Best Hotels in Stuttgart: Where to Stay In the City Center in 2023

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Looking for a hotel in Stuttgart that’s both comfortable and close to city center sights (like the famous Christmas market) shopping, restaurants, and public transportation? We’ve got you covered!

In this guide we show you the best accommodations in and near the city center so you can get a good nights sleep and easily explore all that Stuttgart has to offer.

Not only have I lived in Stuttgart, we’ve come back to visit several times and have stayed in various hotels in different parts of the inner city. Here are the best hotels in Stuttgart’s city center.

Top 3 Hotels in Stuttgart, Germany

Short on time? Let’s cut to the chase: here are our top 3 hotels in city center Stuttgart. We’ve stayed in each one and had a great experience.

#1 Top Pick: Hotel Unger

You can’t beat the excellent location of this boutique hotel – close to the central train station and main sights (like the December Christmas markets) but on a quiet street! You’ll have A/C in your comfortable rooms and wake up to a delicious breakfast buffet (I didn’t need to eat lunch when we stayed here).

Click here to check availability and price!

#2 Pick: Motel One Stuttgart-Mitte

Just around the corner from our #1 pick, this large hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay at an affordable price. I stayed here when I was in town for a conference at the nearby Universität Stuttgart and loved being so close to restaurants, sights, and shopping.

Click here to check availability and price!

#3 Pick: Maritim Stuttgart

If you’re looking for spacious light-filled rooms, King-sized beds (with one mattress instead of 2 small twins pushed together), large bathrooms, A/C , and parking, you’ll love the Maritim as much as we did. It’s only a short walk to the train station, all of the city center sights, fantastic local restaurants, a well-stocked grocery store, and public transit (so it’s easy to get to sights like the Porsche museum).

Click here to check availability and price!

Best Hotels in Stuttgart, Germany

Here are the best hotels for your stay in Stuttgart.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner/Bundle, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips and more – along with our photos and up-to-date tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

#1 Top Pick: Hotel Unger

LOCATION: It’s excellent! This hotel is close to Stuttgart’s central train station (Hauptbahnhof), the university, Königstrasse pedestrian street, the main sights, HOHO bus, Christmas market, restaurants, and more.

I stayed here on a visit one summer and loved it. You can’t beat the central location – close to everything yet still quiet. Staff were friendly and helpful (they let me into my room when I arrived at 7am!), rooms were clean, comfortable and had A/C, and the breakfast buffet was outstanding. Try the Döner place to the right of the hotel or the bakery to the left.

PERFECT FOR: Those who love starting their morning with a delicious and filling breakfast buffet and want to be close to all the sights (including the Christmas markets) and the train station for easy day trips.

GUESTS SAY: “Great breakfast. Seriously, really good! Excellent location. Close to the central train station. Most attractions are within walking distance. Efficient and very friendly staff!”

SUMMARY: Friendly, clean, and comfortable hotel in the city center with the BEST breakfast buffet in the city! We’d definitely stay here again.

→ Click here to check availability and price!

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#2 Top Pick: Motel One Stuttgart-Mitte

LOCATION: You can’t beat the location of this large, modern hotel – right downtown in Stuttgart-Mitte, close to everything. If you’re planning to visit the Christmas market, the university or any of the city center sights, this hotel is in the perfect location.

I stayed at this Motel One a few years ago when I was in town for a conference at the university and loved it. The rooms were clean and comfortable, and I loved that the hotel was quiet, even though it was right downtown. Breakfast was good for a hotel.

Not only are there restaurants and cafes nearby, you’ll also find a great supermarket down the street, and there’s even a metro stop right next to the hotel that will connect you with nearly every U-bahn or S-bahn in the city.

PERFECT FOR: Travelers who like staying in the heart of the city and exploring downtown by foot.

GUESTS SAY: “Clean, very comfortable and decently sized beds. Modern room, lobby and bathroom. The check in and check out were very quick and did not take a long time. The position is probably the best out of all hotels we stayed at in Stuttgart.”

SUMMARY: Motel One is a modern hotel with one of the best and most central locations. It’s just a few steps to many top landmarks including Schlossplatz, Koenigstrasse, and the Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof (Stuttgart central station). We’d definitely stay here again.

→ Click here to check availability & price!

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#3 Top Pick: Maritim Stuttgart

LOCATION: We chose this hotel on our most recent visit because we wanted to be close to the city center sights and train station (for day trips!) but in a quiet area and this hotel fit the bill. Right outside the door is an U-bahn station and just a short walk away are fantastic restaurants, bakeries, bars, and more. Initially I was worried this hotel would feel too far from the train station but that wasn’t an issue at all! It only took 15 minutes by foot and half that using the U-bahn in front of the hotel.

PERFECT FOR: Travelers who want to stay in the city center and have a spacious room with big bathroom and King-sized bed at an affordable price. It was SO nice to have some extra space, a huge King-sized bed (one mattress), and a nice big bathroom.

GUESTS SAY: “Beds and pillows very comfortable. Room was very good, especially for the price. Hotel is very pleasant, well run, clean and in a nice location. Breakfast buffet was really excellent. Staff happy and friendly, very helpful and efficient.”

SUMMARY: Maritim Stuttgart is an elegant, modern hotel with all the amenities. Perfect location, large rooms and bathrooms, comfortable King-sized bed, and friendly, helpful staff. We’d definitely stay here again.

→ Click here to check availability & price!

Great for Budget Travelers: City Hotel Stuttgart

LOCATION: Very central – just 5 minutes from the center of Stuttgart (near the new castle, museums, and the Markthalle), and 2 minutes from the nearest metro station (Olgaeck). I stayed in this neighborhood on a previous trip to Stuttgart and loved this area.

PERFECT FOR: Travelers looking for a city center location and best value for money.

GUESTS SAY: “Located very close to public transport! Several nice and reasonable restaurants very close by, serving traditional local food. Room was clean and comfortable. Overall, a nice value for the money and the location.”

SUMMARY: City Hotel Stuttgart is a simple and budget-friendly hotel with all the essentials. It’s located on a peaceful side street yet also just 5 minutes from the center of Stuttgart, making it a great jumping-off point for your travels in the city itself as well as the region of southwestern Germany.

→ Click here to check availability and price.

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Perfect for Families or Groups: Kronenhotel

LOCATION: 1,300 ft from Stuttgart Central Station (rail) and a 5 minute walk from Königstrasse, Stuttgart’s main shopping street.

PERFECT FOR: Those traveling with family or a group.

GUESTS SAY: “Really nice and big room. Staff was very friendly. Breakfast really good, bonus from on demand made eggs. Location was really good. Only short walk to center but Hotel in peaceful area without any center noise.”

SUMMARY: Kronenhotel boasts of a variety of rooms of different sizes including suites for families or groups. Located just a few minutes away from central Stuttgart and the city’s main rail station on a quiet street, guests at Kronenhotel can enjoy a sauna and steam bath here. If the weather is nice, take some time to enjoy the lovely garden terrace.

→ Click here to check availability & price!

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Modern & In Shopping Complex: Aloft Stuttgart

LOCATION: Aloft is located in the Milaneo shopping complex, which is a short walk from the central train station. The Stadtbibliothek metro station is 500 ft away from the hotel so it’s easy to get everywhere in the city.

PERFECT FOR: Travelers who love modern hotels and enjoy the convenience of being near one of the biggest shopping complexes in the city.

GUESTS SAY: “Well located at a short distance from Stuttgart Hbf. It’s inside a mall – Milaneo which makes it very convenient for shopping.”

SUMMARY: If you are looking for a modern and hip hotel option, then Aloft is the hotel for you! This hotel has many amenities and is centrally located in the city of Stuttgart. It has a unique location inside the Milaneo mall and is near Königstrasse , which makes it extra convenient for your shopping needs.

→ Click here to stay nearest all the best shops and stores in the city.

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Perfect for Couples: Zur Weinsteige

LOCATION: 10-15 minute walk from the new castle (Neues Schloss), Königstrasse, the Markthalle, and the Christmas market.

PERFECT FOR: Couples looking for a romantic weekend in an historic hotel.

GUESTS SAY: “Loved the friendly and authentic atmosphere and decor. Good location too. The room was fantastic with soft beds and linen, massive TV with movies to stream and a balcony overlooking the garden pond and courtyard.”

SUMMARY: While the rooms at Zur Weinsteige are modern, the structure of the hotel itself dates back to 1870. Its historic, vintage ambiance and furnishings make it a lovely getaway for couples. Located a 15-minute walk from most major attractions in central Stuttgart, this hotel is a great option for couples or those looking for a more historic atmosphere.

→ Click here to check availability & price!

Best Boutique Hotel: Der Zauberlehrling

LOCATION: The hotel is located in two separate buildings (13 rooms and 3 suites) in downtown Stuttgart.

PERFECT FOR: Travelers looking for a boutique hotel experience with uniquely designed rooms you won’t see anywhere else.

GUESTS SAY: “The rooms are interesting (in the good way), the bed was very good, the bathroom was modern and inviting. We also had breakfast at the the neighboring restaurant and it was so good. The location is good, near everything but still quiet.”

SUMMARY: If you want to be where the people are, this boutique hotel is for you! Der Zauberlehrling is located in central Stuttgart, very close to restaurants, shopping, and major attractions in Stuttgart. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an experience, rather than just another generic hotel.

→ Click here to check availability and price!

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Premium Amenities: Le Méridien Stuttgart

LOCATION: Centrally located in Stuttgart Mitte, opposite the Schlossgarten Park, close to the main train station (Hauptbahnhof).

PERFECT FOR: Travelers who value luxury amenities and are looking for a relaxing stay.

GUESTS SAY: “The hotel is very well maintained, facilities were excellent and the staff very helpful. It was a short walk from the train station to the hotel and within walking distance to many restaurants and sites.”

SUMMARY: Travelers seeking luxurious comfort will surely enjoy the spacious and modern rooms offered at Le Méridien. Want to relax after your journey to Stuttgart? Make sure to take advantage of the services offered at Le Méridien’s spa and wellness center. They also have an outdoor and indoor pool, fitness center, hot tubs, sauna, and steam room.

→ Click here check availability and price!

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Best Splurge: Althoff Hotel am Schlossgarten

LOCATION: Althoff Hotel is just 350 ft from Stuttgart’s main train station and looks out over a beautiful park!

PERFECT FOR: Those looking to travel in comfort and luxury in a 5-star hotel.

GUESTS SAY: “My room and the location were both fantastic. The hotel and my room were clean, as well as elegant and modern. The service at the hotel is wonderful as well. I would stay here again. The hotel is right across the street from the main train station, so it’s a short walk and easy to find. There are also many stores and restaurants around the hotel, and a public park area not far away, so there’s lots to see and do close by.”

SUMMARY: Do you like to stay where the action is? Only 5 stars and a Michelin rated restaurant will do? Look no further than at Althoff Hotel am Schlossgarten! This luxury hotel is located just a stone’s throw away from Stuttgart’s train station as well as many shopping and dining options in the center of the city.

→ Click here to check availability and price!

Closest to Stuttgart Main Train Station: Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin

LOCATION: This is as city-center as it gets! Right across from the main train station.

PERFECT FOR: Those arriving or traveling by train and want to stay close to the station.

GUESTS SAY: “Hotel is conveniently located opposite of the main railway station. The room was spacious with a comfortable bed. The shower was great and having two sinks was a big plus. The gym on the top floor provided the standard workout equipment, which was good enough. Breakfast was very good.”

SUMMARY: With a clean and modern interior, the Steigenberger Graf Zeppelin is a great luxury option for most travelers (families, couples, business travelers). Located in central Stuttgart, close to Königstraße shopping street, Castle Square, and other major attractions.

→ Click here to check availability and price!

Where to Stay in Stuttgart

We recommend a centrally located hotel in Stuttgart Mitte because you’ll be within walking distance of so many things:

• Main train station (Hauptbahnhof)
• The Christmas market (and other seasonal events)
• Shopping on Königstrasse
• The New and Old Castle, Schlossplatz, churches, and the Markthalle
• Christmas markets and other downtown festivals
• Restaurants, cafes and bars
• Museums and galleries
• The University (Universität Stuttgart)
• The Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

If you stay downtown and want to visit sights outside of the city center like the TV Tower (excellent views!), Mercedes Museum, Porsche Museum, Grab Kapelle, city vineyards, the Seilbahn, Cannstatter Wasen or Killesberg tower, you can either take the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour and/or public transportation.

Stuttgart is a walkable city that has excellent public transportation (bus, tram, U-bahn, S-bahn, and train). You can also easily drive and park a rental car (for a fee), which means that no matter where you stay in or around Stuttgart, you’ll be able to get where you want to go without hassle.

We’ve used both public transportation and rental cars in Stuttgart with no problems. Many hotels offer onsite parking and there are many public parking lots.

What to Look For In a Hotel in Stuttgart

When looking for a place to stay in Stuttgart we recommend considering which of the factors below are most important to you.

1. Central location in the Stuttgart Mitte downtown area. In Stuttgart, if you want to stay in the heart of the city, the best location is within walking distance of the Stuttgart central station. That way you’ll also be close proximity to public transportation and many of the city’s main landmarks like the New and Old Castle, Markthalle, Königstrasse, and many more. Our top 2 hotel picks – Hotel Unger and Motel One – are both super close to everything in city center.
   
2. Number and size of beds. You’re likely to have the option to book a variety of bed types – e.g., king (which might be 1 mattress or 2 twins on one king-sized frame – often with 2 duvets), a queen, or 1 or more twins. Sometimes a single room will have a queen or a twin. Not all of these will be available every hotel, though, so be sure to check what type of beds they offer. Our #3 top pick – Maritim Stuttgart – has King-sized beds with 1 mattress.
   
3. Rooms with en suite full baths. Most hotels offer full en suite bathrooms, some with a bathtub, some with a bathtub and shower combo, others will just have a shower. Some hotels in Germany – usually smaller boutique hotels or budget hotels – will offer rooms with a shared hall bathroom. The hotels in this list have full en suite bathrooms. We had a shower at Hotel Unger and Motel One and a spacious bathroom with a shower and bathtub at the Maritim Stuttgart.
   
4. Rooms with A/C. Summers in Germany can at times be hot and humid. Not all hotels in Germany have A/C, so if this is important to you, be sure to specifically look for it before booking. Note: if you don’t have A/C in your hotel, you’ll likely be able to open the windows (though you’re not likely to have a screened-in window). All 3 of our top picks – Hotel Unger, Motel One and Maritim Stuttgart – have A/C in the rooms!
   
5. Breakfast. Most hotels offer free or paid breakfast (sometimes whether or not you get a free breakfast depends on the type of room you book). Many hotels offer a full German breakfast buffet, while others are simpler (bread, Brötchen, cold cuts, jam, coffee, tea). American chain hotels may offer an American-style breakfast (eggs, bacon, pancakes, etc). The breakfast buffet at Hotel Unger was my favorite.
   
6. An elevator. While you’re likely to find an elevator in large, modern hotels with high floors, stairs might be the only option at older, boutique or smaller hotels. If you don’t mind carrying your luggage up a few flights of stairs, these non-elevator hotels are often quite charming. But if an elevator is important to you, look for larger, modern, or chain hotels. All 3 of our top picks – Hotel Unger, Motel One and Maritim Stuttgart – have elevators.
   
7. Parking. Some city center hotels will offer on-site parking for a daily fee. If there’s no on-site parking, you can likely find a nearby public parking area or on-street parking.
   
8. Free wifi. Most hotels will offer free wifi throughout the hotel but it’s a good idea to check on that if having free wifi is important to you. All 3 of our top picks – Hotel Unger, Motel One and Maritim Stuttgart – offer free wifi.
   
9. Amenities. Hotels may offer facilities such as a gym, sauna, indoor pool, on-site restaurants and bars, or services like valet parking, a concierge or laundry service. Some even offer babysitting services! Many hotels offer the option to pay at the hotel and fully refundable rooms – sometimes at a slightly higher price than pre-pay or non-refundable rooms. Maritim Stuttgart had fabulous amenities!
   
10. Good value. Staying in a popular part of the city will typically cost more than staying further out but you’ll be able to easily walk to many sites and you’ll be close to public transportation. So you’ll not only have more flexibility during the day, you’ll also save time and stress by not having to “commute” to the city center each day. All 3 of our top picks – Hotel Unger, Motel One and Maritim Stuttgart – are excellent value for money.

A Few More Options

If you’re looking for luxury, would prefer to stay a bit outside of the city center, or are looking for something more unique, here are some great options:

• Hilton Garden Inn Stuttgart Neckarpark – Modern American-style hotel located farther away from the city center but near the Mercedes-Benz Museum and arena.
  
• Mövenpick Hotel Stuttgart Airport – A great option for business travelers it is adjacent to the Stuttgart Airport and a short walk to the ICS convention center.
  
• Wyndham Stuttgart Airport – Contemporary hotel located in a striking modernist property right across the street from Stuttgart Airport.
  
• Waldhotel Stuttgart – Located in the south of the city center in Degerloch, this upscale hotel provides a peaceful forest location and modern amenities.
  
• Novum Hotel Boulevard Stuttgart City – A simple, relaxed hotel with basic amenities. Centrally located, 5-minute walk from central train station and a 10-minute walk from Old Castle.
  
• Motel One Stuttgart Bad Cannstatt – If Motel One in Stuttgart-Mitte, you can check out their other location in Bad Cannstatt! This modern hotel is located in a charming, picturesque old town filled with half-timbered houses on narrow cobbled streets.
  
• EmiLu Design Hotel – This 4-star hotel is perfect for those who love fashionable and trendy interiors. It’s also located in a hip area among popular shops, restaurants, and near the Stuttgart Market Hall.

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner/Bundle, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips and more – along with our photos and up-to-date tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.