Stuttgart is the capital of the Baden-Wurttemberg region of Germany. The city is located in Southwest, between the Black Forest and the Swabian Alps with a history dating back to prehistorical times. Most of the city center was destroyed during World War 2. However, the city was rebuilt with a perfect mix of historical and modern architecture. Nowadays, Stuttgart is a leading business and tourist destination. Travelers are drawn year round because of the large spring, summer, and winter festivals. While many people know the city for being the home of Mercedes and Porshe, it is also well known for its nature, art, and architectural beauty. Here are tips to make the best of your trip to Germany’s most underrated city.
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Traube
48.7017° N, 9.2137° E
This is the place to stay if you are looking for a classic German experience. This historical hotel consists of 5 buildings, some of which date back to the 16th century. The best part of staying here is having a nightcap at their old school wood-paneled bar.
Avg cost per night – $70-120
Brabandtgasse 2, 70599
Stuttgart, Germany
+49711458920
https://hotel-traube-stuttgart.de
WHERE TO EAT
Weinstube Klösterle
48° 46′ 56.35″ N, 9°10′ 37.27″ E
What better place to have a traditional German meal than in the city’s oldest building? The restaurant, Weinstube Klosterle, is located in a monastery built in 1463 as a home for the religious nuns. Weinstube Klösterle is situated in the Bad Cannstatt neighborhood, the largest and oldest neighborhood in Stuggart (dating back to A.D. 98). Make sure to order traditional Swabian dishes like the Maultaschen dumplings or the duck breast with egg noodles.
WHERE TO TAKE A STROLL
Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Garden
48.8045° N, 9.2062° E
This is the only zoo and botanical garden combination in Europe. A popular tourist destination that brings in over 2 million visitors a year. With 30 acres stunning gardens, 19th century architecture, and animal kingdom that won’t disappoint.
WHERE TO SNAP A GREAT PHOTO
Stadtbibliothek (Stuttgart Public Libary)
48.7902° N, 9.1832° E
For people who appreciate minimalism, architecture, and books, the Stuttgart Public library is an oasis. Make sure to go to the 8th floor of this building to get the epic picture that makes this place so famous.
WHEN TO GO
April-May for the Spring Festival
Stuttgarter Frühlingsfest
48° 79.220′ N 9° 22.455′ W
After a long winter, Germans want to welcome the new spring season by throwing a huge party full of amusements rides, traditional costumes, food, and tons of beer. Every year the Stuttgarter Frühlingsfest attracts more than 1.5 million visitors making it Europe’s biggest carnival. This is the second biggest festival in Germany, right after Oktoberfest in Munich.
For more inspiration #canstatterwasen #frühlingsfest
WHERE TO SHOP
Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt
48.7787° N, 9.1793° E
The Stuttgart Christmas Market is the biggest and oldest Christmas market in Europe. It is said The Stuttgarter Weihnachtsmarkt was first started in 1692. It attracts over 3 million visitors during its 25-day celebration. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, the market it something you can’t miss. The endless Stalls are decorated with the most traditional winter decorations and lights. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, this is still a great place to shop for gifts. As you sip glühwein and walk the stalls, you can find great gifts like nostalgic retro toys, German chocolates, alcohol-related gifts, and many different handmade crafts.
Gift Ideas: Christmas tree decorations, winter clothing, honey products, household wares, toys, candles, sweet delights, German alcohol, winter market mugs.
Tip: BRING CASH $$$
WHERE TO TAKE A DAY TRIP TO
The Black Forest
48.2775° N, 8.1860° E
What makes Stuttgart an appealing destination for travelers is its proximity to attractions that will take your breath away. Day trips to fairytale castles in the hills, picturesque small German towns, and the enchanting Black Forest is a must if you are staying in Stuttgart. For many visiting southwest Germany, seeing the Black Forest is on top of the list. The spectacular mountain range and thick pine forest make this place seems like something out of a kids bedtime story. It is home to the largest cuckoo clock, world-renowned spas, and timbered villages. The Black Forest was the inspiration for the Brothers Grim fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel, Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty, and many more.
Other day trips to take from Stuttgart:
#LichtensteinCastle #HohenzollernCastle #NeuschwansteinCastle
#Tubingen #Dinkelsbühl #Heidelberg #Triberg
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