Things To See in Stuttgart: One Day in Stuttgart
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We were surprised by how much we found to see and do during our day in Stuttgart, Germany.
If you’ve heard of Stuttgart, it’s likely because of the city’s attachment to the automakers Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. The city is a manufacturing hub and both carmakers have factories and tourist-oriented museums. Both the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum are worth a visit if you’re passionate about cars and automotive history
We originally planned to use Stuttgart as a train stopover. We booked a hotel right across from the train station. The plan was to stay there for a night and catch the morning train to Munich. Essentially the only reason we were getting off the train was to save money on a hotel as the night in Stuttgart was substantially cheaper than the night in Munich.
We got into the city earlier than expected and quickly fell in love. We even stayed for the vast majority of the following day. The city has a laid-back feel. Try to make time for a few hours in Stuttgart. You won’t regret it.
We didn’t go to the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums. Online reviews say they’re both magnificent. We’re just not car guys.
Here are a few suggestions about what to see in the city.
Visit Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden
Wilhelma is one of the most beautiful zoos we have ever visited. The zoo is situated around the grounds of a 19th-century castle. Beautiful floral displays surround bubbling fountains and pools. There is a large greenhouse. The Tropics House contains a world-renowned orchid collection.
The zoo contains all the animals you would expect including lions, tigers, and bears. There is a large colony of monkeys that attracts a near-constant crowd of spectators.
Schlossplatz Stuttgart (Palace Square)
The heart of Stuttgart is the Schlossplatz, or Palace Square. If something is happening in Stuttgart it’s probably happening here. The square is home to frequent open-air concerts and events. It's also where fans gather to celebrate after an exciting soccer/football win.
The square has a giant beautiful fountain and a tall jubilee column that beg to be photographed. The backdrop for the square is the New Palace. A striking baroque castle that is now home to government offices.
The square is lined with restaurants. This is a great place to experience our next thing to do.
Have a Beer in Stuttgart
The joke is always that the beer is cheaper than the water in Germany. It is absolutely true. Find yourself an outdoor table and enjoy the sun setting while sipping your favorite lager. Or try something new. You really can’t go wrong.
See The Altes Schloss Stuttgart
The Altes Schloss, or Old Castle, is a tenth-century built castle. Walking the exterior of the castle is a trip down architectural history. Inside the castle courtyard is a massive equestrian statue of Eberhard the Bearded a beloved 15th-century Duke of Württemberg.
The nearby Castle Church is also worth a walkthrough.
Shop The Stuttgart Königstraße
Straight out the front door of the main train station is the Königstraße, a 1.2-kilometer shopping street. The street is closed off to cars which makes wandering on foot a delight.
The shops and restaurants have a local flare that can be hard to find in some of the more touristy centers of other German cities. There are many outdoor dining spots to enjoy some great food while people watching on the Königstraße.
Stuttgart makes an appearance on our list of Castles in Germany. You can also check out our final stop on our German Itinerary, Munich.
This is part of our Two Week Germany Itinerary.
Must See In Stuttgart:
Mercedes-Benz Museum
Porsche Museum
Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden
Schlossplatz
New Palace
Altes Schloss Stuttgart
Castle Church
Shopping on Königstraße
