In sharp contrast to the centuries-old architecture of the castles of Württemberg, Stuttgart’s Rathaus is a tall, white, modern block building. If you don’t speak German, be aware that Rathaus simply translates to town hall in English. The Rathaus holds the city offices and overlooks a popular marketplace. Walk a few blocks from Stuttgart’s older government buildings and gardens to see this unusual structure and do some shopping.

Check the schedule to find out when the Rathaus offers its monthly tour. The current building was constructed in 1956 to replace a more traditional town hall that was destroyed in World War II.

The original clock tower was spared and remains standing inside the modern tower. Climb to the top of the tower for excellent views of the city. Outside, listen to the bells sounding multiple times during the day. Christmas music is featured in December. Before leaving the tower, look down on the Stuttgarter Marktplatz, your next stop.

The Stuttgart Market Place was established in the early 1300s as a square where farmers and traders could offer their goods to local residents. Come to the open-air market during the two or three days a week it is operating and filled with vendors. Purchase local produce, cheeses, sausages and flowers. Look for goods identified as made in Baden-Württemberg.

Find shopping in department stores within a few blocks of the Rathaus. Zalando Outlet offers major discounts on fashion items. BreuningerStuttgart has operated since 1881 and offers luxury items. Shop at the many exclusive stores of the modern Dorotheen Quartier for fashion, books and more. Numerous restaurants and coffee shops surround the Rathaus, offering pleasant spots to take breaks when meandering in the neighborhood.

From the Rathaus, walk northeast for less than 10 minutes to reach the Oberer Schlossgarten neighborhood in the center of Stuttgart. Wander around the older government buildings of the Altes Schloss and the Neues Schloss Stuttgart, built in the 10th and 18th centuries respectively.