For many travellers, the connection between Stuttgart and cars is automatic: both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz have their headquarters in the city. Despite its international reputation and size as the sixth-largest city in Germany, Stuttgart has retained a wonderful small-town feel, with a lovely historic centre surrounded by rolling green hills. You’ll find many of the best places to stay in Stuttgart close to the heart of town, within easy reach of both the city and the country.

Both of the big car manufacturers have excellent museums, which are well worth visiting for an insight into the impact of the industry on the area. Cultural attractions abound in the capital of the Baden-Württemburg region. Amble around the pedestrianised old town for a sense of Stuttgart’s history, taking the time to admire the baroque Neues Schloss, the Altes Schloss and the Stiftskirche with its famous musical spire. The State Art Gallery boasts an impressive collection of Old Masters and new works, whilst the great glass cube of the City Art Museum showcases innovative contemporary pieces.

Soak up the sunshine at the Schlossgarten, Rosensteinpark and Killesbergpark, tour the zoo and botanical gardens at the acclaimed Wilhelma, and marvel at Rosenstein Castle. Vineyard tours and tastings, rambling routes and mountain biking trails await further afield. Many of the best places to stay in Stuttgart also have great restaurants, and you can expect sensational regional fare paired with local and international wines each evening.