With the continuous increase of Gulf travellers to Germany recording 1.8 million overnight stays in 2018 compared to 770,000 in 2009, the vibrant city of Heidelberg and luxury shopping destination Breuninger have stepped up efforts to attract Gulf visitors.

Heidelberg, a centuries-old but fun-loving city within the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, is a famed university city courting GCC travellers with its café-hopping, restaurant and confectionery culture combined with rich historic attractions. Considered a haven for foodies, Heidelberg visitors can ride the funicular up to the castle and dine in ‘Scharffs Schlossweinstube’, the elegant Michelin-starred restaurant in Heidelberg Castle with amazing views of the old town and the river.

To attract family visitors during the festive winter break, Heidelberg is underscored with an abundance of colourful season markets. Year-round, the city’s stunning, lush green landscapes are brought to life through funicular, balloon and boat rides, as well as trips to Heidelberg Zoo, which houses over 1,100 animals from 250 species.

“Heidelberg is also a member of Germany’s barrier-free concept, which has provided great access to attractions and activities for the physically challenged and the city has produced the HeidelbergCARD which offers a host of benefits and discounts to visitors,” added Nina Koch, Director Sales of Heidelberg Marketing. “For the visually impaired, we have tailor-made excursions in German and English, including the ‘Discover Heidelberg by ‘Sensing, Smelling, Feeling’ guided tour. This brings the city’s history to life by sensing the environment, feeling monuments and smelling the scents of the city.”

Meanwhile, Breuninger one of Europe’s leading department stores, is anticipating its luxury retail experiences will attract high-end GCC shoppers to 11 stores throughout Germany. Knowing a thing or two about turning on the style for shoppers, Breuninger has been in the fashion and lifestyle business for over 135 years, offering an exclusive selection of international designer brands, aspiring new-to-market brands and outstanding services. High-end brands represented in Breuninger stores include Acqua di Parma, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Burberry, Céline, Chloé, Dolce & Gabbana, Etro, Gucci, MCM, Sandro, Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent, Valentino, and many more.

Breuninger’s flagship Stuttgart store offers over 40,000 square metres of shopping area with fashion, kids' fashion, beauty, accessories, shoes, sports and home & living goods.  “Breuninger is very experienced in providing the luxury, quality and value that GCC travellers expect when they go shopping,” says Christian Witt, director corporate communications, marketing cooperation and sponsoring.