10 reasons to love Heidelberg

The bridge, the old town center, the castle - this panoramic view has fascinated and enchanted poets, painters and philosophers. Johann Wolfgang von Goethe wrote over 200 years ago: "One might say the city, with its location and environment, is somewhat ideal."

The Old Bridge is one of the city's landmarks. There was a wooden bridge at this spot across the Neckar as far back as 1284, but it was regularly washed away by high waters. In 1788, this stone bridge was constructed instead. It leads to the old town center and up to the castle.

Towering above the city is the castle of Palatine counts. In the 17th century, it was destroyed by French troops, and all that remains now is a ruin. But it is this aura of transience that makes this place so attractive.

Heidelberg Castle is undisputedly the main attraction of the city. At the end of the 19th century, the magnificent state rooms were restored, and they can be toured to this day. But nearly as exciting for tourists are the ruins.

The town center dates back to the Middle Ages, though most of the house façades are Baroque. Much to tourists' delight, there are lots of small cafes, restaurants and shops. This picture book town is particularly popular with visitors from the US and Japan.

The motto of Heidelberg University is "Semper apertus" - which is Latin and means "Always open." The university was founded in 1386, making it Germany's oldest. Famous scientists and philosophers like Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, Robert Bunsen and Jürgen Habermas have taught here. And the students have always kept Heidelberg young and vibrant.

In the past, students caught disturbing the peace, be it with drunkenness or sword fights, were put into detention cells. They could find themselves locked up for as long as four weeks. During detention, they were nevertheless allowed to attend lectures. After class, they had to return to the student detention area, where they spent time covering the walls with sayings and drawings.

Leading poets have visited and praised the city. Goethe was here, as well as Joseph von Eichendorff, Friedrich Hölderlin, Jean Paul, and Mark Twain - to name but a few. Heidelberg still has a lively literary scene. A highlight is the annual literature festival during the summer. Heidelberg was named Germany's first ever UNESCO City of Literature in 2014.

As far back as the 15th century, documents mention a monkey on the Old Bridge. Today's bronze figurine was erected in 1979 and has since become a favorite motif for photographs. Local legend says that if you touch the figurine you'll return to Heidelberg.

During the summer, fireworks over the castle attract many onlookers. Armed with blankets and food baskets, they secure the best spots on the Neckar meadows or on a river boat, hours before the event. When the castle is illuminated by all those colorful lights, Heidelberg truly lives up to its reputation as a dream destination for romantics.