Things To Do
in Stuttgart
Stuttgart sits in a valley along the Neckar River, framed by rolling hills and vineyards. It blends automotive heritage with lush parks, vibrant markets, and Swabian culture. The city center is a walkable mix of baroque and modern architecture, seasonal markets, and lively neighborhoods.
Surrounded by nature, Stuttgart is a gateway for easy day trips to vineyards, forests, and the Swabian Alps.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the stunning Schlossplatz, the heart of Stuttgart, where you can admire the majestic New Palace. After soaking in the architecture, visit the nearby Kunstmuseum to appreciate contemporary art. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with shops and cafes, perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast.
Continue your exploration at the Stuttgart City Library, an architectural marvel, where you can browse its extensive collection of books and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Next, head to the Stiftskirche, a historic church that offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. Treat yourself to lunch at a local Swabian restaurant, savoring traditional dishes like Maultaschen or Spätzle.
As the sun sets, wander through the vibrant Bohnenviertel district, known for its eclectic mix of bars and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at a cozy local bistro, trying out some regional wines or beers. End your night with a performance at the Stuttgart State Theatre, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Begin your day at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, where the history of this iconic brand comes to life through impressive exhibits. Take a guided tour to understand the innovations that have shaped the automotive world. Don’t forget to snap photos of the futuristic architecture that surrounds the museum.
After exploring the museum, enjoy lunch at the on-site restaurant, which serves delicious dishes inspired by the brand’s heritage. Spend your afternoon at the adjacent Mercedes-Benz Arena, where you can learn about the team and its achievements if there's a game or event happening. Alternatively, visit the nearby Stuttgart 21 construction site for insight into the city's future transport developments.
Return to the city center for dinner at a traditional Swabian restaurant, where you can indulge in local delicacies. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the Neckar River, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as the lights of the city reflect on the water. Consider stopping by a rooftop bar for a nightcap with stunning panoramic views of Stuttgart.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $3-5 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong automotive heritage and world-class museums
- Beautiful parks, vineyards, and easy access to nature
- Walkable city center with a lively Swabian food scene
- Good public transport and efficient infrastructure
- Hilly terrain can feel tiring for some walkers
- Restaurant portions can be large; dining culture centers on meat-heavy dishes
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like …
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Stuttgart
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand central square with the baroque palace, fountains, and seasonal events—great for cityscape and people photography.
Historic market square with timbered houses and the Old Town Hall—ideal for architectural shots and golden-hour light.
Iconic 1920s modernist housing designed by Mies van der Rohe and colleagues; a must for architectural photography.
Early concrete TV tower offering panoramic city views from the observation deck.
Hilly park with ponds, lawns, and viewpoints perfect for skyline silhouettes at sunset.
Scenic paths and bridges along the Neckar provide reflections and atmospheric cityscape shots.
Food in Stuttgart
Stuttgart Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Swabian ravioli usually filled with minced meat or vegetables, served in broth or fried with onions.
Must-Try!
Egg noodles layered with grated cheese and crispy onions; a quintessential comfort dish.
Lentil stew with spaetzle and sometimes bacon; a staple winter dish.
Roast beef topped with a generous layer of fried onions and gravy.
Slow-roasted pork shoulder typically served with sauerkraut and dumplings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market hall in the city center offering fresh regional produce, cheeses, meats, and prepared bites.
Weekly market with local farmers selling seasonal Swabian staples and regional specialties.
Pop-up markets in the city center during warmer months featuring diverse street food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is standard; use Sie for formal situations and address people with their title until invited to use first names.
Being on time is a sign of respect in both business and social settings.
Keep hands visible, wait for everyone to be served before starting, and try regional dishes with appreciation.
Be mindful of neighbors in residential areas, especially late evenings on weekdays and Sundays.
Safety
Tipping in Stuttgart
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% as a tip is common in restaurants and bars.
Cash and debit/credit cards are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with possible thunderstorms; enjoy outdoor cafes, beer gardens, and city festivals.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; grape harvests and local wine events add seasonal flavor.
Cool but not extreme; Christmas markets light up the city center and nearby vineyards offer tastings.
Rising temperatures, blooming trees, and outdoor seating returning to life; ideal for long city walks.
Stuttgart at Night
Hiking in Stuttgart
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of marked trails through forested hills just a short ride from the city.
Rolling ridges and scenic viewpoints perfect for longer hikes and panoramic photos.
Airports
How to reach Stuttgart by plane.
Main international airport serving the region; quick rail links into the city and surrounding towns.
An alternative gateway about an hour's drive west of Stuttgart with regional connections.
Major international hub farther away but well connected by rail for long-haul travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding Swabian families and residents who value regional culture and cuisine.
A mix of students and professionals drawn by industry, education, and the automotive sector.
A growing student community connected to several universities and research institutions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The city’s top football club with a devoted local following and matches at home stadiums in the region.
Local teams and facilities offer community-level and professional games in nearby arenas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stuttgart.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Swabian dishes can be adapted; look for Kässpätzle, vegetarian Maultaschen, salads, and vegetable sides. In markets, you can often find fresh vegetarian options, and restaurants typically offer cheese or egg-based dishes as alternatives.