If you’re searching for an exciting getaway to one of Germany’s lesser-known gems, Stuttgart might just be the perfect destination for you. Located in the heart of southern Germany, this city is packed with incredible sights, unique experiences, and hidden treasures. Often overshadowed by larger and more famous cities like Berlin or Munich, Stuttgart has a charm and character that is well worth exploring. It’s the sixth-largest city in Germany and serves as the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg.
What makes Stuttgart special is its balance between modernity and history, blending a cutting-edge, entrepreneurial spirit with beautiful landscapes, historic buildings, and lively public spaces. Despite this, it’s often bypassed by tourists in favor of more well-known destinations. That’s unfortunate because Stuttgart has so much to offer—from stunning architecture to incredible museums, and from beautiful parks to bustling markets.
If you’re planning a visit, I recommend staying a bit longer than you may have initially planned. To make sure you don’t miss out, I’ve put together a detailed list of the top 10 attractions and experiences you absolutely must check out in Stuttgart.
1. Schlossplatz: The Heart of Stuttgart
One of the first places you need to visit when you’re in Stuttgart is Schlossplatz. This grand square is not just a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike but a hub of historical importance and architectural beauty. Located right in the center of the city, it’s surrounded by gorgeous buildings, with the most notable being the Neues Schloss, or “New Palace.”
Built in the 18th century, the Neues Schloss used to be the residence of kings and dukes, adding a royal touch to the city’s vibe. Today, the palace is used for government purposes, but its stunning façade still serves as a reminder of its regal past. Walking through Schlossplatz, you’ll feel a palpable connection to history, imagining what life might have been like when royalty roamed the city.
But what truly makes Schlossplatz stand out is not just its historical significance but the atmosphere it offers. Whether you’re there during a sunny afternoon or late in the evening, the square is a fantastic spot to people-watch, relax, or simply enjoy the surroundings. In summer, you might find musicians playing on the steps of the palace or locals lounging in the grass. The sheer vibrancy of the area makes it one of Stuttgart’s most beloved spots, and it’s easy to lose track of time soaking in the ambiance.
Schlossplatz also becomes even more magical during winter, when the city’s Christmas markets set up shop here. The entire square is illuminated with lights, and you can warm up with mulled wine and enjoy traditional German treats. No matter the season, Schlossplatz offers an unforgettable experience.
2. Stuttgart Television Tower: A View Like No Other
Next on your list should be the Stuttgart Television Tower—or as it’s locally known, the Fernsehturm Stuttgart. Not only is this structure one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, but it also boasts an impressive claim to fame: it was the first television tower in the world made from reinforced concrete. Built in 1956, it revolutionized tower construction and inspired similar designs across the globe.
Standing at an imposing 217 meters tall, the tower has an observation deck situated at 150 meters, offering visitors panoramic views that are nothing short of breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see far beyond the city limits, catching glimpses of the Black Forest and even the Swabian Alps. Whether you visit during the day or at sunset, the view from the top is mesmerizing.
But the Fernsehturm isn’t just about the view. There’s also a lovely restaurant located in the tower, making it a fantastic place to have a meal with a view—especially if you time it around sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, is an experience you won’t want to miss. It’s no wonder that the Stuttgart Television Tower remains one of the most visited and loved attractions in the city.
3. Mercedes-Benz Museum: A Journey Through Automotive History
Stuttgart is often hailed as the birthplace of the automobile, and for good reason. It was here in 1886 that Karl Benz launched the world’s first petrol-powered car. Given this rich history, it’s only fitting that one of the city’s most popular attractions is the Mercedes-Benz Museum.
This state-of-the-art museum is a must-see for anyone with even a passing interest in cars. The museum doesn’t just showcase vehicles—it tells the story of how the automobile transformed the world. Spanning nine floors, the museum offers over 1,500 exhibits and 160 vehicles, tracing the evolution of car technology from its inception to the present day.
The centerpiece of the collection is a faithful replica of that very first gasoline-powered car. However, the museum also offers a dazzling array of other vehicles, including the world’s first motorcycle, Formula 1 cars, and vintage automobiles. Whether you’re a die-hard car enthusiast or just someone interested in history, you’ll find something to captivate you here.
The interactive displays, along with the sheer beauty of the vehicles on display, make the Mercedes-Benz Museum one of Stuttgart’s most immersive experiences. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the technological innovations that have shaped our modern world.
4. Porsche Museum: Speed, Style, and Innovation
For car lovers, the Porsche Museum is another unmissable stop on your Stuttgart itinerary. While it might be smaller than the Mercedes-Benz Museum, it more than makes up for its size with the incredible collection of luxury sports cars housed within its sleek, modern building.
Opened in 2009, the Porsche Museum is a tribute to the legacy of one of the world’s most famous car brands. Inside, you’ll find more than 200 exhibits, including almost 100 cars that tell the story of Porsche’s rise from a small engineering company to a global symbol of luxury and speed.
Of course, the museum isn’t just about the cars themselves. It also delves into the life of Ferdinand Porsche, the genius behind the brand. In addition to founding Porsche, Ferdinand also invented the Volkswagen Beetle and designed the first petrol-electric hybrid vehicle. His innovations helped shape the automotive world as we know it today.
The Porsche Museum offers a deep dive into the company’s history, with detailed exhibits on everything from early race cars to modern-day models. You don’t need to be a car expert to enjoy this museum—just a general appreciation for design, engineering, and craftsmanship.
5. Ludwigsburg Palace: A Royal Getaway
Just a short trip from Stuttgart lies the Ludwigsburg Palace, one of the largest and most stunning baroque palaces in all of Germany. This opulent complex is composed of 18 buildings and more than 450 rooms, making it an architectural marvel that will leave you awestruck.
The palace was originally built in the early 18th century as a hunting lodge, but it quickly grew into something much grander. It became a royal residence, hosting kings, dukes, and other nobility over the centuries. Today, Ludwigsburg Palace stands as a testament to baroque artistry, with its ornate interiors, vast halls, and intricately designed gardens.
Speaking of gardens, the palace grounds are a highlight in their own right. The beautifully maintained gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Whether you’re walking among the blooming flowers or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to a more regal era.
Visitors can take a 90-minute guided tour of the palace’s lavish interiors, learning about its history and the lives of the people who once called it home. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the grandeur and luxury of Germany’s royal past.
6. Markthalle: A Feast for the Senses
No visit to Stuttgart would be complete without a trip to the Markthalle, the city’s central market hall. This vibrant indoor market has been a staple of Stuttgart life since 1914, offering a treasure trove of local and international foods, spices, and delicacies.
The Markthalle is a paradise for food lovers. With over 30 stalls, you can find everything from fresh produce and meats to cheese, wine, and exotic spices. The air is filled with the mouth-watering scents of freshly prepared meals, making it difficult to resist sampling the various offerings as you walk through the market.
This market is more than just a place to shop—it’s a cultural experience. As you browse the colorful displays, you’ll hear the buzz of local vendors chatting with customers, and you might even pick up a few German phrases along the way. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, ingredients for a home-cooked meal, or just want to soak in the lively atmosphere, the Markthalle is a must-see destination.
For an even more immersive experience, plan your visit during lunchtime, when the market comes alive with locals grabbing a bite to eat. Try one of the freshly made dishes from the market’s food vendors, and you’ll get a true taste of Stuttgart.
7. Staatsgalerie Stuttgart: A Treasure Trove of Art
If you have a passion for art, you absolutely must visit the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, one of Germany’s most renowned art museums. Home to one of Europe’s most impressive collections, this museum features works spanning several centuries, with a particular focus on the modernist period from 1900 to 1980.
The Staatsgalerie’s collection includes masterpieces by some of the world’s most famous artists, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Salvador Dalí. Walking through the museum’s halls, you’ll find yourself in the presence of artistic genius, surrounded by paintings, sculptures, and other works that have defined the course of art history.
While the museum is known for its modernist collection, it also features works from earlier periods, offering a comprehensive overview of European art. Whether you’re an art history buff or just curious about the evolution of artistic styles, the Staatsgalerie will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the power of creativity.
Keep in mind that the museum is not only about the past. It regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists, so there’s always something new to discover.
8. Killesberg Park and Tower: Nature and Fun Combined
For those who love spending time outdoors, Killesberg Park is one of Stuttgart’s most beautiful green spaces. Spread over a vast area, this park offers lush gardens, well-maintained flowerbeds, bubbling fountains, and striking sculptures. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family day out.
If you’re visiting with children, Killesberg Park is especially fun. There’s a small train that runs through the park, a children’s zoo, and a large playground where kids can burn off some energy. During the summer months, the park hosts various festivals and live shows, adding to its lively atmosphere.
The crown jewel of Killesberg Park is the Killesbergturm, a 40-meter-high observation tower. Climb to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Stuttgart and the surrounding Neckar Valley. The tower has four viewing platforms at different heights, so you can stop along the way to take in the sights.
Killesberg Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some peace and tranquility in nature.
9. Königstrasse: Shop Until You Drop
If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, look no further than Königstrasse, Stuttgart’s premier shopping street. Stretching for over 1.2 kilometers, this bustling pedestrian thoroughfare is lined with international chain stores, local boutiques, and everything in between.
From fashion giants like H&M and Zara to smaller shops offering unique finds, Königstrasse has something for everyone. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, it’s worth a visit just to experience the energy of the street. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafés, and biergartens where you can take a break and people-watch.
Whether you’re hunting for the perfect souvenir or just want to browse the latest fashion trends, Königstrasse is the place to go.
10. Public Library Stuttgart: A Modern Architectural Marvel
It might sound unusual to include a public library on a list of top attractions, but the Public Library Stuttgart is not your typical library. This striking building, designed by Korean architect Eun Young Yi, has become a must-see destination thanks to its unique architecture and stunning interior design.
The library is housed in a minimalist white cubic building that looks almost otherworldly. Inside, the clean, modern design continues, with vast open spaces and a light-filled atrium that gives the building an ethereal feel. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the city and a favorite among Instagram users.
In addition to its design, the Public Library Stuttgart offers visitors a peaceful place to relax and read, with thousands of books available in both German and other languages. At the top of the building, you’ll find a lovely roof terrace with a café, offering panoramic views of the city.
Whether you’re a book lover or simply appreciate great architecture, the Public Library Stuttgart is a must-visit attraction.
Conclusion
Stuttgart may not always be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to Germany, but as you can see, it has plenty to offer. From its rich automotive history to its stunning parks, palaces, and museums, Stuttgart is a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Stuttgart has something for everyone.
So next time you’re planning a trip to Germany, consider adding Stuttgart to your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.