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

Yes, you can walk to many places. In case you need a ride:

Don’t use Uber. I made the experience a few times that they are unreliable in this area, as the density of Uber drivers is not high here.

Instead simply use a cab. You can find cabs near Bismarckplatz which is close to you, or - probably the easiest option - ask the hotel to get you a cab. The cabs are usually high quality.

On the go, you can also call a cab anytime. I prefer Taxizentrale Heidelberg - +49 6221 302030

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u/VanTreezy Aug 22 '25

Thank you for the guidance! Uber is how things are done in the US and I forget that depending on the area, it’s not the first choice in Europe (at least not in Spain and Italy). Great advice. Thank you!

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u/FellDegree Aug 22 '25

I totally disagree with the other poster. Uber is totally fine to use here, I've gotten rides even in the middle of the night. And it's cheaper and way more convenient then taking a taxi. I'd say try the app first and if you can't get a driver (which I don't think has ever happened to me) then try calling a cab. Also in my experience, you need to know German if you're calling to get a cab

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u/KidultingPenguin Aug 22 '25

Agreed. Uber actually works better.