A bit provincial and at the same time developed in the field of high technologies, Stuttgart is known for the giants of the automotive industry - Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. Stuttgart is the leading center of German science, as it is here that the largest number of patents in Germany are registered every year. Stuttgart is rightly considered one of the greenest cities in Germany. The capital of the southwestern state of Baden-Württemberg has not only luxuriously landscaped parks and gardens, but also its own vineyards. Therefore, to come and see all the sights of Stuttgart is certainly a great idea.
Information about the city
The first mention of Stuttgart dates back to 1160, and in 1219 the Margraves of Baden granted the town the status of the settlement. From the middle of the 13th century until 1496, the Württemberg counts ruled over the city. At the end of the 15th century, Stuttgart became known as the center of social sciences, where the great German philosopher Johann Reuchlin worked.
The city underwent major changes in the 19th century, when the industrial revolution began. Stuttgart has become one of the most important centers of industrialization. A school of arts and technology appeared here, and later - a higher educational institution.
After the Second World War, the city was badly damaged by the bombing of the US and British aircraft. After a while, Stuttgart was rebuilt - and today it is a quiet German town, immersed in greenery. The city is home to 500 thousand people.
Stuttgart is the capital of the federal district of Baden-Württemberg. The city is located in southern Germany, close to the Swiss and French borders. Stuttgart is located in the lowlands, from where a gorgeous view of green hills and beautiful buildings with tiled roofs opens up.
| Facts | Description |
|---|---|
| A bear named Girl was given a driver's license | When the circus of Valentin Filatov came on tour to Stuttgart, the Germans were so impressed with driving a motorcycle by a bear that they gave her a license. 10 years later, this bear had a motorcycle accident in the same city due to a reckless motorist. |
| Horse - a symbol of the city | There is a version that Stuttgart was founded in 950 by Duke Ludolph. It was under his leadership that a stud farm and city fortifications were built here. |
| The world's first TV tower | Reinforced concrete television tower was built in 1956. This building in Stuttgart became the benchmark for many towers that were later erected around the world. |
What to see in Stuttgart
In the center of Stuttgart, there are many historical and modern buildings that create a unique architectural ensemble. In 1960, on the site of the Military Palace, Stuttgart Palace Square appeared, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.
The main attractions of Stuttgart are the Royal Castle, the 167 meter high TV tower, the museum of the legendary Mercedes-Benz concern and the world-famous Wilhelm Garden.
The Neckar River flows on the outskirts of the city. Walking along the river on a steamer is a fascinating journey, during which tourists will visit the system of opening and closing locks, various levels of rise and fall of water masses.
Stuttgart museums and galleries
Museums are popular attractions that are included in the must-see program of places of interest in Stuttgart.
For Germans, a pig is a symbol of happiness and good luck. In the capital of the state of Baden-Württemberg, a separate museum is dedicated to this animal, similar to a well-groomed and cozy pigsty, while all the animals here are toy. More than 40 thousand pigs are made of different materials: plastic, wood, glass, porcelain, fabric and others.
This museum was invented not only for fun: visitors will learn absolutely everything about pigs - from biological features to significance in mythology.
The Pig Museum is located at Schlachhofstrabe, 2a. To clarify the details, call +49 711/66419600 or go to the official website. Ticket prices are shown in the table.
| Single ticket | |
|---|---|
| Category | Cost, EUR |
| Adults (from 18 years old) | 5,90 |
| Pensioners, disabled people, students | 5 |
| Children (from 7 to 14 years old) | 3 |
| Children (from 4 to 6 years old) | 1,50 |
| Children under 4 years old | Is free |
| Group ticket (from 25 people) | |
| Adults (from 18 years old) | 4,50 |
| Students | 4 |
| Pupils | 2,50 |
| Kindergarten groups (up to 6 years old) | 1,50 |
| You can buy a card as a gift for 25 euros | |
The State Gallery is a collection of paintings that once belonged to King William I of Württemberg. The monarch collected works by Vermeer, Rubens, Dürer, Canaletto and other masters.
Initially, the paintings were exhibited at the Museum of Fine Arts, which was later transformed into the State Art Gallery. Painting of the XIX century is made in all sorts of directions - from the Pre-Raphaelites to Impressionism.
The collection of the XX century will not leave indifferent true connoisseurs of art: the gallery presents the largest collection of Picassos in Germany, as well as the collections of Monet, Modigliani, Renoir, Matisse. Also in the museum, the attention of tourists will be attracted by graphic works, photographs and sculptures.
The gallery is located at the address: Urbanstrabe, 35. Opening hours: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday - from 10.00 to 18.00, Tuesday and Thursday - from 10.00 to 20.00, Monday - closed. The entrance ticket costs 8 euros. For children and young people under 20 years old - admission is free. Details are available here.
The successor to the State Gallery in Stuttgart is the Stuttgart City Museum of Art, which opened in March 2005. In its first year of operation, the museum became the second most popular place in the city.
An unusual building in the shape of a glass cube brings together a museum, a bookstore, a bar and a panoramic restaurant under the roof. The room has ground and underground floors.
The main artistic value of the museum is the private collection of paintings by Count Silvio della Valle di Casanova. In addition, the museum collection consists of works by Willy Baumeister, Adolf Hölzel, Dieter Krieg, Wolfgang Leib, Dieter Roth, Walter Stöhrer, K.R.H. Sonderborg, Fritz Winter, Joseph Kossuth.
Address: Schlossplatz Tunnel 1. The museum is open every day, except Monday, from 10.00 to 18.00, on Friday from 10.00 to 21.00. The ticket price for adults is 5 euros, for children and teenagers (from 6 to 15 years old) - 2 euros. For more details, go to the official website of the museum. Read about what collections other museums in Germany have.
What architectural monuments can be seen in Stuttgart
The New Palace is the largest of all that remained in Germany. Its founder was Duke Karl Eugene von Württemberg, who at the age of 16 demanded his own residence from the government.
The new palace was under construction for more than half a century, with breaks between fires and downtime due to lack of money. By the 19th century, the palace was a building with Versailles-style domes in the central part, sculptures on balustrades and a marble hall.
The modern appearance of the palace is the result of painstaking work, since in 1944 the residence was damaged during the bombing. The restoration lasted 6 years - from 1958 to 1964.
Today the building houses the Ministries of Education, Finance and Culture. It often hosts concerts, exhibitions and conferences. The famous premises of the palace are the staircase gallery, the White Hall, the Marble Hall and the Mirror Gallery.
The palace is located at: Schlossplatz, 4. Details of the visit are posted on the official page.
The Old Castle is one of the oldest buildings in Stuttgart, which has survived to this day. The castle transports the tourist into the historical past of Württemberg. For more than 10 centuries of history, the building has been destroyed and rebuilt more than once.
The castle acquired its modern Renaissance look in the 16th century. During the Second World War, the structure was badly damaged, and it took 25 years to restore.
The castle houses expositions of the Württemberg State Museum. Here there is an opportunity to learn about the social and religious life of the city, the military past, exhibits on the history of costume and religious art are presented. Exact address: Schillerplatz, 6.
Württemberg castles deserve a separate route from objects of different eras and styles.It is difficult to accurately calculate the surviving buildings, but there are 10 of the most outstanding architectural monuments. These include: Heidelberg Castle and Schwetzingen Palace, Weikersheim Palace and Bruchsal Palace, Solitude Palace in Stuttgart and Sigmaringen Castle, Favorite Palace and Ludwigsburg Residence, Urach Residence and Hohenzollern Castle.
There are also lesser-known architectural monuments on this land: Mannheim Palace, Rastatt Palace, Kirheim Palace and the new Meersburg Palace. Learn more about castle structures in the article Castles in Germany.
The Weissenhof Quarter, or "White Courtyards", is a symbol of a new style in urban construction. The local authorities wanted to show by the example of a block what a modern building would look like. For this experiment, leading architects were invited to come up with houses for the people who most need a roof over their heads.
Many ideas were proposed, but in the end they built houses with white walls and low roofs. The latter became a revolutionary discovery for the 30s of the XX century. One of the houses now houses a museum dedicated to the entire complex.
The quarter is located at Rathenaustrasse, 1- 3. The Museum's working hours: from Tuesday to Friday - from 11.00 to 18.00, on Saturday and Sunday - from 10.00 to 18.00, Monday - closed. The official site provides complete information about this architectural monument.
Singing fountains are the sights of such German cities as Hamburg, Berlin, Wolfsburg. There are no singing fountains in Stuttgart, but the city boasts other fountains with an interesting history. The most popular are the Hans im Gluck (Lucky Hans) fountain, the Athenian fountains, the Fountain of Destiny and the Galateabrunnen fountain.
Park zones
The Wilhelm complex is one of the most popular zoological parks in Germany and includes a botanical garden and a zoo. The palace complex was built in 1846 at the request of King William I. The buildings are made in the neo-Moorish style.
During World War II, nothing remained of the complex, so everything had to be rebuilt. The Wilhelm Botanical Garden and Zoo occupy an area of about 30 hectares, where about 9 thousand animals live.
The complex ranks second in the diversity of wildlife after the Berlin Zoo. Around 5800 plant species have been planted on the territory, including various types of trees.
The complex is located at Wilhelma, 13. All details can be found on the official website. Opening hours and ticket prices are shown in the tables.
| Opening hours | |
|---|---|
| Main entrance | 8.15–18.00 |
| Ticket office | 9.00–16.30 |
| Animal houses | 8.15–18.45 |
| Aquarium | 9.00–19.00 |
| Single ticket | ||
|---|---|---|
| Regular ticket, euro | Evening rate (after 16.00), euro | |
| Adults | 16 | 11 |
| Children (from 6 to 17 years old) | 8 | 5,50 |
| Schoolchildren, students (from 18 to 28 years old) | 10 | 7 |
| Family ticket (one parent + one child) | 24 | 16,50 |
| Family ticket (both parents + one child) | 40 | 27,50 |
| Groups (from 15 people) | ||
| Adults | 13 | 11 |
| Children (from 6 to 17 years old) | 6,50 | 5,50 |
| Schoolchildren, students (from 18 to 28 years old) | 8 | 7 |
| There is an opportunity to purchase an annual ticket costing from 55 euros. | ||
The palace park in Stuttgart has more than 600 years of history. The park area begins in the city center and stretches to the Neckar River. In the palace park, work is now underway to improve and expand the territory. The recreation area is divided into three parts, Upper, Middle and Lower parks, which are connected by pedestrian bridges.
Killesberg Park was laid out in the early 30s of the XX century and continues to develop to this day. The area of the city garden is almost 50 hectares. There are hundreds of family walks, shady alleys, entertainment, coffee shops, ponds and even a small zoo.
The symbol of Killesberg Park is the Killesberg Tower, built in 2001.
174 steps up - an attraction for those who are not afraid of heights. Upstairs there is a beautiful view of the city.
Temples and churches in Stuttgart
In Stuttgart, as in any other city in Germany, there are temples, churches, mosques. The most famous are the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, as well as two churches - the Monastery and the Hospital.
| Monastery church | It is the main Protestant church in the city and the only building that remains from the Hohenstaufen era. The asymmetrical design with two towers was rebuilt several times. Inside you can see paintings from the 13th century. |
|---|---|
| Hospital church | The building changed its purpose more than once: during the Reformation it was a hospital, and under the Nazis it was a prison for Jews, gypsies and communists. The altar and gravestones of the 16th-17th centuries have survived in the church since 1489. |
Things to do in Stuttgart
Stuttgart has a wide range of entertainment options. The State Theater is one of the centers of the city's cultural life.
Stuttgart is home to Germany's renowned band, the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra.
The city has two musical theaters - Apollo and Palladium, each of which can seat up to 1800 people.
Nightlife lovers can go to a bar, club or music venue.
In Stuttgart there is the Centrs water park, on the territory of which there is a hotel. Vacationers do not need to go outside this entertainment complex: there are theaters, cinemas, shops, 16 restaurants, 16 saunas, cryochambers and luxurious pools.
Children's amusement parks will not let young travelers get bored. At Tripsdrill Park, the day will fly by - try your luck in the roller coaster cabin, ride the waterfall in the tub, try whitewater rafting, or go for a free fall ride.
The Kaufhof Gallery is a space where every tourist can purchase high quality products. A wide range of products from various international brands will acquaint you with trends and the latest innovations from manufacturers. More than 2 million people shop at the gallery every day. Read on for the best places to shop in Germany.
Interesting places near the city
Waldenbuch is located 17 km south-west of Stuttgart. It is home to the world famous Ritter Sport chocolate and home to Schloss Waldenbuch Castle.
On the outskirts of the city of Hechingen, 50 km south-west of Stuttgart, stands the Hohenzollern Castle.
The building still belongs to the Hohenzollern family, whose genealogy includes German emperors.
12 km from Stuttgart lies the city of Ludwigsburg, where it is worth visiting museums of fashion, ceramics, the Schloss Favorit hunting yard and the Ludwigsburg Palace.
The town of Marbach is 35 km north, where the museum of the German writer Friedrich Schiller is open.
Excursions in Stuttgart
Many are interested in what to see in 1 day on their own. Travelers can start the route from the eastern part of Stuttgart, gradually approaching the attractions in the center:
- Württemberg mausoleum - Grabkapelle.
- Mercedes-Benz Museum.
- Cathedral Church - Stiftskirche.
- TV tower observation deck and revolving restaurant .;
- Weissenburg park and Teehaus.
You can also contact Russian guides in Stuttgart and book an individual excursion.
| Guide | Tour name | Price | Description | Contacts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Irina Noskina | Stuttgart - dukes, favorites, cars | 170 euros | The walking tour is three hours long. | Phone: +49 (178) 712-8488 Email: [email protected] Website: www.germany-for-russians.com |
| Boris Shcherb | Individual excursions in Stuttgart with a trip to other cities and countries | On request | The excursion is designed for two hours (on foot + car). The price includes a Russian-speaking guide with a car, transfer, gasoline and parking. | Phone: +49 (178) 712-8488. Email: [email protected] Website: www.germany-for-russians.com |
All types of public transport are available in Stuttgart: there are buses, trams, metro and electric trains. Night buses run on Fridays and Saturdays and leave from Schlossplatz at 1.11, 2.22 and 3.33.
To travel by public transport within the city, you need to buy a ticket for 2.50 euros or a travel card for four trips (Mehrfahrtenkarte) for 9.50 euros.
Taxis in Stuttgart are expensive, so a 5-minute ride will cost € 12-15. Taxi ranks are located at railway stations and main squares of the city. You can also call a taxi at +49 (711) / 551-0000 or order on the Kiwi website.
Cycling lovers can rent a bike for 18 euros for the whole day.It is possible to rent a bike for free on the Stadtbahn lines.
In the capital of the federal district of Baden-Württemberg, tourists have access to hotels or apartments of any category with a different range of services. The most popular area for tourists is Stuttgart-Mitte, where the largest number of hotels is concentrated.
| The name of the hotel | Price per day for 2019 | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Aloft Stuttgart 4 * | € 98 (+ € 13 breakfast) | The hotel is located in the city center, decorated in a modern style. The fitness room on the eighth floor is open around the clock. Takeaway food from the Re: fuel Grab & Go by Aloft pantry is available at any time. |
| Park Inn by Radisson Stuttgart 4 * | € 83 (+ € 17.50 breakfast) | Marienplatz Square is a 2-minute walk from the hotel. On the top floor there is a fitness center with a sauna and a relaxation room. The restaurant serves Italian cuisine. |
| Central-Classic Hotel 3 * | 93 euros (breakfast is included in rooms from 99 euros) | The historic center of Stuttgart is a 10-minute walk away. Buffet breakfast. |
| City Hotel Stuttgart 3 * | 83 euro (breakfast included) | The hotel rooms are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay. The form of serving breakfast is a buffet. The main attractions of the city are nearby. |
| A&O Stuttgart City 2 * | 67 euros (+7 euros breakfast) | Pets allowed. There is a games room and a snack bar. The reception is open 24 hours a day. |
| Gastehaus Andrea Guest House | 93 euros (breakfast included) | It takes about 15 minutes to get to the city center. Restaurants with European cuisine are a 10-minute walk away. Tourists are offered free parking. |
Visiting local establishments remains one of the most popular attractions for tourists.
| Name of the establishment | Price level | Kitchen | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weinstube Trollinger | Average | German, European | There are many items on the menu and huge sizes of dishes. Suitable for relaxing with a large company. |
| Arche | Average | German, European | There are vegetarian options. A wide selection of beer and spirits. |
| Mario eis | High | European | There are large portions and the best ice cream in town, which costs € 1.12 a ball. |
| Kamps | Short | European | A bakery where there are always fresh pies and other pastries. A serving of berry pie or apple strudel costs € 1.70. The only negative is the lack of tables. |
| Shanghai | Short | Chinese | A tourist will need to pay 3.36 euros for a portion of noodles. The institution has a huge selection of dishes, and specialty ice cream will be offered for dessert. |
| Grand cafe planie | Average | German, Italian | This is the favorite place of the locals. In addition to traditional German dishes, they cook excellently according to the recipes of Italian cuisine (pasta, lasagna). |
Conclusion
Stuttgart is the capital of the federal state of Baden-Württemberg and one of the largest industrial, cultural and commercial centers in Germany. This city is home to Mercedes and Porsche cars and is also famous for the production of red wine. The sights of Stuttgart - old buildings, stone pavements, museums, parks - attract tourists from all over the world.
