Heidelberg is a picturesque city in southwest Germany, nestled along the Neckar River and overlooked by the ruins of Heidelberg Castle. With its cobblestone streets, Baroque architecture, and charming Old Town area, it’s no wonder Heidelberg has served as the filming location for countless films and shows over the decades.
Perhaps most famously, Heidelberg stars as the backdrop for the 1987 holiday classic “A Christmas Vacation” starring Chevy Chase. Visitors can still see many of the spots featured in the iconic film over 30 years later.
Potential Target Audiences
An article on Heidelberg as a holiday filming location would appeal to several key audiences, including:
- Fans of “A Christmas Vacation” and other films shot in Heidelberg looking to visit the real filming spots
- German culture enthusiasts interested in learning about iconic destinations in Germany
- Travelers planning a trip to Germany seeking off-the-beaten-path recommendations
- Cinephiles and pop culture buffs wanting to visit legendary shooting locations
- Holiday vacationers looking for a festive European city break
History of Heidelberg on Screen
Heidelberg has been a favored destination for filmmakers since the early days of cinema. Its postcard-perfect Old Town and imposing castle have offered a cinematic backdrop for over a century of movies.
One of the first films shot in the city was the 1920 silent picture “The Golem: How He Came Into the World.” Since then, Heidelberg has hosted shoots for films like “The Student Prince,” “I’ll Cry Tomorrow,” and “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory.”
Modern Filming in Heidelberg
Today, Heidelberg remains a choice spot for shooting romantic comedies, dramas, holiday films, and more. Recent movies filmed in Heidelberg include “Before Sunrise” starring Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy and the Reese Witherspoon rom-com “This Means War.”
Of course, most famous is the city’s starring role in 1989’s “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” The comedy features numerous Heidelberg landmarks still recognizable and visitable today.
Visiting the “Christmas Vacation” Filming Locations
Much of “Christmas Vacation” was shot on sets in California. However, all the exterior European scenes were filmed on location in Old Town Heidelberg. Fans of the movie can see many familiar spots while exploring the city.
Market Square
In an early scene, the Griswold family is shown wandering through the Heidelberg Marktplatz (Market Square) past the historic Rathaus (Town Hall) while Christmas music plays. Visitors can stroll the same cobblestone square today and do some shopping at the small stores and open-air market.
The Hotel Ritter
When the Griswolds arrive in Germany, they’re shown pulling up their car in front of the arched entrance to the luxurious Hotel Ritter. The façade of this 5-star hotel facing the Marktplatz remains instantly recognizable from the film.
University Square
No trip to Heidelberg is complete without seeing the University Square and Student Jail. Both locations appear in “Christmas Vacation” while Ellen Griswold comments on Heidelberg’s status as a university town. The buildings look much like they did 30 years ago.
The Old Bridge
In one memorable scene, Clark Griswold goes sledding head-first down the cobblestone street leading to the 18th-century Old Bridge spanning the Neckar River. Visitors can walk down this steep lane and cross the bridge for gorgeous views of the Altstadt (Old Town).
Heidelberg Castle
While the castle interior scenes were shot on a soundstage, exterior shots show the ruins of the famous Heidelberg Schloss (Castle) looming behind the city. Take the funicular up the hill for postcard views and to wander through the picturesque grounds.
More Holiday Filming Destinations in Germany
Beyond Heidelberg, Germany offers several other magical towns and cities that have served as backdrops for beloved holiday films over the years.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
This medieval walled town provided the scenic setting for the film “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” More recently, it stood in for the fictional town of Christmas Village in the 2018 Netflix movie “The Princess Switch.”
Berlin
Sections of Germany’s modern capital transformed into wintry New York City for the beloved 1994 holiday flick “The Santa Clause” starring Tim Allen. Visitors can even take a movie tour to spot key filming locations.
Munich
Several Christmas movies have used Munich as a festive backdrop, like “The Christmas Chronicles” on Netflix and the romance “Holiday Joy.” In real life, Munich hosts some of Germany’s best Christmas markets.
Planning a Filming Location Holiday
Visiting destinations featured in favorite holiday films can make for a one-of-a-kind vacation. For a Christmas Vacation-themed trip, consider:
- Watching the movie again before your trip to spot key sites
- Downloading a self-guided tour app or map pinpointing filming spots
- Trying traditional dishes and drinks from scenes like glühwein (mulled wine)
- Shopping for souvenirs related to the film like ornaments
- Dressing up in ugly Christmas sweaters like the Griswolds!
Heidelberg shines even brighter during the weeks leading up to Christmas. Visit the charming Christmas market on the Market Square, see the decorations and holiday lights, and maybe even encounter some falling snow during your perfect Christmas Vacation getaway.
