Beautifully set in the Swabian Mountains and at the edge of the Black Forest Stuttgart is the home of Mercedes Benz. Hardly suprising that one of the best visited museums is the Mercedes Benz Museum.

The Baden-Württemberg metropolis has a wide range of sights to offer - be it the four castles, the famous Weissenhof estate or the television tower. The most notable feature of Stuttgart, however, is its friendly atmosphere and hospitality. The city's charms do not unfold immediately to the visitor. They remain concealed, waiting to be discovered.

One of these charms is its wide range of shops: exclusive stores, boutiques, modern malls and, of course, the well-known department stores entice the visitor with a wide and attractive range of products. Then there are the cafés - some extravagant, others more chic or sparsely decorated. Street cafés in the summer, some offering a beautiful view of the city, and a whole host of international restaurants and bars add to Stuttgart's gastronomical appeal.

For those who prefer peace and tranquillity, the extensive parks offer the ideal opportunity for walks and relaxation. The city's vineyards will spoil you in a different way. Their wines are not just popular here. The region's long wine-growing tradition is carefully documented in a museum.

Stuttgart can be easily seen on foot and urban trekkers may want to take in the City Circuit walk which begins at the Central Train Station (allow about two hours) and the two-hour Historic Stuttgart walk which starts at the Altes Schloss at Schillerplatz. Yellow signs direct the walker to many modern and historical areas. The Mineralbad Leuze Berg and other spas offer a wide variety of therapeutic pools and health facilities. 100 mi/160 km south of Frankfurt .