3 Best Hotels in Heidelberg and the Neckar Valley, Germany

The "Sorcerer's Apprentice" is aptly named, as Karen and Axel Heldmann have conjured up an unusual luxury hotel with each room's decor based on a different theme. The 1,000 Nights room has a mosaic-tile bathroom, Seventh Heaven has Philippe Starck–influenced decor, and most have fireplaces. The popular restaurant, Z-Bistro, serves three-course prix-fixe menus also based on a theme, including vegetarian, fish, and regional Swabian favorites, enhanced by a very good wine list. Enjoy it all on the terrace in summer. The restaurant also now offers cooking classes.

Two adjoining Beaux Arts buildings just outside the Old Town have been converted into a modern hotel that has been fully renovated and transformed (it was formerly a Crowne Plaza), reopening in 2024.  The stylish modern decor includes a lovely lobby restaurant under a glass atrium, serving both American and German favorites such as ribeye steak and schnitzel. The expensive on-site parking garage also has EV charging stations.

There are lovely views of the Old Town from the rooms in this charming small hotel, and it's close to the castle that towers over the town. In its excellent restaurant you can try a dozen versions of Maultaschen (Swabian-style ravioli) and other regional dishes. In season, local trout with a white wine from Swabia is a popular choice. In summer, reserve ahead or aim to dine on the terrace. A second restaraunt, featuring steaks and burgers, is just outside the castle gate.