by Dmitri Jones

Created on: May 24, 2009   Last Updated: May 26, 2009

Germany is a great destination with interesting architecture, good food, and the best beer in the world. Exciting travel opportunities abound, but any visit to the country should include the town of Heidelberg. This popular tourist stop is included in many packaged tours of Europe and serves as home to the United States Army's European command.

It is clear why military leaders chose Heidelberg for their top brass on the continent. The allies spared this beautiful city during World War II because many important Americans had attended Heidelberg University, Germany's oldest institution of higher learning. The Haupt Strasse or main street runs parallel to the Neckar River downtown and up to Heidelberg Schloss, the famous ruins of a seventeenth century castle. When visiting, be sure to take the hike up the cobblestone road to the castle. Enjoy a tour of the inside and the view of the valley below. The surrounding area makes a nice location for a picnic or cheese and a bottle of the local reisling wine.

Also, cross the river on the Old Bridge and take the steps up into the mountains on the other side. Half the way up is Philosopher's Weg, where Hegel, Goethe, and Mark Twain enjoyed the panoramic view of the bridge, castle and downtown. After you enjoy the view, continue higher and explore the ruins of a monastery and what looks like a Roman amphitheater. The amphitheater is actually one of many Things built by the Nazis for outdoor, audience participation theaters known as Thingspieles.

If you drink, buy a German beer at any bar along the Hauptstrasse, sit outside, and people watch. If you do not, order coffee or orange juice. Just make sure you spend some time enjoying the slow pace of life in Europe. When you get hungry, try a Doner Kebab at the Kebab House. At night, check out the Schwimbad Club. The club has four floors with four different themes. The basement has a small venue for bands, and the bands are usually great if you appreciate alternative music. The second floor is techno; the third floor is a mix of popular music, and the fourth floor is a restaurant.

If all else fails, explore. Heidelberg has plenty to offer. Check out the university or the zoo; sample an Italian ice cream or local German dishes such as jagerschnitzel and rump steak with krauter butter. Shop for bootleg Cd's or take a cruise on the Neckar. What ever you choose, you will not regret visiting Heidelberg.

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