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Enjoy breath-taking landscapes
Surrounded by valleys and hills, Stuttgart is not your ordinary German city. Its huge gardens, lakes and endless vineyards are a surprise those who visit. Don't believe us? Visit the highest point in the city: Fernsehturm, a television tower that has become one of the top attractions because of its breath-taking view! Then head to the heart of the city: the Schlossplatz, which is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Here you will find one of its most emblematic buildings, the Neues Schloss (New Castle) and the Altes Schloss (Old Castle). Nearby is the Konigstrasse, Stuttgart’s famous high street. Seize this opportunity!
Discover its unique qualities
Stuttgart throbs with high velocity… After all, the city is the birthplace of two important auto museums: the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum. Another thing you won’t want to miss is the Wilhelma, one of the richest botanical gardens and zoos in the world, with thousands of different animals and plant species. The Staatstheater (State Theatre), which offers opera, ballet and dramatic theatre, and the Staatsgalerie (State Gallery), one of the country’s most highly regarded art museum, are two must sees in the city.
Culture and Business
Before leaving
Make sure you have your identity card or passport and boarding pass with you. Depending on your country of origin, take care of your visa or other necessary documentation ahead of time.
Climate
During the summer, average temperatures are around 22ºC and in winter 3ºC, depending on the region. In winter, temperatures can reach -10°C with rain and snow, so be sure to take a good jacket, gloves and a pair of boots suitable for ice.
Time zone
GMT + 1
Geography & politics
Germany is located in central Europe, between the Netherlands and Poland. It is a federal constitutional democracy and part of the European Union.
Tipping & paying
There are several places that do not accept credit card payments, so it’s recommended to always have some money. Germany is part of the Eurozone, so the currency is the Euro (EUR). It is common to leave a tip of 5 to 10%.
Languages & useful phrases
Most Germans who live in major cities also speak English, but learning a few German phrases will definitely be useful: "Wie geht es Ihnen?" = how are you?; “bitte” = please; “danke schön” = thank you very much; “entschuldigung” = sorry.
What you should do
Be on time. Whether it is for a business meeting or a cup of coffee with a colleague, Germans are usually never late. When going out for dinner or having a drink, it’s normal for everyone to pay their share of the bill.
What you shouldn’t do
Don’t jaywalk — you’ll risk getting a fine and uncomfortable disapproval stares from the locals.
What to wear
Especially regarding business, German culture is quite formal. Depending on the context, if you’re not sure it’s always best to choose a more conservative and professional look. Even in less formal situations, it’s important to maintain a neat and organized appearance.
First impressions
When meeting someone for the first time, greet them with a handshake. If you’re invited to someone’s house, take a bottle of wine and a bouquet of flowers as a thank you gesture.