Things to Do in Schlossplatz, Deutschland

Schlossplatz serves as the magnificent heart of Stuttgart, Germany's automotive capital, where baroque grandeur meets modern urban sophistication. This expansive palace square, dominated by the impressive New Palace (Neues Schloss), represents one of Europe's largest inner-city squares and serves as the cultural and social centerpiece of Baden-Württemberg's capital city. The square seamlessly blends Stuttgart's royal heritage with its contemporary identity as a hub of innovation, luxury automotive manufacturing, and cultural excellence. Surrounding Schlossplatz, visitors discover a city that perfectly balances its illustrious past with cutting-edge technology and design. From world-renowned museums like the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums to the acclaimed Stuttgart Ballet and State Opera, the city offers an exceptional cultural landscape. The nearby Schlossgarten provides green respite in the urban environment, while the bustling Königstraße shopping district and vibrant market halls showcase Stuttgart's modern commercial energy and culinary diversity.

Top Things to Do in Schlossplatz

Explore the New Palace and Palace Square

Wander through the magnificent baroque New Palace and its surrounding square, one of the largest palace complexes in Germany. The palace houses government offices today but offers stunning architecture and beautiful gardens perfect for leisurely strolls. The square frequently hosts festivals, markets, and cultural events throughout the year.

Booking Tip: Entry to the palace grounds is free, though guided tours of interior spaces cost around €8-12. Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds, and check the Stuttgart tourism website for special events and seasonal markets that enhance the experience.

Visit World-Class Automotive Museums

Discover Stuttgart's automotive heritage at the Mercedes-Benz Museum and Porsche Museum, showcasing the evolution of these iconic brands. Both museums feature interactive exhibits, rare vintage models, and cutting-edge concept cars. The architecture of both buildings is equally impressive as their automotive collections.

Booking Tip: Book tickets online in advance for €10-16 per museum to avoid queues, especially on weekends. Consider combination tickets for both museums at around €25. Audio guides are included and available in multiple languages.

Stroll Through Schlossgarten Parks

Enjoy the expansive Schlossgarten, a series of connected parks stretching from Schlossplatz to the Neckar River. These green spaces offer perfect spots for picnicking, jogging, or simply relaxing while admiring the city's blend of historic and modern architecture. The parks connect major attractions and provide scenic walking routes through the city center.

Booking Tip: Access is completely free year-round. Best experienced during spring and summer months when outdoor cafés operate within the parks. Rent bikes from city stations for €1-2 per hour to cover more ground efficiently.

Experience Stuttgart's Cultural Scene

Attend performances at the renowned Stuttgart State Opera and Ballet, considered among Europe's finest cultural institutions. The city also offers excellent museums including the State Gallery and Kunstmuseum Stuttgart. The cultural quarter around Schlossplatz provides easy access to multiple venues within walking distance.

Booking Tip: Opera and ballet tickets range from €15-120; book well in advance for popular performances. Many museums offer combination tickets for €12-18. Look for 'Lange Nacht der Museen' events offering access to multiple venues for one price.

Explore Local Markets and Food Scene

Visit the historic Markthalle, a beautiful Art Nouveau market hall filled with local specialties, international cuisine, and artisanal products. The surrounding area offers traditional Swabian restaurants serving regional dishes like Maultaschen and Spätzle. Weekly farmers markets around Schlossplatz showcase regional produce and local crafts.

Booking Tip: Market hall entry is free; budget €10-25 for meals depending on vendor choice. Saturday morning farmers markets offer the best selection. Book restaurant reservations in advance for popular Swabian establishments, especially for dinner service.

Getting There

Stuttgart is excellently connected to major European cities through Stuttgart Airport (STR), located 13km south of the city center with direct S-Bahn connections taking 30 minutes. The city serves as a major railway hub with frequent high-speed ICE train connections to Frankfurt (1.5 hours), Munich (2.5 hours), and international destinations. For those driving, Stuttgart sits at the intersection of major autobahns A8 and A81, making it easily accessible from across Germany and neighboring countries, though the city center has extensive low-emission zones requiring environmental badges.

Getting Around

Stuttgart's efficient public transportation system includes S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams operated by VVS, with day passes costing €7.20 covering all zones within the city. The compact city center around Schlossplatz is highly walkable, with most major attractions within 15 minutes on foot. For longer distances or hilly areas, consider the extensive bike-sharing system 'RegioRadStuttgart' or the rack railway and funicular systems that connect the valley center to hillside neighborhoods. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, though public transport is generally more efficient for tourist destinations.

Where to Stay

Stuttgart-Mitte (City Center)

Bad Cannstatt

Stuttgart-West

Degerloch

Stuttgart-Süd

Feuerbach

Food & Dining

Stuttgart's culinary scene brilliantly combines traditional Swabian cuisine with international influences and innovative fine dining. The historic Markthalle serves as the epicenter of local food culture, offering everything from traditional Maultaschen (Swabian ravioli) to global street food, while the surrounding streets feature cozy Besenwirtschaften (traditional wine taverns) and modern bistros. The city boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants alongside authentic Swabian Gasthäuser serving hearty regional specialties like Sauerbraten and Spätzle, complemented by excellent local wines from the nearby Württemberg wine region and traditional beer gardens perfect for experiencing local hospitality.

When to Visit

Stuttgart shines brightest from May through September when mild temperatures and longer daylight hours create perfect conditions for exploring Schlossplatz and the surrounding parks and outdoor attractions. Summer months bring numerous festivals, outdoor concerts, and market events to the palace square, while spring offers beautiful blooming gardens and comfortable walking weather. Winter can be quite cold but transforms the city into a magical setting, especially during the renowned Stuttgart Christmas Market at Schlossplatz, though visitors should pack warm clothing and expect shorter daylight hours for sightseeing.

Insider Tips

Purchase the StuttCard for free public transport and discounts up to 40% at major attractions, museums, and restaurants - available for 1-3 days starting at €17

Climb the Fernsehturm (TV Tower) for panoramic city views and visit during sunset for spectacular photos - it's the world's first concrete TV tower and offers a unique perspective of the region

Explore the underground shopping areas and passages beneath Schlossplatz during rainy weather, connecting major department stores and offering climate-controlled shopping and dining options

Things to Do in Schlossplatz