Set in a valley surrounded by vineyards and forests, Stuttgart blends green spaces with grand architecture and rich culture. From the State Theatre to the Museum of Natural History and the modernist Weißenhof estate, the city offers plenty to explore. Locals call it the 'paradise of Swabia' thanks to its parks, woodlands and laid-back feel. Add world-class museums, buzzing festivals and a love of food and wine, and you’ve got a city that’s easy to enjoy.
Stuttgart lies in the heart of one of Germany's largest wine-growing regions, and its unique charm draws visitors from across the globe. As the state capital of Baden-Württemberg, the city offers a mix of stunning panoramas, lush gardens and parks, historic squares, and architecture ranging from medieval to modern. Its cultural diversity adds another layer of appeal, making it a vibrant city with something for everyone.
Set in a basin-shaped valley opening out to the Neckar River, Stuttgart is surrounded by rolling vineyards to the east and south, with fertile plains to the north and west. While Cannstatt was already inhabited in Roman times, Stuttgart itself was founded in the 10th century as a stud farm, likely on the site of an earlier settlement. By 1219, it had officially gained city status under Hermann V of Baden. In the late 15th century, it became the seat of the duke, and in 1806, it was named the capital of the Kingdom of Württemberg.
Today, Stuttgart stands as the cultural and political heart of Baden-Württemberg, but it’s also a key hub for industry, trade, and finance. The city draws visitors with iconic attractions like the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum, where you can dive into the stories behind these world-famous brands. Stuttgart’s traditional festivals also attract crowds from all over, making it a city that's always ready to celebrate.
Stuttgart’s got a bit of everything—cars, culture, countryside, and a lot of wine. You can dive into 125 years of car history at the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums, catch a ballet or opera, or just wander around and take in the mix of grand palaces, modern art, and leafy parks. The beer festival pulls a crowd in autumn, and the Christmas market's atmosphere is hard to beat.
Vineyards roll right into the city, and you’ll spot them even from the U-Bahn. There are mineral spas for a proper soak, chapels with a view, and plenty of cosy spots for a drink in the evening—whether you’re into Riesling or local beer.
Stuttgart’s calendar is packed with events that bring the city to life all year round—from lively spring and summer festivals to cosy winter markets. Whether you're into food, wine, music or fairground rides, there's usually something going on that’s worth checking out.
Stuttgart Spring Festival
Stuttgart Summer Festival
Wine Village
Stuttgart Beer Festival
Stuttgart Christmas Market
If you’re into hearty food, Stuttgart delivers. Local spots serve up plates loaded with sausages, roast meats, and spätzle—a kind of soft egg noodle you’ll see everywhere. The regional dish, Gaisburger Marsch, is a rich stew with beef, potatoes, spätzle, veg, and crispy onions. And if you’re just after a quick snack, you can’t go wrong with a buttered pretzel in the afternoon.
Stuttgart’s cafés are perfect for kicking back with a coffee or tea and watching the world go by. Whether you’re after a homemade cake or just a quiet spot to relax, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a little downtime.
Stuttgart is a city of big celebrations, wild festivities and long nights of partying. The 'party mile' in the Theodor-Heuss-Straße is second to none, and its numerous clubs, bars and lounges attract revellers from all over Germany. But Stuttgart also has many options for visitors who prefer soft music, cool drinks and a cosy atmosphere.
A shopping precinct more than a kilometre in length, big shopping centres and lots of elegant shops and boutiques: in Stuttgart, shopaholics can indulge themselves to their heart's content.
Stuttgart Airport (STR)
Stuttgart Airport (STR) is about 13 km south of the city centre and is well connected by public transport. The S-Bahn lines S2 and S3 run regularly from the airport to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof, taking just under 30 minutes. Taxis are also available and take around 20 minutes, depending on traffic. Long-distance and regional buses depart from the Stuttgart Airport Bus Terminal (SAB), located next to the terminal building.
Address: Stuttgart Airport
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Phone: +49 711 9480
Website: www.stuttgart-airport.com
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Stuttgart is summer, when the weather is warm and most events are in full swing—but expect crowds. Spring and autumn are quieter, with milder weather and plenty of festivals, making them a great time for sightseeing. Winters can be cold, but if you don’t mind bundling up, the snow and Christmas markets give the city a cosy, festive feel.
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Passport/Visa
Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Germany, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling.
For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle Eastern, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.
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Public Transport
Stuttgart boasts an efficient and extensive public transport system operated by the Verkehrs und Tarifverbund Stuttgart (VVS), encompassing S-Bahn (commuter trains), U-Bahn (light rail), buses, and even unique modes like the rack railway (Zahnradbahn) and funicular (Standseilbahn). The network is well-integrated, making it one of the most convenient ways for tourists to navigate the city and its surroundings.
For visitors planning multiple journeys, the VVS offers various ticket options, including Day Tickets and Group Day Tickets, which allow unlimited travel within selected fare zones until 7am the following day. Additionally, the StuttCard PLUS provides unlimited access to public transport across zones 1–5, along with free or discounted entry to numerous attractions, making it a valuable option for travellers aiming to explore the region extensively.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Stuttgart, with ranks at key locations like the main train station, the airport, and major squares. You can also hail one on the street or book via apps such as the Stuttgart Taxi App, SIXT ride, or Uber.
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Post
Post offices in Stuttgart are typically open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm, and on Saturdays from 9am to noon, though hours may vary by location. Services include sending and receiving letters and parcels, purchasing stamps and packaging, and accessing financial services through Postbank branches.
The most convenient branch for travellers is located inside Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof, offering easy access for those arriving by train or staying in the city centre. For 24/7 parcel collection and drop-off, DHL Packstation lockers are available throughout the city.
Address: Arnulf-Klett-Platz 2, Stuttgart
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Phone: +49 228 4333112
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Pharmacy
In Stuttgart, pharmacies are easily identifiable by the red 'Apotheke' sign and are widely available across the city. While Germany does not have large pharmacy chains like in some other countries, many pharmacies are independently owned and operated. Notable examples in Stuttgart include Westend Apotheke and Apotheke Stadtmitte, both known for their comprehensive services and central locations.
Address: Apotheke Stadtmitte, S und U-Bahn-Station Stadtmitte, Rotebühlpl. 20/1. UG, Stuttgart
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Phone: +49 711 2265717
Website: www.apotheke-stadtmitte.de
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Telephone
Country code: +49
Area code: 711
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Electricity
In Germany, the electrical system operates on a voltage of 230 volts with a frequency of 50 hertz. The country uses plug types C and F, both of which have two round pins. Type F also includes two earth clips on the side for grounding.
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