The Palatinate

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The Palatinate, or Kurpfalz, is perfect for soft adventure: cruising on the Rhine and Neckar Rivers, cycling through asparagus fields, soaking up the culture, enjoying the unspoiled countryside, eating gourmet food.

Wasserturm in Mannheim in der Kurpfalz. Vor dem großen Turm ist eine große Wasserfläche angelegt.
Panoramaansicht Alte Brücke und Schloss Heidelberg in der Kurpfalz

There are so many ways to explore this idyllic landscape, with its cultural attractions: on a cycling tour, on a boat trip, or on foot, strolling through medieval Ladenburg. The Palatinate really does offer something for everyone.

Explore the Palatinate (Kurpfalz) by bike

The region is criss-crossed with an extensive network of cycle paths: tour through the Odenwald, cycle along the banks of the Neckar River, pedal down the Rhine Valley. As a day trip, we recommend the “Kurpfalz Route”: from Speyer to the romantic city of Heidelberg, through the Rhine valley, past Schwetzingen Palace, historic towns and asparagus fields.

Traces of the past

The Palatinate has splendid palaces and magnificent gardens. Most famous is Heidelberg, with the most romantic castle ruins in Germany. Other must-sees include the baroque magnificence of Mannheim’s palace and 18th-century Schwetzingen Palace, with its glorious gardens and park.

Culinary specialties of the Palatinate

The Palatinate is famous for its locally-grown asparagus. In season, it is delicious served plain with butter, with veal (Schnitzel) or pancakes. And what better to accompany asparagus than a glass of local wine: a Riesling or Pinot Gris from the nearby Baden Wine Trail!

Shop till you drop!

Shopping in the Palatinate is fun! Shopaholics especially love cities, such as Heidelberg and Mannheim. Whether you are looking for small boutiques or exclusive department stores, you will find both when you stroll down the Planken, Mannheim’s main shopping street, and explore Heidelberg’s medieval main street.