Stuttgart: Where Tradition Speeds Ahead!
Imagine a city born over a thousand years ago among rolling hills as an ancient “Mares’ Garden” (from the old German Stuotgarten). This is where the name Stuttgart originates, and the iconic black prancing horse on a yellow background that you see on its coat of arms—a symbol strikingly similar to Ferrari’s, but that’s another story!
From those early royal horses, the city has transitioned, over time, to horsepower! Today, Stuttgart is globally recognized as Benztown, the undisputed capital of the automobile industry and home to legends such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. Their museums are true temples of futuristic design that you simply cannot miss.
Yet, between one speedster and another, Stuttgart is incredibly relaxed and green. Be enchanted by the elegance of Schlossplatz with its New Castle, enjoy the panoramic view from the world’s first TV Tower, and have a unique experience strolling through vineyards that flourish right into the heart of the city.
History and Safety
Stuttgart is generally considered a safe and welcoming city for LGBT individuals, especially when compared to global standards. It is a cosmopolitan city where institutions actively collaborate with the community. Physical violence is very rare, and walking hand in hand in the city center (Mitte, West, South) is generally peaceful. Germany has strict laws against hate crimes, and Stuttgart is no exception.
However, there are nuances to be aware of: Recently, the city launched the campaign “Stuttgart nights are for everyone” (or Nachtsam) because a safety survey revealed that queer individuals (alongside young women) statistically feel more exposed to unpleasant comments or verbal harassment on weekends, especially around Theodor-Heuss-Straße, known for its commercial clubs and sometimes more aggressive/drunk crowds.
Stuttgart is a liberal oasis in a region (Baden-Württemberg) that can still be traditionalist in the surrounding rural areas. In the city, you are safe, but the atmosphere may change slightly if you venture into the more remote Swabian villages.
For a relaxed and queer-friendly environment even during the day, head to Stuttgart-Süd (Marienplatz) and Stuttgart-West. These are areas full of cafes, students, and rainbow flags in the windows. During the CSD (Pride) in July, the city is positively fortified: it is a huge celebration involving institutions and major companies like Mercedes and Porsche, making the atmosphere extremely safe.
As in any major European city, use common sense on Friday and Saturday nights in crowded areas with drunk people, but there is no specific climate of danger for the LGBT community.
Culinary Delights: The Four Kings of First Courses
Stuttgart is the vibrant heart of Swabia (Schwabenland), a region famous for its hearty, homemade, and incredibly flavorful cuisine. Here, you won’t find overly refined dishes, but rather enveloping flavors perfect for pairing with wine and beer.
Maultaschen: The flagship dish. These are large square “ravioli” filled with minced meat, spinach, breadcrumbs, and onions. Tradition has them in broth (in der Brühe) or, even better, pan-fried (geröstet) with egg and onion. Legend has it that they were invented by monks to hide meat from God during Lent (hence they are jokingly called “Inganna Dio”, Herrgottsbscheißerle).
Spätzle (especially Kässpätzle): Irregularly shaped noodles made with flour and eggs (a lot of eggs!). Try the Kässpätzle, the gratinated version with plenty of mountain cheese and crispy fried onions on top. They are the ultimate comfort food.
Zwiebelrostbraten: A beef roast (usually a rib) served with a mountain of roasted onions and wine sauce. It is almost always served with Spätzle or sautéed potatoes. It is the quintessential Sunday dish.
For the more adventurous, try the Gaisburger Marsch, a hearty stew combining everything good: beef broth, diced meat, potatoes, and Spätzle, all in the same bowl, named after a district in Stuttgart.
Or the Linsen mit Spätzle und Saitenwürstle: Stewed lentils served with Spätzle and a pair of sausages (similar to Vienna sausages). The combination of pasta + legumes + vinegar (often a drop of vinegar is added to the lentils) is unique and beloved by locals.
Sweets and Souvenirs
Ofenschlupfer: A bread pudding-like dessert made with stale bread, apples, raisins, and almonds, served warm with vanilla sauce.
Wibele: Tiny cookies in the shape of a “8” (or a shoe sole), made from egg whites and sugar. They are typical of the town of Langenburg but can be found all over Stuttgart. Perfect to take home as a gift.
What to Drink
Stuttgart is the only major German city with vineyards in its urban center! You must try the Trollinger (a light red, almost like a juice) or the local Riesling.
For beer, order a local brew such as Dinkelacker, Stuttgarter Hofbräu, or Schwaben Bräu.
For an authentic experience, avoid generic tourist restaurants and seek out a “Weinstube” (wine tavern). These are historic venues with wooden interiors and a convivial atmosphere. Some historic names include Zur Kiste, Weinstube Fröhlich, or Weinstube Kachelofen.