Curator’s statement
Frequently underestimated by travelers exploring Germany, I discovered myself drawn to the charming city of Stuttgart! While it's renowned as the birthplace of Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, there's an abundance of other delightful adventures and sightseeing opportunities awaiting visitors. Here are some enjoyable activities and, naturally, my top picks for dining experiences!
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Things to do in Stuttgart
Spare your feet and opt for a transit pass! If you haven't secured the Deutschland pass (refer to the end of the guide), consider getting a three-day transit pass covering all trams, buses, and regional trains provided by VVS Stuttgart. Stuttgart boasts an excellent tram system that conveniently connects you to virtually every corner of the city!
Mercedes-Benz Museum: Among the highlights of my European travels, this museum stands out as a captivating fusion of automotive history, global events, and cultural significance. With its ultra-modern design, the museum features nine floors dedicated to Mercedes cars, spanning from the earliest models to the latest innovations. You'll find yourself engrossed here for at least two hours, and even longer if you're a car enthusiast! Even though I prefer Porsche over Mercedes, this museum is much better in my opinion!
Stadtbibliothek Stuttgart: Even if you don't speak the language, the visual appeal of the architecture here is undeniable! Capture some stunning photos before heading across the street to the Milano shopping mall for more exploration!
Königstraße: Shop till you drop! As soon as you step out of the train station, you'll find this pedestrian street adorned with shops and stores stretching all the way through town.
Stuttgart TV Tower: Seeking the perfect view of the city and the surrounding valley? Take the elevator up (unless you fancy a lot of stairs) for breathtaking vistas! Indulge in some delectable food at the restaurant atop and enjoy watching the world from above.
Places to eat & drink in Stuttgart
Markthalle: Indulge in a culinary adventure amidst the rows and rows of food stands. This foodie hotspot offers everything from meals to snacks, ensuring you find all your dining needs in one place!
Carl’s Brauhaus: Discover some incredibly delicious traditional German cuisine here! I opted for the schnitzel paired with a refreshing pilsner—a perfect combination! While this place is massive, be sure to make a reservation as it's always bustling with patrons!
Biergarten am Schlossgarten: Conveniently situated near the train station and nestled within a park, this spot is perfect for outdoor gatherings with friends or peaceful solo moments with a good book! It's where I first tried a radler—a refreshing mix of half beer and half lemonade—and it instantly became a favorite!
Beykebab: No Germany visit is complete without mentioning my favorite Döner Kebab shop! Here, you'll find the largest cone of meat you've ever seen and some of the most delicious Döner you'll ever taste!
Bonus tip: If you happen to be here during December, don't miss out on the Christmas markets! Stuttgart hosts one of the finest in Germany, making it one of my most cherished experiences in all of Europe.
Pro traveler tip: If you're planning an extended stay in Germany, consider investing in a Deutschland pass!!! For just 50 €, you gain unlimited access to all regional trains, buses, and trams! However, you'll need a German bank account to sign up, and be sure to cancel your subscription if you won't need it the following month! I personally found opening a Wise account to be extremely helpful—it's perfect for travel, allowing you to manage multiple currencies and set up online banks for each one!
Travel Advisor
Eric Parker
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Scott Ritter’s guide, Driving Tour of Germany through the Famed Romantic Road.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Stuttgart.