Among the multitude of urban locales I've traversed globally, this particular German city stands out as my most cherished.

Traveling around the globe, Helene Sula, a 38-year-old writer, and her hubby Michael have already set foot in hundreds of cities. However, the German fairytale town of Heidelberg tops their list.

Heidelberg, a picture-perfect city, charmed them the moment they stepped foot in the cobblestone streets. As Helene appreciates the rich culture, enchanting castle, delectable food, and lively festivals, she refers to it as a dreamlike haven.

Originally from Dallas, this couple moved to Europe in 2016 and made Heidelberg their home. They had never visited Germany before but were captivated by the city's magical allure from the get-go.

A Classic, Charming City

In their quest to find their dream location in Europe, Heidelberg stood out as the ideal place among the myriad cities they researched for a year. Its underrated status, particularly for American travelers, is partly due to the popularity of larger German cities like Munich. Nonetheless, Heidelberg presents a more authentic, classic German feel with an abundance of culture to explore within a few days without feeling overwhelmed.

This mid-sized city, inhabited by approximately 180,000 residents, boasts walking and hiking trails amidst the hillside surrounding it. One of their favorites is the Philosophenweg trail, offering stunning views of the Neckar River and the iconic Heidelberg Castle.

German summers are becoming warmer, offering pleasant temperatures, while winters remain bearable with rare snow.

Vibrant University Town with Warm Locals

One reason for choosing Heidelberg was its status as a university town. With its prestigious University of Heidelberg, the city translates into a vibrant mix of students, artists, and culture enthusiasts, enriching its literary tradition.

Famous author Mark Twain once spent time in the city, whose influences can still be felt throughout its cafes, streets, and landmarks. Heidelberg's affluence offers a well-maintained city center filled with various events, creating a truly eclectic scene.

Despite some cultural differences leading to initial cold interactions, Germans prove to be genuinely friendly once friendships are formed. Here, sincere promises mean a lot, which Helene found to be a refreshing change compared to American casualness.

Affordable and Accessible

Germany is often overlooked when it comes to budgeting travel, but Heidelberg manages to be relatively affordable. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city costs around €1100, including a large living area and equipped kitchen. Meals at local restaurants rarely exceed €20, catering to all budgets. Germany's public transportation makes getting around the city both economical and convenient.

magic and fun at every corner

From breathtaking castles and charming streets to romantic river views and enchanting festivals, Heidelberg holds everything necessary to leave you spellbound. The city's mascot, Perkeo, a jester dating back to the 1800s, adds a touch of fairytale whimsy to this enchanting destination.

The city's Wine Festival, Castle Festival, Autumn Festival, and Christmas Market are just a few examples of the numerous reasons to visit Heidelberg throughout the year. With its unique blend of history, romance, culture, and festivities, Heidelberg remains a favorite among travelers seeking an unforgettable European experience.

Though they've explored numerous cities worldwide, the allure of Heidelberg's authentic, classic lifestyle, enchanting culture, and vibrant university community made it their preferred other lifestyle choice in Europe.
It's easy to discover the magic and fun at every corner in Heidelberg, from the charming streets and iconic castles to the captivating festivals and the enigmatic presence of Perkeo, the city's fairytale mascot.

Among the multitude of urban locales I've traversed globally, this particular German city stands out as my most cherished.