Scary tour with the executioner's daughter through Heidelberg's alleys
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
The Middle Ages - Witches burning on the Neckar. Whores and thieves ply their trade at the Old Bridge, and the executioner offers his bloody services according to an exact price list. Discover the dark side of the romantic old town alongside the executioner's daughter. Listen to the stories of scary crimes and cruel punishments. You'll be amazed what you could make from cremating witches or cutting off ears!
Our team of art historians, archaeologists and cultural scholars provides ambitious and profound insights into our past, but always with the proverbial wink. High-quality costumes and museum replicas of jewellery, weapons and everyday objects are used in accordance with the proven English “Living History Concept” and, together with the exciting guiding content, provide a picture of living, first-hand experience of history.
Available options
Scary tour with the executioner's daughter through Heidelberg's alleys
What's included
1.5-hour guided tour of Heidelberg's Old Town
Provision of costume and equipment for the guide
authentically costumed city guide
Detailed itinerary
1
From here you have a magnificent view of Heidelberg Castle.
2
Stop 2
Public executions and corporal punishments took place on Heidelberg's market square until the 19th century.
3
Find out what the pretzels on the church wall are all about.
4
The Renaissance building, is the only civic building that survived the great fire of 1693 during the War of the Palatine Succession.
5
The street is named after a public bathing room, the former middle bath. In the bathroom alleys were various bathing rooms.
6
Stop 6
The Old Bridge of Neckar Valley Sandstone was built in 1788 under Elector Karl Theodore as the ninth bridge in total on this site. Today it is one of Heidelberg's most famous sights and landmarks.
7
The predecessor of today's bridge monkey sat grinning in the niche of the old monkey tower and greeted every stranger mockingly. The tower and figure sank into the depths of the Neckar when the city was destroyed. Instead of him, the new bridge monkey now holds the golden mirror to visitors and welcomes them with a mocking poem that is said to have stood under the original monkey.
8
The first Heidelberg Karzer was established in 1545. Those detained here were allowed to buy food and drinks from the surrounding inns (at their own expense, of course) and also had regular release for longer sentences.
9
Old University, New University, University Library The former Paradeplatz or Ludwigsplatz extends west and south of the Old University and is bounded on the south by the New University. It is located on the main road and covers the foundations of the former Augustinian monastery. Along the western edge of the square, Grabengasse illustrates the course of the first city fortification.
10
Today, the Witch Tower is the only surviving defensive tower of Heidelberg's medieval city fortifications, which is now located in the area of the New University. The name refers to the period of witch persecution.
11
St. Peter's Church is Heidelberg's oldest church and was built even before the city was probably founded in 1220 or a little earlier: In 1196 St. Peter can be inferred from a document, which at the same time represents the first documentary mention of the village Heidelberg.
What's not included
Snacks
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The listed attractions are not visited from the inside, so there are no admission fees.
Not suitable for small children due to theme
Meeting point
We meet at the statue of Mary on the Kornmarkt in Heidelberg's Old Town
About Heidelberg
Heidelberg is a picturesque university town nestled in the Neckar Valley, renowned for its romantic old town, historic Heidelberg Castle, and the iconic Old Bridge. The city's charming atmosphere, rich history, and vibrant student culture make it a unique and appealing destination.
Top Attractions
Heidelberg Castle
A ruined castle overlooking the Neckar River, Heidelberg Castle is a symbol of Romanticism and a major tourist attraction. The castle offers stunning views, a museum, and the famous Heidelberg Tun, the world's largest wine barrel.
Historical
2-3 hours
€7 (adult), €3.50 (children)
Old Bridge (Karl Theodor Bridge)
The iconic Old Bridge spans the Neckar River and offers stunning views of the castle and the old town. It's a perfect spot for a romantic stroll and photography.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Walk)
A scenic path along the Neckar River, offering panoramic views of Heidelberg's old town and the castle. The path is named after the 19th-century philosophers who used to walk here.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Heidelberg Old Town (Altstadt)
The charming old town of Heidelberg is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and lively squares. It's home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a great place to explore and soak up the city's atmosphere.
Historical
Half a day to a full day
Free to explore, costs vary for shops and restaurants
Heidelberg University
One of Europe's oldest and most prestigious universities, Heidelberg University is known for its historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and renowned faculty. Visitors can explore the university's museums, libraries, and historic lecture halls.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore, costs vary for museums and special exhibitions
Must-Try Local Dishes
Studentenkuss
A local chocolate treat made from marzipan and dark chocolate, shaped like a kiss. It's a popular souvenir and a must-try for chocolate lovers.
Dessert
Contains nuts and dairy
Heidelberger Studentenkuss
A local chocolate treat made from marzipan and dark chocolate, shaped like a kiss. It's a popular souvenir and a must-try for chocolate lovers.
Dessert
Contains nuts and dairy
Sauerbraten
A traditional German dish made from marinated beef, usually served with red cabbage and potato dumplings. The dish is known for its tender meat and rich, tangy sauce.
Main Course
Contains beef and gluten (from the marinade)
Maultaschen
A traditional Swabian dish consisting of pasta pockets filled with a mixture of meat, spinach, and breadcrumbs. They are usually served in broth or with fried onions.
Main Course
Contains meat and gluten (from the pasta)
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Boat tours
Spa treatments
Garden walks
Café hopping
Museum visits
Theatre performances
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Heidelberg, with pleasant weather and numerous outdoor events and festivals. The city is lively, and all attractions are fully operational.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: German
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Heidelberg is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Frankfurt Airport • 80 km
- Stuttgart Airport • 130 km
By train
Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof
By bus
Heidelberg Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The tram system is efficient, clean, and user-friendly, with frequent services throughout the day.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Taxi Heidelberg, mytaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Altstadt)
Bergheim
Weststadt
Neuenheim
Day trips
Neckarsteinach
15 km • Half day
A charming town along the Neckar River, known for its historic castles and scenic views. Neckarsteinach is a great day trip from Heidelberg, offering a mix of history, nature, and local culture.
Schloss Schwetzingen
15 km • Half day
A stunning baroque palace and garden complex, once the summer residence of the Electors of the Palatinate. Schloss Schwetzingen is a great day trip from Heidelberg, offering a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty.
Hirschhorn
25 km • Half day
A picturesque town along the Neckar River, known for its well-preserved medieval old town and scenic views. Hirschhorn is a great day trip from Heidelberg, offering a mix of history, nature, and local culture.
Festivals
Heidelberg Spring Festival • Late April to early May
Heidelberg Christmas Market • Late November to late December
Heidelberg International Film Festival • Late September to early October
Pro tips
- Visit the Heidelberg Castle early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best views
- Try local specialties like Studentenkuss and Sauerbraten at traditional restaurants and cafes
- Explore the Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Walk) for stunning views of the old town and the castle, especially at sunset
- Take a boat tour along the Neckar River for a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings
- Visit the old town on a Sunday morning for a more relaxed atmosphere and to enjoy the local markets and cafes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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