Is Stuttgart Worth Visiting: 10 Best Things To Do

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Compared to other European cities I’ve explored, Stuttgart is among that offers a distinct travel experience.

This city does not boast an abundance of cultural attractions. However, it shines in offering amazing automotive experiences, a rich industrial history, and striking modern architecture that will surely pique the interest of enthusiasts.

Interestingly, home of Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, Stuttgart is Germany’s Car Capital. I may not be a car enthusiast or inclined towards materialism or a fan of modern architecture, but as an engineer, I find the technological innovations you can discover in Stuttgart so fascinating.

If you’re eager to delve deeper into these modern wonders and uncover a slice of its heritage, this article will serve as your gateway to discovery.

Many people on the internet say Stuttgart is not worth visiting, but it is not entirely true at all! Perhaps they just need more research and the city needs more promotion. In a way, Stuttgart is quite an interesting city.

Stuttgart, a city that rose like a phoenix from the ashes of World War II, is a testament to the indomitable spirit of innovation and progress.

The city has a long history, dating back to the mid-10th century, with its fertile soil attracting prehistoric settlers to the Neckar river valley. The city’s journey through time saw it under the rule of various powers, from the Romans who built a fortress in Cannstatt, to the Franks and the Carolingians.

But it was during the 19th and 20th centuries that Stuttgart truly began to transform. As the capital of Baden-Württemberg, it became a beacon for engineering, automobile manufacturing, and emerging technologies, paving the way for a wave of modern architecture and infrastructure.

The scars of World War II left Stuttgart in ruins, but from this devastation emerged an opportunity. The city was reborn in the post-war era, its skyline reshaped with modern buildings that stand as symbols of resilience and forward-thinking.

If you’re mapping out a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of southern Germany, Stuttgart seamlessly slots into your travel plans. Tucked in close proximity to the magical Lichtenstein Castle and a mere hour’s journey from the enchanting Black Forest, Stuttgart serves as a convenient gateway to some of Germany’s most awe-inspiring sights.

To give you an in-depth idea of why to consider Stuttgart for your trip, here are the 10 reasons:

1. Discover a Heritage: Schlossplatz

Schlossplatz, the largest and most beautiful square in Stuttgart, is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting this German city. Surrounded by stunning buildings from different periods of history, such as an old castle, an elegant palace, and a modern museum, it’s the first and foremost place of interest in Stuttgart that makes the city a worthwhile destination.

You can explore these attractions or simply enjoy the view of the “Jubiläumssäule”, a 30-meter column in the center of Schlossplatz that celebrates the 60th birthday of King Wilhelm I of Wurttemberg. Schlossplatz showcases the rich and diverse heritage of Stuttgart, and offers a lot of fun and learning opportunities for travelers.

Neues Schloss

Neues Schloss is a stunning palace from the 18th century, right next to Schlossplatz. The kings of Wurttemberg used to live there. It looks a lot like the famous Versailles in France, because one of the guys who designed it was a big fan.

Today, the palace still has these amazing fountains and paintings on the walls. However, it’s now where the government of Baden-Wuerttemberg works. So if you want to see the inside, you have to call or email them first. You can find their contact info on their website.

Altes Schloss

Do you like old castles? Then you should check out Altes Schloss, or Old Castle. It’s right next to Neues Schloss. It goes back to the 10th century, can you believe it? That’s where the Wurttemberg dukes lived before they moved to the new palace in the 1700s.

Now it’s a museum with a chapel that still works. You can see the amazing courtyard that looks like it came from Italy in the Renaissance. And guess what? The museum is free!

You can see all kinds of cool stuff from the history of this region, from ancient times to now. They have old bones, swords, paintings, and more. And if you want to see how the royals lived, you can see their crown, scepter, jewels, and more.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Kunstmuseum Stuttgart

Do you like modern art? Then you should check out the Modern Art Museum of Stuttgart. It’s a huge glass cube at the corner of Schlossplatz. You can’t miss it, it’s architecture is a head-turner. The museum has artworks by Adolf Holzel, Otto Dix, and other artists from this region. There are more than 15,000 artworks to see.

And the best part? The top floor of the museum has an amazing view of the city and the hills. You can see the whole Schlossplatz and beyond. It’s especially beautiful at night, when the city lights are on. You can also watch the sunset from there. It’s a great place to enjoy art and nature.

It costs 11 EUR to get in, but you can also join a tour for 4 EUR if you speak German. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. But on Fridays, it stays open until 9:00 pm. How cool is that? You can find more information and updates on their website: kunstmuseum-stuttgart.de.

2. A Fan of Porsche? Visit Porsche Museum

If you’re a car lover, you’ll love the Porsche Museum it’s another fantastic tourist attraction enough to be a reason to visit Stuttgart. Porsche Museum is not just a museum, though, it’s a futuristic wonderland of cars. They have more than 90 cars on display, from the classics to the cutting-edge. You can also learn about the history and the tradition of the Porsche brand.

The cars inside the museum are so awesome, you’ll be dazzled. Especially the Porsche 356 “No. 1” Roadster, the Porsche 911, the Porsche 550, and the 917. They are legends in the car world. You really have to see them in the museum!

And you know what else? The museum itself is a masterpiece. It looks like a spaceship. And you can even rent a Porsche and drive it around. How cool is that? The museum also has a workshop where you can see how they restore the old cars. They use the latest technology and skills. It’s amazing to watch.

Are you interested in visiting Stuttgart and the Porsche Museum? The museum is located in Zuffenhausen, a short train ride from Stuttgart central station. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get there. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday. The ticket costs 10 EUR. You can enter the museum until 30 minutes before closing time.

3. Do You Like Mercedes-Benz? See Mercedes-Benz Museum

Car enthusiast travelers will find Stuttgart their haven, especially because of Mercedes-Benz Museum. Well, it’s not just another museum in Stuttgart, it’s a reason to go there. Why? Because it shows you more than 135 years of car history in one place.

And the museum itself is a beauty. It’s a stunning building that makes you want to see what’s inside. And what’s inside? More than 1500 exhibits and 160 cars. They are spread over 9 floors, covering 16,500 sq.m. of space. They are in chronological order, so you can follow the story of cars from the beginning to now.

The museum has 7 sections, called Legends. Each one shows you how cars looked and worked in different times. You can see not only Mercedes-Benz cars, but also their documents and photos. They give you a deeper understanding of how cars evolved.

The first Legend shows you the birth of cars in 1886. The first cars were like horse carriages, really. They are so interesting to see. The last Legend shows you the successes of the Mercedes-Benz brand. And in between, you can see how cars changed with diesel, war, politics, and environment. It’s a fascinating journey through car history.

Do you want to go to the Mercedes-Benz Museum? It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. But make sure you get there by 5:00 pm, because they won’t let you in after that. The ticket costs 10 EUR. You can find more info and updates on their website: the Mercedes-Benz Museum website.

4. Relax With a View: Killesbergpark and Tower

Another reason to visit Stuttgart are its some awesome off-the-beaten-places, like Killesbergpark and its tower. You can get there in minutes from the city and the museums. It’s a great way to relax after exploring the city and its museum, of course, and have fun.

Killesbergpark is a beautiful park in the north of Stuttgart that has a pool, an amphitheater, and a petting zoo. Here, you can also relax by a small lake and unwind on its beer gardens. To me, however, the best things in the park are the tower and the green and peaceful meadows. The tower gives you a stunning view of the city and the hills.

And if you go in July, you can see the Lichterfest Stuttgart in Killesbergpark. It’s a festival where people light up the park with lanterns and fireworks. It’s magical.

You can get to Killesbergpark by subway from Stuttgart Central Station. It’s only a 5-minute ride. The first thing you’ll see after you arrive is the meadows which look so different and cool.

The southern fields of Killesbergpark captivate me with their unique architecture. Trails meander through the grass, creating a maze of irregularly shaped meadows that are perfect for Instagram. From an aerial view, it’s a labyrinth in nature.

The park also features a scenic train, with its station nestled at the northeast end of these meadows, just beyond the residential area. The Killesbergpark Railway, operating diesel locomotives and occasionally steam ones during special events, adds a touch of nostalgia. However, it only runs from April to October.

Just north of the train station is the park’s jewel – the Killesberg Tower. This architectural wonder, built using “cable-stayed bridge technology”, stands tall in the center of the park.

While admiring the Killesberg Tower from the ground is impressive, the opportunity to ascend it is truly exciting! The tower soars 40 meters high, offering a panoramic view of the park. From the top, you’re also treated to a stunning cityscape.

The tower welcomes visitors from 7:00 am until dusk, weather permitting. However, it remains closed in snowy or icy conditions. For a mere 1 EUR admission fee, you can experience this remarkable climb.

5. Dine With a Panoramic View: Stuttgart TV Tower

Are you a fellow traveler, always in pursuit of breathtaking views? If so, Stuttgart beckons you with its iconic TV Tower! This tower is not just pivotal to Stuttgart’s communication and tourism but also marks a milestone in civil engineering as the world’s first reinforced concrete telecommunications tower.

Despite initial debates over its construction technique, this 216-meter structure has emerged as one of Stuttgart’s top attractions. From its 150-meter high observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and even catch glimpses of the Swabian Alps and the Black Forest on sunny days.

The top also offers views of the rolling hills and local vineyards nearby, making it a perfect spot for sunset viewing. For a romantic experience, dine at Restaurant Leonhardts with its 360-degree vistas ensuring a feast for both your eyes and taste buds! If you prefer to relax with a drink while sightseeing, the Panorama Cafe is your go-to spot! Just keep an eye on the weather.

There is no reservation for Panorama Cafe, only in Restaurant Leonhardts. So if you’re planning a date, you know what to do! You can contact the restaurant from their email addresses on the tower’s website.

Here is the summary of Stuttgart TV Tower’s opening schedule:

Tower Schedule	Summer April to October	Winter November to March
Monday	Closed	Closed
Tuesday to Saturday	10:00 am to 10:00 pm	10:00 am to 9:00 pm
Sunday, Holidays	10:00 am to 10:00 pm	10:00 am to 7:00 pm

Panorama Cafe

• Wednesday to Saturday – 10:00 am to 9:30 pm
• Sunday and Holidays – 10:00 am to 6:00 pm

Restaurant Leonhardts

• Saturday – 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
• Sunday – 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

6. Marvel at Modern Architecture: Public Library Stuttgart

Stuttgart is a great destination for architecture enthusiasts, with its castles and palaces whisking visitors back in time and its stunning modern museums showcasing minimalism at its finest. But the architectural wonders don’t stop there. Like the Stuttgart Public Library, it is a must-see.

Stuttgart Public Library is a quick stop on your Stuttgart tour, but if you’re a photographer or an Instagrammer, it’s a destination in itself! This modern architectural gem, with its cube shape and 45-meter edges, is simple yet striking. Its facades feature 9 x 9 frosted glass brick windows that are mesmerizing from afar, especially on sunny days.

At night, it transforms into a spectacle as the light from its windows changes colors, creating patterns of blue and white light. The library’s interiors are equally photogenic. For the best views inside, head straight to the eighth floor (or anywhere between the 6th and 8th) and peek over the mezzanine.

The elegant white decor, pleasingly arranged lighting, shelves, and chairs make for a picture-perfect scene. Plus, visiting the Stuttgart Public Library is one of the free activities you can enjoy in the city – there’s no entry fee! It’s open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm from Monday to Saturday but is closed on Sundays and holidays.

See the library’s official website for more information.

7. Explore a Garden Zoo: Wilhelma

Stuttgart, known for housing two of the world’s major car brands, also boasts one of Europe’s largest combined zoological and botanical gardens. Named Wilhelma, this park is a must-visit when in Stuttgart.

Dating back to the mid-19th century under the reign of King Wilhelm the First (from whom the park gets its name), Wilhelma showcases Moorish architecture, which was in vogue at the time. The park’s buildings echo the architectural styles found in Spain’s Alhambra. This unique blend of architecture and nature draws 2 million visitors annually!

But it’s not just the architecture that attracts tourists – Wilhelma is home to a vast collection of animals and plants. In fact, it ranks second only to the Berlin Zoological Garden, with over 11,000 animals from 1,200 species.

Travelers can bask in the freshest air, courtesy of plants from various regions! Wilhelma is home to nearly 6000 plants. In my opinion, it’s quite like Germany’s own Garden of Eden. You’ll absolutely adore spending time by Wilhelma’s pond.

Make your way to the fountain at the pond’s west end for the most Instagram-worthy view of the park. From there, you can see Damaszenerhalle (hall) at the opposite end of the rectangular pond. The pond is flanked by trees on both sides, creating a symmetrical garden layout that leads the eye to Damaszenerhalle – a sight that’s truly picture-perfect.

But don’t just admire Damaszenerhalle from afar. Step inside to marvel at its stunning Moorish-style interiors, complete with a golden chandelier, exquisite stucco marble walls, and ceiling paintings. And let’s not forget the greenhouse in the Moorish Villa! It’s arguably Wilhelma’s most iconic building, and its beautiful exterior might just remind you of Spain’s Crystal Palace.

Wilhelma has different opening hours per season:

• May to August (summer): 8:15 am to 6:00 pm
• April and September (shoulder): 8:15 am to 5:30 pm
• March and October (spring and autumn): 8:15 am to 5:00 pm
• November to February (winter): 8:15 am to 4:00 pm

The entry fees are:

• Adults – 20 EUR
• Students (18 to 28 years old) – 13 EUR
• Children (6 to 17 years old) – 8 EUR
• Toddlers – FREE

See all details from the official website of Wilhelma. Don’t forget to check for updates and announcements!

8. Immerse in Tranquility: Sepulchral Chapel on Württemberg hill

Another compelling reason to visit Stuttgart lies in its heritage sites located within the city’s scenic locales. These destinations offer a threefold experience – learning about Stuttgart’s heritage, appreciating beautiful architecture, and relaxing amidst nature.

Two such sites worth visiting in Stuttgart’s countryside are the Sepulchral Chapel on Wurttemberg hill and Castle Solitude. The Sepulchral Chapel serves as the mausoleum for Wurttemberg royals, including King Wilhelm, his wife, and daughters Catherine and Charlotte. Above their tombs is a chapel with exquisite architecture.

While some might find visiting a mausoleum off-putting, there’s more to discover here. The chapel is part of a compound that includes houses for the priest and psalmist. Particularly charming is the priest’s house, which resembles a Tuscan villa and offers tranquil scenic views.

Atop Wurttemberg hill where the chapel stands, you’ll find breathtaking vistas of vineyard-covered rolling hills and sweeping panoramas of the city.

While the panoramic views outside are captivating, stepping inside the sepulchral chapel is a must. The interior showcases elegant Roman architecture, most notably in its dome. Light streams through its glass-covered cupola, evoking images of Rome’s Pantheon.

The Sepulchral Chapel welcomes visitors during the warmer months, from April through November. You can explore the buildings, including the chapel and priest’s house, from noon until 5:00 pm. The open grounds remain accessible to all until dusk.

9. Wander and Take Photos: Castle Solitude

Did you know tucked away in the hilly western part of Stuttgart is an 18th-century Rococo palace? It’s one of Duke Carl Eugen of Wurttemberg’s masterpieces, and he named it Solitude Palace. Initially, he planned for it to be his hunting lodge, but it quickly became a hotspot for official receptions.

The duke also used Solitude Palace as a grand display of his royal power. The palace’s lavish style and stunning architecture are still a sight to behold today. And let’s not forget the scenic views – they must have left the duke’s guests in awe. That’s why Solitude Palace, a heritage site, is a must-visit when you’re in Stuttgart.

Solitude Palace isn’t just a standalone building. It’s more like a complex that includes the main palace, a garden, and two additional wing buildings. You’ll also spot smaller buildings on the sides that serve different purposes.

But the real eye-catcher is the main building sitting proudly at the center of the compound. Its facades are a mix of stucco marbles, French doors, and Corinthian columns – so elegant! And those grand staircases? I’m pretty sure they’ve been featured in a ton of wedding prenup photoshoots.

Solitude Palace is more than just a single building – it’s a collection of impressive parts that leave visitors spellbound. The White Hall, Marble Hall, and Palace chapel are particularly stunning. One peek inside the White or Marble Halls and you’ll feel like you’re living a fairytale!

While most of the palace showcases Rococo architecture (like in the Duke’s apartments, Assembly Room, Music Room), these halls and the chapel offer something different. The chapel combines Rococo with Neoclassical style – just check out its elegant all-white walls and ceiling.

And don’t miss the golden-framed oval fresco painting in the center of the ceiling that depicts Jesus’ resurrection. The White and Marble Halls feature classic style architecture with elements of early Italian Renaissance and classical Greek design.

If you’re thinking about visiting Solitude Palace, keep in mind that you’ll need a guided tour to enter and see the rooms – but note that these tours are conducted in German only.

Even if you don’t speak German though, there’s still plenty to enjoy around the palace – hiking & bike trails, picnic-perfect meadows, scenic avenues… Plus there’s a restaurant and a cafeteria for when you’ve worked up an appetite from exploring. There are also plenty of peaceful spots where you can just sit back and take in the views – which are amazing by the way!

Below is the schedule of opening hours of the Solitude Palace. But if you’re planning to visit, I recommend checking the palace’s official website (schedule of guided tours included). Solitude Palace is often used for events, so yeah…

Weekday	April 1 – October 31	November 1 – December 24	December 25 – January 9	January 10 – March 31
Monday	closed	closed	closed	closed
Tuesday – Friday	10:00 am – 05:00 pm	01:30 pm – 04:00 pm	10:00 am – 04:00 pm	closed
Saturday	10:00 am – 05:00 pm	01:30 pm – 04:00 pm	10:00 am – 04:00 pm	10:00 am – 04:00 pm
Sunday & holidays	10:00 am – 05:00 pm	10:00 am – 04:00 pm	10:00 am – 04:00 pm	10:00 am – 04:00 pm

The admission fee is 5 EUR which already includes the guided tour.

10. Discover The Versailles of Swabia: Ludwigsburg Residential Palace

Have you heard about Ludwigsburg Residential Palace in Baden-Wurttemberg? It’s one of the most gorgeous places around. Some even dub it the “Versailles of Swabia.”

It’s got this elegant charm that never fails to impress visitors. Plus, it’s massive – spanning 32 hectares (that’s 79 acres), it’s the largest palatial estate in Germany. The palace showcases a mix of architectural styles – Rococo, Baroque, and Neoclassical. So, there’s no chance of getting bored while marveling at this 18th-century gem.

Ludwigsburg Residential Palace isn’t just about its stunning looks. It also has museums that transport you back to the 18th century. That’s another reason why Stuttgart is worth a visit – but I’ll get into that later.

By the way, Ludwigsburg Palace is actually located in Ludwigsburg, a town just a short 15-minute train ride north of Stuttgart. You’ll need to walk for a few minutes or take a short bus ride after getting off the train.

But once you arrive at Ludwigsburg Palace, you’ll be welcomed by an expansive and beautiful garden known as Blühendes Barock, or Blooming Baroque gardens. I bet you can guess what to expect from the name alone!

Blühendes Barock could be considered Germany’s most breathtaking garden. Its vibrant flowers and meticulously maintained plants, arranged in various geometric patterns, are simply stunning. The garden, which graces the front of the new central building, seems as if it’s been lifted straight from a storybook!

The view from the top of the staircase is particularly enchanting, where one can clearly see the captivating irregular patterns formed by the garden plants. But the garden is just the beginning; Ludwigsburg Palace has so much more to offer. This palace complex boasts a multitude of splendid buildings.

To fully appreciate Ludwigsburg Palace, visitors may need anywhere from three hours to half a day. The palace complex includes two central buildings (new and old), multiple chapels, royal apartments, an ancestral gallery, and even its own theater!

What’s really cool about Ludwigsburg Palace? It’s gotta be their museums and exhibits. Picture yourself stumbling upon a gallery showcasing original clothing from the 18th century. Or feasting your eyes on delicate ceramics featuring contemporary art.

Got kids? Take them to Kinderreich, an interactive museum where they can experience life during the Baroque period. They can even dress up as a prince, duke, or princess and play games just like the royals did back in the day.

But there’s more! Ludwigsburg Palace is packed with beautiful sights and architectural masterpieces. If I were you, I wouldn’t miss these two spots:

1. The Order Hall (now a Throne Room). With its chandeliers and frescoes, it’s like stepping into a royal dream!
2. The Marble Hall in the New Central Building. It’s so grand it’ll make you feel like you’re at a royal ball. And don’t forget to look up at the frescoes – it’s like peeking into heaven. Plus, that chandelier is a real showstopper.

You can only visit most parts of the Ludwigsburg Palace with a guided tour. Check the visitor information page of the palace to learn what you need to know before going. Below’s the summary for your convenience.

The entry fee is 8.50 EUR and the opening hours are:

• March 15 to November 15, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
• January 10 to March 14, 11:00 am to 3:30 pm

More Things To Do in Stuttgart

The ten places mentioned aren’t the only attractions/reasons to visit Stuttgart. If you love museums, check out Linden Museum and Pig Museum. Others you can try are Karlshöhe, Weinwanderun, and Marienplatz Square. 

Looking for a stress-free way to explore Stuttgart? Check out Stuttgart Hop-On Hop-Off. Their buses will take you straight to all these amazing attractions I’ve mentioned. Forget about figuring out routes and schedules. Just jump on the bus, sit back, and make the most of your Stuttgart adventure!

Learn more details about Stuttgart Hop-On Hop-Off Bus from Get Your Guide.

So, you’ve wrapped up your day trip in Stuttgart and you’re thinking about heading back to your hotel or grabbing dinner at the usual spots, right? Well, hold up! How about trying something a little different?

There’s this great restaurant by the River Neckar called Riverhouse S-Münster. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening in Stuttgart. They’ve got raclette, wines, a huge variety of sausages and cheese, fresh veggies, potatoes – the works! Plus, they even have a comedy show (it’s in German though).

Learn more details about Riverhouse S-Münster from Get Your Guide.

If you’re a foodie, you’ve got to check out Bad Cannstatt. It’s a culinary journey through Stuttgart’s oldest district that’s sure to delight your senses. This is where you’ll find the best of Stuttgart’s regional cuisine. Have you tried the classic Hefezopf, a braided bread? Or how about Maultaschen, pasta filled with meat or cheese and served in a clear soup?

Learn more details about Bad Cannstatt culinary excursion from Get Your Guide.

How To Get To Stuttgart

If you’re planning a trip to Stuttgart, Germany, here’s what you need to know:

Stuttgart Airport, or STR, is the sixth biggest airport in Germany. It’s about 8 miles from the city center and is a major hub for Lufthansa, along with many other global airlines. Once you land at Stuttgart Airport, you’ve got a few options to get to the city center:

• You can hop on the S-Bahn, a suburban train system. Lines S2 and S3 will get you to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof, the main train station, in about 27 minutes.
• There are also several bus lines that run between the airport and the city center. This trip will take you about 40 minutes.
• If you prefer a taxi, you can find them right outside the airport terminal building. A taxi ride to the city center takes about 25 minutes and will cost around €35, depending on traffic and your exact destination.

Stuttgart is well-connected by train to other major cities in Germany and Europe. For example, a train ride from Frankfurt to Stuttgart takes about 1 hour and 17 minutes. From Munich to Stuttgart, it’s about 2 hours and 7 minutes. There are also direct trains from other major European cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels.

If you’re driving, Stuttgart is at the intersection of the A8 and A81 autobahns. Driving from Frankfurt to Stuttgart takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. From Munich to Stuttgart, it’s about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Here are some additional tips for your trip:

• If you’re arriving at Stuttgart Airport on a weekend or during peak season, consider booking your S-Bahn or bus tickets in advance.
• If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, a taxi from the airport to your hotel might be your best bet.
• Stuttgart has an excellent public transportation system, so getting around the city without a car is easy.
• If you’re staying in the city center, consider purchasing a Stuttgart CityPASS. It gives you free admission to many of the city’s top attractions and unlimited use of public transportation.

How To Get Around In Stuttgart

When it comes to getting around Stuttgart, you’ve got several options.

The city boasts a reliable and integrated public transportation system that includes the S-Bahn (suburban trains), Stadtbahn (U-Bahn or underground metro), and buses.

The S-Bahn is a suburban train system that serves Stuttgart and its surrounding districts. It’s got 7 lines and 83 stations, covering over 200 km. During peak hours, you can catch a train every 15 minutes.

The U-Bahn, also known as the Stadtbahn or light rail, covers most of Stuttgart with its 14 main lines. It’s got over 203 stations spread over 257 km of track. You can catch a ride from 4 in the morning until 1 at night.

Buses in Stuttgart are great for shorter distances. They share the road with cars and bikes, but they’re usually on time unless there’s a major accident. You can buy tickets for all these services at ticket machines at the respective stations. If you buy a single ticket, you’re good to go. But if you buy a ticket for four trips, remember to validate it for each trip.

If you’re planning to drive, keep in mind that Stuttgart is located at the intersection of the A8 and A81 autobahns. However, parking can be tricky and many areas in the city center are designed for pedestrians.

Renting a car can give you more flexibility and convenience, especially if you’re planning to visit places outside of Stuttgart or if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or with family. However, keep in mind that parking in the city can be challenging and many areas in the city center are designed for pedestrians.

If your activities are mainly in the city center and well-connected areas, public transport might be more convenient. If you plan to explore outside the city or prefer having control over your schedule without depending on public transport timings, renting a car could be beneficial. 

How Many Days In Stuttgart?

I find Stuttgart to be a fantastic destination, though it may not suit everyone’s tastes.

Personally, I’m not a car enthusiast, but the city’s hidden gems and picturesque landmarks hold a special appeal for me. And let’s not forget Ludwigsburg’s Residential Palace—it’s a must-see!

When it comes to exploring Stuttgart, you’ll want to set aside at least two days to fully savor what the city has to offer. This includes visits to the car museums, exploring Stuttgart’s iconic landmarks, and embarking on day trips to nearby attractions like Ludwigsburg’s Residential Palace or Lichtenstein Castle.

For instance, you can dedicate your first day to exploring the car exhibits and then indulge in a delightful dinner at the iconic Stuttgart TV Tower in the evening.

On day two, you can delve into the city’s landmarks or venture out for day trips to nearby destinations. Stuttgart can also serve as a strategic starting point for exploring the beautiful places in Baden-Württemberg. In fact, you can experience the charm of Stuttgart in just two days, and I’ve got some exciting and unique activities lined up for you below.

Top picks:

Where To Stay In Stuttgart?

You can find the best hotel deals in Stuttgart from this link. You may use the map feature of the website so you may easily see your convenient location for the attractions in Stuttgart you’ll be visiting.

What To Visit Next After Stuttgart?

From Stuttgart, you can quickly reach the Black Forest and Lichtenstein Castle—which are two of the most beautiful places in southern Germany. Whether you have a car or prefer public transportation, you can reach these places within 1 to 2 hours.

Southern Germany is dotted with beautiful towns; you must see them too. If you like visiting magical, scenic, and historical places, you can discover them with my post, The 10 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Southern Germany. Like Stuttgart, the major cities in southern Germany, like Munich and Nuremberg, offer quick access to the best destinations in Southern Germany.

From Munich, you can go straight to the most scenic towns in Germany in the Bavarian Alps:

1. Neuschwanstein Castle. A REAL fairytale castle perched on a hilltop.
2. Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The town where you can quickly access Zugspitze and Eibsee.
3. Mittenwald. It is a small town with houses with beautiful Lüftlmalerei/murals.
4. Berchtesgaden. You’ll love the lakes and churches here and the view from the Eagle’s Nest.
5. Oberammergau. This is the town famous for its Passion Play. It is also filled with culture and Lüftlmalerei. Perfect for a lovely stroll.

See how you can visit towns in Bavarian Alps from Munich using my Bavarian Alps 3, 7, and 10-day Sample Itineraries.

From Nuremberg, you can quickly reach the historic and picturesque towns in Franconia:

1. Bamberg. Perhaps, it has the most beautiful old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) in Germany. You got to taste their smoked beers!
2. Wurzburg. Are you an architecture/art enthusiast? Come here to see the most impressive frescoes and rococo buildings.
3. Rothenburg ob der Tauber. It’s the face of Germany on the internet (Plönlein).

If you’re looking for a city to visit outside Germany, check out the cities below (Click their names to see why they are worth visiting):

1. Strasbourg—it is the closest French city to Stuttgart. It is also Europe’s capital, and it’s packed with beautiful landmarks that were built in different eras.
2. Milan—shopping, fashion? You can also discover so much about Leonardo da Vinci here!
3. Geneva—like Stuttgart, Geneva is an underrated city. But for me, it has a fascinating historic center and fun day trips to France and Switzerland.

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