Top Ten Things to Do in Stuttgart, Germany

If you’re looking for the best ways to experience Stuttgart, Germany, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top ten things to do in the city, from exploring museums to enjoying beautiful views and everything in between. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

So, let’s dive in and discover the top ten things to do in Stuttgart, Germany that you won’t want to miss!

1. Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum

The Mercedes-Benz Museum is a must-visit attraction for any car enthusiast or history buff visiting Stuttgart. With over 160 vehicles on display, visitors can learn about the history of the iconic German automaker and see some of the most impressive and innovative cars ever produced.

The museum is organized chronologically, taking visitors on a journey through time to learn about the earliest days of the company to the modern era. With interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and an impressive collection of cars, the Mercedes-Benz Museum is a fascinating and informative place to spend an afternoon.

Be sure to take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit, and don’t miss the rooftop terrace for stunning views of the city.

2. Explore the Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History

Looking for a way to delve into the natural history of Stuttgart? The Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History is the perfect place for you. This museum is filled with fascinating exhibits that explore everything from geology to biology.

Get up close and personal with ancient fossils and learn about the diverse range of animal and plant species that have called Stuttgart home throughout history. With so much to see and learn, the Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for anyone interested in the natural world.

3. Take a Stroll Through the Palace Square

If you’re visiting Stuttgart, Germany, one of the top things to do is to take a stroll through the Palace Square. This is the heart of the city and a must-visit destination for any traveler. The Palace Square, or Schlossplatz in German, is located in the center of Stuttgart and is surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

One of the most striking buildings on the Palace Square is the New Palace, or Neues Schloss, which was built in the 18th century. This magnificent building has a baroque facade and is home to the state government of Baden-Württemberg. Another landmark on the square is the Jubilee Column, or Jubiläumssäule, which was built to commemorate the 25th anniversary of King Wilhelm I’s reign.

Visitors can also take a walk through the Palace Gardens, which are located just behind the New Palace. These gardens are beautifully landscaped and offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find fountains, sculptures, and plenty of benches where you can sit and enjoy the scenery.

Overall, taking a stroll through the Palace Square is a great way to experience the history and beauty of Stuttgart. Make sure to bring your camera and take plenty of photos!

4. Discover the Stuttgart Art Museum

When it comes to the art scene in Stuttgart, the Stuttgart Art Museum is a must-see destination for art enthusiasts. Founded in 2005, the museum has an extensive collection of European art from the 14th century to the present day. Its permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Otto Dix, and Max Beckmann.

The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing a variety of art forms such as painting, sculpture, photography, and video art. These exhibitions often feature works by emerging artists from Germany and around the world, making it an exciting destination for anyone looking to discover new talent.

Aside from the artwork, the museum’s architecture is also a highlight. The building was designed by the Berlin-based architects Hascher Jehle, and its modern design creates a striking contrast against the surrounding historical buildings.

Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to explore something new, the Stuttgart Art Museum is definitely worth a visit. With its impressive collection and dynamic exhibitions, it’s a great way to experience the vibrant art scene in Stuttgart.

5. Enjoy the View from the Fernsehturm Stuttgart

Located in the heart of Stuttgart, the Fernsehturm Stuttgart is a TV tower that offers an amazing view of the city from its observation deck. Standing at a height of 216.61 meters, it is the first television tower ever built in the world and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Visitors can take the elevator up to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the vineyards, the Black Forest, and the Swabian Alps.

The tower also features a revolving restaurant, which offers a fine dining experience with stunning views of the city. The restaurant makes a complete revolution every 55 minutes, giving diners a 360-degree view of the city while enjoying a delicious meal. Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant is very popular and often fully booked.

For a unique and unforgettable experience in Stuttgart, a visit to the Fernsehturm Stuttgart is a must. Whether you’re interested in the panoramic views, the revolving restaurant, or both, it’s sure to be an experience you’ll never forget.

6. Visit the Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Garden

If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful destination in Stuttgart, look no further than the Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Garden. This incredible garden is home to thousands of plant and animal species, making it one of the most diverse and interesting places to visit in the city.

As you explore the garden, you’ll be transported to different parts of the world, from the lush rainforests of South America to the arid deserts of Africa. And with over 8,000 animals to see, including majestic elephants, playful primates, and slithering snakes, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.

But the Wilhelma is more than just a zoo and botanical garden. It’s also a beautiful historical landmark, with stunning architecture and intricate details that will leave you in awe. So if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind destination in Stuttgart, be sure to visit the Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Garden. You won’t be disappointed!

7. Take a Day Trip to Ludwigsburg Palace

If you’re looking for a day trip from Stuttgart, Ludwigsburg Palace is a must-visit destination. Just a short train ride away, this stunning Baroque palace is sure to impress with its ornate architecture, expansive gardens, and rich history.

Once you arrive, be sure to take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its interesting past and see some of the beautifully decorated rooms. The palace’s gardens are also a highlight and offer a peaceful escape from the city.

If you happen to visit in the summer, don’t miss the annual Ludwigsburg Palace Festival, which features live music, theater performances, and fireworks displays in the palace gardens.

Overall, a day trip to Ludwigsburg Palace is a great way to experience a different side of Stuttgart’s history and culture.

8. Explore the Rosensteinpark

If you’re looking for a tranquil escape from the city, the Rosensteinpark is the perfect place to visit. This expansive park is home to beautiful gardens, scenic walking paths, and even a small zoo. Whether you’re looking to have a picnic with friends or simply take a relaxing stroll, the Rosensteinpark has something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of the park is the Wilhelma Zoo, which is located at the southern end of the park. Here, you can see a variety of exotic animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. There is also a botanical garden on the premises, which boasts a stunning collection of rare and exotic plants.

Another must-see attraction in the park is the Rosenstein Palace, a beautiful neoclassical building that was once home to the kings of Wurttemberg. Today, the palace serves as a museum, and visitors can tour its opulent halls and learn about the history of the region.

But even if you’re not interested in the park’s historical and cultural offerings, it’s still worth a visit simply for its natural beauty. The park features several lakes, as well as a wide variety of trees and flowers. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

So if you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Stuttgart, be sure to check out the Rosensteinpark. Whether you’re interested in the park’s cultural offerings or simply want to enjoy its natural beauty, you’re sure to have a wonderful time here.

9. Experience the Stuttgart Beer Festival

If you’re a beer lover, you won’t want to miss the Stuttgart Beer Festival. Held annually in late September to early October, this festival is one of the most popular events in the city. Visitors from all over the world come to Stuttgart to experience the traditional German beer culture, complete with lively music and traditional costumes.

The festival takes place in the Cannstatter Wasen, a large fairground on the banks of the Neckar River. Here, you can sample a wide variety of beers from local breweries, as well as enjoy traditional German food such as sausages and pretzels. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with live music and dancing throughout the day and into the night.

One of the highlights of the festival is the parade of decorated beer wagons, which take place on the first Sunday of the event. The wagons are elaborately decorated with flowers and lights, and are pulled by teams of horses through the streets of Stuttgart. It’s a colorful and festive spectacle that shouldn’t be missed.

Whether you’re a beer lover or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Stuttgart Beer Festival is definitely worth checking out. Just be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as the festival attracts large crowds and hotel rooms can fill up quickly.

10. Wander through the Old Castle and Market Square

If you’re looking for a taste of history and culture in Stuttgart, the Old Castle and Market Square is a must-see destination. The Old Castle, also known as the Altes Schloss, was built in the 10th century and has been the residence of the Dukes and Kings of Württemberg for centuries. Today, it houses the Württemberg State Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the region.

Next to the Old Castle is the lively Market Square, or Marktplatz, where you can wander through the stalls of local vendors and find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Take a break from shopping and grab a coffee or beer at one of the outdoor cafes, or sit and watch the world go by while admiring the stunning Renaissance architecture that surrounds you.

Don’t miss the chance to climb the tower of the nearby Stiftskirche, or Collegiate Church, for breathtaking views of the city. And if you’re visiting in the winter, be sure to check out the Stuttgart Christmas Market, which is held in the Market Square and features traditional food, drink, and crafts.