✓ Handpicked Luxury Stays in Budget on 🏡 booking.com
If you have done the things to do in Germany, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Stuttgart.
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Germany, Stuttgart beckons visitors with open arms like a vibrant bouquet of blossoming flowers on a sunny day, offering a plethora of enriching experiences that are sure to delight your senses and captivate your spirit.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Stuttgart:
1. Mercedes-Benz Museum
The Mercedes-Benz Museum is a state-of-the-art automobile museum located in Stuttgart, Germany that showcases the history and evolution of the famous car brand.
What to see or do: – See the impressive collection of more than 160 vehicles, ranging from vintage cars to modern Formula 1 cars.
Don’t miss: – The 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen, widely regarded as the first car ever created.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the museum to fully appreciate all it has to offer.
2. Porsche Museum
The Porsche Museum in Stuttgart is a state-of-the-art automotive museum dedicated to the iconic Porsche sports car brand.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore over 80 of the most famous and important Porsche models, including legendary race cars, vintage models, and modern supercars.
The museum features interactive displays, historical exhibits, and a fascinating look at the evolution of one of the most revered names in the automotive industry.
Don’t miss: Some of the top exhibits include the Porsche 917 racecar, the iconic Porsche 911, and the Porsche 356 “No. 1,” the very first Porsche ever built.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check out the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the Porsche factory and the surrounding city. Also, plan to spend at least a few hours at the museum to fully explore the exhibits and interactive displays.
It’s a must-visit for any automotive enthusiast or Porsche fan.
3. Stuttgart Zoo Wilhelma
Stuttgart Zoo Wilhelma is a large zoological and botanical garden located in Stuttgart, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can observe over 11,000 animals from around 1,200 species, including exotic birds, big cats, elephants, and reptiles. The zoo also boasts a large botanical garden, showcasing a variety of plants from around the world.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the aquarium section of the zoo, which features an impressive collection of marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, and seahorses.
Also, don’t miss the feeding times of the animals, as it’s a great opportunity to see them up-close and in action.
Insider travel tips: – Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in long lines.
4. Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History
Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History, also known as Museum am Löwentor, is a natural history museum in Stuttgart, Germany.
What to see or do: The museum houses an extensive collection of exhibits that showcase the diversity of the natural world.
Visitors can explore interactive displays, walk-through dioramas, and immersive multimedia installations that cover topics such as dinosaurs, evolution, ecology, and local flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the exhibits that highlight the biodiversity of the region, including the iconic Swabian Alb, with its unique rock formations and rare animal and plant species.
Also, make sure to check out the famous specimen of early anthropoid primate, Darwinius masillae, a 47-million-year-old fossil found in Germany in 2009.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the Rosensteinpark, a beautiful urban park with plenty of trails for hiking and cycling.
5. Stuttgart TV Tower
The Stuttgart TV Tower is a 216.6-meter telecommunications tower located in the city of Stuttgart, Germany.
What to see or do: Visit the observation deck at the top of the tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Enjoy a meal or a snack at the tower’s restaurant, which rotates 360 degrees every hour.
Don’t miss: The tower’s glass elevators provide a thrilling ride to the top, and the tower’s impressive lighting display at night is a sight to behold.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting the tower during the day to take advantage of the clear views of the surrounding hills and vineyards. If you’re on a budget, skip the restaurant and pack a picnic to enjoy on the observation deck.
6. Palace Square (Schlossplatz)
Palace Square, also known as Schlossplatz in German, is a central square located in the heart of Stuttgart, Germany. The square is surrounded by historical buildings and landmarks that make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Stuttgart.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the beautiful baroque-style New Palace that dominates the area, take a stroll along the lush gardens of the Schlossgarten, or visit the State Museum of Wurttemberg with its extensive collection of art and artifacts.
Don’t miss: One not-to-be-missed attraction is the stunning fountain in the center of the square that forms a magnificent sight during the summer when it is surrounded by blooming flowers.
Insider travel tips: For a more authentic experience, visit the square at night to see the palace lit up and enjoy the vivacious nightlife in the area.
Visitors can also enjoy the musical fountain show at night, which is a treat for the ears and eyes.
Additionally, make sure to pack comfortable shoes to explore the nearby streets and shops that are rich in history and charm.
7. Stuttgart Market Hall (Markthalle)
Stuttgart Market Hall (Markthalle) is a historic indoor market that offers the finest local products in the region.
What to see or do: Visitors can roam through the stunning architecture and browse the market’s many vendors who offer everything from fresh produce and meats to artisan cheeses, chocolates and wines.
There is also a wide array of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious cuisine.
Don’t miss: Be sure to try some of the local Swabian specialties such as Maultaschen (stuffed pasta), Spätzle (egg noodles), and Linsen mit Spätzle (lentils with noodles).
And don’t miss the chance to taste some of the region’s famous wines.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting on a Saturday, make sure to arrive early as the market can get crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit during the week.
And don’t forget to bring cash as many vendors do not accept credit cards.
8. Old Palace (Altes Schloss)
The Old Palace (Altes Schloss) is a historical building located in the heart of Stuttgart, Germany. It was built in the 16th century and served as the residence of the Dukes and Kings of Wurttemberg.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and explore its various rooms and exhibitions. The palace also houses a museum, which features displays on art, architecture, and the history of the region.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Palace Chapel, which dates back to the 14th century, and the beautiful Renaissance courtyard, which is surrounded by arcades and adorned with fountains.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit for a sunny day and take a stroll through the nearby Palace Gardens, which offer stunning views of the city and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Also, consider purchasing a combination ticket to visit other nearby museums and attractions.
9. New Palace (Neues Schloss)
A stunning Baroque palace located in the heart of Stuttgart, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can take guided tours of the palace, which include a look at the living quarters of former royal residents, as well as the state apartments and ballrooms.
The palace also houses various museums and galleries, including the Museum of the History of Baden-Württemberg and the State Gallery Stuttgart.
Don’t miss: The palace gardens are not to be missed. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, which feature fountains, statues, and even a man-made grotto.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of the audio guide, which is available in multiple languages. On Fridays, the palace is open until 9 pm, allowing visitors to experience the palace gardens at sunset.
10. Weissenhof Estate
Modernist housing estate designed by world-renowned architects in the 1920s.
What to see or do: Take a walking tour to admire the innovative building designs and learn about the history of the estate. Visit the museum to see exhibits on the German Werkbund and the development of modern architecture.
Don’t miss: The Le Corbusier house, designed by the Swiss-French architect and considered a masterpiece of modernist architecture.
Insider travel tips: Check the opening times of the museum and houses before visiting as they vary by season. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking tour, as it includes some uphill sections.
The estate is easily accessible by public transport from Stuttgart city center.
11. Staatsgalerie Stuttgart
A world-renowned art museum located in Stuttgart, Germany.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive collection of art, ranging from Old Masters to contemporary works. Admire the stunning architecture of the museum’s building, which was designed by James Stirling.
Attend one of the many exhibitions or cultural events hosted by the museum throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The impressive collection of paintings from the 14th to 19th century, including works by masters such as Rubens, Rembrandt, and Monet.
The museum’s collection of contemporary art, including pieces from Andy Warhol and Gerhard Richter.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit ahead of time and book tickets online to avoid long lines. Consider joining a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the museum’s collection and history.
The museum’s restaurant and café offer great views of the city, so make sure to stop for a snack or a meal.
12. Rosenstein Park
A beautiful public park located in Stuttgart, Germany, covering an area of around 130 acres.
What to see or do: Rosenstein Park offers a variety of activities to visitors such as taking a stroll along the park’s scenic trails, cycling, jogging, picnicking, or simply relaxing with friends and family.
Visitors can also explore the park’s stunning botanical gardens, the Rosenstein castle, and the natural history museum.
Don’t miss: The park’s amazing botanical garden features beautiful flowers, exotic plants, and trees from around the world.
The Rosenstein castle is a must-visit, which has been converted into a museum exhibiting the beautiful art and architecture of European culture.
Visitors should also make sure to check out the park’s impressive aviary, which houses a wide range of birds from various parts of the world.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should plan their visit during midweek, when the park is less crowded. Also, don’t forget to carry a binocular to view the birds closely in the park’s aviary.
Visitors should bring their own food and beverages or enjoy the on-site restaurant, which offers delicious local cuisine.
13. Collegiate Church of Stuttgart (Stiftskirche)
The Collegiate Church of Stuttgart, also known as Stiftskirche in German, is a historic church located in the heart of the city.
It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Stuttgart and is renowned for its magnificent architecture and rich history.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Renaissance design and marvel at the intricate details of the church’s interior.
The highlight of the church is the impressive altar, which dates back to the 16th century and is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.
Visitors can also explore the church’s beautiful stained-glass windows, which depict scenes from the life of Christ.
Don’t miss: One of the most fascinating features of the Collegiate Church of Stuttgart is the historic crypt, which dates back to the 10th century.
It is the final resting place of many of Stuttgart’s most prominent citizens, including members of the royal family.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the church is in the morning, when the light streams through the stained-glass windows, creating a beautiful and serene atmosphere.
14. Hauptbahnhof (Central Station)
Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) is the main railway station in Stuttgart, connecting the city to the rest of Germany and Europe.
What to see or do: – Admire the impressive architecture of the station building, which was constructed between 1914 and 1927.
Don’t miss: – The striking clock tower on the station building, which is a prominent landmark in Stuttgart.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re traveling with heavy luggage, be aware that there are several flights of stairs and the elevators can be crowded.
15. Killesbergpark
Killesbergpark is a public park located in the northern part of Stuttgart, Germany. It covers an area of 123 acres and is one of the largest landscaped parks in Europe.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Killesbergpark, such as walking, jogging, cycling, picnicking, and playing on the playgrounds.
The park features several attractions, including a miniature railway, a observation tower, a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a wildlife enclosure.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the iconic Killesbergturm tower which stands at 174 meters and offers stunning views of Stuttgart and its surroundings. Also, be sure to see the Rosensteintunnel, a historic tunnel that serves as a passage through the hill.
Insider travel tips: Visit Killesbergpark during the spring or summer months when the flowers and trees are in full bloom. The park is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and train stops located nearby.
Entrance to the park is free, but some attractions require an admission fee.