Stuttgart’s many attractions are varied and showcased with passion, from museums and cars to vineyards and festivals. The city has a big network of urban parks in its southwest Germany location, surrounded by the lush Württemberg wine region.
From the main square, Schlossplatz, you can easily walk to the baroque-style New Castle(Neue Schloss), centuries-old Old Castle (Altes Schloss) and Königstrasse shopping district.
Rent a bike to explore Stuttgart’s series of connected green spaces called Das Grüne U (the Green U). The name refers to the shape the park network forms as seen from the air. Take in the city views from the observation tower in Killesbergpark to get your bearings. Have a picnic among the flower beds in the Schlossgarten and admire the rose gardens in Rosensteinpark. The exotic plants and animals at nearby Wilhelma Zoo are worth a visit too.
Car enthusiasts will appreciate the interactive Porsche Museum and Mercedes Benz Museum, dedicated to the two famous automobile companies that were founded in Stuttgart.
Learn about regional history at the Landesmuseum, located in the Old Castle, or see works by Picasso and other masters at the Staatsgalerie. One night each spring, shuttle buses operate between 90 museums and galleries for the Lange Nacht der Museen (Long Night of the Museums). Visit them all with just one ticket!
Enjoy a performance by the internationally acclaimed Stuttgart Ballet in the Staatstheater, which also has opera and dramatic performances.
Stuttgart has festivals year-round. Sample regional wines and food during the Stuttgart Wine Festival in the summer. Don’t miss the Stuttgart Spring Festival, one of the seasonal fairs held at the Cannstatter Wasen festival grounds. Another huge event is the autumn Cannstatter Volksfest, which features fun rides and beer. In winter, learn the true meaning of the German word “gemütlich” (cozy) at the Stuttgart Christmas Market.
Stuttgart has an efficient public transportation system. The Stadtbahn light rail and walking are the best options for short trips to major inner-city attractions.
