Many of the most remarkable structures in today's Stuttgart are progressive designs created by such architects as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Walter Gropius, Hans Scharoun, and Le Corbusier. The Liederhalle, Schloss-Strasse, constructed in 1956 of concrete, glass, and glazed brick, contains three auditoriums and is fascinating inside and out.
The town's older section is clustered around Schillerplatz and the statue of the great German poet and dramatist, Schiller. Visible only by group tour, the Neues Schloss, on Schlossplatz, was originally constructed between 1746 and 1807 and rebuilt beginning in 1958. Today, it houses state government rooms. The modern Rathaus faces the old Marktplatz, where vendors in open stalls sell flowers, fruit, and vegetables.
For the best view of Stuttgart, climb to the top of the 510m (1,670-ft.) Birkenkopf, west of the city, on a hill created from the debris of Stuttgart dumped here after World War II. After the 20-minute walk to the top, you'll be rewarded by a view of the city and the surrounding Swabian Hills, covered with vineyards and woods.
Between April and October, every day at 11am, the local tourist office organizes an English-language guided tour through the city's historic core. Beginning on the sidewalk in front of the tourist office (Königstrasse 1A; tel. 0711/22280) and lasting for 90 minutes, it costs 8€. There's no discount for students or most age groups, but children 4 and under can tag along for free.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
