Cruise port Heidelberg
Info for port Heidelberg on 7 Jul 2027
Port information & tips for Heidelberg
Heidelberg is the epitome of German Romanticism and a radiant jewel on the banks of the Neckar. The city impresses with its picturesque setting of winding alleys, Baroque architecture, and an idyllic river panorama that immediately enchants visitors. Absolute highlights include the majestic Heidelberg Castle, the iconic Old Bridge, and the historic Altstadt with its lively squares. River cruise ships use the central mooring point at Neckarmünzplatz, located directly on the edge of the historic center. Thanks to this prime location, travelers can reach the pulsating heart of the city on foot within a few moments and also enjoy convenient access to the region's most important cultural treasures.
Heidelberg, a jewel on the Neckar, is a charming destination for river cruises and, thanks to its central location in the heart of Germany, is easily accessible from the entire DACH region. The docking points for river cruises are usually centrally located at Neckarstaden, often near the historic old town.
Car
For those arriving by car, the major motorways A5 (from the direction of Frankfurt or Karlsruhe) and A6 (from the direction of Mannheim or Heilbronn) lead directly into the Heidelberg region. At the Heidelberger Kreuz, take the exit towards Heidelberg, which merges into the B37. Various car parks are available in the immediate vicinity of the central docking points, such as Neckarstaden 25. For example, the P8 car park at Untere Neckarstraße 38 is only a two-minute walk from the pier and offers convenient long-term parking. It is advisable, especially on Saturdays, to allow sufficient time to find a parking space.
Train
Heidelberg Main Station is an important hub in the German rail network and offers numerous connections. From there, you can reach the river cruise pier quickly and easily. A journey by S-Bahn to Heidelberg-Altstadt station takes only about 5 minutes and costs just 1–2 euros. Alternatively, bus lines such as line 35 will take you directly to the "Marstall" stop, which is located near the docking points. Taxis are also available at the main station to take you comfortably to your destination.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Frankfurt Airport (FRA), which is located around 80 kilometres from Heidelberg and can be reached in about an hour's drive. There are various transfer options from there: the Lufthansa Airport Bus or Frankfurt Airport Shuttles offer direct connections from Terminal 1 to Heidelberg with several stops in the city, such as the Marriott Hotel or Bahnhofstraße. These shuttle buses take about 60 minutes for the journey and cost approximately 30 to 32 euros each way. A reservation is strongly recommended. Additionally, there are private transfer services and long-distance buses such as FlixBus, which offer affordable connections starting from around 7.48 euros. Another option is the smaller Mannheim City Airport (MHG), which is only about 14 kilometres away and offers a travel time of 15 to 30 minutes. When arriving on a long-haul flight, we recommend staying overnight in one of the many hotels in Heidelberg the day before to start your river cruise in a relaxed manner.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination area – is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
Heidelberg, a jewel on the Neckar, is a charming destination for river cruises and, thanks to its central location in the heart of Germany, is easily accessible from the entire DACH region. The docking points for river cruises are usually centrally located at Neckarstaden, often near the historic old town.
Car
For those arriving by car, the major motorways A5 (from the direction of Frankfurt or Karlsruhe) and A6 (from the direction of Mannheim or Heilbronn) lead directly into the Heidelberg region. At the Heidelberger Kreuz, take the exit towards Heidelberg, which merges into the B37. Various car parks are available in the immediate vicinity of the central docking points, such as Neckarstaden 25. For example, the P8 car park at Untere Neckarstraße 38 is only a two-minute walk from the pier and offers convenient long-term parking. It is advisable, especially on Saturdays, to allow sufficient time to find a parking space.
Train
Heidelberg Main Station is an important hub in the German rail network and offers numerous connections. From there, you can reach the river cruise pier quickly and easily. A journey by S-Bahn to Heidelberg-Altstadt station takes only about 5 minutes and costs just 1–2 euros. Alternatively, bus lines such as line 35 will take you directly to the "Marstall" stop, which is located near the docking points. Taxis are also available at the main station to take you comfortably to your destination.
Airplane
The nearest international airport is Frankfurt Airport (FRA), which is located around 80 kilometres from Heidelberg and can be reached in about an hour's drive. There are various transfer options from there: the Lufthansa Airport Bus or Frankfurt Airport Shuttles offer direct connections from Terminal 1 to Heidelberg with several stops in the city, such as the Marriott Hotel or Bahnhofstraße. These shuttle buses take about 60 minutes for the journey and cost approximately 30 to 32 euros each way. A reservation is strongly recommended. Additionally, there are private transfer services and long-distance buses such as FlixBus, which offer affordable connections starting from around 7.48 euros. Another option is the smaller Mannheim City Airport (MHG), which is only about 14 kilometres away and offers a travel time of 15 to 30 minutes. When arriving on a long-haul flight, we recommend staying overnight in one of the many hotels in Heidelberg the day before to start your river cruise in a relaxed manner.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will usually receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is binding for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and bear in mind that the latest embarkation time – depending on the cruise line and destination area – is usually scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The same applies during the trip: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times can change at short notice.
The docking points for river cruise ships are located directly on the banks of the Neckar, providing relaxed access to the historic Altstadt. From here, you can reach the most important sights comfortably and within a very short time.
On Foot
Thanks to the central location of the berths at Neckarmünzplatz or at the Theodor-Heuss-Brücke, you are in the heart of the action in about 2 to 10 minutes. A stroll along the river promenade leads you directly to the Marktplatz and the famous Alte Brücke.
Heidelberger Bergbahn
The historic funicular railway takes you directly from the Kornmarkt up to Heidelberg Castle and further to the Königstuhl. This special connection offers impressive views over the Neckar valley and the city during the ride.
Taxi and Public Transport
Official taxi stands are located in the immediate vicinity of Neckarmünzplatz and at the central transport hub, Bismarckplatz. Additionally, the modern trams and buses of the Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Neckar provide fast and reliable access to the entire city area and the region.
To make the most of your stay in romantic Heidelberg, we recommend a combination of the historic Altstadt on the riverbank and the majestic castle high above the city rooftops.
Altstadt & Neckarwiese
The historic center of Heidelberg is located in direct proximity to the ship piers and invites you to a relaxed stroll with its picturesque alleys and the extensive Neckarwiese on the riverbank. In addition, the Alte Brücke provides a perfect photo motif and combines the maritime flair of the Neckar with the lively atmosphere of the pedestrian zone.
Heidelberg Castle
The world-famous landmark towers grandly over the city and is easily accessible thanks to the historic Bergbahn, making the visit a comfortable and impressive experience at the same time. The magnificent castle ruins and the spacious terraces offer an unforgettable panoramic view over the Neckar Valley and are ideal for guests interested in culture.
Philosophenweg
This famous panoramic path on the opposite bank is a true natural highlight thanks to its sunny location and Mediterranean vegetation, offering arguably the most beautiful perspective of the city's silhouette. The path is perfect for an inspiring walk away from the hustle and bustle and can be wonderfully integrated into a day trip thanks to its central location.
Heidelberg Castle and the Funicular Railway
The majestic Heidelberg Castle towers over the Old Town and is easily accessible from the central pier at Neckarmünzplatz in just a few minutes on foot or comfortably via the historic funicular railway. These world-famous castle ruins offer fascinating insights into the era of Romanticism and also provide a spectacular panoramic view over the Neckar valley and the picturesque alleys of the city. Thanks to the first-class infrastructure on site, including the German Pharmacy Museum, the impressive Great Barrel, and inviting gastronomic offerings, the extensive grounds can be perfectly explored during a relaxed tour. Ideally, visit the castle directly in the morning to enjoy the special atmosphere before peak visitor times, and plan your return to the ship for the early afternoon so you can perfectly round off the excursion with a leisurely stroll through the nearby Hauptstraße.
The way back to the ship landing stage on the banks of the Neckar in Heidelberg is very relaxed and straightforward thanks to the central location of the berths. Plan a little time for the walk through the charming Altstadt and enjoy the short distances directly by the river.
On Foot
Since most docking points are located directly at Neckarmünzplatz, you can walk back to the ship from the Alte Brücke or the Heiliggeistkirche in just a few minutes. The path along the flat riverbank is excellently signposted and also offers a wonderful view of Heidelberg Castle and the surrounding slopes.
Taxi
Central taxi ranks are located at Bismarckplatz and Universitätsplatz and are available for a comfortable return journey. The drivers will take you directly to your ship on the banks of the Neckar in a short time and know the exact positions of the various landing stages along the riverside promenade.
Public Transport
Bus lines 31, 32, and 35 connect the Hauptbahnhof and Bismarckplatz directly with the Neckarmünzplatz stop. This stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the river cruise ship piers and guarantees you a punctual and comfortable arrival directly at the pier.
In port on 07 Jul 2027
