Hauptstrasse
Hauptstraße
One of Europe's longest pedestrian streets, about 1.6 km through the old town, lined with baroque buildings, small shops and cafés.
Hauptstrasse runs about 1.6 km from Bismarckplatz at the western end to the area near Karlstor at the eastern end, forming the main axis of Heidelberg's old town. Both sides are lined with clothing stores, souvenir shops, bookshops, cafés and student bars. Along the way are University Square, the Jesuit Church and Marktplatz, so it is easy to walk between sights. Highlights include the Kurpfälzisches Museum, which holds a replica of the 'Heidelberg Man' jawbone; Zum Roten Ochsen and Zum Sepp'l, among Germany's oldest student taverns; and the Studentenkuss chocolates sold at Café Knösel. Side lanes lead down to the Neckar bank, where you can reach the Old Bridge at any time. The student bars are lively at night.
Opening hours
Open all day; shop approx. 10:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Heidelberg University & Student Prison
- Heidelberg Christmas Market
- Heidelberg University Library
- Peterskirche
- Jesuit Church
- Kurpfälzisches Museum
- Friedrich Ebert Memorial
- Haus zum Ritter