Heidelberg

The red-tiled town of Heidelberg sits on the Neckar River, surrounded by lush forest, halfway between Stuttgart and Frankfurt. Known for the 14th-century Heidelberg University, the historic hub keeps up with the times thanks to its excellent eateries, fashionable shops, and uber-cool bars and beer gardens – all kept abuzz by the town's student population.

Nonetheless, the old town is a must-see, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and historic attractions like the Gothic Heiliggeistkirche, which overlooks over the cafe-rimmed Markplatz. Look up at Konigstuhl hill and you'll see Heidelberg Castle – in all its rusty, red sandstone glory.