Germany's oldest university town is known for its red rooftops, world famous castles and the famed Baroque old quarter. Indeed there is no place like Heidelberg to enjoy student culture. Keep an eye out for the 300+ student pubs, parties, festivals, concerts and Christmas markets. When you rent a car in Heidelberg, it is easy to escape to nearby Weinheim, Schwetzingen, Speyer or Mainz for the day. The city of Frankfurt is also just a short and scenic drive away.
Car rental Heidelberg: the most important rental sites
Car rental in Heidelberg is a great idea for visitors who want to get out and explore. Visitors can take their pick from a wide variety of vehicles to suit every budget. Rent a car in Heidelberg and set about exploring this pretty town and beyond. If you use our price comparison and book in advance, you will be able to find cheaper offers and save money.
Rental Site | Address | Main Opening Times* |
Heidelberg Central Station | Willy-Brandt-Platz 5, 69115 Heidelberg | 00:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. |
Heidelberg City Office | Bergheimer Str. 159, 69115 Heidelberg | 07:30 a.m. - 08:00 p.m. |
*Please note that opening times can vary depending on the rental site so refer to listing details. With some rental car sites, pick-up and returns are possible outside designated timings at an extra charge.
Rent a car: Heidelberg and its sights
The Old Town:The Baroque old town of Heidelberg is a photographer's dream with its red tiled roofs and cobbled streets. The main street, Hauptstraße, starts from Bismarckplatz and runs for over a kilometre, and is Germany's longest pedestrian shopping street. The 15th century Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Ghost), the Jesuitenkirche and the 16th century Haus zum Ritter can be found within and are great to visit. The Karl Theodor Bridge with its nine red sandstone arches runs across the River Neckar, connecting both sides of the city. The Philosopher's Walk, a pathway that runs along the Heiligenberg was where the University's philosophers once walked, taking in the sublime views across the river. There is plenty of on-street parking around the Altstadt (Old Town) so you won't have trouble finding somewhere to park.
Heidelberg Castle:Immortalised in art, poetry and literature for centuries, Heidelberg Castle dominates the city's skyline offering terrific views of the Heiliggeistkirche, the old town and the Neckar river bridge. During the summer it welcomes thousands of visitors daily, and it's even possible to get married here. You can reach the castle by a short walk from the old town or by using the funicular railway.
Schwetzingen:Visit Heidelberg, rent a car and drive to Schwetzingen, known for its old palaces, lush gardens and architectural curiosities. Not too far beyond Schwetzingen is the 2000 year old town of Speyer, renowned for its cathedral. The nearby town of Mainz boasts some charming shopping streets and a 10th century cathedral. Ladenburg, Weinheim and Frankenthal's monastic ruins are also worth a visit.
Festivals:Heidelberg's cultural calendar is pretty impressive with a variety of Easter and Christmas markets, the International Film Festival in November, the Spring Festival and the ever popular Ball der Vampire (Ball of the Vampires), which is held each February at the castle. Student parties are usually a word-of-mouth affair and can go on until the early hours.
Getting around Heidelberg
The nearest intercontinental airport is at Frankfurt, while Stuttgart's airport is perfect for European domestic flights. Both airports have ICE (Inter City Express) high speed trains that connect to Heidelberg. It is possible to pick up your car hire from the airport itself. While holidaying in Heidelberg, car rental is a great way explore the town and its surroundings, but there are efficient tram and bus networks if you want to park up and explore on foot. While driving through the city look out for pedestrians and bikers and don't exceed the speed limits.