Discover our complete guide to visiting Stuttgart for Euro 2024, and find out everything you need to know on making it a football-filled trip to remember.
The Euros is just a few weeks away now, and Stuttgart’s gearing up to contribute to what we all hope will be one of the best-ever summers of football, alongside other key cities in Germany.
With the city starting its preparations to welcome football fans from all over Europe, we’ve created a complete guide to the 2024 Euros in Stuttgart, providing you with all the information you could possibly want to know to make your trip an unforgettable experience.
So, whether you’ve nabbed tickets for multiple matches, are here to see one game, or just want to come to soak up the atmosphere; read on to find out what to do in Stuttgart and how best to enjoy your time in Germany. Alternatively, explore the latest Euro 2024 odds.
In this guide:
· Which Euro 2024 matches are being held in Stuttgart?
· Visiting Stuttgart’s MHP Arena
· Where is the Euro 2024 fan zone in Stuttgart?
· How to get from Stuttgart airport to the city centre
· Where to stay in Stuttgart for Euro 2024
· How to travel around Stuttgart
· Where to eat in Stuttgart
· Stuttgart’s most picturesque photo spots
· The best day trips from Stuttgart
· Final things to know before visiting Stuttgart for the Euros
· Explore the other Euro 2024 host cities
Which Euro 2024 matches are being held in Stuttgart?
Five matches will be played in Stuttgart, including four of the first matches, and one of the quarter finals. These are:
Germany taking to the pitch is sure to stir up excitement, but no matter which game you score tickets for, you’re guaranteed to have a great time at the MHP Arena!
Visiting Stuttgart’s MHP Arena
Housing 54,000 people, and home to VfB Stuttgart, the MHP Arena proudly sits 5km north-east of the city centre and is extremely easy to reach by public transport.
How to get to the MHP Arena
The good thing about your visit to Stuttgart for Euro 2024 is that you can very-easily access the MHP Arena by public transport. What’s more, if you have a ticket for one of the matches, you’ll be able to receive a free 36-hour travel pass, which will be valid across the whole VVS network – valid from 6am on the day of the match through to 6pm the following day!
· S-Bahn: Neckarpark S-Bahn is a 15-minute walk from the arena, and is on the S1 and S11 lines, which also stops at the main train station, the university, and Stadtmitte.
· U-Bahn: Stuttgart Arena is close to two U-Bahn stops: Blick on the U13 line, and NeckarPark (Stadion) on the U11 and U19 lines, which stretch from the city centre, through to the suburbs.
· Bus: Alternatively, there’s a bus and coach station at Neckarpark, on Mercedesstraße, which is served by buses 45 and N5.
When you’re planning to visit the MHP Arena, make sure you check the on-the-day timetable for updates and delays, to ensure you don’t arrive late for the game.
Where to park at the MHP Arena
Stuttgart’s Arena offers prebooked parking spaces, at €24 per match. However, these are on a first come first served basis, so you’ll want to book it soon to avoid being disappointed. All parking spaces need to be prebooked, so if you turn up without a parking pass on the day, you’ll be turned away.
This also applies to disability parking – while the arena will aim to help you find a suitable spot, spaces are on a limited basis, so you might want to contact the stadium before travelling to confirm availability.
To be on the safe side, and avoid risking not finding parking, it’s worth adhering to arena advice and travel to games in Stuttgart by public transport.
MHP Arena history
Known to be the largest sports facility in Baden-Württemberg, the arena site dates all the way back to 1914… though it only lasted three months, as it was burnt down during World War One.
A couple of decades later, it was rebuilt in 1933, and after being known as both the ‘Century Stadium’ and ‘Neckar Stadium’, it officially became the latter in 1949. It then underwent two more name changes, before being referred to as the MHP Arena in 2023.
Home to the VfB Stuttgart Bundesliga team, the first football match here was played in 1935 between Germany and Switzerland. Outside of football, the MHP Arena has also opened its doors to boxing matches, basketball games, and even concerts, with the likes of the Roling Stones and Pink playing here.
Best MHP Arena selfie spots
There are lots of Insta-worthy selfie shots to be had in and around Stuttgart’s MHP arena, but if you’re struggling for inspiration, these are a couple of spaces to try:
· Arena Bowl: To see the sheer size of the arena, stand at the top of the steps and take a selfie with the entire stadium behind you. It’s even better when the arena starts to fill up with fans, so you can capture the atmosphere.
· Mercedes-Platz: Get to the plaza at the front of the arena early, and you can take a selfie with the Mercedes-Benz logo prominently in the background, showing all of your Insta followers exactly where you are!
Of course, no matter where you sit, you’re guaranteed to get a great picture of the game, as well as taking lots of snaps outside the front of the arena as you enter, to make memories that will last forever.
Refreshments at MHP Arena
On a usual matchday at the MHP Arena in Stuttgart, fans have the choice of 31 independent food stalls, which equates to a stand per 1,786 attendees – assuming the stadium is at full capacity. This is the sixth-highest rate of stalls of all Euro 2024 cities, ahead of the likes of Frankfurt (2,636), Munich (2,500), and Berlin (2,068), so fans visiting Stuttgart are sure to be well-refreshed throughout the games!
In terms of the typical cost of food and drink here, prepare for an inexpensive experience – especially compared to other host stadiums! As an example, during the regular season, expect to pay just €3.50 for a bratwurst and €4.00 for a standard soft drink – making Stuttgart the second-most affordable Euro 2024 arena.
MHP Arena rules
When you visit Stuttgart’s MHP Arena for Euro 2024, be aware that there will be several rules and restrictions you’ll need to follow – some of which may differ from usual. Have a read of these before you head over, to make sure you’re not caught out.
· Bags: You’re not allowed to carry bags that are bigger than A4 sized into the stadium. However, there will be storage where you can safely stow bags during the match.
· Power banks: You’re entitled to bring one power bank with you to the match, but it must be no bigger than your phone.
· Smoking: The venue is smoke-free, which means that you won’t be allowed to smoke, vape, or use heat-not-burn tobacco products.
· Flags: You can still cheer on your team with flagpoles that are no longer than 1m wide, and banners or flags that are smaller than 2m x 1.5m. Anything larger won’t be allowed in the stadium.
· Cameras: Professional cameras aren’t allowed, but you’re allowed to take as many photos on your phone as you want, to make memories of the big day!
· Umbrellas: There’s always a chance of rain in Germany, and you’ll be allowed to bring a small, fully collapsible umbrella to the arena – but you’ll have to leave any cane umbrellas behind.
Where is the Euro 2024 fan zone in Stuttgart?
Stuttgart is ready to get the party started, with not one, not two, but FOUR official fan zones. Schlossplatz is where you’ll get to watch the matches on the big screen, with free sporting activities happening throughout the Euros.
For food and drink, head to Schillerplatz, with Marktplatz home to family-friendly fun, and Karlsplatz hosting plenty of live music, dance, and other exciting performances.
How to get to the Euro 2024 fan zone in Stuttgart
To get to the fan zone in Schlossplatz from the arena, simply take the 45 bus to Schlachthof and then the U9 line to Börsenplatz (L-Bank), and you’ll be there in less than half an hour. All fan zones are also within a five-minute walk of each other; with Schlossplatz and Charlottenplatz the closest U-Bahn stops; and Stadtmitte the closest on the S-Bahn.
Stuttgart Euro 2024 fan zone entry requirements
Entry is free for everyone, and there are no specific requirements, meaning everyone is invited, as long as you’re respectful.
Euro 2024 fan zone activities
Alongside public viewing of the matches with an impressive backdrop of Neues Schloss, you’ll be able to enjoy lots of fun footballing activities throughout the Euros in Stuttgart; as well as sample delicious local cuisine, watch live performances, and get involved in other unique interactive experiences. There will also be a fan embassy at the fan zone, in case you have any questions about the Euros, or Stuttgart itself.
Other places to watch Euro 2024 games in Stuttgart
If you’d prefer to watch the matches away from the official fan zone, then there are plenty of bars and pubs in and around the city that will be showing it. If you don’t want to book ahead, just make sure you turn up in plenty of time to claim a coveted seat!
Some of the best sports bars in Stuttgart include:
· Pils-Pub Alt Stuttgart (4.5-rated on Google, from 270+ reviews)
· Theo’s Sportsbar (4.9-rated on Google, from 35+ reviews)
· Sportcafe Carambolage in Stuttgart am Feuersee (4.1-rated on Google, from 870+ reviews)
How to get from Stuttgart airport to the city centre
You’ll likely travel to Stuttgart, Germany by plane, into the airport which is just 15km south of the city. Making your way to the city is easy, with various accessible modes of transport available.
· Train: The S-Bahn runs from the airport to the central train station, with the journey taking just 30-minutes. During peak hours, trains run every 15 minutes – just remember to buy a two-zone ticket.
· U-Bahn: Alternatively, the U6 metro runs from the airport to the central station, with the stop a five-minute walk away from the terminal. Running every 10-minutes between 10am-7pm, again, you’ll need to buy a two-zone ticket.
· Bus: The airport has its own bus terminal, right by the P14 car garage. With 18 bus platforms in total, head to platforms 1-3 for travel into Stuttgart.
· Taxi: The most expensive – but the most direct – option is getting a taxi, to take you straight to your accommodation. Taxis can be found outside terminal one arrivals, and will take about 20-minutes to drive into central Stuttgart. Alternatively, you can order an Uber or Bolt taxi from Stuttgart airport to the city.
Where to stay in Stuttgart for Euro 2024
It can be hard knowing where to stay when you’re visiting a city, especially if it’s your first time there. Luckily, there are loads of great neighbourhoods in Stuttgart, with each offering something unique. Some of the most popular places to stay and visit in Stuttgart include:
Mitte
Located in the centre of the city, Mitte is home to key landmarks, including Schlossplatz and Stuttgart Opera, making it a great place to stay in Stuttgart if you want to fit in some sightseeing during your time here.
Degerloch
5km south of the city, the U-Bahn gets you into the centre in 40 minutes. Totally tranquil and ideal for families, there are lots of hotels and B&Bs in Degerloch, in addition to many cycle paths you can explore.
Bad Cannstatt
Good for if you’re on a budget, it’s also just a 20-minute walk from the MHP Arena, making it an ideal area to stay if you want to be close to the matches. The Porsche and Mercedes-Benz museums are also located here, and it’s also known for being the city’s beer district.
Stuttgart-West
If you want to get away from the crowds, the west of the city is ideal, and you’ve got lots of green spots on your doorstop. Travel to the city centre will take about 10-minutes, and accommodation tends to be slightly cheaper here, too.
Stuttgart-Ost
A cultural hub, east Stuttgart is perhaps the most diverse area of the city, boasting bustling markets, plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes, as well as Karlshöhe Park, which offers breathtaking views.
How to travel around Stuttgart
Despite being a relatively small city, you’ll still likely need to use public transport to get around. Luckily for you, Stuttgart offers an expansive network which covers all four corners of the city, connecting you to wherever you need to go.
There are three main modes of transport on offer to help you travel in Stuttgart, all operated by VVS:
· U-Bahn: Initially a tram system, it was improved and increased in 1985 to create an underground network. With 14 lines covering 257km of track, and an impressive 203 stations, it’s one of the easiest ways of getting around the city; and it runs from 4am-1am.
· S-Bahn: Covering the entire city and its surrounding areas, its 83 stations sit across 7 lines, covering more than 200km in total.
· Bus: Alternatively, a bus can get you from A-B around Stuttgart, with 100 routes available, with pretty much all stops connected to either a U-Bahn or S-Bahn station.
Stuttgart public transport tips and tricks
Stuttgart’s public transport network is fast and efficient, but there are a few things you’ll need to know to get around the city smoothly.
· Validate your ticket: Tickets for the U-Bahn and S-Bahn can be bought at the vending machines by each stop. You’ll need to buy one before you get on the train, and if you’ve bought a 4-punch multi-ticket, don’t forget to punch it to validate it. This is done on the platforms of S-Bahn stations, and on the U-Bahn themselves.
· Download the VVS app: Alternatively, you can purchase tickets online using either the VVS or Deutsche Bahn app. Just a couple of things to note when travelling: no bikes are allowed during peak times, and if you’re travelling with a pet, you’ll need to buy them a ticket.
· Group tickets: If you’re travelling with a group of people, you can buy a day ticket that enables five people to travel together – just remember that in order to be able to use it, the ticket holder must be travelling at all times.
Where to eat in Stuttgart
Stuttgart is a pretty affordable city to dine out in, especially when compared with other western cities. Expect to pay around €15-20 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant, and €65 for a three-course meal for two.
There are loads of different cuisines on offer, so no matter what you’re craving during the Euros, rest assured that Stuttgart’s got you covered.
· German: With 4.8 stars on Google from 1,100+ reviews, Restaurant zum Ackerbürger serves delicious German delicacies, including spätzle, schnitzel, and so much more.
· Italian: With an intimate atmosphere, Colvino offers a warm welcome, and some of the best Italian food in the city. With 450+ Google reviews and a rating of 4.6 stars, choose between pasta and pizza, with plenty of veggie options available.
· Japanese: If you’re in the mood for sushi, sashimi, or ramen, then you can’t go wrong with Tokio Dining. It’s rated 4.7 on Google, from 1,500+ reviews, and serves vegan dishes, too.
· Indian: If you’re craving a curry, then head to Taj Mahal, with 4.3 stars and 700+ Google reviews. Specialising in Mughl cuisine, whether you prefer mild or spicy, there’s the perfect dish for you.
· Burgers: Finally, if all you want is a good, old-fashioned burger, thankfully, you’ve got plenty of options for that! One of the best places is Hans im Glück, which has multiple locations across the city, offering meat, veggie, and vegan versions.
The best döner kebabs in Stuttgart
Berlin may be the döner kebab capital, but Stuttgart’s got some of the tastiest options, and is the perfect takeaway treat after a game.
With so many kebab houses around the city, it can be hard knowing which one to go to. Fortunately, to help you out, we’ve found the highest rated selections in the city, so you can be guaranteed a delicious döner while in Stuttgart!
· World of Kebap Stuttgart: 4.4-rated on Google, from 1,100+ reviews
· Baran Kebab: 4.5-rated on Google, from 800+ reviews
· Münster Kebap & Pizza Haus: 4.7-rated on Google, from 260+ reviews
· Kebaphaus am Feuersee: 4.7-rated on Google, from 1,200+ reviews
· doen doen kebap: 4.8-rated on Google, from 640+ reviews
Stuttgart’s most picturesque photo spots
Germany’s sixth biggest city is steeped in history, with lots of amazing architecture, green space, museums and more to explore. These are just a few of Stuttgart’s top places to visit, all offering lots of great photo opportunities.
· Schlossplatz: Located in the heart of the city, and one of the official fan zones, take advantage of this photo opportunity. The gardens will be blooming in the summer, with a backdrop of the impressive architecture; and if you do ever come back in winter, you’ll find the Platz to be beautifully decorated in Christmas lights.
· City Library: Located on Mailänder Platz, the building was designed by Korean architect Eun Young Yi; but the interior is even more impressive, with walls of books flooded with light. If you’re looking for things to do in Stuttgart as a bookworm, the library should be near the top of your list!
· Mercedes-Benz Museum: Stuttgart has a rich car history, with Mercedes-Benz invented in the city. Pose outside with the iconic Mercedes-Benz logo behind you, or head inside to take photos of some of the most iconic cars in the world.
· Schillerplatz: Right in the historic centre of Stuttgart, find the Old Castle, Fruchtkasten and Collegiate Church here.
· Eugenstaffel: 1km away from Schlossplatz, you’ll find over 500 staircases (yes, you read that correctly!), one of which is Eugenstaffel. It’s perfect for pictures as you walk up the 175 steps, which are surrounded with greenery; as well as views of the city once you’ve reached the top.
· Max-Eyth-See: If wildlife photography is more your thing, then visit this nature reserve, to discover kingfishers, Egyptian geese, and more.
The best day trips from Stuttgart
Whilst you could easily spend your whole trip in Stuttgart seeing the sights; there are so many other places in Baden-Wurttemberg to discover – and, with Stuttgart so close to France and Switzerland, you could even easily hop over the borders.
These are just a few of the best day trips from Stuttgart, for you to consider:
· Lichtenstein Castle: Nestled high on top of a cliff, Lichenstein Castle’s gothic design has led to it being dubbed the “small Neuschwanstein”, and boasts views of the Swabian Alps. It’s just an hour’s drive from Stuttgart, or 1 hour 45 on public transport.
· Strasbourg: 1 hour 20 on the train, and you can hop over the border into France’s charming Alsace region. Wander the winding canals and cobblestone streets of Strasbourg, before discovering the city’s impressive cathedral and Grande Ile.
· Lake Constance: Situated on the borders of Germany, Switzerland, and Austria; Lake Constance is the largest lake in Germany and one of the most charming places to visit near Stuttgart. And alongside walking and cycling, you can try out kayaking, paddling, and sailing. You can take the train to Meersburg, but it’s much quicker to drive, at 2.5 hours.
· Rhine Falls: Another hop over the border, head into Switzerland to see the largest waterfall in Europe. You can take a boat tour under the falls, or if you fancy staying dry, simply go to the observation deck.
· Ulm: An hour and a half’s drive from Stuttgart, Ulm’s claim to fame is that it has the highest steeple in Germany, at Ulm Minster. Browse the cute shops, walk along the Danube, and visit the Baroque Wiblingen Abbey.
Final things to know before visiting Stuttgart for the Euros
To help your trip go as smoothly as possible, it’s always worth finding out more about the weather, language, and safety, so you can be fully prepared ready for when you travel.
Weather
Situated in the southwest of Germany, Stuttgart enjoys pretty good weather in the summer, with highs of 22-24 degrees Celsius in June and July, and lows of 13-15 degrees in the evening. That being said, with 10 days on average of rain each month, it’s always worth being prepared and bringing an umbrella, just in case!
Language
German is the official language in Stuttgart, and whilst most people there will speak English, it’s always polite to learn a few phrases ahead of your visit.
· Hallo (Hello)
· Bitte (Please)
· Tschüss (Bye!)
· Danke (Thanks)
· Entschuldigung (Excuse me)
· Sprechen sie Englisch? (Do you speak English?)
· Ich verstehe nicht (I don’t understand)
Payment
Before your visit to Stuttgart for the 2024 Euros, make sure you have a read of the local tipping culture, as well as the best way to pay:
· Tipping: Tipping when eating out is expected in Stuttgart, and indeed, in the whole of Germany. Round up your bill if you’re in a restaurant or leave a modest tip if you’re happy with the service in any bars.
· Cash or card: Whilst most places will accept card, it’s always useful having some euros on you – especially if you want to buy any goods from markets or independent eateries.
Hospitals
While you most likely won’t need to visit the hospital while you’re in Stuttgart for Euro 2024, it’s good to know where they are, should you need to pay a quick trip to the emergency room.
· Marienhospital: It has the largest emergency room in the city, and is just 3km outside central Stuttgart, by the Erwin-Schoettle-Platz U-Bahn stop.
· Karl-Olga-Krankenhaus: This hospital is home to an emergency room, as well as cardiology, trauma, and radiology departments. It’s located 2.5km north of the city, right by the Bergfriedhof U-Bahn stop.
There are several other hospitals in Stuttgart, but none of them have accident and emergency rooms, so these are the two to take note of. It’s also worth bearing in mind that the German word for hospital is ‘Krankenhaus’, and that the medical emergency number is 112.
Explore the other Euro 2024 host cities
With our handy Stuttgart travel guide in tow, you should have no problem navigating the city during Euro 2024. And if you’re planning on city-hopping throughout the tournament, be sure to check out our other guides which explore the things to do and see in each of the other host locations:
· Berlin
· Cologne
· Dortmund
· Hamburg
· Leipzig
· Munich
