Stuttgart

Similar to most of Germany, Stuttgart is bursting with historical German architecture, beautiful parks, and a gorgeous array of fountains and statues. However, Stuttgart is most well-known as the birthplace of German auto companies like Mercedes Benz and Porsche. For the car enthusiast, there is no better place to travel in Germany to get a double dose experience of the auto world. This section discusses some of the most visited places in Stuttgart and suggests the best place to stay during your visit.

Must-See Attractions

For many Americans, the epitome of class and wealth can be distinguished by one significant detail: the car you drive. If owning a luxury car is one of your dreams, make it a point to visit the Mercedes Benz Museum in Stuttgart. This museum, owned by the oldest motor car manufacturer in the world, houses a collection of over 100 Mercedes Benz cars. The collection features automobiles from the beginnings of the Mercedes Benz tradition, up until the most current models in testing. Call to schedule an appointment for a guided tour to see the cars that made and broke some of the most challenging racing records in the world. While you are there, you can also tour boat and plane engines designed by this esteemed manufacturer. Visit the Mercedes-Benz website for more information on the Mercedes Benz Museum.

If Mercedes Benz is the classic symbol of wealth, then Porsche is the undeniable symbol of sleek, sophisticated speed. If you are a sports car enthusiast, travel to the Porsche Production Facility to tour the birthplace of the adrenaline rush. During your tour, you will observe the various stages of Porsche production from the drawing board to body painting. If you’re lucky, your guide will join the group at lunch for a much anticipated question and answer opportunity. View more of Porsche’s newest innovations during production and then take off to the Porsche Museum.

For more information on guided tours, transportation arrangements and reservation information, link to Stuttgart’s city guide website at www.gnm.de/indexE.htm.

Best Place to Stay

Stuttgart is a relatively small German city with a even smaller range of accommodation choices. The Le Meridien Stuttgart offers close proximity to tourist attractions such as Schlossgarten Park and a 16th century Renaissance castle. Transportation arrangements will need to be reserved in order to visit either of the attractions mentioned above from any hotel. However, the Le Meridien features comfortable rooms with cozy furnishings at a reasonable rate. Reservations for this hotel can be made at almost any internet vacation planning site.