Venice to Heidelberg train

A city like no other, Venice is one of the most beautiful places in the world. With historical significance during both the Middle Ages and the Italian Renaissance, Venice's culture is as deep and complex as the system of islands it is built upon.

It would be impossible to visit Venice without taking a boat trip along one of its 177 canals, lined with ornate palaces. The city of Venice has no streets, and traffic comes instead in the form of gondolas and other boats navigating through the scenic canals. The largest of these is the Grand Canal, which bisects the city.

To experience the heart of Venice, visit St. Mark's square, dominated by the sublime Byzantine architecture of St. Mark's Basilica. Tours of the famous building take place daily. Then, spend the day wandering through Venice's romantic streets and discovering the many gelaterias, souvenir shops, local boutiques, and authentic cafes, the most famous of which is Caffe Florian. This legendary cafe has hosted many celebrities over the centuries, and the original 18th-century decor remains as inviting as ever.

Venice's southern-central location in Europe makes it easily accessible from far and wide. The city's primary airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport. Venice also has two main train stations, and direct trains are available from many European cities, even all the way to Munich. In addition, bus services connect Venice to various international destinations, with the added benefit of an eye-level view of the Northern Italian landscapes.

Located on the river Neckar in the southwest of Germany, the university town of Heidelberg is one of the country's most popular destinations. From impressive Baroque and Renaissance architecture to exciting museums, festive Christmas markets, and fantastic shopping, this town has something for everyone.

The first thing you'll see in Heidelberg is the Schloss Heidelberg or Heidelberg Palace. Sitting on a hill overlooking the city, this impressive castle was once the seat of Heidelberg's Prince-Electors. Although rebuilt following the Thirty Years War in the 1600s, this beautiful ruin is open to visitors with audio tours available daily. And as one of the most-Instagrammed castles in Germany, the palace is the perfect backdrop for your next envy-inspiring post. While in the castle, visit the Apotheken-Museum, which displays the history of pharmacies and medical science in Germany.

Heidelberg is also home to the famous hike, Philosopher's Way. Taking its name from the many university academics that used to hike this route for the solitude and views to inspire them, this route rambles up the southern side of the Heiligenberg. With exotic vegetation and a temperate climate during the summer months, it's easy to think that you've accidentally walked all the way to the Mediterranean.

Although Heidelberg does not have an airport, the Mannheim Airport is under 15km away, and it's easy to take a train from Mannheim to Heidelberg. Intercity bus service provides transportation to Heidelberg from many domestic and international destinations. Many direct trains run to Heidelberg from across Germany and other European cities, too, so there is no shortage of travel options to get to this fabulous city.