The capital of Baden-Württemberg state has an intriguing mix of modern and historic architecture and all manner of great attractions. What’s more, the valleys around Stuttgart are filled with lures. Hire a car at Stuttgart Airport to see them all.
Cars, cars, cars
If you’re hiring a car with Hertz, you probably know quality vehicles when you see them. Stuttgart is a great place to indulge a fascination with luxury motors thanks to the city’s heritage.
Drop into the Mercedes-Benz Museum to learn about Carl Benz, the man who started the iconic brand’s empire in 1886. More than 160 models are on display, from some of the first cars ever built to visions for the future.
The Porsche Museum takes it up another gear, with more than 80 colourful special edition vehicles boasting incredible engine power. Exhibitions change throughout the year, so keep an eye on the calendar to find out what’s on.
Hop between the city’s highlights
Stuttgart city centre has many fantastic locations including Schlossplatz Stuttgart – the palace square.
This impressive square is the proud jewel in Stuttgart’s crown. Overlooked by the grand baroque-neoclassical New Palace, it’s the perfect place to spend a contemplative moment. With open lawns, the Jubilee Column, and fountains that light up each night, kick back, relax and enjoy.
Open-air concerts and the annual Stuttgart Sommerfest transform the peaceful Schlossplatz into a hub of activity. Old Castle, meanwhile, houses one of Stuttgart’s best attractions: the Württemberg State Museum, which explores local history since the Stone Age.
Keen shoppers will love Konigstrasse, one of Germany’s longest pedestrianised streets. The historic Königsbau arcade is yet another attractive place to shop or stop for coffee.
Nature lovers may prefer the Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden. It has around 1,200 species of animals, plus impressive coral collections and orchid displays.
Or, get a snapshot of the skyline at Stuttgart Television Tower – the best place for views across the city.
At 217 metres tall, the world’s first television tower offers unrivalled panoramic views over the vineyards of the Neckar Valley. On a clear day, you may even glimpse the Black Forest.
Explore picture-perfect Hohenzollern Castle
As one of the country’s most-visited castles, it would be difficult to argue that Hohenzollern Castle is anything other than spectacular.
This isolated hilltop castle is just over 30 miles south of Stuttgart. Hire a car from Stuttgart Airport and drive south on the B27 to get there.
The views are worth the visit on their own, but there are also regular events and captivating guided tours.
Escape to the university town of Tübingen
Punting on a traditional Tübinger Stocherkahn through Tübingen makes for a memorable day trip from Stuttgart. If you’ve ever visited Cambridge in England, you’re bound to love this prestigious university town.
The Neckar River run like a picturesque spine through the landscape, which is framed by colourful and historic buildings. Narrow alleyways and pointed gables maintain the medieval charm of Tübingen so take a moment to sit back and admire your surroundings.
Collecting a Hertz hire car from Stuttgart Airport gives you easy access to this enchanting town and all the treasures of south-west Germany.