The Perfect Week in Stuttgart
From Automotive Excellence to Baroque Splendor
Trip Overview
Stuttgart, the cradle of the automobile and Baden-Württemberg's vibrant capital, offers a perfect blend of industrial heritage, royal history, and natural beauty. This week-long itinerary takes you through world-class museums celebrating automotive innovation, stunning baroque palaces, lush gardens, and cultural treasures. Experience the city's unique hillside geography, explore its green spaces including botanical gardens and parks, and immerse yourself in Swabian culture. The pace balances museum visits with outdoor exploration, allowing time to savor local cuisine and discover hidden gems. From the iconic Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums to the serene Wilhelma gardens and historic castles, you'll experience Stuttgart's diverse character while enjoying its excellent public transportation and welcoming atmosphere.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & City Center Discovery
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Schlossplatz (Mid-range hotel in the pedestrian zone)
Central location provides easy access to public transportation and walking distance to major attractions for the coming days
Automotive Heritage Day
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Schlossplatz (Same location as Day 1)
Maintain your central base for easy access to tomorrow's cultural attractions
Art, Culture & Panoramic Views
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Schlossplatz (Same location as previous nights)
Continue benefiting from central location with excellent transport connections
Gardens & Natural Beauty
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Schlossplatz (Same location as previous nights)
Maintain central base for final days of exploration
Royal Palaces & Hidden Corners
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Schlossplatz (Same location as previous nights)
Central location continues to serve well for final days
University Quarter & Gardens
Where to Stay Tonight
City Center near Schlossplatz (Same location as previous nights)
Final night in your established base for easy departure preparation
Final Discoveries & Departure
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Practical Information
Getting Around
Stuttgart has an excellent integrated public transportation system (VVS) including U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses, and trams. The Stuttgart Card offers unlimited travel plus museum discounts and is highly recommended. Most attractions are accessible via public transport within 30 minutes from the center. The city's hillside geography means some areas involve stairs or inclines. Consider the 3-day or weekly pass options for best value. Taxis and ride-sharing are available but rarely necessary given the comprehensive public network.
Book Ahead
Book Porsche factory tours 2-3 months ahead if interested. Reserve accommodations early during trade fair periods (Stuttgart Messe hosts major events). Museum tickets can generally be purchased on-site, but online booking for Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums helps avoid weekend queues. Restaurant reservations recommended for upscale dining, especially weekends.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes essential due to hillside terrain and cobblestones. Layers for variable weather. Light rain jacket year-round. Camera for automotive museums and palace photography. Reusable water bottle. Small daypack for museum visits and park explorations. Adapter for German electrical outlets (Type F).
Total Budget
$860-1,160 for 7 days (excluding flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels or budget hotels in outer districts with good U-Bahn connections. Use the Stuttgart Card but skip some paid museums in favor of free attractions like parks and gardens. Pack picnic lunches from supermarkets. Visit museums on free or discounted days. Eat at university cafeterias and budget ethnic restaurants. Cook some meals if hostel has kitchen facilities. Focus on outdoor attractions like Höhenpark Killesberg, Chinese Garden, and Heslacher Wasserfälle which are free.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at a five-star hotel near Schlossplatz with spa facilities. Book private guided tours of the automotive museums with behind-the-scenes access and test drives. Arrange VIP Porsche factory experience. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants featuring modern Swabian cuisine. Hire a private driver for day trips to surrounding wine regions. Book exclusive after-hours palace tours at Schloss Solitude. Enjoy wine tastings at premium local vineyards. Add spa treatments and rooftop dining experiences.
Family-Friendly
Spend extra time at Wilhelma where kids love the animal exhibits and playgrounds. The miniature railway at Höhenpark Killesberg delights children. Both car museums offer family-friendly audio guides and interactive exhibits that engage young visitors. Choose accommodation with family rooms or apartments. Incorporate more outdoor time with picnics in parks. Skip some palace interiors in favor of playground time. Visit the TV Tower which fascinates kids. Allow flexible timing for rest breaks and child-paced exploration.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Stuttgart