Königstrasse (King Street), Stuttgart (must see)

King Street (Königstrasse) in Stuttgart is a historic and vibrant shopping boulevard that traces its roots back to the early 19th century. Initially developed during the reign of Friedrich, the first king of Württemberg, this street has evolved from a strategic royal location to one of Germany's premier shopping destinations. The transformation began when King Friedrich relocated the royal stables and Saint Eberhard's Church from Solitude Palace to the lower part of King Street, up to the Schlossplatz (Palace Square). This area also once hosted the Königstor, or King's Gate, which stood until its demolition in 1922.

The street saw significant modernization in 1977 when approximately 400 meters of lower King Street were redesigned as a pedestrian precinct for the national gardening exhibition. This redesign, led by the Stuttgart architects' office Behnisch, included the addition of fountains, trees, kiosks, and playground equipment, enhancing the street's appeal as a leisure and shopping area.

Today, King Street extends for 1.2 kilometers, beginning opposite the main railway station and cutting through the city's heart. It boasts an array of specialist shops, department stores, cafés, restaurants, and relaxation areas, making it one of Germany's longest and most distinguished shopping streets. The thoroughfare is flanked by other charming streets such as Eberhardstrasse, Stiftstrasse, and the stylish Calwer Strasse, which are home to elegant shops and boutiques, further contributing to the area's reputation as a shopping haven.