This European destination has a lot to offer, from taking in 18th-century Baroque architecture to learning about the history of Mercedes-Benz – and experiencing an evening at one of the world’s most famous ballet companies.
With a rental car in Stuttgart, you can take in all the local sights – before heading further afield to attractions and charming rural towns dotted around the wider landscape.
The heart of Stuttgart
Palace Square, or Schlossplatz, is surrounded by a mixture of historic buildings and modern architecture. This is where the people of Stuttgart gather for concerts, celebrations, or even simply to relax on the grass in the summer months.
Wander through the square and see the Neues Schloss up close. This iconic 18th-century palace now contains government offices, and was once the residence of the Kings of Württemberg.
You’ll encounter fountains, a monumental column honouring William I, a state museum which was once a Gothic Palace, and an art museum. In addition, Germany's longest shopping precinct, Königstraße, passes through the Palace Square, so if you fancy a spot of retail therapy, here’s your chance.
Awe-inspiring art and beautiful ballet
Stuttgart offers a feast for the senses, and even the Kunstmuseum’s building itself is a piece of art. By day, this awe-inspiring cube is reflective glass but, as night falls, it is illuminated from the inside – an absolute must-see if you’re in the city.
This fabulous building is located on the southwest corner of Palace Square. Check out the museum’s unrivalled Otto Dix collection, boasting around 250 of his pieces. The painter and printmaker was famous for his realistic depictions of German society.
Befitting a city with a prosperous history, The Stuttgart Ballet was established all the way back in the 17th-century. Since 1961 there have only been five directors of the company, proving what a prestigious position this is to hold. In 1971, then director John Cranko opened the Stuttgart Ballet School (now the John Cranko School) which has become one of the most respected dance training institutions in the world.
This is a popular and much sought-after experience, but if you can get your hands on a ticket for the ballet, a fantastic show awaits.
Motoring royalty
Car enthusiasts will, without doubt, be in their element in Stuttgart. The city boasts both the Mercedes-Benz Museum – located at the home of VfB Stuttgart's soccer stadium the Mercedes-Benz Arena – and the Porsche Museum situated in Zuffenhausen.
The Mercedes-Benz Museum building has an intriguing double helix design, and offers fascinating audio-guided tours. The Porsche Museum reopened in 2009 after a stylish revamp, having been a fixture in the city since the 1970s.
A monument built for love
Located on Württemberg Hill, the Sepulchral Chapel – or Württemberg Mausoleum – is a must-see when visiting Stuttgart. Located just over six kilometres away from the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Rotenberg, this chapel was built by King William I from 1820 to 1824 in loving memory of his wife Catherine.
It’s widely considered one of the more impressive examples of neoclassical architecture in the region. Travelling to the chapel will provide you with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and the whole of Stuttgart too, so it’s worth it just for this.
But this Mausoleum is also the resting place of Catherine, King William and their daughter Marie. Walk around to the western entrance and you’ll discover the beautiful tribute ‘Die Liebe höret nimmer auf’ which translates as “Love never ceases”.
With car rental in Stuttgart, you can see this moving architectural tribute – and much, much more.
