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Neckar
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River
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Water temperature…
The Neckar, stretching 362 kilometers, is a major tributary of the Rhine and the central waterway of the German state of Baden-Württemberg. It rises in the Schwenninger Moos nature reserve near Villingen-Schwenningen at an elevation of 705 meters, flowing northward between the Black Forest and the Swabian Alps. Its drainage basin covers approximately 14,000 square kilometers, encompassing one of Germany's economically strongest and most densely populated regions. The river passes through significant urban centers such as Stuttgart, Heilbronn, and Heidelberg before joining the Rhine at Mannheim. Historically, the Neckar was already significant during the Roman era and was later used extensively for timber rafting in the Middle Ages. Between 1921 and 1968, the river was developed into a federal waterway through the construction of 27 locks and dams, which greatly spurred industrialization along its banks. Today, the Neckar serves as a vital transport link for the automotive and engineering industries while offering scenic landscapes for recreation and tourism, particularly along its famous castle-lined valleys.
- Location: Germany
- Top sights: Domkirche St. Eberhard · Komödie im Marquardt · Württembergischer Kunstverein
- Nearby: Korntal-Münchingen (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 5 | 9 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 58 | 64 | 50 | 86 | 72 | 81 | 81 | 58 | 70 | 70 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This prominent waterway is very easily accessed via extensive public transport networks connecting the major cities of Baden-Württemberg. Visitors driving can find multiple entry points along the river valley, which is paralleled by scenic roads and railway lines.
Best season
The months between May and September are widely considered the finest time to explore the valley's castles and bustling riverside towns. Autumn brings gorgeous golden foliage to the wooded hillsides, making it a favorite season for hikers and photographers.
Terrain & paths
Most dedicated walking and cycling routes hugging the water are exceptionally well-maintained, flat, and paved. Trails leading away from the river toward historical viewpoints or forested areas generally feature steep, continuous climbs and natural surfaces.
What to bring
Typical casual outdoor clothing is sufficient for meandering along the developed stretches near the towns and cities. However, if ascending to the valley's renowned castle ruins, carrying supportive hiking boots and a daypack with provisions is practically essential.
Parking
Visitors will routinely find extensive paid parking facilities in the larger urban centers that dot the riverbanks. Smaller riverside municipalities usually provide designated tourist car parks that are handy for launching a day of cycling or prolonged walking.
Safety
The river itself functions as a heavily utilized transport corridor, so any recreational water activities require strict adherence to local nautical rules. Pedestrians should stay on marked pathways when exploring historical hillside ruins to avoid unstable masonry.
Time needed
Visitors frequently dedicate several days to journeying along the valley, exploring the historic universities and castles en route. For a concise experience, a half-day allows for a lovely stroll and a traditional meal overlooking the peaceful flowing water.
Geography
Facts
- Length: 362 kilometers from its source to the mouth in Mannheim.
- Basin Area: 13,910 km² is the size of the entire Neckar drainage system.
- Navigation: The river is navigable for large vessels over 203 kilometers.
- Locks: 27 locks regulate the water level between Plochingen and Mannheim.
- Mouth: The Neckar joins the Rhine in Mannheim at an elevation of 88 meters.
- Cities: Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Württemberg, is located on the river.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Neckar (10)
Neues Schloss🏰 castle
Palace in Stuttgart, former residence of the Kings of Württemberg.
Kunstmuseum🏛 museum
Museum of modern and contemporary art in Stuttgart, Germany.
Aussicht
Viewpoint in Stuttgart, offering a view over the city.
Merkursäule🗼 tower
Tower in Stuttgart, Germany, observation tower on the Merkur hill.
Kindermuseum Junges Schloss🏛 museum
Children's museum in Stuttgart, with interactive exhibitions for kids.
MiniaturWelten Stuttgart🏛 museum
Museum in Germany, showing miniature landscapes and model railways.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Through which famous city does the Neckar flow?
Heidelberg is the most famous city on the Neckar, known for its castle and Old Bridge.
Where does the Neckar rise?
The Neckar rises in the Schwenninger Moos near Villingen-Schwenningen at the edge of the Black Forest.
Is the Neckar navigable?
Yes, for commercial shipping, it is developed from Plochingen to its confluence with the Rhine.
What is the Neckar Valley?
An idyllic valley with many castles, steep vineyards, and wooded slopes.
Can you take a boat trip in Heidelberg?
Yes, the 'Weiße Flotte' features round trips that provide a great view of the castle.
Neckar: where is it located?
Neckar is located in Germany.
Neckar: what is there to see?
Highlights include Domkirche St. Eberhard, Komödie im Marquardt, Württembergischer Kunstverein.
Neckar: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Neckar: why is it worth visiting?
The Neckar, stretching 362 kilometers, is a major tributary of the Rhine and the central waterway of the German state of Baden-Württemberg.
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