Hörnchen (Heumarkt, Heidelberg, Germany)

Although this cozy, worn-in bar and café shares its name with the squirreliest of animals, the moniker of Heidelberg’s Hörnchen is more than likely a tip of the hat to what is known by many as a croissant. Located in Heumarkt, considered part of Heidelberg’s quaint, historic, old town, Hörnchen is a place where someone could easily waste away the better part of a day.

In the mornings, it’s the perfect place to stop off for a cup of coffee, a warm pastry, and a copy of the daily newspaper, while en route to work. Freelancers, students, or anyone with an off day will find tables available to set up camp for a few hours, as well as free Wifi at their disposal. Breakfast is available, but you might want to save room, for as mid-day rolls around, you can choose from an array of freshly-prepared homemade cakes or other inexpensive snacks.

When Happy Hour hits, the lights get lower, the music gets louder and the atmosphere is slightly more jovial. Although the menu doesn’t feature too many drink specialities, you can’t really go wrong with Astra poured fresh from the tap. Furthermore, at 2,40 Euros, it won’t break the bank. There are also traditional cocktails and even Ouzo available to drink.

Hörnchen is open every day at 9 a.m. until 2 or 3 in the morning, except Sundays, when it opens at 10 a.m. It can be found at Hauptstr. 143, nestled squarely between Heidelberg University and the Necker River. Nearby transportation hubs include Heidelberg-Altstadt or Bismarckplatz, but if the weather is nice, a stroll along the river might not be such a bad idea for your walk home.

Otherwise, if you’re looking for a louder party, consider checking out Der Mohr or Kaiser, as both bars are situated in walking distance from Hörnchen.