Itinerary

Stuttgart is a fantastic city with a rich history, beautiful parks, and a vibrant culture. Let’s dive into a budget-friendly 7-day itinerary that will help you explore the best of Stuttgart while keeping costs low. I’ll also include some hostel recommendations for your stay. Ready? Let’s go!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning:

• Arrive in Stuttgart and check into your hostel. A great budget option is Hostel Alex 30, which is centrally located and offers dormitory-style accommodations.

Afternoon:

• Head to Schlossplatz, the main square in Stuttgart. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and take some photos of the New Palace (Neues Schloss).
• Visit the Stuttgart City Library (Stadtbibliothek), a stunning modern building with free entry. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city!

Evening:

• Grab a cheap dinner at a local kebab shop or a traditional Swabian restaurant. Try some Maultaschen (Swabian dumplings) for an authentic experience.

## Day 2: Museums and Culture

Morning:

• Visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum. Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month, so if you’re lucky, plan your visit then! Otherwise, it’s around €10.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden. It’s a bit pricier at around €20, but it’s a beautiful place to spend the afternoon. If you’re looking to save, consider just strolling through the gardens.

Evening:

• Enjoy a picnic dinner at Killesberg Park. Grab some snacks from a local supermarket and relax in the park.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Ludwigsburg

Morning:

• Take a short train ride (about 20 minutes) to Ludwigsburg. The train is quite affordable, especially if you buy a day pass.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Ludwigsburg Palace (Residenzschloss). The gardens are free to enter, and you can explore the beautiful grounds without spending much.

Evening:

• Return to Stuttgart and have dinner at a local beer garden. Try some local beer and pretzels!

## Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Spend the morning at Schlossgarten, a lovely park right in the city center. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing morning with a book.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Stuttgart State Museum of Natural History. Entry is around €5, and it’s a great way to learn about the region’s natural history.

Evening:

• Check out the local street food scene at Markthalle Stuttgart. You can find affordable and delicious options here.

## Day 5: Explore the Vineyards

Morning:

• Take a hike through the Stuttgart vineyards. The Weinwanderweg (Wine Trail) offers beautiful views and is free to explore. Bring some snacks for a picnic!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Bopser viewpoint for stunning views of Stuttgart. It’s a bit of a hike, but totally worth it!

Evening:

• Head back to the city and enjoy a casual dinner at Café Le Théâtre, where you can find affordable meals.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Tübingen

Morning:

• Take a train to Tübingen, a charming university town about 30 minutes away. The train is inexpensive, especially with a day pass.

Afternoon:

• Explore the old town, visit the Hohentübingen Castle, and take a stroll along the Neckar River. It’s a picturesque place to wander around.

Evening:

• Have dinner at a local restaurant in Tübingen before heading back to Stuttgart.

## Day 7: Last Day and Souvenir Shopping

Morning:

• Visit the Stuttgart Art Museum (Kunstmuseum Stuttgart). Entry is around €4, and it’s a great way to wrap up your trip with some culture.

Afternoon:

• Spend your last afternoon shopping for souvenirs at Königstraße, Stuttgart’s main shopping street. Look for local crafts and treats to take home.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Swabian specialties you haven’t had yet!

Accommodation Recap:

• Hostel Alex 30: Centrally located, budget-friendly.
• DJH Jugendherberge Stuttgart: Another great option with a youth hostel vibe.

Tips for Saving Money:

• Use public transport (U-Bahn and S-Bahn) to get around. Consider getting a day pass for unlimited travel.
• Look for free walking tours to learn more about the city without spending much.
• Eat at local bakeries or supermarkets for affordable meals.

And there you have it! A week full of adventure, culture, and relaxation in Stuttgart without breaking the bank. Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️