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.

Located in the dynamic Stuttgart-Mitte, the popular Old Castle is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Stuttgart or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Germany.

Stuttgart is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Stuttgart offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Stuttgart and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Mercedes-Benz Museum, Schlossplatz, Porsche Museum, Stuttgart TV Tower, and Killesberg Park.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Stuttgart has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Stuttgart, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Germany!

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 Stuttgart. 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. You can also rent a car and drive to Old Castle, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Schillerpl. 6, 70173 Stuttgart, Germany.

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

With a rental car, discovering the popular Old Castle and Germany's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Stuttgart Airport and the city of Stuttgart, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Germany cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Stuttgart and beyond.

Conveniently explore Old Castle and plenty more captivating attractions in Stuttgart by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Old Castle and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Stuttgart has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Old Castle below.

Aside from Old Castle, Stuttgart is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Stuttgart, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Mercedes-Benz Museum, Schlossplatz, and Porsche Museum.

Mercedes-Benz Museum is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Stuttgart, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 43,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Mercedes-Benz Museum is Mercedesstraße 100, 70372 Stuttgart, Germany.

Another appreciated attraction in Stuttgart is Schlossplatz. Like Mercedes-Benz Museum, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 41,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Schloßpl. , 70173 Stuttgart, Germany.

Porsche Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Stuttgart. This museum and top attraction in Stuttgart has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 28,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Porscheplatz 1, 70435 Stuttgart, Germany.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Stuttgart below.