Heidelberg's Old Town is world-famous for its unique triad of city, mountains and river. Around 10,000 Heidelberg residents live in the Old Town and, like guests, appreciate the short distances, the multitude of cultural and leisure facilities, the attractive shopping opportunities and the extensive range of restaurants and hotels. The Old Town is also the founding seat of Germany's oldest university, the "Ruperto Carola". Students from near and far visit Heidelberg University and give the Old Town its lively, youthful and international flair.
The Old Town covers around 1,380 hectares, of which only 9.8 per cent is built on. The district is characterised by the Königstuhl forest, which at 564 metres is one of the highest mountains in the Odenwald.
