Mercedesstraße 100, 70372

Stuttgart tourism centers around the city's love affair with cars. Trace its history back as far as 1887, when Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach set up the first Mercedes shop here. This museum celebrates 130 years of automotive excellent through 1,500 fascinating exhibits.

This local treasure covers nine floors and puts the limelight on the development of the Mercedes brand automobile. One hundred sixty vehicles feature prominently in the exhibits and range from auto racing legends to future prototypes. Also on display is the world's first motorcycle, an 1885 Daimler. You don't need to be car crazy to have a good time at this Stuttgart landmark.

Wilhelma 13, 70376

Now one of Germany's largest zoos, Wilhelma Zoological and Botanical Garden, was once a private royal retreat for King Wilhelm I. Constructed in the Neo-Moorish style, the buildings sit among the gardens of a large, green park. One outstanding thing about this zoo is the repurposed historic buildings. The structures provide homes for the 1,200 animal species represented at the zoo.

A state-of-the-art complex was added in 2013 to accommodate the needs of resident gorillas and bonobos. There are 8,500 plant varieties in the garden, each growing in an enclosure that closely represents its native environment, including the Tropics House and the House for Tree Ferns. Although the zoo is a popular destination for children, it appeals to guests of all ages.

Schloßpl., 70173

The Schlossplatz is the focal point of Stuttgart. Surrounding this expansive open space of green lawns and benches are buildings dating back to its days as a royal capital. It's a popular place to gather with friends and family. Stroll past the fountain, through the pleasant gardens, and catch some sun. Dominating one side of the Schlossplatz plaza is Neues Schloss or New Palace. Constructed in the late Baroque style in 1807, the state government now uses the castle for office space.

Why not visit the square during Christmas? Celebrate the holiday with a skating rink, a miniature Christmas village, and holiday rides. On the opposite side is Königstrasse, the city's 1200-meter-long shopping street. It's one of Germany's favorite retail districts and ends at Hauptbahnhof, the city's central rail station.

Schlossstraße 30, 71634

Just north of Stuttgart in the tiny town of Ludwigsburg sits the elegantly decorated Ludwigsburg Palace. One of Germany's largest Baroque palaces, it was finished by Duke Carl Eugen of Württemberg, who spared no expense in decorating this lavish home. The celebrated fresco artist Matthäus Günther painted the walls, and even the dressing rooms feature hand-painted wall coverings.

The grand Marble Hall is the highlight of the palace, with its magnificent chandeliers and its awe-inspiring ceiling fresco. Look up and discover white fluffy clouds against a blue sky, giving the room an airy feel. The palace theater was built for the duke in 1757 and is the oldest preserved theater in Europe. It still has its original stage machinery, with a collection of rare 18th- and 19th-century stage sets that create the illusion of thunder, rain, and wind.

Fernsehturm Stuttgart, Jahnstraße 120 70597 Stuttgart

One of the best places to start your Stuttgart exploration is from the top of the Fernsehturm Stuttgart. This 216-meter telecommunications tower was the first of its kind constructed from reinforced concrete. Before you do anything else, climb the tower's viewing platform for glorious panoramic views of the city and the Swabian Alps off in the distance.

Porsche Museum, Porscheplatz 1, 70435

If cars are your thing, Stuttgart is the ideal destination for you. If you've had a chance to explore Mercedes, why not head over to the Porsche Museum? The dynamic architecture of this facility is a testimony of the innovative nature of this premier automaker. Wander through the exhibits and cars on display. Discover the 12-meter interactive touch wall and experience Porsche's vast historical archive.

Mömpelgardstraße 28, 71640 Ludwigsburg

This permanent show is the oldest and most beautiful garden in the area. It's extensive fairy-tale parks, and colorful flowers draw a half a million visitors each year. Stroll through the grounds in any season and delight in the fragrant blooms as far as the eye can see. At the north end of the park lies a historic playground, while a fountain bubbles merrily in the Schüsselesee lake.