There was no stopping us in discovering more of Germany.  It was just our fourth full day of vacation and once again we were off to see our fourth German city that week.  After all, it took us three long years to return due to the pandemic and we wanted to see new places, much different from what we normally see back in San Francisco. 

Although I complained at times of busy platforms since many people took advantage of the 9 euro train fare over the summer season, we were comfortable riding the regional and local trains.  We didn't feel squished like sardines.  It just seemed like there were more people than seats given the crowds that waited for the different trains' arrival for other cities. 

I had heard of Heidelberg many times before our trip but I was not aware of the sights to see there when we went.  I do remember having read that Philippine hero, Jose Rizal, studied there in the 1800s and that the city is a university town.  Anyway, it did not disappoint.  Heidelberg is a lovely destination.

We took a bus outside the Heidelberg train station that dropped us behind the Heidelberg Castle.  What a steep walk it was but it was worth seeing the castle.  There were lots of tour groups about to enter the castle museum and pharmacy but they went ahead of us.  By the time we entered, they were all gone and we pretty much had the place to ourselves.

The big must see inside the castle was the pharmacy.  Unlike all the castles I've visited in Europe over the years, the Heidelberg Castle did not boast of very stately rooms.  Instead, the number one attraction was the pharmacy.  I must say it was very impressive.  Such a world of difference from our local Walgreens and CVSs.  LOL.

From the castle Marc and I walked down to the old town.  There was this very long street lined with stores, restaurants, hotels, campuses of the University of Heidelberg, the Rathaus and more which we walked until we reached the end.  It was such a lively scene seeing locals and tourists alike soaking up and enjoying the atmosphere.

There was a Norde See and it was there where we had lunch.  Marc and I each ordered fried calamari and shrimp.  Once full, we went for a walk by the Nekar River until we reached the Heidelberg Bridge Gate.  From there we took the bus back to the train station and then our train for Wurzburg.