7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Stuttgart

Stuttgart, is a bustling hub for digital nomads, offering a blend of urban life, technology, and rich culture. However, even the most dedicated remote workers need a break from their screens. Fortunately, Stuttgart is perfectly positioned for a variety of weekend getaways, ranging from popular tourist spots to hidden gems off the beaten path. Whether you're looking for a cultural excursion, a nature retreat, or a historical adventure, these seven destinations provide the perfect escape from the daily grind.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a classic destination for anyone living in or visiting Stuttgart. This picturesque town is renowned for its stunning castle ruins, the old bridge, and the baroque-style Old Town. Stroll along the Neckar River, visit the Heidelberg University, which is the oldest in Germany, and enjoy the vibrant student atmosphere. The Philosophenweg (Philosophers' Walk) offers breathtaking views of the city and is a must for sunset admirers.

How to Get There: Heidelberg is easily accessible by train from Stuttgart. The journey takes approximately 1 hour, with frequent connections available throughout the day.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Heidelberg Castle's Apothecary Museum and the beautiful castle gardens, which offer a mix of history and tranquility.

Where to Stay: Hotel Zum Ritter St. Georg is a historic hotel that offers a unique stay, while the Hip Hotel provides a more modern touch with themed rooms.

Where to Eat: For a traditional German meal, visit Zum Roten Ochsen, known for its Schnitzel and cozy atmosphere. It's one of the oldest taverns in Heidelberg, dating back to 1703.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a spa town that exudes luxury and relaxation. Famous for its thermal baths, such as the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Spa, it's the perfect place to unwind. Beyond the spas, explore the Lichtentaler Allee park, the Museum Frieder Burda, and the opulent Baden-Baden Casino. The town also serves as a gateway to the Black Forest, offering ample hiking and outdoor activities.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Baden-Baden is by train, with a journey time of around 1.5 hours from Stuttgart.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour of the Festspielhaus, one of Europe's largest opera and concert houses, for a behind-the-scenes look at this cultural landmark.

Where to Stay: Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious stay with stunning park views and a world-class spa. For a boutique experience, try Hotel Belle Epoque.

Where to Eat: The Michelin-starred Restaurant Le Jardin de France offers exquisite French cuisine and a romantic setting.

Lake Constance (Bodensee)

Lake Constance, also known as Bodensee, is a vast lake bordered by Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It's a fantastic destination for water sports, cycling, and exploring the charming lakeside towns. Visit Mainau Island, also known as the Island of Flowers, or take a boat trip to the medieval town of Meersburg. The Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen is also a highlight, detailing the history of airship travel.

How to Get There: The journey to Lake Constance can take between 2 to 3 hours by train from Stuttgart, depending on your specific destination around the lake.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in spring or summer, don't miss the chance to see the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen, Europe's largest waterfall.

Where to Stay: Steigenberger Inselhotel in Konstanz offers luxury accommodations in a former monastery with lake views. For a more intimate setting, choose Villa Barleben am See.

Where to Eat: The Hafenrestaurant in Konstanz offers delicious seafood with views of the harbor and is known for its fresh fish dishes.

Schwäbisch Hall

For a less-traveled destination, consider Schwäbisch Hall, a town that boasts an impressive medieval architecture and a rich history. Explore the St. Michael's Church, climb the steps of the imposing town hall, and wander through the narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses. The Kunsthalle Würth art museum showcases modern and contemporary art in a striking setting.

How to Get There: Schwäbisch Hall is about 1.5 hours away from Stuttgart by train, making it an easy day trip or weekend destination.

Travel Tip: Visit the Hällisch-Fränkisches Museum to learn about the town's history and see the traditional costumes and artifacts of the region.

Where to Stay: Hotel Scholl offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, located near the town's central square.

Where to Eat: Entenback is a quaint café and bakery that serves delicious pastries and coffee, perfect for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon snack.

Tübingen

Tübingen is a vibrant university town with a beautifully preserved medieval center. Punting on the Neckar River is a popular activity, especially in the warmer months. The town's cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and the hilltop Hohentübingen Castle create a fairy-tale atmosphere. The castle now houses the University of Tübingen's museum, which includes significant archaeological and cultural exhibits.

How to Get There: Tübingen is just under an hour away from Stuttgart by train, making it an ideal quick getaway.

Travel Tip: Check out the Hölderlinturm, the tower where the famous poet Friedrich Hölderlin spent the last years of his life, now a museum dedicated to his work.

Where to Stay: Domizil Tübingen offers a central location with views of the Neckar River, while Hotel Krone is known for its traditional charm.

Where to Eat: Neckarmüller is a popular brewery and beer garden that serves hearty Swabian dishes and locally brewed beer right on the riverbank.

Lichtenstein Castle

Lichtenstein Castle, often referred to as "Württemberg's fairytale castle," is perched on a cliff overlooking the Echaz Valley. This lesser-known gem is inspired by the novel "Lichtenstein" and offers guided tours that reveal its romantic history. The surrounding Swabian Alb region is also perfect for hiking and nature enthusiasts.

How to Get There: The castle is best reached by car, as it's about a 1-hour drive from Stuttgart. Public transport options are available but may include a combination of train and bus.

Travel Tip: For an adventurous experience, explore the nearby Nebelhöhle, a cave system that you can tour to see its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Where to Stay: Akzent Hotel Forellenhof Rössle is a charming hotel in the nearby town of Honau, known for its excellent cuisine and comfortable rooms.

Where to Eat: Schlossrestaurant Lichtenstein offers traditional Swabian dishes with a view of the castle, making for a memorable dining experience.

Calw

Calw is a hidden jewel in the Black Forest, often overlooked by tourists. It's the birthplace of the famous writer Hermann Hesse and home to a museum dedicated to his life and work. The town's historic center, with its timber-framed houses and narrow alleys, invites leisurely exploration. Calw also serves as a gateway to the northern Black Forest, with numerous trails for hiking and nature walks.

How to Get There: Calw can be reached by train from Stuttgart in about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with a change in Pforzheim or Weil der Stadt.

Travel Tip: Visit the Hermann Hesse Museum to delve into the author's literary world and see original manuscripts and personal belongings.

Where to Stay: Hotel Kloster Hirsau offers a peaceful retreat with its location next to the ruins of Hirsau Abbey, just outside Calw.

Where to Eat: Alte Post is a cozy restaurant in the heart of Calw, serving regional specialties and known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere.