Another fun activity is the one-hour boat ride on the Neckar River, passing various highlights of Heidelberg. Late in the afternoon is a perfect time for a stroll along the famous Philosophers Walk. To get there, cross the river on the landmark Old Bridge (Alte Brucke), one of the signature sights of the city that dates back to 1786. Pass through the twin-towered gatehouse onto the rosy-colored bridge and admire the view looking back towards the castle. There are some large statues along the bridge which are reminiscent of two other important European landmarks, the Charles Bridge in Prague and Ponte SantAngelo in Rome. When you reach the other side, walk to the left a few yards to get a postcard view looking back at the bridge with the town and castle behind. This is just a taste of the major panorama you are about to experience, once you climb the hill.
Cross the busy street at the light and follow the sign that points to Philosophenweg, a narrow foot path that leads up the hill in a steep series of staircases. This climb takes about fifteen minutes and is like walking up a thirty-story building, so it is not for the fainthearted, but is well worth the effort. It is a green and pleasant path that will bring you to an observation terrace with one of the worlds most beautiful views: the fairy-tale village on a river with its brooding castle above, tinted in earthy hues, with clay tile roofs and rosy-colored stone walls, especially vivid late in the day.