Fernsehturm - Stuttgart, Germany

I've been extremely lucky to live in Germany for the last 10 months! While I still haven't gotten out and seen and done nearly a fraction of what I'd like to have in that time, I've still managed a handful of REALLY cool experiences.

My most recent excursion was to Fernsehturm – the world's very first Television Tower! After just 20 months of construction in 1956, it was among the top ten tallest buildings, with a height of 217 metres (that's more than 710 feet).

My friends Stes and Paul had some family in town and invited me to tag along to see some sights. It was breathtaking and I already can't wait to return.

Free parking sits right out front which is always a convenient plus around here. There is a small playground next to a Beirgarten named Leonhardts at the foot of the tower, which would make for a wonderful day of relaxation with the family!

But the real treasure lies 150 metres in the sky. Inside the doors, is a minimalist gift shop where you also can purchase tickets to the observation platforms.

The basic prices are as followed -

Children 5 and under – FREE
Children 6-15 – 4 €
Adults - 7 €

You can also purchase Season Pass tickets for the cost of less than four visits!  There are also varying degrees of discounts for a number of reasons and times.

So tickets in hand, we headed to the elevator that boasts a 36 second ride to the platform. The first level had bars that raised high above our heads and I felt very safe, even with a twinge of acrophobia. The views were astronomical!

Although it was roughly in the low 80's back on the ground, the wind makes for a whole different experience, so pack the sweaters! An even better view awaits up a small flight of stairs. The bars only came to my chest which allowed for some beautiful pictures without obstruction.

I haven't seen it during the day, so maybe I'm biased, but I think the evening was such a perfect time of day. We arrived around 8:30, which gave us still-lit scenery, and eventually sunset and city night lights.

After about 45 minutes of ooh and ahhs, we headed inside to the Panorama Cafe. The best part of this is that you don't sacrifice anything by taking a break in here. With full surrounding picture windows, you can enjoy the glorious scenery while enjoying a warm cup of coffee and avoiding the wind.

During the day this place is a sun filled spot, and at night it transforms into a low lit lounge style setting with full bar options.

Along with our yummy warm beverages, we all got a slice of pie/torte and, having tasted them everyone's myself, each was as good as the last. Also, from what I saw, they were all under 4 € apiece, so you wont go broke here.

I will say the service was less than stellar, but I truly believe it was a fluke of sorts. After our coffees arrived, our server disappeared for more than 30 minutes, when all that was needed was to plate the sliced. We eventually flagged down another member of waitstaff and had our desserts delivered. But who can complain too hard about extra time to stargaze?

After another stop out on the platforms to enjoy the now dark skies, we begrudgingly headed back down.

The gift shop is filled with all kinds of collectible items, mostly in the shape of the tower. You will find buttons, tee shirts, pens, mugs, fridge magnets, rubber duckies, postcards, etc.

I plan on going back this weekend with just my husband for a much needed date night. I'm hoping to buy season passes soon, as well! I definitely see why this is among the top landmarks for the Stuttgart area. Whether you need a spot for touring visitors, a date, or an outing for your whole family, Fernsehturm is the perfect spot!