🌍 Overview
Stuttgart, a city in the heart of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is fast becoming a popular digital nomad destination. With its unique blend of modern architecture, rich cultural heritage, and excellent infrastructure, Stuttgart offers an ideal environment for remote workers. The city’s relatively low cost of living (approximately $800/month for a one-bedroom apartment) and high standard of living make it an attractive option for digital nomads. Stuttgart’s nomad scene is growing rapidly, with several coworking spaces, cafes, and social events catering specifically to remote workers.
As a digital nomad destination, Stuttgart offers a unique combination of work-life balance and cultural experiences. The city’s infrastructure is well-suited for remote work, with reliable internet connectivity (average speed 33 Mbps) and a range of coworking spaces to choose from. The local community is welcoming and inclusive, with many social events and meetups organized specifically for digital nomads. From its vibrant cultural attractions to its stunning natural surroundings, Stuttgart has something to offer every type of remote worker.
However, it’s essential to set realistic expectations. Stuttgart’s digital nomad infrastructure scores 53/100, indicating a good but not exceptional level of support for remote workers. Additionally, the city’s social and nightlife scene scores 39/100, suggesting that it’s not the most vibrant party destination. Nevertheless, Stuttgart’s cultural attractions (40/100) and natural surroundings (34/100) make it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between work and leisure.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods
1. Schlossplatz
Schlossplatz is a charming neighborhood located in the heart of Stuttgart’s city center. This historic area is characterized by its picturesque streets, ornate fountains, and stunning architecture. The average monthly rent in Schlossplatz is around $1,200, making it one of the more expensive options in the city.
Pros: Schlossplatz offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. The neighborhood is home to several world-class museums, theaters, and restaurants. The area is also relatively safe, with a strong police presence.
Cons: Schlossplatz can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, and the area is not particularly suitable for families or those seeking a quieter environment.
Notable streets: Königstraße, Steinstraße, and Friedrichstraße are some of the main streets in Schlossplatz, offering a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
2. Ostheim
Ostheim is a trendy neighborhood located on the eastern edge of the city center. This area is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, performance venues, and restaurants. The average monthly rent in Ostheim is around $900, making it a more affordable option for digital nomads.
Pros: Ostheim offers a unique blend of art, culture, and entertainment. The neighborhood is home to several coworking spaces, cafes, and social events catering specifically to remote workers.
Cons: Ostheim can be quite noisy, with several clubs and bars in the area. The area is also not particularly safe at night, with some reports of petty crime.
Notable streets: Ostheimer Straße, Schützenstraße, and Kurfürstenstraße are some of the main streets in Ostheim, offering a range of cultural attractions and entertainment options.
3. Cannstatt
Cannstatt is a charming neighborhood located on the western edge of the city center. This area is known for its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and stunning views of the Neckar River. The average monthly rent in Cannstatt is around $1,000, making it a relatively affordable option for digital nomads.
Pros: Cannstatt offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The neighborhood is home to several coworking spaces, cafes, and social events catering specifically to remote workers.
Cons: Cannstatt can be quite hilly, making it difficult for those with mobility issues. The area is also not particularly well-connected to the rest of the city, with limited public transportation options.
Notable streets: Cannstatter Straße, Neckarstraße, and Bismarckstraße are some of the main streets in Cannstatt, offering a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
4. Weilimdorf
Weilimdorf is a suburban neighborhood located on the eastern edge of the city. This area is known for its green spaces, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere. The average monthly rent in Weilimdorf is around $700, making it one of the more affordable options in the city.
Pros: Weilimdorf offers a unique blend of natural beauty, family-friendly atmosphere, and affordability. The neighborhood is home to several coworking spaces, cafes, and social events catering specifically to remote workers.
Cons: Weilimdorf can be quite far from the city center, making it difficult for those without a car. The area is also not particularly well-connected to the rest of the city, with limited public transportation options.
Notable streets: Weilimdorfer Straße, Lauterstraße, and Königstraße are some of the main streets in Weilimdorf, offering a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Digital Nomad Guide
Coworking Spaces
Stuttgart offers a range of coworking spaces catering specifically to digital nomads. Some of the most popular options include:
- The Hub: Located in the heart of the city center, The Hub offers a range of coworking spaces, event rooms, and networking opportunities. Prices start at around €200/month for a hot desk.
- Impact Hub: Located in the trendy Ostheim neighborhood, Impact Hub offers a range of coworking spaces, event rooms, and networking opportunities. Prices start at around €250/month for a hot desk.
- WeWork: Located in the city center, WeWork offers a range of coworking spaces, event rooms, and networking opportunities. Prices start at around €300/month for a hot desk.
Internet Quality
Stuttgart’s internet quality is generally good, with average speeds of 33 Mbps. However, fiber availability is limited in some areas, particularly in the outer suburbs.
Nomad Community Scene
Stuttgart has a growing nomad community, with several social events and meetups organized specifically for digital nomads. Some of the most popular events include:
- Stuttgart Nomad Meetup: A monthly meetup for digital nomads, featuring networking opportunities, workshops, and social events.
- Coworking Stuttgart: A weekly meetup for coworking space members, featuring networking opportunities, workshops, and social events.
- Digital Nomads Stuttgart: A Facebook group for digital nomads, featuring networking opportunities, job listings, and social events.
Best Cafes to Work From
Stuttgart has several cafes that are perfect for working from. Some of the most popular options include:
- Cafe Central: Located in the heart of the city center, Cafe Central offers a range of coffee, food, and workspaces. Prices start at around €5 for a coffee.
- Cafe am Rathaus: Located in the trendy Ostheim neighborhood, Cafe am Rathaus offers a range of coffee, food, and workspaces. Prices start at around €5 for a coffee.
- The Coffee Lab: Located in the city center, The Coffee Lab offers a range of specialty coffee, food, and workspaces. Prices start at around €5 for a coffee.
Visa Options
Germany offers a range of visa options for digital nomads. Some of the most popular options include:
- Freiberufler-Aufenthalt: A freelancer visa that allows individuals to work in Germany for up to 6 months.
- Erwerbstatigkeit: An employment visa that allows individuals to work in Germany for up to 1 year.
- Gesundheitsdienst: A healthcare visa that allows individuals to work in Germany’s healthcare sector for up to 1 year.
Banking and Practical Setup
Germany has a well-developed banking system, with several banks offering services specifically for digital nomads. Some of the most popular options include:
- Deutsche Bank: One of Germany’s largest banks, offering a range of banking services for digital nomads.
- Commerzbank: Another large bank in Germany, offering a range of banking services for digital nomads.
- Postbank: A smaller bank in Germany, offering a range of banking services for digital nomads.
🎨 Culture & Vibe
Stuttgart has a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Some of the most popular cultural attractions include:
- Mercedes-Benz Museum: A world-class museum showcasing the history of the automotive industry.
- Stuttgart State Opera: A world-class opera house featuring a range of performances throughout the year.
- Stuttgart Museum of Natural History: A museum featuring a range of exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs, mammals, and more.
Language
German is the official language of Stuttgart, but many locals speak English, particularly in the service industry. English proficiency levels are generally good, with many residents speaking at least basic English.
Food Scene
Stuttgart has a unique food scene, featuring a range of traditional German dishes, as well as international cuisine. Some of the most popular must-try dishes include:
- Spätzle: A traditional German noodle dish, often served with meat or cheese sauce.
- Sauerbraten: A traditional German pot roast, often served with potatoes and vegetables.
- Schweinshaxe: A traditional German pork knuckle dish, often served with potatoes and vegetables.
Nightlife and Social Scene
Stuttgart has a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include:
- Karlstraße: A lively street in the city center, featuring a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Ostheim: A trendy neighborhood in the east of the city, featuring a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
⭐ Highlights
Here are some of the top highlights to visit in Stuttgart:
- Stuttgart State Opera: A world-class opera house featuring a range of performances throughout the year.
- Mercedes-Benz Museum: A world-class museum showcasing the history of the automotive industry.
- Stuttgart Museum of Natural History: A museum featuring a range of exhibits on natural history, including dinosaurs, mammals, and more.
- Burg Hohenstein: A medieval castle located in the hills above Stuttgart, featuring stunning views and historical exhibits.
- Stuttgart Zoo: A world-class zoo featuring a range of animals from around the world.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some essential tips for visiting Stuttgart:
- Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa to enter Germany. Check with the German embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.
- Transportation: Stuttgart has a well-developed public transportation system, featuring buses, trains, and trams. You can purchase a public transportation card for around €2.50 per ride.
- Safety: Stuttgart is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
- Language: While many locals speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic German phrases to help you navigate the city.
- Currency: The official currency of Germany is the Euro. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.
Money Matters
Here are some essential tips for managing your money in Stuttgart:
- ATMs: You can withdraw cash from ATMs using a debit or credit card. Be aware that some ATMs may charge a fee for international transactions.
- Currency Exchange: You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or currency exchange offices.
- Tipping Culture: Tipping culture in Germany is generally more formal than in other countries. Aim to tip around 5-10% in restaurants and bars.
Healthcare and Insurance
Here are some essential tips for accessing healthcare in Stuttgart:
- Health Insurance: Germany has a well-developed public healthcare system, but you may need to obtain private health insurance to access certain services.
- Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, call 112 for assistance.
- Medical Facilities: Stuttgart has several world-class medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics.
I hope you found this guide helpful in planning your trip to Stuttgart!
