Stuttgart

The Stuttgart Fine Arts Museum houses more than 800 artworks from the Renaissance to the present day, making this one of the finest collections in Germany. Practically all movements from the 20th century are represented through truly priceless works.

Stuttgart's central square is overlooked by a superb Versailles-style castle. The square forms the stage for the Sommerfest concerts in summer, and the magnificent Christmas market in winter.

This splendid building houses the highly interesting Wurtemburg Museum devoted to the region's history, liturgical texts and the treasure of the Wurtemberg kings. Don't miss the beautiful Renaissance-style inner court, which you can access for free.

Bohnenviertel with its small laneways is a pleasant district for a stroll. Its comical name dates from the period when its working-class residents planted beans in front of their homes. Explore its quaint half-timbered houses and stop for a drink at one of the charming terrace bars.

This could be translated as 'tavern' but 'wine bar' is a more popular term today. There is something for every taste here, from the trendiest to the most typical. The cellars sometimes open directly onto the wine estate. If you want explore local wines further, why not venture to the Neckar Valley.

This trendy district is popular with young people. Locals say it is always a little sunnier here than the rest of the city. That may explain why the best ice-creams and cocktail bars are also to be found here.

The equivalent of the Munich Oktoberfest, where beer flows for two weeks from late September to early October, and everyone is either merry or unsteady, depending on which time you go out. To add to the festive spirit, beer is generally accompanied by curry sausages.

Wine lovers also have their festival and are not afraid to challenge those who prefer hops. Everyone gets their week! For wine, it's generally late August or early September. An occasion to sample delicious white wines in a lively atmosphere.