Your Stuttgart layover.
Planned in minutes.

Live timings, what's actually reachable, and a human expert when you need one.

Press Enter to plan

Hot tip: want something to do here?See bookable tours

Download on theApp Store
By James WindsorReviewed September 29, 202632,000+ layovers planned9 curated experiences for Stuttgart

A layover in Stuttgart, Germany, is a perfect opportunity to experience the capital of Baden-Württemberg, a city known for its automotive heritage and lush green landscapes. Centered around Stuttgart Airport (STR), the region serves as a vital gateway to Southwest Germany. Whether you have just a few hours or a full day, the city's efficient transport and proximity to Stuttgart Airport (STR) make it easy to swap your terminal gate for a world-class museum or a stroll through a historic palace square.

Book instantly · no account needed

Layover-friendly tours in Stuttgart

Browse all on Viator
Viator selectionLive recommendations
Stuttgart Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour
View on Viator
Fits your layover5+ hours layover

Stuttgart Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self-Guided Walking Tour

The Best Way to Discover Stuttgart: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour. Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a photo at the Neues Schloss or a moment of reflection by the Schillerplatz and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups. The "Complete City" Package - Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems revealed along the way. Learn the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations. What you will visit: Biergarten im Schloßgarten, Staatsgalerie Stuttgart, Neues Schloss, Schlossplatz, Old Castle, Schillerplatz, Stiftskirche, Kaiser-Wilhelm-Denkmal, Marktplatz, and Hans im Glück Brunnen.

Duration

3 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 5h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (10 mins)

A Seamless & Flexible Start: Download the World City Trail app and use your 10-digit booking reference to log in. Note: This is 100% self-guided; no one will be waiting for you. Start anytime 24/7. We suggest starting at the Biergarten im Schloßgarten for the best route, though you can start/finish anywhere. Interactive Exploration: Navigate a stroll through the city's green heart and historic center. Solve riddles using imagination and observation at stops like the grand Schlossplatz or the historic Old Castle to unlock your next spot. Total activity lasts ~2.5 hours on average, depending on your pace and breaks. Your Tour, Your Way: Customize your route, change the order of places, or skip stops to fit your schedule. Stories & Tips: Unlock legends and history via text or audio guide at sites like the Stiftskirche and the Staatsgalerie. Includes hand-picked local restaurant and shop tips. Available in 6 languages: EN, DE, FR, NL, IT, ES. Note: Outdoor-only; internet required.

Attraction stop (10 mins)

Solve a puzzle at the exterior of the attraction and learn info about it. Unlock the next destination. Learn local tips about restaurants and hidden shops.

Attraction stop (10 mins)

Solve a puzzle at the exterior of the attraction and learn info about it. Unlock the next destination. Learn local tips about restaurants and hidden shops.

Attraction stop (10 mins)

Solve a puzzle at the exterior of the attraction and learn info about it. Unlock the next destination. Learn local tips about restaurants and hidden shops.

+4 more stops

Ready to book for your Stuttgart layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator
Stuttgart Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
View on Viator
Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Stuttgart Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

In the heartlands of Swabia, just north of the Black Forest, and spread across hills you'll find the magnificent city of Stuttgart, the capital of Baden-Württemberg, and home to world-famous car brands such as Mercedez-Benz and Porsche. It was here that Gottlieb Daimler played a crucial part in the development of automobiles and even invented the world's first motorcycle, earning the city its nickname as the "Cradle of the Automobile". But, as the city's tourism slogan says, “Stuttgart offers more!" So join us and discover the charm of this 10th century city to see all the main highlights and explore its rich history. You will see: * The Main Railway Station * King’s Street * Palace Square * King's Building * Art Museum * Schiller Square * City Market Hall * Karl’s Square

Duration

2 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4h total

Admission

NO

What you'll see

Attraction stop (2h)

We begin our tour at the Main Railway Station, a large complex built in the 1920’s complete with a 12 story tower topped with the Mercedes-Benz logo that is clearly visible from afar. Leaving the train station we will enter the Königsstrasse (King's Street), a pedestrian shopping zone flanked by beautiful palace grounds, first of which is the Palace Square, the largest square in the inner city containing the royal gardens, that have been renovated in 1977 for the State Garden Exhibit and again in 2006 for the World Cup Finals. Adorned by sculptures, fountains and even a lake adjacent to the New Palace dating back to the late 18th century this is a popular place for recreation, sports, open air concerts and even Christmas markets. Opposite of the palace stands the Königsbau, a city palace commissioned by Kaiser Wilhelm I, that has since then been cleverly converted into a shopping mall. Just across from the Königsbau you will notice Stuttgart's Art Museum, a spectacular glass cubicle containing many fine examples of German modern art, and in the evening offers a spectacular light show. From here we will enter Schiller Square, a square centered by a statue of Friedrich Schiller, the world famous writer hailed as Shakespeare’s german counterpart. The statue itself is one of the most recent additions to this square however, because the very origins of the city can be traced back to this place nearly a 1000 years ago. It was here that the first stone buildings were erected, most notable being the old castle, an old fortification that used to be surrounded by water filled moat. Also noteworthy are the Collegiate Church, the Fruchtkasten, a gothic style stone building, and the Ministry of Justice. Most of the buildings here received a significant makeover during the renaissance age and again after World War 2. Today the square is used as a marketplace and as a Christmas market. Our next stop is the City Market Hall that has nice murals decorating the facade. Just a few minutes from here is Karls Square a square featuring a statue of Kaiser Wilhelm I, the first German Emperor and Head of the State of a united modern Germany on horseback. Behind the statue are two obelisks that stand as a monument of the Franco-Prussian war which not only marks German victory over France but marks the start as Germany as a united and modern nation in the mid-19th century.

Ready to book for your Stuttgart layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator
Private Stuttgart City Tour with Licensed Guide and Driver Guide
View on Viator
Fits your layover5+ hours layover

Private Stuttgart City Tour with Licensed Guide and Driver Guide

This private tour is led by a licensed guide and professional driver in one person – a rare combination that guarantees expertise and comfort. Guests enjoy flexible pickup anywhere in Stuttgart and a personalized itinerary. The tour includes panoramic viewpoints to understand Stuttgart’s unique topography, a guided city walk with highlights like the Market Hall, and exclusive photo stops only a local expert knows. With over 30 years of experience, I offer authentic insights, humor, and flexibility that no standard bus tour can match.

Duration

2h 30m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4.5h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (15 mins)

short walk and we discuss the course of the tour

Ready to book for your Stuttgart layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

Book with Borderly • Powered by Duffel

Fly to Stuttgart, booked directly.

Real-time seat availability, live baggage options, and transparent fares across 400+ airlines.

Explore all flight routes →

Keep Exploring

Continue planning your Stuttgart stopover inside Borderly

Move into nearby layover guides, airport pages, and route pages without dropping into third-party booking tabs.

Already Saved a Reel?

Turn it into a trip itinerary

Airport Guides

Str Stuttgart Airport

Join Borderly

Track Your Travels

Upload your boarding pass and see how you compare to other travelers. Build your flight log, earn achievements, and climb the leaderboard.

Get Started

Home to These Airports

Airports in Stuttgart

STR
Stuttgart Airport

Stuttgart Airport (STR) is remarkably efficient. For short layovers, visit the 'Besucherterrasse' (visitor terrace) in Terminal 3 for great runway views. If you're heading into the city, use the S-Bahn lines S2 or S3 located directly under the terminal. Luggage lockers are available in Terminal 1 for those wanting to explore hands-free.

Where to sleepDay-use & overnight
Day-use & overnight hotels in StuttgartFor long or overnight layovers when sleep is the plan — many airport hotels sell rooms by the hour.Find hotels on Expedia →Compare hotels in Stuttgart on Booking.comFree cancellation on most rooms, and reviews from other travellers who've stayed near this airport.Search Booking.com →

Getting There

Find your flights through Stuttgart

Flight searchCompare 100+ agencies

* Fares are compared live across airlines and agencies for your Stuttgart connection.

Explore the City

Top Things to Do During a Stuttgart Layover

9 experiences to discover

013-4 hours

Mercedes-Benz Museum

A must-visit for car enthusiasts, this architectural marvel chronicles over 130 years of automotive history through more than 160 vehicles.

20 km from airport

021-2 hours

Schlossplatz (Palace Square)

The vibrant heart of the city, featuring the New Palace and Old Castle, perfect for a relaxing walk and people-watching.

13 km from airport

032-3 hours

Porsche Museum

Explore the history of the legendary sports car brand in a stunning, futuristic building located in the Zuffenhausen district.

25 km from airport

041 hour

Stuttgart City Library (Stadtbibliothek)

An Instagram-famous minimalist white cube building. The interior design is breathtaking, and the rooftop offers a great view of the city.

14 km from airport

051.5 hours

Fernsehturm Stuttgart (TV Tower)

The world's first television tower built from reinforced concrete. Head to the observation deck for panoramic views of the Black Forest and the Swabian Alps.

12 km from airport

063-4 hours

Wilhelma Zoo and Botanical Garden

Located in a historic 19th-century Moorish revival park, it is one of the most beautiful zoo-botanical gardens in Europe.

18 km from airport

072-3 hours

Staatsgalerie Stuttgart

One of Germany's leading art museums, housing a significant collection of masterworks from the 14th century to modern times.

13 km from airport

082 hours

Killesberg Park

A beautiful hilltop park featuring a tiered tower you can climb for views, a narrow-gauge railway, and stunning flower gardens.

16 km from airport

091 hour

Markthalle Stuttgart

An Art Nouveau market hall filled with gourmet delicacies from around the world. A great place to grab a high-quality snack.

13 km from airport

Viator selectionLive recommendations
Experience Stuttgart: Explore Historic Landmarks and Local Life
View on Viator
Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Experience Stuttgart: Explore Historic Landmarks and Local Life

This walking tour invites you to step into Stuttgart’s history, explore its charming old town, and experience its vibrant daily life in just one seamless journey. You’ll wander through elegant squares, admire historic landmarks, and uncover hidden corners like the Bohnenviertel, before you engage your senses inside the lively Markthalle Stuttgart. Along the way, you’ll discover royal heritage, learn fascinating stories, and witness the city’s transformation from medieval roots to modern culture, ending with a glimpse of Stuttgart’s renowned arts scene. Blending culture, history, and authentic local atmosphere, this tour lets you see more, feel more, and truly connect with the city.

Duration

2 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4h total

Admission

Check on Viator

What you'll see

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Your tour begins at Schlossplatz, the vibrant heart of Stuttgart. Surrounded by gardens, fountains, and elegant architecture, this lively square offers the perfect introduction to the city. Here, your guide will share an overview of Stuttgart’s transformation from a royal residence to a modern cultural and economic hub, with views toward the grand Neues Schloss.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

A short walk leads to Schillerplatz, one of Stuttgart’s most atmospheric squares. Named after Friedrich Schiller, this area is rich in history and architectural charm. You’ll see the impressive Stiftskirche, the historic Altes Schloss, and the striking Fruchtkasten, creating a beautifully preserved glimpse into Stuttgart’s past.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Step briefly into the courtyard of Altes Schloss, dating back to the 10th century. Once home to the Counts and Dukes of Württemberg, it now houses the state museum. Your guide will bring its history to life, including its transformation over centuries and its role in shaping the region.

Attraction stop (15 mins)

Continue to the elegant Markthalle Stuttgart, a beautiful Art Nouveau building filled with culinary delights. Inside, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere with dozens of stalls offering regional and international specialties. This stop engages the senses with aromas, colors, and the everyday rhythm of local life.

+4 more stops

Ready to book for your Stuttgart layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator
Architectural Stuttgart: Private Tour with a Local Expert
View on Viator
Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Architectural Stuttgart: Private Tour with a Local Expert

Join a Local Expert for a two-hour exclusive journey through Stuttgart's architecture, a can't-miss experience where historic heritage meets modern design, and every building tells a story of style and time. • Enjoy a private and intimate tour, exclusively for your group. • Discover Stuttgart’s iconic architecture with the guidance of a Local Expert. • Uncover how Old Castle (Altes Schloss) has shaped Stuttgart's skyline. • Experience a personalised tour, tailored to your interests. • Get curated recommendations for further city discovery. Experience the evolving face of Stuttgart's horizon, a visual journey of its historical evolution and modern growth.

Duration

2 hours

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 4h total

Admission

Check on Viator

Ready to book for your Stuttgart layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator
Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Stuttgart with a Local
View on Viator
Fits your layover4+ hours layover

Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Stuttgart with a Local

Join a Local for a 90-minute visual exploration of Stuttgart, discovering the city's vibrant lifestyle and its most Instagrammable highlights. Spice up your socials as you capture the picturesque Stadtbibliothek am Mailänder Platz to the visually stunning Old Castle and immerse yourself into Stuttgart’s everyday charm as your Local guides you through its lively neighbourhoods. From eye-catching scenery to vibrant local encounters, this experience with a Local is a definite must-do for those seeking a personal and authentic discovery of Stuttgart. • Navigate Stuttgart's most Insta-worthy spots with a Local. • Capture Stuttgart’s landmarks, scenic spots and everyday life. • Experience Stuttgart through the eyes of a Local and gain cultural insights. • Get local recommendations on trendy eateries to upcoming hotspots. • Enjoy the intimacy of a small group, with a maximum of 8 travellers.

Duration

1h 30m

+ 2h airport buffer

Layover fit

Good for 4–6 hour layovers

Needs 3.5h total

Admission

Check on Viator

Ready to book for your Stuttgart layover

Instant confirmation on many tours · Free cancellation available

Book on Viator

* Tours are scored against your layover length — availability and pricing confirmed on Viator.

GetYourGuide selectionLive recommendations

* Suggestions load dynamically based on seasonal availability and ratings in Stuttgart.

Where to Eat

Best Dining for Travelers

Carl's Brauhaus

Swabian / German$$ - $$$Schlossplatz

Restaurant Top Air

Gourmet / European$$$$Stuttgart Airport (Terminal 1)

Cube

International / Fusion$$$Kleiner Schlossplatz

Hans im Glück

Burgers / Vegetarian$$Various City Locations

Block House

Steakhouse$$ - $$$Near Hauptbahnhof

Alte Kanzlei

Traditional German$$$Schillerplatz

Shop & Browse

Where to Shop in Stuttgart

Königstraße

Stuttgart's main shopping street and one of the longest pedestrian zones in Germany, lined with department stores and international brands.

13 km

Milaneo

A modern, large-scale shopping mall near the main station with over 200 shops and various dining options.

14 km

Das Gerber

A stylish shopping mall in the southern part of the city center focusing on fashion and lifestyle brands.

12 km

Airport City Mall

Convenient shopping located directly within Stuttgart Airport (STR) for last-minute souvenirs and essentials.

0 km

Navigate

Getting Around During Your Layover

Transport from Stuttgart Airport (STR) is seamless. The S-Bahn (lines S2 and S3) runs every 10-20 minutes from the airport station directly to the city center (Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof), taking approximately 27 minutes. For those preferring private transport, taxis are readily available at the terminal exits, and the ride to the center takes about 20-30 minutes. Ride-sharing services and car rentals are also well-represented at the airport.

Good to Know

Practical Tips for Your Stuttgart Stopover

01

Use the S-Bahn for the fastest and cheapest route to the city center.

02

Store your bags in the luggage lockers located in Terminal 1 or at the Main Station.

03

Download the VVS app or DB Navigator for real-time public transport schedules.

04

Many shops and some restaurants are closed on Sundays in Germany; plan accordingly.

05

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is always useful to carry some Euro cash for smaller vendors.

06

Check if you require a Schengen visa to leave the airport if you are a non-EU citizen.

07

Tipping is customary in restaurants (around 5-10%) by rounding up the bill.

08

The tap water in Stuttgart is of excellent quality and safe to drink.

Open the airport and route guides you need next

Keep your planning flow on Borderly by opening the local airport and route pages connected to this stopover.

Str Stuttgart Airport

Community Discussions

Real Traveler Advice

T
TravelBug992 days ago

Does anyone know if immigration is fast at this airport during morning hours? We only have a 4 hour layover and want to see the main square...

A
AeroExplorer5 days ago

Just did this exact layover last week! A few tips: definitely take the express train instead of cab, it saves about 45 mins. Also make sure...

Sign in to view full replies→
Travel lightBag drop
Luggage storageDrop your bags near the airport or in the centre so you can explore Stuttgart hands-free.Find storage →

Make Every Minute Count

Time Management: How Much Time Do You Need?

For a 2-4 hour layover, we recommend staying at Stuttgart Airport (STR). You can enjoy the visitor terrace or grab a meal at the upscale Restaurant Top Air. For a 4-8 hour layover, you have enough time to take the S-Bahn to Schlossplatz, explore the city center, and visit either the Mercedes-Benz or Porsche Museum. For layovers longer than 8 hours, you can combine multiple museums, enjoy a long Swabian lunch, or even take a short trip to the nearby medieval town of Esslingen.

Short on time? Let us handle everything.

orPlan with AI
Stay connectedeSIM data
Data the moment you land in StuttgartAn eSIM activates before you fly, so you have maps, translation and gate alerts without hunting for airport wifi.Get an eSIM →

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa to leave Stuttgart Airport during a layover?

+

This depends on your nationality. If you are from a country that requires a Schengen visa, you will need one to exit the airport and enter Germany.

How far is Stuttgart Airport (STR) from the city center?

+

The airport is approximately 13 km south of the city center, reachable in about 27 minutes by S-Bahn.

Is there luggage storage at Stuttgart Airport?

+

Yes, luggage lockers are available in Terminal 1 (Level 2) and also at the main train station (Hauptbahnhof).

What is the best museum to visit on a short layover?

+

The Mercedes-Benz Museum is the most popular, though the Porsche Museum is also excellent. Both are accessible via public transport.

Is Stuttgart a walkable city?

+

The city center around Schlossplatz and Königstraße is very walkable, but you will need public transport to reach the car museums or the TV Tower.

What is a traditional dish I should try in Stuttgart?

+

Don't miss out on 'Maultaschen' (Swabian ravioli) or 'Kässpätzle' (cheese noodles).

Does Stuttgart Airport have free Wi-Fi?

+

Yes, Stuttgart Airport (STR) offers free unlimited Wi-Fi for passengers throughout the terminals.

Personalized Travel

Traveling to Stuttgart?

Use our dedicated travel concierge service. Let us handle your trip details, itinerary, and exclusive bookings so you can just enjoy the journey. Enquire now.

Want the ultimate layover?

Book flights, hotels, tours, and more directly through our premium concierge. Let us handle the details.

Country Guide

Germany→
Borderly LogoBorderly
Copyright © 2024 Borderly Labs
All rights reserved
Featured on Dofollow.Tools
BlogContact
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service
PartnersSaily eSIMSaily eSIM

Borderly AI

iOS App