Old Castle travel guide

The Old Castle, or Altes Schloss, in Stuttgart is a historical gem that dates back to the 10th century. Originally built as a water fortress to protect the city, it underwent significant transformations over the centuries. Around the 14th century, it was converted into a Renaissance-style palace under the rule of the Counts of Württemberg, reflecting the architectural trends of the time.

The castle's courtyard, adorned with arcades and sculptures, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Renaissance era. In the 18th century, it served as the royal residence for the Dukes of Württemberg. Despite suffering extensive damage during World War II, the Old Castle was meticulously restored, preserving its historical integrity.

Today, the Old Castle houses the Württemberg State Museum, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history. Its collection includes artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to the present day. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to explore Stuttgart's cultural heritage, the Old Castle is a must-visit destination.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Old Castle is its architectural fusion of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The castle's centerpiece is the magnificent inner courtyard, surrounded by arcaded galleries that create a visually striking and historically rich atmosphere. Another unique feature is the Stiftskirche, a church integrated within the castle complex, notable for its Romanesque and Gothic elements.

Old Castle also houses the Württemberg State Museum, which contains a remarkable collection of artifacts ranging from prehistoric times to the 19th century. Among its treasures is the Württemberg crown jewels, a rare and significant exhibit. Furthermore, the castle's clock tower offers panoramic views of Stuttgart, providing a unique vantage point to appreciate the city's landscape.

The castle moat, now transformed into a serene garden, adds an element of tranquility and offers a picturesque setting for visitors. The blend of historical architecture, comprehensive museum exhibits, and scenic surroundings truly make Old Castle a standout attraction in Stuttgart.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Old Castle is its unique horseshoe-shaped design, which is rarely found in other medieval fortifications. This architectural curiosity provides a fascinating glimpse into the innovative construction techniques of the era. Within its walls lies a hidden gem: the Castle Church, home to the intricately carved 1575 Renaissance altar, a masterpiece of woodwork. The castle also houses the Württemberg State Museum, where among many treasures, you can find the legendary golden hat, an ancient artifact dating back to the Bronze Age. Interestingly, the castle's moat, now dry, once served not only defensive purposes but also doubled as a fish pond, supplying fresh fish to the castle's inhabitants. Lastly, the castle courtyard is famous for its acoustics, making it a perfect venue for open-air concerts and theatrical performances.

Discover Old Castle, a prime feature of Stuttgart, in the vibrant Stuttgart-Mitte. Old Castle is situated at Schillerpl. 6, 70173 Stuttgart, Germany, just a short distance from Stiftskirche, Stuttgart and Schlossplatz, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Old Castle, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Stuttgart, a city in Germany rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Stuttgart travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore Old Castle in Stuttgart is during the late spring to early fall, specifically from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), providing ideal conditions for wandering through the castle grounds and taking in the historic architecture. Late spring and early autumn are particularly favorable, as the weather is warm but not overly hot, and the castle gardens are in full bloom, offering a picturesque setting.

Visiting in the summer also allows you to experience the vibrant cultural events that often take place in Stuttgart, such as the Stuttgart Summer Festival in August, which includes various open-air concerts and performances. These events can enrich your visit to Old Castle, providing a unique blend of history and contemporary culture.

To avoid the larger crowds, consider planning your visit during weekdays and outside of major holiday periods. Early mornings and late afternoons are also great times to explore Old Castle, as these hours typically see fewer visitors, allowing for a more serene and personal experience. By timing your visit right, you can fully appreciate the charm and history of this iconic landmark.

Old Castle is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Stuttgart, Germany. If you're flying in, Stuttgart Airport is approximately 6.3 miles (10.2 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Old Castle by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Stuttgart, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Old Castle, which is located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Schillerpl. 6, 70173 Stuttgart, Germany.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Old Castle!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Stuttgart, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Old Castle.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic castle in Germany.

Upon arriving at Stuttgart Airport, you’ll find 3 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the city of Stuttgart.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Stuttgart.

Choosing the right accommodation near Old Castle from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Stuttgart can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Old Castle, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Old Castle, Stuttgart boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From museum to museum, the top attractions in Stuttgart offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Stuttgart is Mercedes-Benz Museum, located at Mercedesstraße 100, 70372 Stuttgart, Germany. This well-known museum enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Schlossplatz is worth seeing when you're in Stuttgart. It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Schloßpl. , 70173 Stuttgart, Germany.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Porsche Museum completes any trip to Stuttgart. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Porscheplatz 1, 70435 Stuttgart, Germany, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Stuttgart below to discover even more incredible places to explore.