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I so enjoy my visits to Germany – actually seven cities that I frequent – but I had no Idea that I would enjoy Stuttgart – “The City of Cars”! Historically, it is my hubby who is in love with the auto-industry but after a visit to the Mercedes-Benz Museum and recently opened state of the art, Porsche Museum, I have become an avid fan of these impeccably designed vehicles! View the legendary 356, 550,911 and 917 models! Also my favorite – to finally view the original “Beetle” – brings back memories of those college days!
March is the month to plan a trip for you auto buffs as this is the annual Retro Classic world famous auto show, set against the historical backdrop at the stunning Ludwigsburg Palace.
However, for you art lovers, Stuttgart has more to offer than just cars! The city is surrounded by one of the largest wine regions in all of Germany. Not only do the restaurants take pride in serving their infamous spaetzles, but do take in a sampling of their home grown wine – pinot noir being my favorite! Festivals are plentiful throughout the year, from the most famous Cannstatter Wasen to the Holiday Christmas Bazaar in winter! No matter when you plan your trip, you will be welcomed and have a plethora of things to do!
The perfect place to begin your tour whether on foot or if you wish to catch the hop on hop off bus initially, Schlossplatz square is where to commence your journey. You will immediately pull your camera out to take a photo of the New Palace that frames the square – Stuttgart’s Neues Schloss in all its magnificence and architectural grandeur!
Onto (of course, my readers know I love great art!), the Stuttgart Art Museum to view the exceptional collection of contemporary and modern art! The collection spans eight centuries with of course my favorite, 19C artists: Manet, Pissarro, Renoir, Monet, Cezanne, and also two of my favorite contemporary artists, Paul Klee and Pablo Picasso! You will be captivated by the magnificent architectural design of the museum itself so do plan a visit!
When it comes to an appreciation of the performing arts, Stuttgart is once again ranked among the top cities of the world – with its State Theater the largest multi-genre in the world offering theatrical productions as well as the opera and my very favorite, the Ballet which has received world acclaim for years. The ballet has been perfoming since 1609 and is one of the leading ensembles in the world!
Shopping anyone? Take a stroll –if you dare – down the world class shops on Konigstrasse and Calwerstrasse! This may take a full day of just observation, please!
A simple thing, but I enjoy even walking down the aisle of the grocery stores, where every little item is in perfect line up! You also can get local grown products never seen outside of their local area! A gourmet’s delight!
During the spring and summer a visit to Wilhelma Gardens is a special treat – one of the largest zoological and botanical gardens in the world, home for 8,000 animals!
For a special treat you may wish to book a stay at the breathtaking Maritim Hotel Stuttgart, where you can “experience Stuttgart”. They have special prices and promotions plus information on shopping at the famous Metzingen outlet, where year around famous brands are discounted up to 70%.
Happy Travels!
September 5, 2023
