Stuttgart

Its history is interwoven with the opulent historic buildings in contrast to the more modern ones. A history that began in the 10th century and which, with its reconstruction after the Second World War - which led to the destruction of around 45% of the city - continues to captivate. With its Art Nouveau architecture, Stuttgart is Germany’s sixth largest city. It is known as the capital of cars, but there is so much more to see.
Today, let us kick off with what many people love: cars. Porsche and Mercedes-Benz, known the world over, are two major brands in the sector that embody Made in Germany and are based in this city. Bosch, equally renowned as a leading supplier of technology and services, also makes use of the location, providing this historic city with modern, up-to-date and successful brands.

Stuttgart is home to two fantastic museums: the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum

But getting back behind the wheel, let’s travel back in time. One of the museums to bear in mind during your visit is the Mercedes-Benz Museum. This is one of the most visited spaces in the city. There, over nine floors, you’ll find 160 vehicles from the most diverse eras and with the most varied designs, as well as a host of exhibitions. You’ll have the chance to see legendary and unique cars up close. Are you curious? Let’s not stop there. The Porsche Museum is also one of the city’s attractions. And, of course, for lovers of the brand, it’s a must-see. There, you’ll have the chance to see more than 80 cars that have shaped the history of the brand and be dazzled by various interactive displays - such as Porsche in the Mix, where you can explore sound characteristics and a musical composition of up to eight different sounds.  
Afterwards, it’s time to indulge in the charms of the city. Stuttgart is so special that it’s hard not to enjoy the scenery as you wander between the hillsides and the vineyards. The food is also to be enjoyed. Amongst German delicacies, including fresh produce and traditional favourites, there is so much to choose from. Which is why you can’t miss a visit to the city’s typical restaurants. And to accompany your meal, cool off with an Amber Ale, an original German beer.
When it comes to exploring the city’s cultural gems, head to the Schloss Solitude Palace, which boasts exquisite architecture revealing Duke Carl Eugen’s most exacting creation, where neoclassical and rococo are both on show. The palace is located on the outskirts of the city and was built discreetly on a hill, providing some of the most incredible views northwards towards Ludwigsburg. The building is home to an academy that has been welcoming young talent since 1990. There is also the Fritz von Graevenitz Museum. This monument is a real treat for art and architecture lovers.
Next, in the north of the city, is Ludwigsburg Palace. A palace with four wings, it is the largest Baroque palace in the country and one of the largest in Europe. If you think you’ll be enthralled by the outside, then imagine the inside, where the courtyard and gardens, as well as the palace’s two churches, various rooms and theatre, are truly majestic. 

Stuttgart’s public library, the Stadtbibliothek, is the intellectual and cultural heart of the city.

And now for a tip: if you visit Stuttgart in October, take a trip to the Pumpkin Festival, which takes place in the palace’s baroque garden. The scenery is mesmerising with various sculptures made from different types of pumpkins, which reflect the theme of the year - several international farmers attend this event to show off their giant pumpkins.
And finally, who doesn’t enjoy a great play or opera? We certainly do, which is why we recommend a visit to one of the few German opera houses to have survived the war - the Staatstheater. It’s an impressive architectural work of art that plays host to world-famous operas and the world’s oldest orchestras. Take your pick!
If there’s still time for a bit more culture, reading can be an art form here when you visit the Stadtbibliothek, Stuttgart’s public library, which is the intellectual and cultural heart of the city. The huge cube-shaped building covers nine floors and is an exceptional sight.
But there’s so much more to see. If you want to get out of the city for a while, a walk through the Black Forest is well worth it. As is the wine route at the end of September, or visiting the Cannstatter Wasen (Beer Festival), or simply experiencing Europe’s biggest spring festival, the Stuttgart Frühlingsfest.
Culture, vineyards, castles, car museums, all in a special city to marvel at.