Stuttgart sights offer something for everyone. There’s old and new castles, ancient and modern structures, and industry and gardens.
Neues Schloss (New Castle)
The Neues Schloss was intended as Stuttgart’s answer to Versailles. It was the last massive baroque palace built in Germany. This “new” building was constructed in 1746 and was the home of the Württemberg kings until 1807. These days it is the seat of local government and can only be visited with a specially arranged tour.
Altes Schloss (Old Castle)
This Stuttgart sight dates back to 950 AD, back in the days when Stuttgart was just a breeding ground for horses.
The castle has seen its share of destruction over the centuries. It was damaged by a fire in the early 1930s, but wasn’t repaired as the Second World War soon followed. It wasn’t until 1969 that this old jewel was given proper restoration. Today, it houses the State Museum of Württemberg.
Schlossplatz
The Schlossplatz is a large square at the heart of any Stuttgart sightseeing excursion. As the location of the New Castle and a major transportation hub, you’re sure to pass through here at least once. Stop and enjoy this lovely square with its large fountain and beautiful flowerbeds.
Collegiate Church
This ancient church has been around in some form since the 1100s. It was one of the birthplaces of the Reformation, as the spot where one of the first Protestant sermons was given.
The lower levels of the church house some important graves. Johannes Brenz, one of the first Protestant ministers was buried here, according to his wishes, so that he could hear the new Reformist sermons for all of eternity.
Fernsehturm (Stuttgart TV Tower)
The Stuttgart TV Tower was also a seminal building of Stuttgart. At 217 m (711 ft) and built in 1956, it was the first TV Tower worldwide and became the model used for similar towers all over the world. An observation deck and revolving restaurant adds to this tower’s status as a tourist attraction.
From the viewing platform, you have a superb panorama of the Neckar Valley vineyards, Black Forest and even (on a clear day) the Swiss Alps!