What a splendid day for an autumn fest on Heidelberg’s Hauptstrasse!
With our bellies full with Neuer Wein (new wine), Zwiebelkuchen (onion pie), Bier, Bratwurst, and Thai fare, we’re now at home resting, watching all the Herbstfest revelry from our fifth-floor apartment.
The day was full watching children try their hands at archery and a Renaissance ladder climbing game; shaking our hips to traditional polka tunes and French chansons; going back in time via items at a flea market filled with sentiment and history; and brushing shoulders with old and new friends.
The musicians and men in Renaissance garb are still making their rounds, with flags, bugles and drums in hand. I think they might just call us out for round two so we can partake in more action.
Where in the World?
Planning Pointers:
- The Heidelberger Herbst festival takes place annually, on the last Saturday in September. For more information about Heidelberg, peruse Heidelberg’s tourism site.
- Are you wondering where to stay in Heidelberg? Because of its charming atmosphere and proximity to Heidelberg’s best-known attractions, I heartily recommend choosing a hotel in, or near Heidelberg’s Old Town-core: either the Altstadt (Heidelberg’s Old Town), Bergheim district, or Neuenheim district. Restaurants, cafés and shops are nearby, and you can even go hiking in the hills in a matter of minutes. I lived in an Altstadt apartment for 10 years, and I loved being among all the action. Since I was a resident of Heidelberg, I have limited experience staying in hotels in Heidelberg. However, here are some hotels we would revisit the next time we come to Heidelberg. (Some affiliate links follow.)
- Hotel Goldener Hecht – After our furniture was boxed up and we were preparing to leave Heidelberg, Shawn and I spent a few nights at the Goldener Hecht. We loved the central location! Heidelberg’s famous Old Bridge was just a few footsteps away, and the Heidelberg Castle was only about half a kilometer’s walk. Our room was clean, quiet, and pleasant, too.
- Hotel zum Ritter – When Shawn and I were married in the Heidelberg Castle, some of our family and friends stayed at the Hotel zum Ritter, one of Heidelberg’s most famous buildings. The elegant Hotel Ritter is situated on the pedestrianized Hauptstrasse (Main Street), just across from the Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit). Even if you don’t stay there, the hotel’s gorgeous Renaissance exterior will likely catch your eye as you stroll down the Hauptstrasse.
- Are you traveling beyond Heidelberg? My Germany guide offers more tips.
Photography & text © Tricia A. Mitchell. All Rights Reserved.
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