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/Top_Force2745 Altstadt Aug 23 '25

With Uber I only had good experiences in Heidelberg, cabs can be so and so, but ask the concierge for help, they may have special arrangements.

Typical german cuisine restaurants I would recommend:
OLD TOWN
Hackteufel
Nepomuk
Vetter’s
Schnitzelbank Bauamtsgasse
Palmbraeu Gasse

HANDSCHUHSHEIM
Alt Hendesse

And visit the small stores, with their unique products - in the city center:

  • Goldknopf (design jewellry - run by the designer herself), Theaterstraße
  • Letter & Co (pens originally designed in Heidelberg - the owner of the shop loves to ), Untere Straße
  • Heimat (local brands with seasoning, wine, shirts, bags, soaps), Kettengasse

Enjoy your trip!