At first when you start the walk, it's a bit confusing because you feel like you aren't in the…read moreright place as you're walking up narrow alleyways near the Heidelberg University. Soon however, you'll realize that this is legitimately the best view of Heidelberg and may never want to leave. Highly recommend walking from the top instead of climbing up the stairs as the ascent is more gradual and not as tiring. Some of my favorite parts about the walk: - When you want to look at views, you want to look at all the important points of the city. So for example, in London you would like to see the Shard, London Eye, etc. The other place for notable views in Heidelberg is the Heidelberg Castle but its just not as interesting because you can't see the castle itself which is essential to the viewing experience. Therefore, Philsophenweg is fantastic because you are able to see everything important and notable in the city. - The walk is so relaxing and there are views throughout! - Lot of places to sit and take in the view and even on a weekend, there wasn't a crazy amount of people there. - I love how many wildflowers are growing in the area. Adds to the natural aesthetic and it seems almost like effortless beauty in a way. Overall, fantastic walk and I would highly recommend this as a first visit when you get to Heidelberg to understand all that the city has to offer.

If you walk across the bridge and climb up a couple hundred steps to the philosopher's walk, you…read morewill be in awe. There are fantastic views and excellent photo ops of the Neckar River, Heidelberg, and the beautiful surrounding gardens. You will most definitely be craving a beer, but keep going! You will land on a path that is adorned with unusual trees and plants from the Mediterranean, North Africa and Asia, such as cypresses, bamboos, rhododendrons, gingko and yucca trees. I felt like I was in another world when I was up there. If you have time, and have caught your breath from the stairs, continue further up the mountain to capture even more treasures. From church ruins to a Nazi Amphitheater, you will be sure to find something of interest. There is also an old Celtic ring wall surrounding the top of the mountain. As you're walking, you will notice there are many different trails to choose from. Make sure to follow the arrows that point toward Heiligenberg if you want to hike to the sights I mentioned. It will take you about an hour to walk up. After capturing a hundred photos, burning off those bratwursts, and making new friends, you will be tuckered out. But, fret not, a pint of Spaten will be anxiously waiting for your arrival at the bar just beyond the Neckar River.

The first time I saw this fountain was in 1990. Living in Germany at the time, family from America…read morecame to visit and a group of us took the train into Kaiserslautern for a day trip. At that time we had no idea of the symbolism of the fountain. We just happened upon it and thought wow, that's pretty cool. Next to the fountain are two bronze, hollow forms with no heads or arms. You stand behind them and have your photo taken. Just a bit of fun. The fountain has withstood the test of time quite well. This visit was in winter so no water was running but Mainzer Tor in which the fountain stands, and the fountain itself are in good condition. Located at the intersection of Mainzer Str, Ludwigstrasse and Manheimer Str if you are looking for driving directions, there are plenty of parking garages in the area. If you are a good walker, the fountain is easily accessible from any of the local parking structures. For walking directions, you are looking for the eastern most end of the pedestrian zone. The pedestrian zone is large with lots of stores, cafes and restaurants. It's a nice walk. If you are interested, the Kaiserslautern.de/tourismus website has an audio guide to the fountain. Just search for Kaiserbrunnen am Mainzer Tor to find the site. Happy travels!

An interesting fountain for a quick stop during a walking tour of Kaiserslautern. It really is a…read morework of art if you have the time to really look at each piece. There are serious bronzes, ones you can sit on, and even a tiny mouse perched on the side of the fountain. If your kids are getting bored looking at "grownup" things, take a quick stop and let them enjoy this creative display.