Karl-Theodor-Bridge (Alte Brucke)

As one of Heidelberg’s key landmarks, the Old Bridge is included on most city sightseeing tours, including group tours, private tours, self-guided audio tours, and scavenger hunt games. Other ways of seeing the bridge include bicycle tours from Heidelberg to Ladenburg or kayaking tours. If not already staying in the city, some travelers set off from Frankfurt to explore Heidelberg’s highlights in a day, such as Heidelberg Castle and the Church of the Holy Spirit.

• The Old Bridge is the perfect spot for photo opportunities of Heidelberg, as it connects the Old Town with Neuenheim, and you can access beautiful views of Heidelberg Castle too.

• The Old Bridge is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible.

• If you want to save tired legs, a river cruise is another great way to explore the city, and the dock is close to the bridge.

Whether in the Old Town or Neuenheim, the Old Bridge is easily accessible from both sides of the river. From Heidelberg’s Main Station, you can get bus line #735 toward Eiterbach to arrive at the old town side of the bridge. Alternatively, to get to Neuenheim, get bus line #34 toward Ziegelhausen.

As it’s a pedestrian and bicycle route, the bridge is open throughout the week; however, please note that there are certain times when the bridge is not passable by cars (including Sundays). Visiting the bridge at sunset is recommended to see views of the city at its most beautiful time of day. However, to avoid the crowds, commuter hours tend to be most congested.

Many visitors line up to see a monkey on the Old Town side of the bridge, called the “Brückenaffe.” This bronze monkey statue holding a mirror dates back to 1979 and symbolizes self-reflection. According to legend, if you rub the mirror, you will attract money in your life. If you rub the bronze mice, you will boost fertility, and if you rub the monkey’s fingers, you will return to Heidelberg.