Whilst the funicular is good for accessing the castle (and this part is reasonably priced), the historic funicular to the top of Konigstuhl is too expensive for what it offers. Requiring a separate ticket, you obtain access to the top of the 'hill' and higher views of the area but it is not really worth the extra dollars (or certainly not in January when the cold and wind were such that almost everyone immediately got on the next one back down the hill)!
Quick and safe to take on a snowy visit to castle. Price is very reasonable. Would recommend for a quick visit to castle.
Since we'd travelled to Heidelberg to go on this historic train ride, we went up all the levels even though it was foggy at the top; it was also below zero (early December) and as the train went up higher and higher we got to snow laying on the ground - a treat for our teens from Australia. So we embraced the wintry atmosphere and ate lunch right at the top at the excellent little cafe - homemade hotpot, sausages, and hot chocolate. With blankets provided for your knees, and a very friendly and jovial waiter/cook, it was a nice winter experience as we waited for the next train down. We did get views from the middle station, but of course had good views over the river and famous bridge when we got down to the castle level. Train staff were helpful with ticket combinations/prices. Toilets also available at the multi-storey carpark below the castle.
we did this with an English Train driver who had studied in Germany so he was the perfect companion. the trip was great and the view was superb, I'd recommend it big time.
You can walk up the mountain to the castle on an old cobblestone road, which is really cool. However, if you're tired, take the tram to the top (and down as well). It's a pretty slick ride.
My husband and I took our hard-to-impress teens up the funicular to the castle and even they enjoyed it! We tried to buy tickets all the way to the top but the guy at the ticket counter kindly warned us that there was cloud cover at the top which would prevent the gorgeous views we were hoping to see. So we just went to the castle, then continued to midpoint where there's a little cafe. We learned a few things that I'd like to share: 1. Go early. I think we hopped on board soon after it opened and there was hardly anyone else on the funicular with us. We were the only four who jumped back on to go up to midpoint but lo and behold! - by the time we headed back down the funicular cars going upward were packed full. It appears that the tour groups arrive mid morning so try to beat them if you can.2. If you go to the top or midpoint beyond the castle, try to sit in the front car going back down - really fun to watch the steep descent through the front glass and ceiling.3. Luckily I read online that my teens could receive a discounted ticket rate if they showed their student IDs, so we brought them along and saved a few Euro. They did ask to see the IDs at the ticket counter.4. If you take the funicular up to midpoint and there is no one to direct you upon arrival, exit the funicular to your right. When we were the only four on it, the doors on both sides opened upon arrival and we didn't see any signs indicating we should exit left or right. So we exited left and promptly got stuck at the top of the stairs, at an exit only gate. Luckily one of the employees in the guard house saw us, unlocked the automatic exit door, and let us in. We had some good laughs but really felt like clueless tourists at that point!Overall, the funicular is nothing fancy or exhilarating but it was a fun little leisurely trip up and down the hill, with opportunity to observe the cables in action.
Recommended transport for viewing the castle and then travelling even higher up to get stunning views over Heidelberg and the region. Perfectly safe even if scared of heights!
Girlfriend and I decided to take the funicular up to the castle vice walking. It's all professionally done of course, given the amount of people constantly taking it up the mountain.We were there during the Christmas Market season (such a blast!). There was no queue so we were able to get on the next funicular. The ride itself was nice. Pretty views of the city. It's a slow ride. But hey, the ride itself is for the novelty of riding up a mountain in a funicular, is it not?
The fiunicular is located at the Korn Market at the end of the old town. Directly under the castle. It is a great way to get up to the castle with a wonderful view. I don't remember it going on further, will check it out next time. I have a terrtible fear of heights, but this was safe and level at all times.
it doesn't matter if you take the trip just up to the castle or all the way up to the Königstuhl... it is a wonderful experience,.. and gives you a great view... at all seasons....