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Updated February 2022

Chances are that you may have never even heard of the Oberammergau Passion Play. Honestly, I didn’t either until we started planning a trip to Oktoberfest in 2010. Our plans were to visit Munich and Stuttgart for their famous autumnal festivals and make a stop in Berlin to see Diana’s cousin. Beyond that, we thought what else should we see?

In our trip planning research, we stumbled upon the fact a tiny town in Bavaria, Oberammergau (once you learn how to say it, you may find yourself like me, repeating it over and over again with a bad German accent) was presenting their Passion Play that year. To add to the uniqueness it only happens every ten years. It didn’t take much to know that we had to add it to our itinerary.

What Is The Oberammergau Passion Play and Why Is It Special?

The village of Oberammergau, nestled in Bavaria, is a lovely and unique destination, sometimes overlooked by visitors who come to Germany in search of perhaps more populous locales. But in 2022, Oberammergau will once again be the site of one of the most sweeping theatrical events in Europe, the Passion Play in Germany, which has been consistently performed since its first appearance in 1634.

1860 Production Oberammergau
1860 Production Oberammergau. Photo credit Oberammergau Bühne, Wikipedia.

The genesis of the Passion Play was a promise to God by the village during the horrors of the bubonic plague that took millions of lives in the 17th century. The promise was that if God did not condemn the villagers to death by the plague, a play reenacting the life and death of Jesus Christ would be performed every ten years.

The Passion Play, or PassionsSpiele, is performed repeatedly for five months in the last year of the decade. Thus, May 14 through October 2 of 2022 will be the time to see this spectacle if you have the desire. The play reenacts the last five days of the life of Jesus Christ, covering Palm Sunday to Easter.

Is Oberammergau Passion Play Still on for 2022?

In 2022, the Passion Play will be performed in an off-year after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19. Anticipation of larger crowds makes it imperative to start your planning early.

Jesus Christ and John in a 1900 performance of the Oberammergau Passion Play
Jesus Christ and John in a 1900 performance of the Oberammergau Passion Play. Photo credit: Wikipedia.

The town of Oberammergau itself has a population of around 5,000. The Passion Play involves the participation of over 2,000 residents, acting as performers, musicians, and stage technicians and support. Visitors do take notice and the village receives some 500,000 of them during the period in which the Passion Play takes place. Preparations and rehearsals take place for nearly a year prior to the public presentations. The 2020 performance season will represent the 51st such event since the village’s oath to God in 1634.

Oberammergau, Germany

The pageantry of the Passion Play is undeniable. But the village has many charms even beyond the grand spectacle presented every decade. Many of the buildings are adorned with beautifully painted murals. Many of the murals depict Bible stories in glorious colorful detail.

Shops and Tourists in Oberammergau
Shops and Tourists in Oberammergau

Bright and plentiful flowers often embellish building facades as they spill forth colorfully from window boxes and wooden balconies. The Bavarian Alps and rolling green meadows provide a luscious backdrop for this enchanting scene.

Beautiful flower boxes on the buildings in Oberammergau
Beautiful flower boxes on the buildings in Oberammergau

Oberammergau is also home to Linderhof Castle (Schloss Linderhof), one of King Ludwig II’s spectacularly luscious castles. King Ludwig, responsible for some of the most beautiful and fanciful castles in Europe, is sometimes referred to as the Swan King or the Fairy Tale King. Believed to be inspired by French King Louis XIV’s Versailles, Linderhof Castle is also notable in that it is one of the few castles the dreamy King actually used.

Linderhof Palace Oberammergau Germany
Linderhof Palace Oberammergau Germany. Photo credit Wikipedia.

Handcrafts of Oberammergau

Another treasure of tiny Oberammergau is the lovely wooden carvings from clocks to critters to creative inspirations. Originally created by foresters and farmers as a way to while away the long winter months, the artistry of woodcarving has become more of year-long pursuit by full-time artisans. There are shops to explore and carvers on hand demonstrating their techniques.

Wood carver in Oberammergau
Woodcarver in Oberammergau

You will not be surprised to also find hand-carved nativity sets in many of the shops as well. Wonderfully detailed and unique Cuckoo clocks are also another favorite souvenir from the Bavarian region. You will likely be inspired to pick up a memento from your visit.  Buyers beware – use caution and your best negotiation skills before you make your final purchases, especially ones with a larger price tag. Keep in mind that you will be there during the high tourist season if you go to experience the Passion Play and prices will reflect that.

Nativity Sets for sale in Oberammergau
Nativity Sets for sale in Oberammergau

Oberammergau Tours

Once you decide to add the Oberammergau Passion Play 2022 to your travel plans you should immediately start your research. With the coming of the Passion Play, tickets have been on sale since 2020, while packages and tours are being offered by a vast array of travel companies.

We decided to book with a company that took care of everything. It was easy to take the train from Munich to Oberammergau which is a little under two hours. Train travel is wonderful in Europe and we choose that mode of transportation whenever we can. It’s easy, the trains are typically very clean, offer free WiFi and get you from point A to point B quickly and with a much smaller carbon footprint.

Oberammergau Hotel
Oberammergau Hotel

Our package included two nights’ accommodations at a perfectly quaint and mountainside Bavarian inn. There we had a delicious and hearty German dinner. We awoke to a breakfast buffet and then took a comfortable minivan to Oberammergau about 30 minutes away.  We spent the entire day in Oberammergau attended the show, had a meal that was included as well as breakfast the next morning. If you get up early you can stroll around the very tiny village and hear the cowbells tolling on the hillside.

Be Prepared

It is a really long day. You will arrive in Oberammergau prior to the showtime you’ll have plenty of time to roam around the town and get the lay of the land. It’s very small so you’ll figure it out really quickly. Then you’ll head to the theater. The play is divided into two parts. The first one starts at 2:30 pm and ends at 5 pm. Then the entire theater empties out and heads for dinner. It may sound odd but it works really very well (it’s Germany).

Since the majority of the attendees have purchased tickets that include the meal it’s organized and orderly. Your tour company will provide directions to the Oberammergau restaurants you’ll be going to. We were served a plated meal that came with soup, salad, rolls, butter, beer, and wine. We had a choice of fish or chicken and one lady at our table had a vegetarian plate option as well. The food was traditional Bavarian, hearty, plentiful, and delicious.

Salmon dinner at Oberammergau
Salmon dinner at Oberammergau

There’s a three-hour break for dinner. You’ll once again have time to stroll around the town, make some purchases, or just window shop. I’d advise walking as much as you can during this time as you’re in for another two and a half hours of sitting once you get back to the theater. You might want to snag a tea, coffee, or cappuccino too so you don’t nod off.

Oberammergau with mountains in background
Oberammergau with mountains in the background

More Tips on Oberammergau

One of the things that makes this performance special is that the back end of the stage is open to the outdoors so the natural lighting really brings the show to life. It also means that it can be chilly or warm depending on when you’re attending. Bringing a light sweater or jacket would be a great idea. We were there in late September and it was quite comfortable. It is fully covered so no need to worry about rain or sun.

Inside the theater at Oberammergau
Inside the theater at Oberammergau

Photography and videoing are not allowed during the performance. I took the snap above during the break right before the show started again.

The latest theater can seat over 4,000 people. It has under-floor heating, large coat rooms, plenty of restrooms, and accessible seating.

Oberammergau Theater Germany Oberammergau Passion Play 2020
Oberammergau Theater Germany Food Travelist

Some of the “performers” are live animals. You’ll see the full complement of these characters on stage during the show. It’s really quite memorable.

Is the Passion Play in Oberammergau in English?

The play is performed in German. You will be given a program that is printed in English as well as many other languages as well. Since the story is familiar to most people it is easy to follow regardless of your native language.

Start Planning Early

If you want more information about the Passion Play itself, and to purchase Oberammergau tickets visit the official website.

PRO TIP: Be sure to check the visa and entry requirements from your own country of origin. Check the COVID-19 regulations for Germany too.

If you want to combine a visit to the Passion Play in Oberammergau with the Munich Oktoberfest, it runs from September 17 through October 3, 2022. As we always say, since you’ve already made the long journey you should make the most of it and see and do everything you can.

Of course, you can always visit Oberammergau any time of year and get Low-price guaranteed on Viator and get a completely different experience. Without the crowds and the Passion Play, you will visit a tiny Bavarian town that will welcome you with open arms, delicious food, beautiful mountain views, and friendly people.

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German Christmas markets. One of my favorite things about the holiday season is Christmas Markets or “Weihnachtsmarkt” as they are called in Germany. These popular markets typically run through the four weeks of Advent that lead up to Christmas Day. The markets originated in the late Middle Ages in Germany,  Austria, France, and Italy. Now Christmas Markets are in place all over the world. We even have several right here in Chicago.

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If you like good food, hot drinks, and unique vendors with many handmade goods that make terrific holiday gifts then Christmas Markets are definitely a must for you!

I had the good fortune to visit 7 Christmas Markets in southwestern Baden-Wurttemberg Germany, which is known as the “Sunny Side of Germany.”

I was the guest of Baden-Wurttemberg Tourism Board on a recent press tour of the area. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are my own.

Warning: there are lots of photos of food, gluhwein and fun being had at 7 wonderful German Christmas Markets. These photos will undoubtedly cause you to immediately feel the holiday spirit.

Christmas Markets on the Sunny Side of Germany

Stuttgart City Christmas Market

Stuttgart is a wonderful city to visit. The city center has many pedestrian-only avenues, which makes walking around the German Christmas Markets very easy and safe. The surrounding office buildings and businesses add to the ambiance with their festive lights and displays.

Every market has a special feature and Stuttgart has creative and unique rooftop displays on every booth. In fact, there’s a competition for the very best. Just wandering around taking in the displays is a sheer joy.

I was also lucky to catch a live musical concert at the Old Stuttgart Palace the evening we visited. It was magical to watch the performance in the courtyard amid the sparkling lights.

Stuttgart is regarded as one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe. The 300-year-old market features over 280 decorated stands that are all unique and beautiful. There’s also a separate Children’s Market where kids can make ornaments, ride the giant Christmas ornament Ferris wheel and take a little journey on the miniature train.

Special bonus: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Stuttgart Christmas Market. A perfect benefit for those who can’t wait to share their magical moments with friends at home on social media.

Rooftop decorations are unique in Stuttgart Christmas Markets.
Rooftop Decorations Are Unique In Stuttgart Christmas Markets.
Stuttgart Christmas Market Christmas Markets on the Sunny Side of Germany
Stuttgart Christmas Market Christmas Market

Ludwigsburg Baroque Christmas Market

The first thing you notice at the Ludwigsburg Christmas Market is the array of giant angels with sweeping wings that seem to hover over the market observing and protecting it.

Two baroque churches grace the Ludwigsburg town square. With over 175 stalls you’ll get lost in the tasty treats, handcrafted local goods and fragrant booths. It’s a must to try the Ludwigsburg Lebkuchen. The vendors hand out samples and boast about their World’s Largest Gingerbread, which has been registered in the Guinness Book of Records.

Ludwigsburg Bustling Christmas Market
Ludwigsburg Bustling Christmas Market
Ludwigsburg Christmas Market Lebkuchen
Ludwigsburg Christmas Market Tasty Lebkuchen (gingerbread)
Ludwigsburg Christmas Market Dinnede
Ludwigsburg Christmas Market Dinnede (cheesy flatbread)

Esslingen Medieval Christmas Market

By far the most unique Christmas Market we visited, Esslingen’s Medieval Market transports you back to the Middle Ages. The vendors dress in historical costumes and at times you’re convinced that you’ve truly stepped back in time. Over 200 booths make it easy to enjoy a variety of favorites. You can watch blacksmiths, basket weavers, jugglers, archers and more while sipping hot mulled wine and munching on the same food that was enjoyed by revelers hundreds of years ago. It’s a treat to walk around the timbered houses and watch the show unfold.

My favorite stall was the “baths.” Here you can take a hot bath with several friends while still enjoy your food and drink. Unique, you bet!

Esslingen Market
Esslingen Medieval Market
Esslingen Medieval Christmas Market Baths
Esslingen Medieval Christmas Market Baths
Esslingen Medieval Market Vendors
Esslingen Medieval Market Vendors

Tubingen Chocol’ART Christmas Market

Located in the university town of Tubingen the Chocol’ART Christmas Market is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. International chocolate vendors from Africa, Ecuador, France, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and others come together to celebrate everything that’s Christmas & chocolate.

The Chocol’ART Christmas Market winds its way around the Old Town City Center as you taste your way through chocolate from all over the world. It’s the only chocolate market in Germany and only happens one weekend in December so be sure to check the dates when planning a trip so you don’t miss it.

Tubingen Old Town Center
Tubingen Old Town Center
Ecuadorian Chocolate at Tubingen Choco'ART Christmas Market
Ecuadorian Chocolate at Tubingen Choco’ART Christmas Market
Every kind of chocolate you can imagine!
Every Kind Of Chocolate You Can Imagine!

Royal Christmas Market at Hohenzollern Castle

As you approach the Hohenzollern Castle from a distance you are struck by its massive size. It looms over the forest and you are just as awestruck as the villagers must have been when the castle was the ancestral home of the Prussian Royal family that inhabited it.

One of my favorites, the Royal Christmas Market at Hohenzollern Castle has all the stalls you’d expect at any Christmas Market but you’ll be pleased to browse the locally handcrafted gifts in the castle itself. It makes for a very special journey as you take in the sights and find special treasures along the way. Don’t forget to tour the “treasure room” with the historical items that include Frederick the Great’s snuff-box, and the original garment that the legend says saved his life from a bullet.

Hohenzollern Castle Christmas Market
Hohenzollern Castle Christmas Market
Gluhwein Cheer
Gluhwein Cheer – Another Way To Stay Warm.

Distinctive Shopping at Hohenzollern Castle Christmas Market

St. Blasien Christmas Market

Located along the Alb River in the Black Forest. When you arrive in St. Blasien you immediately see the beautiful domed abbey church built in the Early Classic style. This was by far my favorite Christmas Market in Baden-Wurttemberg. The Christmas Market is located right in front of the large domed church. This town seems to be protected by the surrounding Black Forest.

Families stroll and stop for cups of hot cider and wine. The pace is relaxed and orderly, no rushing around even on a Saturday afternoon. For over 60 years the market has been the home to local vendors creating very unique gifts and wares. Take the time to visit the abbey the “white church,” as it’s come to be known, is not to be missed.

St. Blasien Christmas Market in the Black Forest
Family Friendly St. Blasien Christmas Market In The Black Forest
St. Blasien Christmas Market
Family Friendly St. Blasien Christmas Market
St. Blasien Christmas Market
St. Blasien Christmas Market

Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

The most dramatic Christmas Market in the area is the Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market. Set under the ancient stone viaduct of Germany’s steepest railway bridge amid the Black Forest this Christmas Market is one you won’t soon forget. The viaduct is specially lighted and changes colors every ten minutes. 40 stalls sell locally made one-of-a-kind handcrafts and regional products.

Live music and lots of food and hot beverages make the Christmas Market a very lively scene. The Ravenna Gorge is a short walk from the Hofgut Sternen Hotel where the German poet Goethe once stayed. Be sure to stop in one of their gift shops for a large selection of handmade cuckoo clocks, beer steins, Christmas ornaments, and home decor.

Ravenna Gorge Brightly Lit Viaduct
Ravenna Gorge Brightly Lit Viaduct
Many Food Choices At Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market
Many Food Choices At Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market
Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market
Lighting The Way For Santa Claus At Ravenna Gorge Christmas Market

German Christmas Markets

As you can see there are many different types of Christmas Markets in Germany but they all have one thing in common – FUN! If you can’t find something tasty to eat & drink at a Christmas Market you’re just not trying. They’re also a great place to be part of the local German culture and pick up some handmade holiday gifts. Whether you spend a week exploring many Christmas Markets or just visit one you’re sure to have the time of your life. Dress warmly and wear comfy shoes so you can stay outside and enjoy every minute.

You must try a cup of hot mulled wine known as “glühwein” and be sure to try one of the many grilled sausages, flammkuchen (flatbread with cheese and a variety of toppings), magenbrot ginger cookies, and whatever other local delicacies you can find.

Have you ever been to a Christmas Market? Tell us about your Christmas Market experiences in the comment section below.

THE QUICK BITE: We explore 7 beautiful and tasty Christmas Markets in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany. See why every market is different and what to expect when you visit.

One of our favorite things to do during the holiday season is visiting Christmas markets. Whether at home in Chicago or visiting in Europe we love them all. One of the oldest and largest Christmas markets is held in Nuremberg, Germany. Apparently, despite numerous investigations, there still is no solid proof as to which Christmas market was the “first.”  In our humble opinion, it doesn’t really matter. Every market has its own unique traditions.

nuremberg-germany-christmas-market-food-travelist

Nuremberg Christmas Market or Christkindlesmarkt is visited by over two million people every year. The main market is held in front of the Frauenkirche church in the town square although the market does spill onto other nearby streets throughout the small town.

feuerzangenbowle-fire-tongs-punch-nuremberg-christmas-market-germany-food-travelist
Fire Tong Punch in Nuremberg.

Lots of Glühwein To Drink

Of course, we love Christmas markets, especially for two things: food & glühwein. In Nuremberg, we were drawn to the red glow of the stall serving Feuerzangenbowle or Fire Tong Punch. Different than the typical glühwein – mulled warmed wine found at Christmas markets – this fiery drink has a “loaf” of rum-soaked sugar that is lit on fire. The caramelized mixture drips into the mulled wine below. The rum and the wine pack a powerful “punch” so be sure to sip your drink as you stroll around the market.

lots-of-gluhwein-in-nuremberg-christmas-market-germany-food-travelist
Many, many types of glühwein are available.

Lots to Eat

If that concoction doesn’t strike your fancy not to worry. There are many varieties of glühwein to sample including an organic or “bio” wine and even non-alcoholic types for the kinder (children).

nuremberg-sausage-sandwich
This three sausage sandwich is a speciality in Nuremberg.

No German market is complete without some type of sausage. The storied Nuremberg “rostbratwurst” sausage is available all over town and typically sold in multiples of 6, 8, 10, or 12 for dinner. These sausages, unique to the town, are small and thin. There are many tales as to why they are so skinny. Some say it’s because pubs and town gates closed early in the Middle Ages and these little devils could fit through the keyholes to feed those who may have stayed out a little too late. Germans being ever the practical people came up with the thin little sausages.

super-long-sausages-in-nuremberg-christmas-market-germany
A sausage for every appetite.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial you’re in luck too. There are many types of full-size bratwurst and sausages from which to choose.

nuremberg-diners-at-the-christmas-market-in-germany
Standing around eating is the best pastime.

food-vendor-in-nuremberg-christms-market-in-germany

In fact, there are so many different goodies cooking your nose will lead you around until you find just what will satisfy your hunger.

hand-painted-christmas-decor-at-christmas-markets-in-nuremberg-christmas-market-germany-food-travelist
Lots of holiday decor and gifts.

Lots to See

Once you have a full belly you’ll want to walk around and check out all the holiday decorations, ornaments, and gifts. The Nuremberg Christmas Market features goods from the region many of them painstakingly handmade. You’ll be walking side by side with local families, who make it an annual tradition to spend time shopping and eating at the markets.

nutcrackers-in-nuremberg-germany-christmas-market-food-travelist
Handcrafted smokers and nutcrackers make great gifts.
Prune and Walnut Holiday Decorations are unique to Nuremberg.
Prune and Walnut Holiday Decorations are unique to Nuremberg.

A holiday decoration that is special to Nuremberg is the prune men or Zwetschgenmännle. A local wire craftsman in the 18th century had no money to purchase gifts for his children. He fashioned toys out of leftover wire, prunes from his plum tree, and walnut shells. They would play with them and eventually eat the prunes. Times have changed and they are no longer edible. Signs warning not to eat them are everywhere. They are now designed to be used year after year. The saying goes “Hosd an Zwetschga im Haus, gäid dir es Geld und Gligg ned aus” or “With a prune man in your house, money and happiness stay, too”.

nuremberg-kinderweihnacht-germany-food-travelist
Kids section at the Nuremberg Christmas Market.

There’s even a separate section that has games and rides for children. The Kinderweihnacht is especially sparkly and glowing with lights. I’m sure the little ones can’t decide which way to turn as they survey all the goodies. Once you’ve explored the over 180 market stalls throughout Nuremberg it’s time to eat again!

christmas-bakery-in-nuremberg-germany-food-travelist
Take time to explore all the many tasty food stalls.

Lots of Sweets

Now it’s your chance to check out the many sweets that are abundant at every Christmas market. In Nuremberg, the traditional lebkuchen or gingerbread can be found many places. You’ll want to check out the famous Lebkuchen-Schmidt. They have many assorted decorated gift boxes to take with them or ship anywhere in the world. A Nuremberg institution, Lebkuchen-Schmidt is the oldest mail-order company for Lebkuchen and pastry delicacies. You can learn more about them and even place an order on their website for a true taste of this Nuremberg specialty.

lebkuchen-schmidt-nuremberg-christmas-market-germany

If you’re like me you’ll want a lebkuchen heart that either has the name of the market or declares “ich liebe diche” – I love you. These are purchased as a gift and given to someone special from their sweetheart. It’s fun to see the many sizes and other sentiments also available. There are as many different “hertz” as there are people to buy them

lebkuchen-hearts-at-the-nuremberg-christmas-market
Lebkuchen hearts at the Nuremberg Christmas Market.

We also encountered these unique beautiful vegetables crafted out of marzipan.

marzipan-veggies-in-nuremberg-christmas-market
Marzipan Vegetables at the Nuremberg Christmas Market.

Not to worry if your legs need another rest. Jump on one of the horse-driven carriages for a trip around town. You’ll hear carolers and music throughout the town. Be sure to visit the market in the evening when all the lights come on. They will take your breath away and make you giddy like a child.

nuremberg-horse-carriage-germany-food-travelist
If you run out of steam you can get a carriage ride.

Check out the bavaria.us website for more details when you plan your travels. The Nuremberg market runs from November 25 to December 24, 2016. Open 10 am-9 pm Monday through Sunday.

THE QUICK BITE: The Nuremberg Christmas market is one of the largest and oldest in Germany. You’ll find authentic holiday food, drinks decorations, and gifts that will keep you busy all day long.

We love visiting Germany and Stuttgart located in the Southwest region in the state of Baden-Württemberg of Germany or what they like to call the sunny side of Germany.

It truly doesn’t matter what time of year that you may visit Stuttgart. The springtime brings flowers and gardens to explore, the summer has festivals, the fall has beer gardens, wine festivals & harvests and the winter brings Christmas markets. You really can’t pick a bad time of year to go.

I visited in fall for Volksfest (some say the Stuttgart beer fest is better than Oktoberfest in Munich, but that’s another story) and in winter to see the Christmas markets. Both trips were wonderful and full of fun and great food.

I was the guest of Baden-Wurttemberg Tourism Board on a press tour of the area. I was not financially compensated and all opinions are my own.

Wuerttemberg State Museum Stuttgart
Wuerttemberg State Museum Stuttgart Photo Copyright Stuttgart Marketing GmbH

Their magnificent museums are one of their year-round attractions and there are lots of them. One way to see all these sights for less is with the StuttCard. The Stuttcard provides you discounts with 55 partners. You can choose 24, 48, and 72-hour cards. Admission is free to many museums and there are savings on many, many other attractions, such as theaters and shopping – over 55 offers from which to choose. And for us foodies, there are even welcome drinks or desserts in selected restaurants. A 48-hour StuttCard is only 20 Euros. Really quite a value.

There’s also a “StuttCard PLUS,” which allows you to add public transportation during the duration of your card for an additional charge.

Whether you’re a food, history, art, wine, or car lover, or all of the above, Stuttgart has a museum or attraction for you.

Ludwigsburg Palace Stuttgart
Ludwigsburg Palace Stuttgart Photo Copyright Stuttgart Marketing GmbH

Some of the museums you can visit include the beautiful Ludwigsburg Palace, the residence of the kings of Württemberg often referred to as the “Swabian Versailles.” You will want to spend hours exploring all the rooms and art throughout the palace, which is one of the largest remaining German baroque palaces still intact.  If you’re there in the summer leave plenty of time to stroll the beautiful gardens or take in a concert.

Ludwigsburg Palace Stuttgart Germany
Ludwigsburg Palace Stuttgart Germany

The main square or Palace Square is a beautiful walking district with two palaces both old and new. The modern Stuttgart Museum of Art also has a lovely restaurant at the top to have a delicious meal and a terrific perspective to sit and watch the world go by.

Bonus Tip: FREE Wi-Fi is available at four central locations throughout the city: The Palace Square (Schlossplatz), Schiller Square (Schillerplatz) and the Marketplace (Marktplazt) and the “i-Punkt” tourist information center.

Neues Schloss, Schlossplatz, Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Deutschland
Neues Schloss, Schlossplatz  Photo Copyright Stuttgart Marketing GmbH
Pig Museum Stuttgart
Pig Museum Photo Copyright Stuttgart Marketing GmbH

Want to see something really different? How about the Pig or Schweine Museum? Or one of the six wine museums? Or a schnapps museum or chocolate museum? Do you love cars? Then you know that the car was actually invented in Stuttgart and you won’t want to miss the Porsche and Mercedes Benz Museums.

Most museums in Germany are closed on Mondays so be sure to plan accordingly.

Other Tips & Suggestions While Visiting Stuttgart:

Waldhotel Stuttgart
Waldhotel Stuttgart

If you’re looking for a luxurious, comfortable, and relaxing hotel in Stuttgart check out the Waldhotel Stuttgart. Located just outside the city in a garden and park setting the property is bordered by forest. I had the chance to stay there and I would enjoy waking up to the birds chirping. There are many paths for exploring nature near the hotel. In fact, the hotel is full of art that is inspired by birds – which I just love!

Bird Art at Waldhotel Stuttgart
Bird Art at Waldhotel Stuttgart
Finch Restaurant Waldhotel Stuttgart Swabian Sirloin Steak
Finch Restaurant Waldhotel Stuttgart Swabian Sirloin Steak

The aptly named Finch Restaurant inside the hotel serves a scrumptious breakfast buffet as well as inspired local Swabian dishes for lunch & dinner.  I really enjoyed the peaceful ambiance of the hotel and the friendly, helpful staff.

Weiner Schnitzel at Weinstube Kachelofen
Wiener Schnitzel at Weinstube Kachelofen

Be sure to try Weinstube Kachelofen in downtown Stuttgart. Open for lunch and dinner you will find many delicious local dishes to choose from served in a friendly environment.

Market Hall Stuttgart
Market Hall Stuttgart

Don’t miss the Market Hall downtown as well. There you’ll find everything you can imagine in one wonderful food hall. The art nouveau building has taste treats from around the world. The market is vibrant and diverse, and there’s a restaurant on the first floor for a bird’s eye view of the market and buzz of activity.

Whether you enjoy a place to relax and unwind or love to visit many historic sites, museums, and attractions Stuttgart is a perfect destination for you. The Stuttcard makes seeing everything easy and affordable, so be sure to pick one up when you get into town. For more information on the Stuttcard please check out their website stuttgart-toursist.de.

THE QUICK BITE: Stuttgart in southwest Germany is a wonderful place to visit any time of year. Explore Stuttgart with the Stuttcard & you’ll see all the top attractions & save.