Stuttgart might not be the first German city that comes to mind when planning your European adventure, but this vibrant metropolis nestled in a valley surrounded by vineyards has so much to offer. As the capital of Baden-Württemberg and home to both Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, Stuttgart blends automotive excellence with rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving cultural scene.
Whether you’re a museum enthusiast, a car lover, a foodie, or someone who simply enjoys wandering through beautiful parks and historic neighborhoods, Stuttgart delivers experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. The city’s unique location in a basin surrounded by hills covered with vineyards creates a picturesque setting that sets it apart from other German cities.
From world-renowned museums and magnificent palaces to lively markets and unusual attractions, there are countless things to do in Stuttgart that cater to every type of traveler. This guide will walk you through the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites that make Stuttgart a destination worth exploring.
Explore World-Class Automotive Museums
Stuttgart is the birthplace of the automobile, and nowhere is this heritage more celebrated than at the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum. The Mercedes-Benz Museum takes you on a journey through 130 years of automotive history across nine levels. The futuristic architecture alone is worth the visit, but inside you’ll find over 160 vehicles showcasing the evolution of the automobile.
The Porsche Museum offers an equally impressive experience with more than 80 vehicles on display. Even if you’re not a car enthusiast, the sleek design and interactive exhibits make this one of the best things to do in Stuttgart. Both museums offer audio guides that bring the stories behind these legendary vehicles to life, making them engaging for visitors of all ages.
Discover the Magnificent Schloss Solitude
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, Schloss Solitude is a stunning Rococo palace built in the 18th century as a hunting lodge and summer residence. The palace’s name means “Solitude Castle,” and it truly offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle. The ornate rooms and halls showcase exquisite craftsmanship and give you a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of past rulers.
The surrounding parkland provides beautiful walking trails with panoramic views of Stuttgart and the Swabian countryside. This is one of those things to do in Stuttgart that combines history, architecture, and nature in one spectacular package. The palace is slightly outside the city center, but the journey is part of the experience as you wind through scenic landscapes.
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Wander Through Schlossplatz and the Palace Gardens
Schlossplatz is the heart of Stuttgart and the city’s largest square. This expansive plaza is surrounded by impressive buildings including the New Palace and the Old Palace. During summer, locals gather here to relax on the grass, enjoy outdoor concerts, and soak up the atmosphere. The square comes alive during festivals and markets throughout the year.
Adjacent to Schlossplatz, you’ll find the Palace Gardens, a beautiful green space that stretches for kilometers through the city. This park is perfect for jogging, picnicking, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. The gardens feature lakes, playgrounds, and even a planetarium, making it one of the best things to do in Stuttgart with kids or for anyone seeking outdoor relaxation.
Visit the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart Art Museum
Art lovers will find the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart to be a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces. This museum houses an impressive collection spanning from medieval times to contemporary art. Works by Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, and Picasso grace the walls, alongside important pieces from German Romantic and Impressionist movements.
The museum building itself is a work of art, with the new wing designed by British architect James Stirling featuring bold postmodern architecture. Entry is surprisingly affordable, and special exhibitions regularly bring in temporary collections that showcase both established and emerging artists. The museum also offers various programs and workshops that make art accessible to everyone.
Experience the Stuttgart TV Tower
The Fernsehturm Stuttgart holds the distinction of being the world’s first television tower built from reinforced concrete. Standing 217 meters tall, this iconic structure offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Stuttgart, the surrounding hills, and the Black Forest in the distance. The observation deck and rotating restaurant provide unique perspectives of the city.
Visiting the TV tower is one of the most unusual things to do in Stuttgart that gives you a completely different appreciation for the city’s layout and geography. On clear days, you can see for miles, watching the sunset paint the vineyards in golden hues. The tower is located in the forest park on the city’s edge, combining spectacular views with a pleasant walk through nature.
Shop and Eat at Markthalle Stuttgart
The Markthalle is a food lover’s paradise housed in a stunning Art Nouveau building. This indoor market has been operating since 1914 and features over 30 vendors selling everything from fresh produce and artisan cheeses to exotic spices and international delicacies. The architecture alone makes this one of the best things to do in Stuttgart, with its ornate glass ceiling and elegant design.
Beyond shopping, the Markthalle is a culinary destination where you can sample local Swabian specialties like Maultaschen and Spätzle or explore international cuisines. The atmosphere buzzes with energy as locals and tourists mingle, vendors call out their offerings, and the aromas of fresh-baked bread and roasted coffee fill the air. Many stalls offer prepared foods, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Climb the Weinwanderweg Vineyard Trail
One of the most unusual things to do in Stuttgart is hiking through urban vineyards. The Weinwanderweg trail takes you through terraced vineyards that climb the hillsides surrounding the city. These aren’t countryside vineyards but working wine estates within the city limits, making Stuttgart one of the few major cities in the world with such extensive viticulture.
The trail offers stunning views of the city below while you walk among the grape vines. Along the way, you’ll find traditional wine taverns called Besenwirtschaften where you can taste local wines and enjoy Swabian cuisine. This experience perfectly captures Stuttgart’s unique character, blending urban sophistication with agricultural traditions that have existed for centuries.
Explore the Historic Altes Schloss
The Altes Schloss, or Old Castle, sits in the heart of Stuttgart and houses the Württemberg State Museum. This Renaissance palace dates back to the 10th century and features a beautiful inner courtyard that hosts concerts and events during warmer months. The castle’s architecture tells the story of Stuttgart’s evolution from a medieval settlement to a modern city.
Inside, the museum collection spans from the Stone Age to modern times, with particular strengths in medieval artifacts and royal regalia. The crown jewels of the Württemberg kings are displayed in specially designed rooms that recreate the opulence of royal chambers. This is one of the best things to do in Stuttgart for history enthusiasts who want to understand the region’s cultural heritage.
Visit the Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Garden
Wilhelma combines a world-class zoo with spectacular botanical gardens in a unique Moorish-style architectural setting. Originally built as a royal pleasure garden in the 19th century, today it houses over 10,000 animals from around the world and thousands of plant species. The historic buildings with their ornate details and exotic designs create an enchanting atmosphere.
The combination of animals, plants, and architecture makes Wilhelma one of the best things to do in Stuttgart with kids, though adults will be equally captivated. The aquarium section impresses with its diverse marine life, while the ape house and African savanna exhibits are particular highlights. The botanical gardens showcase everything from tropical orchids to Mediterranean plants, offering year-round beauty.
Experience Stuttgart’s Nightlife and Culture
Things to do in Stuttgart at night range from sophisticated wine bars and craft beer pubs to vibrant clubs and live music venues. The Theodor-Heuss-Strasse area, known locally as “Theo,” is the main nightlife district with numerous bars and clubs catering to different tastes. For a more alternative scene, head to the Bohnenviertel, the historic bean quarter, where you’ll find cozy wine bars and intimate live music spots.
Stuttgart also boasts an active cultural calendar with opera performances at the renowned Stuttgart State Opera, theater productions, and concerts throughout the year. The city’s ballet company is considered one of the best in the world. Catching a performance offers a different perspective on Stuttgart’s cultural sophistication and makes for a memorable evening.
Stroll Through the Bohnenviertel Quarter
The Bohnenviertel, or Bean Quarter, is Stuttgart’s oldest and most charming neighborhood. This area survived World War II bombing relatively intact, preserving its narrow cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Today, it’s filled with independent boutiques, artisan workshops, galleries, and cozy cafes that give you a taste of old Stuttgart.
Exploring the Bohnenviertel is one of the best things to do in Stuttgart for those who enjoy discovering local neighborhoods away from major tourist sites. Small wine taverns and restaurants serve traditional Swabian dishes, while street art and murals add contemporary flair to historic buildings. The area comes alive in the evenings when locals gather at outdoor tables, creating a convivial atmosphere.
Discover the Stuttgart Library
The Stuttgart City Library is an architectural marvel that has become one of the city’s most photographed buildings. Designed by Korean architect Eun Young Yi, this cube-shaped structure features a minimalist design with a stunning central atrium. The interior is predominantly white, creating a serene space that feels almost sacred in its dedication to knowledge and reading.
Even if you’re not planning to read, visiting the library is one of the most unusual things to do in Stuttgart. The geometric perfection and play of light create an Instagram-worthy experience, especially from the upper floors looking down into the central space. The rooftop terrace offers another panoramic view of the city and is open to the public.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
Stuttgart’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. The picturesque town of Esslingen is just a short train ride away, offering medieval architecture and charming Christmas markets in winter. The Black Forest begins less than an hour from the city, providing hiking opportunities and scenic drives through one of Germany’s most famous natural areas.
Ludwigsburg Palace, located about 15 minutes north of Stuttgart, is one of Germany’s largest Baroque palaces and well worth a visit. The palace complex includes beautiful gardens, a fashion museum, and ceramics museum. These day trip options add even more things to do in Stuttgart and its surroundings, extending your adventure beyond the city limits.
Enjoy Local Swabian Cuisine
No visit to Stuttgart is complete without sampling authentic Swabian cuisine. Maultaschen are large pasta pockets filled with meat, spinach, and spices, often compared to ravioli but with a unique regional flavor. Spätzle, the region’s signature egg noodles, accompany many dishes and come in countless variations including Käsespätzle with melted cheese.
Traditional restaurants throughout the city serve these specialties alongside local wines from the surrounding vineyards. Zwiebelrostbraten, a roast beef dish topped with fried onions, is another local favorite. Trying these regional dishes at family-run restaurants or traditional Gasthauses is one of the best things to do in Stuttgart for food enthusiasts who want an authentic taste of the region.
Visit During Special Events and Festivals
Stuttgart hosts numerous festivals throughout the year that showcase different aspects of local culture. The Stuttgart Wine Festival in late summer is one of the largest wine festivals in Germany, transforming the city center into a massive celebration of regional wines. The Christmas markets in December create a magical atmosphere with traditional crafts, mulled wine, and seasonal treats.
The Cannstatter Volksfest rivals Munich’s Oktoberfest in size and is considered the world’s second-largest beer festival. This traditional fair combines beer tents with carnival rides and has been celebrated since 1818. Planning your visit around these events adds unique things to do in Stuttgart that you won’t find during other times of the year.
Conclusion
Stuttgart offers a rich tapestry of experiences that blend automotive innovation, cultural sophistication, natural beauty, and culinary delights. From world-class museums and historic palaces to urban vineyards and vibrant neighborhoods, the city rewards curious travelers who venture beyond Germany’s more famous destinations.
The things to do in Stuttgart cater to diverse interests and travel styles. Whether you’re exploring automotive history, hiking through city vineyards, savoring Swabian cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in beautiful parks and squares, Stuttgart provides memorable experiences at every turn.
This often-overlooked city deserves a spot on your German itinerary. The combination of accessibility, affordability compared to larger German cities, and the variety of attractions makes Stuttgart ideal for a weekend getaway or as part of a longer European adventure. Start planning your Stuttgart experience today and discover why locals are so proud of their dynamic, beautiful city nestled in the heart of Baden-Württemberg.
FAQs
1. What are the top things to do in Stuttgart for first-time visitors?
First-time visitors should explore the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums, Schlossplatz, Stuttgart TV Tower, and the Palace Gardens.
2. Is Stuttgart worth visiting if you’re not a car enthusiast?
Absolutely—Stuttgart offers historic palaces, art museums, vineyards, parks, vibrant neighborhoods, and excellent food beyond its automotive fame.
3. What is the best time of year to visit Stuttgart?
Late spring to early autumn is ideal for outdoor attractions, wine festivals, and pleasant weather, while winter is perfect for Christmas markets.
4. Are there family-friendly things to do in Stuttgart?
Yes, families can enjoy Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden, Palace Gardens, interactive museums, and scenic parks throughout the city.
5. Can you explore vineyards in Stuttgart without leaving the city?
Yes, Stuttgart is unique for its urban vineyards, and the Weinwanderweg trail lets visitors hike through vineyards within city limits.
