I didn’t go into Stuttgart with high expectations. It’s not really one of Germany’s ‘big’ cities and isn’t typically the first place that comes to mind when planning where to go. I could not have been more wrong. I immediately fell in love with the city and surrounding area and it quickly became one of my favourite places. Even if you only have one day in Stuttgart I can’t recommend visiting enough!
Table of contents
From castles and palaces to parks and libraries, there’s so much to see and do in Stuttgart. It’s a city overflowing with history and beautiful old buildings. Here’s my guide on how to visit Stuttgart in one day.
One day in Stuttgart: What to do, see and visit
What you need to know
- Is Stuttgart worth a day trip? Absolutely! There’s lots to see and so in Stuttgart, you’ll have no problem filling a day.
- What is Stuttgart best known for? Stuttgart is known for being a green city. There are plenty of trees and gardens within the city centre and surrounding the area there are so many vineyards! Stuttgart is also known for housing the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz & Porsche.
- Is Stuttgart good for tourists? Stuttgart is great for tourists. There are lots of big historical buildings to explore as well as the busy shopping street all within walking distance of each other. If you’ve been to Munich I thought it had a similar vibe.
- What to see in Stuttgart in one day? There’s a wide variety of things to see and do in Stuttgart, it depends on what yu’re into. My one-day in Stuttgart itinerary covers all the major attractions and sites!
Public transportation in Stuttgart
I found Stuttgart to be really easy to get around on foot as long as you’re in the city centre. When you head out of the centre though it can get quite hill quickly, so do bear that in mind. In terms of public transport, Stuttgart is very well covered, here are the main forms:
- U-Bahn: The U-Bahn is the underground, although many of the trains go overground too. It has many stops throughout the city getting you pretty much anywhere you need to be.
- S-Bahn: The S-Bahn is the same idea as the U-Bahn but covers distances further out in the city with less frequent stops.
- VVS Buses: Stuttgart has over 100 bus routes so, like with the U-Bahn, you’re covered for most places.
Tickets for the U-Bahn and S-Bahn can be purchased on the platform, on the VVS app or online. If you’re purchasing at the station you need to validate your ticket before you use it. This is done by inserting your ticket into the validating machine, a large yellow box, which is found on platforms or on the train itself by the door.
For the sake of public transportation tickets, Stuttgart is divided into zones. If you’re only staying in the city centre, which you will be for this itinerary, you only need a ticket for zone 1. If you’re purchasing a day ticket this covers your travel across all types of public transportation.
StuttCard – Tourist Card
The StuttCard is a tourist card that offers free entry to 27 museums and attractions, free access to public transport, discounts at many retail stores and even a free drink at some restaurants. If you’re looking to visit a lot of attractions with paid entry this can be a great money-saving option to consider!
Map of attractions in Stuttgart
How to use this map: Click on the markers for more information about each destination. The blue line shows the fastest walking route between each point. To save this map to your Google Maps, click the star in the top left corner.
A morning in Stuttgart
During your morning in Stuttgart, you’ll be ticking off all the major tourist spots and attractions. Whenever you reach one of these places I recommend snooping around some of the surrounding streets and alleys as the city has plenty of beautiful spots tucked away!
Neues Schloss & Schlossplatz – New Palace & Palace Square
Pretty much the central hub of the city, it’s impossible to spend one day in Stuttgart without visiting Schlossplatz. A former residence to Kings, the grand Neues Schloss dominates the square with its gardens sprawling out in front, the perfect spot to hang out on a sunny day. Although the Palace serves as a seat for state ministries, guided tours are occasionally available, offering a glimpse into its rich history. Be sure to check the website if you’re keen on exploring its stately halls.
Schlossplatz also connects you easily to the rest of Stuttgart. The city’s main shopping street, Königstraße, runs through here, making it the perfect starting point to explore the city.
Oberer Schlossgarten – Upper Castle Garden
Wrapping around the back of Neues Schloss is the Oberer Schlossgarten. Though on the smaller side, these gardens are beautifully landscaped, featuring statues, flower beds, a small lake, and fountains making great photo spots of the Palace. The Stuttgart State Theatre, along with its opera and drama houses, also border the gardens as well as the Stuttgart State Parliament.
Domkirche St. Eberhard – St. Eberhard’s Cathedral
Just down the street from Schlossplatz, you’ll find St. Eberhard’s, Stuttgart’s main Catholic church. The Cathedral has been a cornerstone of the city since the early 1800s. Although the church has undergone several rebuilds due to wartime damage, it now stands as a peaceful escape from the busy shopping street.
Schillerplatz – Schiller Square
One of my favourite areas just off of Schlossplatz is Schillerplatz. Named after the poet, Friedrich Schiller, the square is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, you’ll also find a flower market here every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Dominating the square are several architectural gems, including the Gothic Stiftskirche and the Neoclassical elegance of the Prinzenbau (Prince’s Building), as well as the entryway into the courtyard of Altes Schloss (Old Palace).
Altes Schloss – Old Castle
Resembling a fortress more than a traditional castle, Altes Schloss is one of Stuttgart’s most historic buildings. With over 1,000 years of history embedded in its walls, this is another must-see if you only have on day in Stuttgart. Once the residence of the House of Württemberg until the early 18th century, Altes Schloss now houses the Württemberg State Museum, where you can explore the history of the region.
Even if you’re not interested in visiting the museum be sure to head into the courtyard, it’s beautifully designed and not something you’d expect to find in the middle of a city!
Stiftskirche – Collegiate Church
Stiftskirche has a long and storied history, with evidence of a church on this site dating back to the 10th century. Documented construction began in 1240, and over the centuries, various towers, statues, and vaults have been added, resulting in a somewhat pieced-together yet impressive appearance. Guided tours are available once a month and you can also climb the tower for great views of the city.
Markthalle – Market Hall
I absolutely love food markets, and Stuttgart’s Markthalle did not disappoint! Built-in 1914, the market is home to 33 stalls, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, breads, and spices—the smell alone is incredible. You’ll also find fresh pasta, flowers, and an array of tempting desserts that are hard to resist. With a couple of spots to grab a quick meal, it’s the perfect place to refuel during your day. If you only have one day in Stuttgart, a visit to the Markthalle is a must!
An afternoon in Stuttgart
The afternoon will take you out of the city centre slightly as you explore some of Stuttgart’s green spaces.
Johanneskirche am Feuersee – St. John’s Church by Fire Lake
For me, St John’s was the most impressive church I saw in Stuttgart. Located on a small peninsula in the Feuersee, it almost appears to be on its own island, surrounded by trees that create a peaceful setting. Like a lot of Stuttgart, the church was damaged through the war and has since been restored, though its spire remains missing. For many, this absence serves as a poignant reminder, and the church is viewed as a war memorial. Be sure to take a look into the water as there are turtles swimming in the water!
Chinese Garden
A little piece of China in Stuttgart, the “Garden of Beautiful Melody” offers a serene escape with its waterfall, Chinese pavilion, and stunning views of the city. While it’s a bit of a trek up a hill to reach, the panoramic view over Stuttgart makes the climb worthwhile. The garden itself is small but beautifully designed, with bridges, flowing water, carvings, and greenery. This place is well worth visiting if you only have one day in Stuttgart & is the perfect spot to relax in.
Stadtbibliothek – City Library
If you only have one day in Stuttgart, the Stadtbibliothek is a must-see destination. As soon as you step inside, you’ll understand why a library is included in this itinerary. One of the most photographed spots in the city, the Stadtbibliothek is a masterpiece of modernity and minimalism. The building’s design features a perfect cube structure with five floors, all painted in pristine white and meticulously organized. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for more great views of the city!
Killesberg Park & Tower
Covering 123 acres, Killesburg Park is full of things to see and do. The most well-known attraction has to be the Killesberg Tower, a 40m high viewing platform offering more great views of the city (there’s a theme here!). A narrow gauge railway runs through the park and you’ll also find a small farm, a great children’s play area, an outdoor swimming pool and a few cafes. The park is beautifully maintained with many ponds, fountains and themed gardens. A must-see if you’re looking to escape the city for a bit!
An evening in Stuttgart
Königstraße – Kings Street
Stretching 1.2 kilometres through the heart of the city, Königstraße is the ideal spot to spend your evening if you only have one day in Stuttgart. Lined with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafés, this bustling street offers something for everyone. There are lots of great places to grab a bite to eat, whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or something to grab and go. If you are having food to take away be sure to head back to Schlossplatz for a meal with a view!
Got more time?
Looking for something else to do during your one day in Stuttgart? Here are a few more suggestions if you’re still wondering what to do in Stuttgart:
Walking tour
Walking tours are a great way to get acquainted with a city, especially if you’re interested in its history. Here are a few to pick from:
- Stuttgart free walking tour: A great free walking tour covering all the major sites in the city providing all the information you need.
- Stuttgart exploration game: See the city at your own pace while learning about different sites and monuments.
Mercedes Benz Museum & Porsche Museum
If you’re a car enthusiast, you’ve definitely come to the right city. Stuttgart is home to not one, but two world-renowned automotive museums. Each museum explores the history of its respective brand, and, of course, showcases an impressive collection of cars! These are both must do Stuttgart attractions if you’re with car lovers!
Kunstmuseum Stuttgart – Stuttgart Art Museum
If art is your thing and you only have one day in Stuttgart you have to check out Kunstmuseum Stuttgart. With a focus on contemporary and modern art, it features striking exhibitions and notably highlights the work of German painter Otto Dix. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Stuttgart if you’re with art lovers!
Summary
I fell in love with Stuttgart straight away and can’t recommend a visit enough! There’s so much to explore, if you’re a fan of cities with less modernity and more history, this is definitely the place for you. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your one day in Stuttgart!
