From overall strategic direction and product development to the day-to-day operations of the tourist information office, i-Punkt, in the House of Tourism, Stuttgart-Marketing GmbH supports the further development of the region as an attractive destination.
Q&A WITH ARMIN DELLNITZ, MANAGING DIRECTOR, STUTTGART-MARKETING GMBH
Which aspects of Stuttgart would you highlight to someone visiting for the first time?
Armin Dellnitz, Managing Director (AD): For first-time visitors, our two iconic car museums – the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Porsche Museum – are must-sees, not only for enthusiasts but for anyone interested in design, innovation, and contemporary history.
Beyond that, Stuttgart offers an extraordinary cultural landscape, from a renowned ballet company and outstanding museums to pioneering architecture such as the SWR Television Tower – the first of its kind.
To help visitors make the most of their stay, our StuttCard offers convenient access to the most important sights, and with the Stuttgart Citytour, guests can explore the highlights of the city comfortably and at their own pace using the tried-and-tested hop-on hop-off principle.
Aside from Stuttgart’s main attractions, what hidden gems are on offer for tourists to discover?
AD: I always encourage visitors to explore our charming quarters – each with its own character, cafés, and creative spirit. Another true gem is the historic Stuttgarter Stäffele – the many stairways that climb our hills and offer unique vantage points across the cityscape.
And of course, Stuttgart’s ‘Green U’ – a continuous park landscape stretching from the city centre into nature – provides an unexpected sense of openness and tranquillity right in the heart of the urban environment.
When people think of Stuttgart, many think of automobiles. What role do they play in your city?
AD: The automobile is deeply rooted in Stuttgart’s identity. We are the only city in the world with two automobile museums, each telling a different part of the story of mobility, technical excellence, and innovation.
The industry continues to shape Stuttgart, the birthplace of the automobile, not only economically but also culturally – countless museums and events bear witness to the region’s automotive history.
From traditional Swabian cuisine to modern Michelin-starred masterpieces, which outstanding dishes, restaurants, or markets are a must for anyone new to the region?
AD: Stuttgart’s culinary diversity is truly remarkable – visitors can enjoy everything from cozy Besenwirtschaften – seasonal wine taverns run by local vintners – to award-winning Michelin-starred restaurants.
Traditional Swabian dishes such as Maultaschen (filled pasta) or Gaisburger Marsch (a savoury hotpot) are essential tastings for any newcomer. The historic Markthalle is another highlight, offering regional specialties, international delicacies, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Naturally, no visit would be complete without sampling our local wines, which have shaped the landscape and culture of Stuttgart for centuries.
How have you seen Stuttgart’s tourism offering evolve over the past decade?
AD: Over the past ten years, Stuttgart has become increasingly visitor-friendly through the development of innovative products that make the city easier and more enjoyable to explore.
Our Stuttgart Citytour provides intuitive sightseeing options, and the StuttCard has grown into a comprehensive access pass for culture, mobility, and experiences.
“Over the past ten years, Stuttgart has become increasingly visitor-friendly through the development of innovative products that make the city easier and more enjoyable to explore”
Armin Dellnitz, Managing Director, Stuttgart-Marketing GmbH
What role does sustainability play in Stuttgart’s tourism offerings?
AD: Sustainability is a core principle of our tourism strategy. We encourage our guests to leave their cars behind – Stuttgart itself is very well connected by public transportation, and many sights are within easy walking distance.
When booking a room through us at one of our numerous partner hotels, guests receive a free ticket for public transportation directly with their booking confirmation.
At our tourist information office, i-Punkt, we place great importance on regional and responsibly produced products. Starting this spring, our city tour will be operated with a fully electric fleet, further reducing our ecological footprint.
You opened the House of Tourism last year. What can visitors expect to find there?
AD: The House of Tourism brings together all the essential services a visitor might need – our tourist information, gastronomy, meeting and event spaces, and even rooftop experiences.
It also represents a unique collaboration – the city, region, and state of Baden-Württemberg are all present under one roof, making it easier than ever for guests to receive comprehensive and inspiring recommendations for their stay.
In terms of the wider Stuttgart region, what would you recommend for longer stays and exploring the surrounding area?
AD: The wider Stuttgart region offers a wealth of experiences just a short journey from the city. From picturesque vineyards and rolling natural landscapes to charming towns and vibrant cultural centres like Ludwigsburg and Esslingen, visitors will find countless reasons to extend their stay.
This is also true of Schorndorf, a half-timbered town where Gottlieb Daimler was born. The combination of urban culture and regional discovery is one of our greatest strengths.
“From picturesque vineyards and rolling natural landscapes to charming half-timbered towns and vibrant cultural centres like Ludwigsburg and Esslingen, visitors will find countless reasons to extend their stay”
Armin Dellnitz, Managing Director, Stuttgart-Marketing GmbH
What strategies do you use to ensure that Stuttgart remains attractive to travellers throughout the year?
AD: Stuttgart is an event city – there is always something happening here. Our cultural calendar is full of traditional festivals, exhibitions, performances, and seasonal highlights.
At the same time, our extensive indoor offerings – particularly our diverse museum landscape – make Stuttgart an ideal year-round destination.
Outdoors, the parks and regional landscapes provide inviting spaces for recreation in every season. This mix ensures that travellers can always find something exciting and relevant, no matter when they visit.
Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline you wish to highlight?
AD: Two major cultural milestones are coming up – the 100th anniversary of the Weissenhof Estate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and icon of modernist architecture, and the International Building Exhibition are both highly anticipated in 2027.
Additionally, the city’s new main railway station will shape the future of mobility and urban development in Stuttgart, making it one of the most transformative projects of the decade.
In one sentence, why do you think people should visit Stuttgart?
AD: Because Stuttgart offers an inspiring blend of innovation, culture, nature, and hospitality – creating a uniquely enriching experience for every visitor.
