Stuttgart Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Stuttgart.
Healthcare System
Germany has a excellent, dual public-private healthcare system. For EU citizens with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), necessary medical treatment is available at reduced cost or free. Non-EU travelers must pay for treatment and seek reimbursement from their insurance.
Hospitals
Major hospitals include Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus, Katharinenhospital, and the university hospital Klinikum Stuttgart (with multiple locations). For emergencies, go to the 'Notaufnahme' (emergency room). The 'Bereitschaftsdienst' (medical on-call service) number is 116 117 for non-life-threatening issues outside regular hours.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies ('Apotheke') are marked by a red 'A' sign. They are highly professional, and pharmacists can offer advice on minor ailments. At least one pharmacy in each district remains open on a rotating basis for nights, Sundays, and holidays; details are posted on every pharmacy's door.
Insurance
Not legally required for entry, but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Medical costs are high for uninsured travelers. Complete travel health insurance is essential for non-EU visitors.
Healthcare Tips
- Always carry your insurance details, EHIC (if applicable), and passport/ID.
- For prescription medications, bring the original packaging and a copy of your prescription. Note that some common medications in other countries may require a German prescription.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
The most common crime faced by tourists. Occurs in crowded tourist spots, on public transport ( U-Bahn/S-Bahn), and at major events like the Cannstatter Wasen (Volksfest).
Stuttgart has dense traffic and many tram lines. As a pedestrian or cyclist, failing to observe right-of-way rules can lead to accidents.
Occasional nuisance or minor altercations, during weekends and major festivals like the Volksfest, due to excessive drinking.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals, sometimes pretending to be deaf, approach with a clipboard and petition. While you are distracted, an accomplice may attempt to pickpocket you.
Unlicensed taxi drivers at the airport or station may charge exorbitant fares. Licensed taxis are beige with a yellow 'Taxi' sign on the roof.
Individuals may offer to sell you a 'cheaper' used or invalid ticket. Fines for traveling without a valid ticket (Schwarzfahren) are steep (€60+).
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation
- Validate your ticket before boarding trams and buses (not necessary for tickets bought on the VVS app).
- Be mindful of the 'Pfand' (deposit) system on public transport - don't leave bottles/cans in seats, as collectors may approach you.
- When driving, note that Stuttgart is part of a low-emission zone ('Umweltzone'). You need an environmental sticker (Feinstaubplakette) to enter.
Personal Belongings
- Use the lockers (Schließfächer) at Hauptbahnhof for luggage if you have a late departure.
- Never leave valuables visible in a parked car, rental cars which are targeted.
- Carry a copy of your passport's photo page and keep the original in your hotel safe.
General Conduct
- Jaywalking ('Rotgehen') is frowned upon and can result in a fine. Wait for the green pedestrian light.
- It is illegal to drink alcohol in public on the main shopping street (Königstraße) and in the main station.
- Always have some cash (Euros), as some smaller shops, bakeries, and markets may not accept cards.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Stuttgart is generally very safe for women travelers, including those traveling solo. Street harassment is relatively uncommon compared to other major cities. Public transport is safe to use at night, with well-lit stations and frequent service.
- Standard precautions apply: be aware of your surroundings at night, avoid poorly lit parks alone after dark.
- On public transport, sit near the driver or in carriages with other people if traveling late.
- German women are often direct and confident; mimicking this demeanor can help avoid unwanted attention.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Germany has strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017, and discrimination based on sexual orientation is illegal.
- The 'Bordelle' bar and 'Cage' club are popular LGBTQ+ venues.
- The annual Christopher Street Day (CSD) Pride parade in July is a major, family-friendly event.
- As anywhere, overt displays in very quiet suburban areas might draw looks, but hostility is rare.
Travel Insurance
Critical due to high healthcare costs. Insurance covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and medical repatriation. It also protects against trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other travel disruptions.
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