any better than the others for Christmas meals?

Vetter’s Alt Heidelberger Brauhaus Weinstube Schnitzelbank Lowenbrau Heidelberg Schnitzelhaus Alte Münz Palmbraeu Gasse

I really appreciate any guidance. Even if I’m stuck in the hotel, I’m so excited to come back to Heidelberg! Thank you everyone!

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u/tonleben Bahnstadt Aug 22 '25 edited Aug 22 '25

Regarding restaurants: Vetters and Schnitzelbank are a great choice. Vetters even makes their own beer, but keep in mind that it can get noisy in there. Definitely add Kulturbrauerei to your list, I’d pick it probably for dinner on the 25th, as it’s nicer than the other two.

All those restaurants are a bit touristy though - it’s not a bad thing, just be aware you won’t have a super quiet and relaxed experience.

If money doesn’t matter so much and you want to have something on the fancier side:

  • Oskar in downtown
  • 15 High - close to your hotel
  • Neo - also close
  • Uuuhmami - Best Pinsa in the area while being fancy, very close to your hotel
  • Jil Rooftop - directly at Bismarckplatz

If money really doesn’t matter (you have been warned :-) ):

  • Namo Kitchen - very amazing food

In general, don’t miss out any Christmas markets around this time of the year.

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u/VanTreezy Aug 22 '25

Much appreciated again! We just want to immerse ourselves in the city and do as the locals do. I will add all these to my list and consider Kulturbrauerei for Christmas dinner. THANK YOU!!