Stuttgart enjoys a reputation as an industrial powerhouse; a cradle of both the automobile and motorcycle industries in the 19th century, it's the corporate headquarters of both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. But the city also possesses a charming, small-town atmosphere, tucked into an inviting urban landscape of historic sites, lakes, parks, gardens, vineyards, and forests. Your excursion features a walking tour of the city's historic center, where you'll see the restored Altes Schloss (Old Castle), most of which dates to the 15th century, and its inner courtyard; the palatial 18th-century Neues Schloss (New Castle), completely rebuilt after nearly being burned to the ground during WWII. Later, you'll explore the Mercedes-Benz Museum - a dazzling ultramodern showcase featuring more than 160 vehicles on display, ranging from some of the oldest automobiles ever built to legendary racing cars to futuristic research vehicles in exhibits that chronicle the history of the legendary car company. Following your time at the museum, you may join an optional walking tour of Stuttgart. As an alternate option, travel by motorcoach to the beautiful spa town of Baden-Baden where you'll discover that the elegant Belle Epoque period is still alive and well. For many generations, wealthy folks have flocked here to see and be seen, and to take the healing thermal waters for which the town is famous. Join a walking tour and time spent on your own discovering some of the town's treasures ranging from the ruins of Roman baths to the ornate, 250-year-old Belle Epoque casino, the Kurhaus, which movie star Marlene Dietrich once described as "the most beautiful casino in the world". You'll also have an optional opportunity to visit the Caracalla Spa in town before returning to the riverboat for the evening. ...
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