Three Perfect Days in Stuttgart

Stuttgart’s alluring mix of old and new lends the city a certain grandeur and atmosphere that’s sure to live long in your memory. This isn’t a place that wants to forget its history as it marches into the future. The two exist in harmony. Friendly people, fantastic parks, rich German food and spectacular wine – it’s a great destination for a city break or a long weekend.

With that in mind, we’ve put together a fun three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in this southern German city. While it can be hard to fit everything in during one trip, our guide ticks off the must-do things in Stuttgart, including the finest restaurants, where to shop and where to relax. You’ll get a taste of the city that will surely have you craving more.

Day one – get motoring

Germany’s love of cars is well established and world-renowned. Stuttgart is home to two manufacturer’s museums, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, who have a combined history of more than 180 years in the industry

Mercedes-Benz Museum

Of the country’s many famous manufacturers, few are held in higher regard than Mercedes-Benz. Start your exploration of Stuttgart by paying a visit to the Mercedes-Benz Museum, where you will be able to discover its rich heritage. The museum features superb exhibits, a fine restaurant and a number of interactive displays. You’ll be able to meander through the history of Mercedes-Benz and see what goes into making some of the world’s most celebrated cars.

Porsche Museum

Perhaps more stunning still is the city’s Porsche Museum with 80 classics from the various eras of iconic Porsche design, all housed within a striking modern building. They trace the origins of the brand right back to the early roadsters, while also giving a glimpse into the future of motoring. Stay on site for lunch at Christophorus Restaurant, specializing in US beef, broiled to your liking. There’s also a cigar lounge and other luxurious offerings worthy of automotive royalty.

Head into Stuttgart’s bustling center

Suitably refreshed, spend the afternoon at St. John’s Church next to Fire Lake – Feuersee. This striking Gothic church with its graceful exterior and interior is a popular site to visit at all times of the year. A visit at Christmas may mean the lake is frozen, in which case you can enjoy a seasonal tableau of skaters taking to the ice. If you’re in Stuttgart at that time of year, chances are you’ll be here to see Stuttgart Christmas market, one of Germany’s best. Hundreds of booths sell handmade crafts and gifts, bratwurst and other festive treats.

Day two – sweetness and solitude

After your first day immersing yourself in some of the many cultural highlights in Stuttgart, it’s time to spend a day like the locals do.

Time to refuel

Begin your second day by refueling with a classic German brunch – whether your tastes are sweet or savory. Zimt und Zucker is brightly decorated and serves up superb homemade pancakes along with plenty of gluten-free options. If you want to grab something to go as you embark on your second day of city discovery, they also make exceptional cakes to take away.

Discover opulent architecture

From here, head to Schloss Solitude: a 1760s rococo castle built for the Duke of Württemberg as a hunting retreat and place of reflection. Too expensive to run, it soon became a school – where the prominent German poet Schiller was taught – and later an orphanage before eventually falling into disrepair. It was sensitively restored and reopened in the 1980s, providing an authentic glimpse at what the building was like in its heyday.

Relax like the Locals

Take some time out to relax in Schlossplatz and enjoy a sense of space in the spiritual heart of the city. Dominating one side are the Jubilee Column towers over the square, along with the New Palace, which date back to the 18th century. Nearby sits Schillerplatz – named after the poet Friedrich Schiller. From here you can head to Koenigstrasse, one of Europe’s longest pedestrianized shopping streets. It’s lined with stores and cafes, trees and fountains, while the streets that lead off from it are packed with independent stores and boutiques.

A Lifetime of art in Stuttgart’s Staatsgalerie

Head back indoors to the excellent Staatsgalerie, an elegant building housing a collection of art from across the globe. There’s a good focus on regional Swabian art with pieces dating back to the 14th century, several Picassos, and a masterpiece by Matisse. The building itself is a stunning example of modernist architecture that manages to both stand out and fit in with the rest of the Stuttgart skyline.

Day Three – A Parade of Parks

There’s no better way to get an overall view of Stuttgart than from its many delightful parks. Around 70% of Stuttgart’s urban area is dedicated to parks and leisure spaces, so kick back, relax and enjoy the views.

Schlossgarten

Schlossgarten spans much of the city, separated into three different areas, all with their own feel. Take your pick depending on whether you’re interested in lakes, castles, zoos, wildlife or even a lively beer garden.

Killesberg

Alternatively, plump for Killesberg Hill Park, a serene spot in the city that offers up a tantalizing mix of landscaped gardens, a tiny railway to ride on and an outdoor pool. You can easily lose a day here, idling time away at a cafe or taking the children to the wonderful petting zoo to see some of the animals. Climb the spiral stairs of the Killesburg Tower for unparalleled views over the city and its surrounding landscapes.

Villa Berg Park

In Stuttgart Ost, Park Villa Berg is another delight, with the titular 19th-century Villa at its heart. The adjoining rose garden offers further sanctuary from the business of the city and rewards visitors with a beautiful display of climbing roses and water features. Only a short way from here, you’ll find the Bad Cannstatt district, where you can further wash off your worries in the mineral baths that give the region its name.

Wrap up Your Trip in Style

Make your last meal here a memorable one. Goldberg is opulent in style with a garden terrace where seats are at a premium in the summer months. If you’re dining, expect refined presentation but bold flavors; with lamb served three ways, lamb sweetbread accompanied by pasta and mushrooms, and scallops served with pork belly. The perfect end to three ideal days in Stuttgart, it’s a restaurant that captures the city’s spirit – innovative and bursting with local pride.

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