Our 2019 trip to Germany began and ended in the vibrant capital city of Stuttgart. Well known as a manufacturing hub, the capital of Baden-Wurttemberg has many lovely green spaces to explore. We had less than 24 hours to see the sites in Stuttgart. At first, we had trouble navigating the city. Once we discovered a quaint pub on a quiet street, we realized we hit the jackpot. Paul & George doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside is a hidden gem. We quickly made friends with the bartender, named Benny, who served us the best Manhattan we ever tasted. Find the recipe under April’s cocktail of the month. Once Benny gave us the secret to mixing the perfect Manhattan, we asked his advice on where to go. He gave us the lowdown on all the hot spots to hit in Stuttgart, which allowed us to make the most of our 24 hours there. Never underestimate the power of a good bartender!

Eat & Drink

Paul & George-A Stylish bar named for the original architects of the building dating back to 1889. (not the Beatles.)Expert mixologists serving up the best cocktails in town. Vintage feel attracts a crowd and fills up fast on weekends. Go early to grab your spot at this pub.

Basta-Cozy wine bar and restaurant with an eclectic menu of international and Swabian food. I indulged in risotto and scallops that night. My husband enjoyed the beef & Spatzle. Both were sinfully delicious. Lots of locals are regulars here, so it’s tough to secure a table. We were lucky to have been sent personally by Benny the bartender from Paul & George.

Tatti Cafe & Bar-Casual cafe/bar with happy hour specials and fun atmosphere. Serving coffee, cocktails and tasty treats in a lovely garden patio. It was our friendly waitress here, that first suggested Paul & George. Danke, Marissa!

Play

Schlossplatz-Stroll around this charming square in the heart of Stuttgart. Explore nearby gardens, a Gothic Palace and other interesting architecture. Enjoy live music outdoors and farmers markets in summer.

Ludwigsburg Palace-Ludwigsburg Residential Palace is one of the largest Baroque buildings in Europe to survive in its original condition. Visitors will discover architecture and artifacts that take you from Baroque to Rococo to Neoclassical. Be sure to allow extra time to tour the fairytale gardens and park that surrounds the palace.

Schloss Solitude-Also known as Stuttgart Palace, is a fascinating destination, located on the outskirts of Stuttgart. Originally built as a hunting lodge by a former duke of Wurttemberg, there is much to explore both inside and outside. Breathtaking views of the city from afar make it a great spot to snap a photo!

Mercedes-Benz Museum-Discover nine levels of exceptional vehicles and educational exhibits. Dine in a gourmet restaurant named after Bertha Benz, business partner and wife of Karl Benz. Did you know Bertha was the one who invented brake lining after an early test drive? Bertha’s head chef is a master at merging French, Asian and local influences. Summer concerts and events are making a comeback in Stuttgart soon!

Porsche Museum-Daydream about owning your own luxury sports car with an up-close experience here. Immerse yourself in the exciting world of Porsche history and vision for the future. Encounter legendary racing and sports cars, fascinating productions models and prototypes. Spoil yourself at one of the restaurants or coffee bars while your children discover Porsche 4kids play programs.

Stay

Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin-Upscale, yet affordable hotel in the heart of Stuttgart. Walking distance to many of the sites you’ll want to see and conveniently located across the street from Stuttgart Central Station. A chic restaurant, open air dining, lobby bar and spa are also on site.

Explore More of Germany

Looking for more places to tour in Germany? Check out my travel guide on Tubingen and The Black Forest.