Stuttgart

Introducing Stuttgart

Stuttgart (German: Stuttgart) is located in the central Neckar River Valley of the state of Baden-Württemberg in southwestern Germany, near the Black Forest. It is not only the state capital, but also the capital of the state-level administrative region and the Stuttgart Region, and the state's largest city. It is also the state's political center: the Baden-Württemberg state parliament, the state government, and numerous state government agencies are located here. Due to its economic, cultural, and administrative importance, it is one of Germany's most famous cities.

Stuttgart is Germany's sixth-largest city, and the Stuttgart Region is the country's fourth-largest urban area (after the Ruhr Area, Rhine-Main, and Berlin). Nearest major cities to Stuttgart include Frankfurt, 204 kilometers to the north, and Munich, 220 kilometers to the southeast.

Stuttgart and its surrounding areas are famous for its high-tech companies, including Daimler (the famous Mercedes-Benz manufacturer), Porsche, Robert Bosch GmbH, and IBM Corporation. These well-known German and even world-famous companies have chosen this place as their headquarters.

In addition to these international giants, Stuttgart is home to 1,500 small and medium-sized enterprises. The Stuttgart Stock Exchange is Germany's second-largest stock exchange, after Frankfurt. Baden-Württemberg Bank is one of Germany's largest credit institutions. Stuttgart also boasts the third-largest casino in Germany. The city is also a renowned wine-producing region.

Climate and best time to travel

Stuttgart is located in the cool westerly wind belt between the Atlantic and eastern continental climates. Due to its basin location and dense population, Stuttgart's climate is relatively high. Hot and humid weather is common, with the surrounding forests shielding the city from the wind. Midday temperatures can reach as high as 40°C, but at night, due to a lack of convection, temperatures don't drop much, making them less than ideal. Winters are snow-free in the city, and cold winds are rare due to the high-rise buildings. Stuttgart's average annual temperature is 10.7°C. Due to its leeward location, Stuttgart receives relatively little precipitation, placing it within Germany's arid regions.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Mercedes-Benz Museum

Mercedes-Benz Museum

Mercedesstr. 137 70322

Stuttgart Bad Cannstatt / Untertürkheim

City train: Get off at Gottlieb Daimler Stadion station

Bus: Take bus No. 56 and get off at Martin-Schrenk-Weg station

Tuesday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm, closed on holidays, December 24th and December 31st

Wilhelma Zoo

(Wilhelma)

Wilhelma Neckartalstrasse 70376 Stuttgart—Bad Cannstatt

City train: Get off at Wilhelma station on line U14 or Rosensteinbrücke station on line U13

Bus: 52, 55, 56, get off at Rosensteinbrücke stop

May to August: 8:15 AM - 6:00 PM, March and October: 8:15 AM - 5:00 PM, April and September

Porsche Museum

（Porsche — Museum）

Porschestr. 42 70435 Stuttgart – Zuffenhausen

City train: Line S6, get off at Neuwirtshaus station

Monday to Friday 9:00-16:00, Saturday, Sunday and holidays 9:00-17:00

Mercedes-Benz Museum

The Mercedes-Benz Museum is the only museum in the world that records the entire 126-year history of the automotive industry from its first day of birth to the present day.

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Most Popular FAQs for Stuttgart

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Württemberg, is a historic city known for its automotive industry, Baroque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It played a key role in Germany’s industrial development and is famous for its contributions to music, art, and engineering.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in southwestern Germany. Accessible via Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (main train station), regional and international trains, city buses, U-Bahn (metro), taxis, and walking within the central areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most museums and attractions open 9:00–18:00. Best times to visit are spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Mercedes-Benz Museum: €10–€12, tickets available online or on-site.
• Porsche Museum: €8–€12, tickets online or at entrance.
• Wilhelma Zoo & Botanical Garden: €20–€25, tickets online recommended.
• State Gallery: €12–€15, online and on-site tickets available.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is recommended for Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums, especially on weekends or during tourist season. 1–2 weeks in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days for main attractions, museums, gardens, and city exploration.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Mercedes-Benz Museum
• Porsche Museum
• Schlossplatz and New Palace
• Stuttgart Old Town (Altstadt)
• Fernsehturm Stuttgart (TV Tower)
• Wilhelma Zoo & Botanical Garden
• Staatsgalerie Stuttgart (State Gallery)

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are offered in English, German, and other major languages at museums. Audio guides are available for major sites.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Fernsehturm Stuttgart observation deck
• Schlossplatz square
• Killesberg Park for city panorama
• From the terraces of New Palace

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Schlossplatz and Old Town, visit State Gallery, then museums (Mercedes-Benz or Porsche), end with Wilhelma or TV Tower for city views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Some museums offer evening events, and seasonal festivals may include light shows or extended opening hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekends and summer are busiest. Weekdays in spring or autumn are least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include cafes, restaurants, restrooms, benches, gift shops, and vending areas within major attractions.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most attractions are wheelchair accessible. Museums provide elevators and ramps; some historic sites may have limited access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards are widely accepted; small markets or stalls may prefer cash (EUR).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Many options in city center and near Schlossplatz, offering traditional German cuisine, international dishes, and cafes for pastries and coffee.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are common; halal options may be limited but available in select international restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Range from luxury hotels, boutique stays, and budget hostels near city center and main attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ludwigsburg Palace
• Esslingen am Neckar historic town
• Black Forest region for nature day trips

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include German chocolates, car-themed items, local crafts, postcards, and regional specialties.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Train connections to Munich, Heidelberg, or Frankfurt
• Bus tours to surrounding towns and Black Forest
• Car rental for exploring Baden-Württemberg region