Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Stuttgart with a gentle exploration of the historic center, discovering the main squares and getting oriented in this green valley city.
Morning
After checking into your accommodation, head to
Schlossplatz, Stuttgart's grand central square. This expansive plaza is surrounded by historic buildings and features beautiful fountains and manicured gardens. Take time to admire the baroque architecture, watch locals relaxing on the lawns, and get your bearings in the city center. The square serves as Stuttgart's living room and hosts various events throughout the year.
2-3 hours
$0
Lunch
A traditional Swabian restaurant near
Schlossplatz serving regional specialties
Swabian German
Mid-range
Afternoon
Neues Schloss Stuttgart and Marktplatz
Visit the Neues Schloss Stuttgart, the impressive baroque palace that dominates
Schlossplatz. While typically housing government offices, you can admire its stunning exterior and learn about Württemberg's royal history. Walk to nearby Marktplatz, the old
market square featuring the beautiful Rathaus and the historic Stiftskirche. Browse the market stalls if visiting on a market day and soak in the medieval atmosphere of Stuttgart's original center.
2-3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Enjoy dinner at a cozy wine tavern in the city center, sampling local Trollinger wine with your meal, then take an evening walk through the illuminated
Schlossplatz
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Mid-range hotel near Schlossplatz)
Central location provides easy access to public transportation and puts you within walking distance of major attractions for your first days
Purchase a Stuttgart Card at the tourist information office for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions throughout your stay
Day 1 Budget: $140-200
Dedicate today to exploring the magnificent Mercedes-Benz Museum, one of the world's finest automotive museums showcasing over 130 years of automobile history.
Morning
Mercedes-Benz Museum
Start early at this architectural masterpiece in
Bad Cannstatt. The museum's unique double-helix design takes you on a chronological journey from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to the present day. See over 160 vehicles across nine levels, including legendary racing cars, luxury sedans, and innovative concept vehicles. Audio guides provide fascinating context about automotive history, technological breakthroughs, and the cultural impact of Mercedes-Benz throughout the decades.
3-4 hours
$12-15
Book tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially on weekends
Lunch
The museum's modern restaurant with views of the collection, or a traditional German eatery in
Bad Cannstatt
International or German
Mid-range
Afternoon
Continue exploring any sections you haven't fully covered, including the special exhibitions that change periodically. Don't miss the legendary racing cars and the fascinating collection of experimental vehicles. Afterward, take a stroll through
Bad Cannstatt's historic spa district, one of Stuttgart's oldest neighborhoods. The area features charming streets and mineral springs that have attracted visitors for centuries.
2-3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Try a traditional beer garden or brewery restaurant in
Bad Cannstatt, experiencing the neighborhood's local atmosphere away from tourist areas
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as Day 1)
Maintaining your central base while easily accessing different districts via public transport
The museum is quietest on weekday mornings; Tuesday through Thursday before 11 AM typically offers the best experience with fewer crowds
Day 2 Budget: $120-170
Immerse yourself in the world of Porsche at the stunning museum dedicated to this iconic sports car manufacturer, followed by exploration of the surrounding area.
Morning
Visit the striking white
Porsche Museum in Zuffenhausen, designed to appear as if floating above the ground. The collection showcases over 80 vehicles spanning Porsche's history from the earliest models to cutting-edge racing cars. See the legendary 911 in various iterations, Le Mans winners, and rare prototypes. Interactive displays explain the engineering philosophy and racing heritage that made Porsche a global icon. The museum beautifully balances technical detail with aesthetic presentation.
3-4 hours
$12-15
Pre-booking recommended for weekends and holidays; consider the factory tour if you book several weeks in advance
Lunch
The museum's sleek café or a local restaurant in Zuffenhausen
Contemporary European or German
Mid-range
Afternoon
Höhenpark Killesberg
Head to this beautiful hillside park offering panoramic views over Stuttgart. Stroll through themed gardens including rose gardens and flower displays that change seasonally. Ride the historic miniature railway that winds through the park, or climb the distinctive Killesberg Tower for spectacular 360-degree views. The park combines natural beauty with artistic landscape design and provides a peaceful contrast to the morning's automotive focus.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Dinner with a view
Find a restaurant near Höhenpark Killesberg with terrace seating to enjoy sunset views over the city while sampling regional wines
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Continuing to use your central base for easy access to various districts
Visit
Porsche Museum on Wednesday evenings when it stays open until 8 PM with reduced crowds and beautiful evening light in the exhibition halls
Day 3 Budget: $130-180
Journey to the stunning hilltop Schloss Solitude and explore its baroque elegance and surrounding forests, experiencing the grandeur of Württemberg's royal past.
Morning
Schloss Solitude
Take public transport or taxi to this magnificent rococo palace perched on a hilltop west of Stuttgart. Built in the 18th century as a hunting lodge and summer residence, Schloss Solitude offers breathtaking architecture and stunning views across the surrounding countryside. Tour the opulent interior rooms with their original furnishings, frescoes, and decorative arts. The palace's isolated hilltop location creates a romantic atmosphere, and the surrounding forest paths invite exploration.
2-3 hours
$8-10
Guided tours typically run on weekends; check the schedule as the palace has limited opening hours
Lunch
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the palace grounds, or visit a café in the nearby village
Picnic or German café fare
Budget
Afternoon
Hohenheimer Garden
Travel to the University of Hohenheim campus to explore these historic botanical gardens. Originally designed in the early 19th century, the gardens feature exotic plant collections, historic greenhouses, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Wander through themed areas including Mediterranean plants, tropical species, and native German flora. The peaceful atmosphere and scientific collections make this a hidden gem that many visitors overlook.
2-3 hours
$0-5
Evening
Return to city center for dinner
Enjoy dinner at a modern restaurant in the city center, perhaps trying contemporary interpretations of Swabian classics
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Maintaining your established base in the city center
The walk along the historic Solitude Avenue, connecting Schloss Solitude to Ludwigsburg Palace, offers beautiful forest scenery perfect for an extended afternoon stroll if weather permits
Day 4 Budget: $110-160
Dive into Stuttgart's impressive art scene at the Staatsgalerie and explore the cultural treasures housed in the Old Castle.
Morning
Staatsgalerie Stuttgart
Spend the morning at one of
Germany's most important art museums. The collection spans from medieval altarpieces to contemporary installations, with particular strengths in German Romantic painting, Impressionism, and modern art. The postmodern architecture of the new building creates an interesting contrast with the classical old building. Don't miss works by Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso, and significant German artists like Caspar David Friedrich and Otto Dix.
3-4 hours
$8-12
Lunch
A café in the museum or nearby cultural quarter serving light contemporary cuisine
Contemporary European
Mid-range
Afternoon
Old Castle (Altes Schloss)
Visit Stuttgart's oldest castle, now housing the Württemberg State Museum. The Renaissance courtyard is particularly beautiful, and the museum collections cover regional history from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages to the kingdom period. See the crown jewels of Württemberg, medieval artifacts, and exhibitions about Swabian culture. The castle itself is an architectural treasure, having served as the residence of Württemberg counts and dukes for centuries.
2-3 hours
$7-10
Evening
Evening in the cultural quarter
Explore the streets around the Staatsgalerie, finding a wine bar or bistro for dinner, possibly catching a performance at the nearby State Opera if interested
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Perfect central location for cultural attractions
The Staatsgalerie offers free admission on Wednesdays after 4 PM, though expect larger crowds during these hours
Day 5 Budget: $120-170
Explore Stuttgart's beautiful international gardens, from Chinese landscapes to Moorish designs, showcasing the city's commitment to green spaces.
Morning
Chinese Garden Stuttgart
Begin at this authentic Chinese garden, a gift from Stuttgart's sister city Nanjing. The garden exemplifies traditional Chinese landscape design with its careful arrangement of pavilions, water features, rocks, and plants. Each element carries symbolic meaning in Chinese philosophy. Walk across ornate bridges, admire the detailed architectural elements, and experience the tranquil atmosphere designed to promote meditation and harmony with nature. The garden offers a genuine cultural experience without leaving Stuttgart.
1-2 hours
$0
Lunch
An Asian restaurant near the garden or return toward city center for more options
Asian or International
Mid-range
Afternoon
Maurischer Garten Stuttgart
Visit this Moorish Garden featuring Islamic-inspired landscape design with geometric patterns, water channels, and Mediterranean plants. The garden demonstrates the Moorish influence on European garden design with its emphasis on water, shade, and sensory experiences. Nearby, explore the area around the Galateabrunnen and Athenebrunnen, two beautiful fountains that add to Stuttgart's collection of public art and water features. These classical fountains showcase different artistic styles and provide pleasant spots for rest.
2-3 hours
$0
Evening
Relaxed evening in a park-side location
Find a restaurant with garden seating to continue the day's nature theme, enjoying outdoor dining if weather permits
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Continuing your central base location
These gardens are most beautiful in late spring and summer when plants are in full bloom, but offer peaceful retreats year-round
Day 6 Budget: $100-140
Experience Stuttgart from above, visiting the iconic TV Tower and exploring hilltop locations that offer panoramic perspectives of the valley city.
Morning
Visit the world's first television tower built from reinforced concrete, an engineering landmark from 1956. Take the elevator to the observation platform at 150 meters for spectacular 360-degree views across Stuttgart, the surrounding vineyards, and on clear days, the Swabian Alps. The tower also houses a restaurant where you can enjoy coffee with a view. Learn about the tower's revolutionary design that influenced similar structures worldwide.
1-2 hours
$10-12
Lunch
The revolving restaurant in the TV Tower for a memorable dining experience, or return to the city for more options
International with regional options
Mid-range to Upscale
Afternoon
Heslacher Wasserfälle and Bastion Leibfried
Discover the Heslacher Wasserfälle, small waterfalls in a natural setting that provide a refreshing escape within the city. Continue to Bastion Leibfried, a historic fortification remnant offering views and a glimpse into Stuttgart's defensive past. Explore the surrounding hillside neighborhoods with their steep vineyard terraces and traditional wine-growing heritage. These areas showcase Stuttgart's unique topography and the integration of nature into urban life.
2-3 hours
$0
Evening
Dinner in a hillside wine tavern
Visit a traditional Besenwirtschaft (seasonal wine tavern) in the hillside vineyards, sampling wines produced from Stuttgart's urban vineyards alongside simple Swabian fare
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Maintaining your established accommodation base
Visit the TV Tower on a clear morning for the best visibility; afternoon haze can reduce viewing distance significantly
Day 7 Budget: $130-180
Spend a full day at Wilhelma, one of Europe's finest zoological-botanical gardens, combining exotic animals with stunning historic architecture and plant collections.
Morning
Wilhelma - Zoological-botanical garden (Part 1)
Begin exploring this extraordinary combination zoo and botanical garden set in historic Moorish-style buildings. Originally a 19th-century
royal palace garden, Wilhelma now houses over 10,000 animals from around the world. Start with the magnificent historic greenhouses featuring tropical and subtropical plants, orchids, and cacti. The Moorish architecture creates an exotic atmosphere. Visit the ape house, aquarium, and various animal enclosures showcasing species from every continent.
3-4 hours
$18-22
Purchase tickets online to avoid queues, especially during weekends and school holidays
Lunch
One of several restaurants and cafés within Wilhelma grounds offering various dining options
International casual dining
Mid-range
Afternoon
Wilhelma - Zoological-botanical garden (Part 2)
Continue exploring areas you haven't yet seen, including the African animals section, South American species, and the impressive Amazon House with free-flying birds and butterflies. Don't miss the beautiful gardens with seasonal flower displays, the historic Moorish garden, and the magnolia grove. The combination of botanical collections and animal exhibits means there's always something new to discover. Take time to relax in the peaceful garden areas between animal houses.
3-4 hours
Included in morning ticket
Evening
Relaxed evening after a full day
Return to your hotel area for a casual dinner, perhaps trying a local pizzeria or international restaurant for a change from traditional German cuisine
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Convenient return to your established base after a full day at Wilhelma
Wilhelma is extensive; arrive at opening time to see animals at their most active and to enjoy the gardens before afternoon crowds peak
Day 8 Budget: $140-190
Discover lesser-known corners of Stuttgart, from historic ruins to beautiful fountains and quiet squares that reveal the city's layered history.
Morning
Ruine des Hasenbergturms and surrounding area
Explore the ruins of Hasenberg Tower, a medieval watchtower remnant that offers a glimpse into Stuttgart's medieval defensive system. The surrounding area provides pleasant walking paths through wooded hillsides. Continue to the Jubiläumssäule (Jubilee Column) on
Schlossplatz, a monument commemorating 25 years of King Wilhelm I's reign. The column's observation platform historically offered city views and represents Stuttgart's 19th-century royal heritage.
2-3 hours
$0
Lunch
A traditional café near
Schlossplatz serving coffee and Swabian pastries
Café fare and regional pastries
Budget
Afternoon
Explore central fountains and squares
Take a leisurely walking tour of Stuttgart's beautiful public fountains and squares. Revisit the Galateabrunnen and Athenebrunnen with more time to appreciate their artistic details. Explore smaller squares and streets in the city center, discovering local shops, traditional bakeries, and architectural details. Visit the Markthalle, Stuttgart's historic market hall, to see local food culture and perhaps purchase some regional specialties. This unstructured time allows for spontaneous discoveries.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Evening in a traditional neighborhood
Explore the Bohnenviertel (Bean Quarter), Stuttgart's old artisan district, now filled with galleries, boutiques, and cozy restaurants; enjoy dinner in this atmospheric neighborhood
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Perfect location for exploring central neighborhoods
The Markthalle is busiest on Saturday mornings when locals do their weekly shopping; visit Tuesday through Friday for a more relaxed experience
Day 9 Budget: $100-150
Take a break from the city to explore the beautiful surrounding Swabian countryside, visiting nearby towns, vineyards, or natural areas accessible from Stuttgart.
Morning
Regional excursion
Use Stuttgart as a base to explore the surrounding region. Options include visiting nearby Ludwigsburg Palace and its baroque gardens, exploring the medieval town of Esslingen with its half-timbered houses and Christmas market heritage, or venturing to Tübingen's picturesque
old town along the Neckar River. Alternatively, explore the Swabian wine route, visiting vineyard villages and tasting rooms. Public transportation or a rental car makes these destinations accessible for day trips.
4-5 hours
$20-40
Regional train tickets can be purchased as day passes for better value
Lunch
A traditional restaurant in whichever town you visit, experiencing regional variations of Swabian cuisine
Regional German
Mid-range
Afternoon
Continued regional exploration
Continue exploring your chosen destination, whether touring palace grounds, walking through medieval streets, or visiting local wineries. Each nearby town offers distinct character and attractions. Take time to experience the slower pace of smaller towns and the beautiful Swabian landscape. Consider visiting local museums, churches, or simply enjoying café culture in a historic
market square before returning to Stuttgart in the late afternoon.
3-4 hours
$10-30
Evening
Return to Stuttgart for dinner
After a day of travel, enjoy a relaxed dinner near your hotel, perhaps at a familiar spot you've discovered during your stay
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Returning to your established base after day trip
The Baden-Württemberg Ticket allows unlimited regional train travel for up to five people for one day at excellent value, perfect for day trips
Day 10 Budget: $130-200
Enjoy a slower-paced day revisiting favorite spots, relaxing in Stuttgart's green spaces, and catching up on any attractions you've missed.
Morning
Return to Höhenpark Killesberg
Revisit this beautiful park with a more relaxed approach, perhaps areas you didn't fully explore on your first visit. Bring a book to read in the gardens, sketch the landscapes, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The park's varied terrain and themed gardens offer different experiences depending on season and time of day. Consider riding the miniature railway again or finding a quiet bench with city views for contemplation.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Lunch
A café in or near the park with terrace seating for leisurely outdoor dining
Light café fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
Personal choice exploration
Use this afternoon to revisit a favorite museum, explore a neighborhood you'd like to know better, or visit any attractions from the list you haven't yet seen. This flexible time allows you to follow your interests, whether that means more automotive museums, additional gardens, shopping for souvenirs, or simply wandering through pleasant streets. Consider visiting local markets, specialty shops, or galleries you've noticed during your stay.
3-4 hours
$10-30
Evening
Special dinner experience
Book a table at an upscale restaurant featuring modern Swabian cuisine or regional fine dining, celebrating your time in Stuttgart with a memorable meal
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Comfortable in your established accommodation
Many locals spend Sunday afternoons in the parks; joining them provides an authentic glimpse of Stuttgart life and culture
Day 11 Budget: $140-220
Experience Stuttgart's vibrant market culture and neighborhood life, from food markets to flea markets and local shopping districts.
Morning
Farmers' markets and Markthalle
Visit one of Stuttgart's weekly farmers' markets held in various neighborhoods, where locals shop for fresh produce, flowers, cheese, and baked goods. The atmosphere is lively and authentic, offering insight into daily life. Spend time in the historic Markthalle, Stuttgart's beautiful art nouveau market hall featuring dozens of vendors selling everything from exotic spices to traditional Swabian specialties. Sample local products and perhaps purchase items to take home.
2-3 hours
$15-30
Lunch
Grab lunch from market vendors, creating a picnic of local cheeses, bread, and specialties to enjoy in a nearby park
Market fresh foods
Budget
Afternoon
Neighborhood exploration
Explore residential neighborhoods like Stuttgart-West or Stuttgart-Süd, areas where locals live and work. These districts feature independent boutiques, vintage shops, bookstores, and cafés that reveal contemporary Stuttgart culture beyond tourist attractions. Visit neighborhood parks, observe local architecture, and experience the everyday rhythm of the city. These areas often have distinct characters and offer authentic cultural experiences.
3-4 hours
$10-20
Evening
Neighborhood dinner
Stay in whichever neighborhood you've been exploring for dinner, trying a local favorite restaurant where residents regularly dine
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Easy return to your central base
Saturday morning is the best time for farmers' markets when selection is largest and the atmosphere most vibrant; arrive before 10 AM for best choices
Day 12 Budget: $110-160
Dedicate your penultimate day to revisiting highlights, completing any unfinished explorations, and savoring your favorite aspects of Stuttgart.
Morning
Return to a favorite museum or attraction
Revisit whichever attraction most captured your interest during your stay, whether that's spending more time at the Mercedes-Benz Museum,
Porsche Museum, Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, or another favorite. With familiarity, you'll notice details you missed initially and can focus on specific aspects that particularly interest you. Alternatively, visit any major attraction you haven't yet experienced if your itinerary has evolved differently than planned.
2-4 hours
$0-15
Lunch
Return to your favorite restaurant from the trip or try one last new place you've been wanting to experience
Your choice
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final explorations and souvenir shopping
Use this afternoon for last-minute activities: purchase souvenirs at specialty shops, revisit
Schlossplatz one final time, take photos of favorite locations, or simply relax in a café watching Stuttgart life pass by. Consider visiting the
Königstraße, Stuttgart's main shopping street, for any remaining purchases. This flexible time allows you to complete your Stuttgart experience according to your personal priorities and interests.
3-4 hours
$20-50
Evening
Farewell dinner
Choose a special restaurant for your final Stuttgart dinner, perhaps one with views over the city or a traditional Swabian establishment to bookend your journey
Where to Stay Tonight
Stuttgart City Center (Same hotel as previous nights)
Final night in your comfortable established accommodation
Take time to reflect on your journey; Stuttgart reveals itself slowly to those who stay longer, and you've experienced layers most visitors never discover
Day 13 Budget: $140-200
Final morning in Stuttgart with time for last impressions before departing this green valley city enriched by automotive heritage and Swabian culture.
Morning
Leisurely final morning
Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel or a favorite café you've discovered. Take a last walk through
Schlossplatz or your preferred neighborhood, capturing final photos and impressions. If time permits, visit one last garden or viewpoint for a final perspective on Stuttgart. Pack thoughtfully, ensuring you have room for any purchases and souvenirs collected during your two weeks.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Lunch
A quick meal near your hotel or at the airport depending on departure schedule
Casual
Budget
Afternoon
Departure
Check out from your hotel and make your way to Stuttgart Airport or train station. The airport is easily accessible via S-Bahn from the city center in approximately 30 minutes. If departing by train, Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof offers connections throughout
Germany and Europe. Allow adequate time for check-in and security. Reflect on two weeks of discovery in a city that balances innovation with tradition, nature with industry, and royal heritage with modern dynamism.
Variable
$5-10
Evening
Departed
Safe travels with memories of Stuttgart's unique character and warm Swabian hospitality
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of Stuttgart stay
The S2 and S3 S-Bahn lines connect city center to the airport; purchase tickets from machines before boarding and validate them
Day 14 Budget: $50-100