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GERMANY: When it comes to cultural pursuits, most people put Berlin at the top of their holiday TO DO list. If you're a culture vulture, Stuttgart - with its famous opera house, the numerous museums, exhibition halls and the ballet - is worth a second look. Here are our Top Picks for a weekend away in the Baden-Württemberg capital.

1. Outstanding Dance Art: The Stuttgart Ballet

The Stuttgart Ballet Ensemble has been one of the world's leading companies for decades and for good reason. But it's not just the performances that are worth seeing, the building itself is also a dream - beautiful on the outside and magnificent on the inside. In addition to ballet evenings, you can also book guided tours and small dance workshops if the mood takes you.

2. Music Theatre in a Class of its Own: Stuttgart State Opera

The Stuttgart State Opera is located in the same location as the Stuttgart Ballet, so it's a definite must on any visit to the Capital. This opera company has been voted "Opera House of the Year" several times and they're considered a pioneer of contemporary music theatre.

Impressive artists with sonorous voices characterize the evening program here. And, if you're early for the performance, take some time to explore the nearby lake or the castle gardens - you won't be disappointed.

3. Germany's Most Popular Museum: The Mercedes-Benz Museum

Did you know that the most popular museum in Germany is the Mercedes-Benz factory museum in Stuttgart? Motorheads will love the machines but, you also get a richer, broader history of the automobile and the general development of the industry so it's worth a look even if cars aren't your thing.

The museum's modern exterior is one of the city's architectural highlights, and also offers a number of interactive play opportunities for smaller members of the family. And, when the sightseeing is done, there's a delightful in-house café and restaurant to help you replenish your energy for the next round of sightseeing.

4. Doing it for the 'Gram: Stuttgart City Library

The City Library in Stuttgart it widely considered to be one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and is a must-do for your Instagram feed when you're in town. Built in the minimalist style, in the shape of a cube, the exterior features an appealing mix of concrete and glass. Inside, stark white gives walls, floors, and stairs a bright, clear atmosphere.

You'll find reading rooms on almost all levels, and all are connected by outside staircases. In summer, the roof terrace invites you to linger longer and soak in the view of the nearby vineyards.

5. The Old and The New: The Magnificent “Schlossplatz”

The Old Castle, as it is known by locals, is one of the oldest buildings in the city and houses the Württemberg State Museum, which presents history buffs with a feast of historical artifacts from the Stone Age to the 19th century. Many reckon Stuttgart's flagship piece is the New Palace, which was built in the Baroque style, with the ultimate aim of being more representative and magnificent than the old palace. Today it houses various ministries, so visitors can usually only see it from the outside. So, whether you like ancient or more modern history, there's a castle with your name on it in Stuttgart.

Our brand new Adina Hotel Stuttgart is located in the lively Europaviertel district, close to the main railway station. We think the centralised location is an ideal starting point for your cultural explorations in Stuttgart and our hotel team are more than happy to recommend cultural sites and delights to help you get the most out of our stay. Take advantage of our Opening Special or Book direct for the best rates.

** Peace of mind when you stay with us: Introducing Clean Touch. Note some activities listed may be subject to Covid restrictions.