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Guide
Heidelberg, Germany π©πͺ
#498
,
Nomad Score:
64%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Heidelberg is a charming city in southwestern Germany, known for its historic university, lively student scene, and beautiful landscapes along the Neckar River. |
π₯ Population | Approx. 160,000 |
π» Internet Speed | Average 100 Mbps |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 EUR β 1.07 USD; Major banks include Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank. |
π° Tap Water | Drinkable |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, π Type C/E sockets |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, and O2. Prepaid options are widely available. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Major providers include N26, Revolut, and traditional banks like Commerzbank. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, local rentals, and serviced apartments. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards widely accepted, especially in urban areas. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Booking.com offer numerous options for short stays. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel Heidelberg and MEININGER Hotel offer affordable lodging. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The Old Town (Altstadt) is recommended for its proximity to attractions and charming streets. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Neuenheim is ideal for its quiet environment, green spaces, and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | HUB Heidelberg is a popular coworking space with various amenities. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© Schafheutle offers a cozy atmosphere suited for remote work. |
πΌ Networking Events | Meetups for expats and entrepreneurs are often held at local cafes and co-working spaces. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups like 'Heidelberg Expats' provide details on community gatherings. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Free Now and Uber operate in Heidelberg. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Nextbike offers bike-sharing services across the city. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | The nearest beach is in the town of Auerbach, approximately 30 minutes away. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Lufthansa provides regular services from nearby Frankfurt Airport. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Lufthansa, Ryanair, and easyJet serve international routes. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | A5 and A6 highways provide access to major cities. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof (main station) connects to regional and national rail services. |
π Public Transport Passes | Monthly passes for local transport costs around β¬60. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Direct train links to cities like Mannheim, Stuttgart, and Frankfurt. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Heidelberg University Hospital is the leading healthcare facility. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Loft Heidelberg offers a variety of classes for all levels. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | FitX and McFit provide modern gym facilities. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Laundromat Waschsalon offers self-service and drop-off laundry services. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Deliveroo and Lieferando are popular for food delivery. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Maultaschen (German dumplings) are a must-try traditional dish. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Vegan CafΓ© offers a wide range of plant-based dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | CafΓ© GΓ€nseliesel serves delicious cakes and pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Heidelberg Wochenmarkt (weekly market) offers fresh produce and local products. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon.de and eBay Kleinanzeigen for various online shopping needs. |
π Grocery Delivery | Bringme delivers groceries from local supermarkets. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Neuenheim district has a vibrant nightlife scene. |
π» Local Brewery | Heidelberger Brauhaus offers local beer and brewery tours. |
π· Wine Bars | Weinhaus S.A. offers a selection of regional wines in an intimate setting. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Heidelberg's street food festivals offer various local and international options. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizzeria Ciao Bella serves authentic Italian cuisine. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | Heidelberg Castle provides stunning views and historic architecture. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | The German Pharmacy Museum showcases the history of pharmacy. |
π° Historical Sites | Old Bridge (Karl-Theodor-BrΓΌcke) is an iconic landmark. |
π Religious Sites | Heidelberg's Jesuit Church is known for its beautiful baroque architecture. |
π Annual Events | The Heidelberg Christmas Market attracts visitors every December. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Old Town (Altstadt) features cultural attractions, shops, and dining. |
π Theater Venues | Heidelberg Stadttheater hosts a variety of performances including plays and concerts. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Heidelberg's weekly market offers fresh produce and regional delicacies. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local bars often feature live music, especially in the summer months. |
π¨ Street Art | Visitors can find murals and street art around the Weststadt area. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Regular cooking classes are offered at the Heidelberger Kochschule. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Kunstverein Heidelberg showcases works from contemporary artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Alte Aula of Heidelberg University is a stunning historical building. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Heidelberg is famous for its long university history, dating back to 1386. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The Odenwald Forest offers hiking and outdoor activities. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Kaiserstuhl Nature Park is an hour away and offers scenic beauty. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | The Neckar River pathway is popular for walking and cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Walk) provides breathtaking views of the city. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The wetlands around the Neckar River attract various bird species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Areas near the Neckar River have designated zones for bonfires. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and Hermes service parcel delivery. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | MediaMarkt offers a variety of tech repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | The local community center offers table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | The Volkshochschule Heidelberg offers German language courses. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The University Library is an excellent place for study and research. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Haus der Begegnung serves as a community hub for events. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | The Arcadia Gaming Lounge offers a place for gamers to play together. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Casino Heidelberg offers gaming and entertainment. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬4,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬160,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬3,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = β¬128,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬3,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬228,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬2,900 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = β¬174,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. β¬3,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬256,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. β¬2,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = β¬192,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 15% + municipal trade tax. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 26.375% including solidarity surcharge. |
π¦ Tax System | Residents are taxed on their worldwide income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 45% for high earners. |
π§Ύ VAT | 19% standard Value Added Tax rate. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are strict rules in place. |
π Property Tax | Yes, based on property value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 5% standard rate. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Germany offers special conditions for certain expatriates, but standard personal income tax applies. |