Narodni Trg, the pulsing heart of the city, buzzes with life and artistic landmarks. The iconic Clock Tower and the majestic Town Hall, which has been turned into an ethnographic museum, dominate the square. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, it also features dainty cafeterias and bars.

Wilhelma is Stuttgart’s unique zoological and botanical garden, set in a 19th-century Moorish-style palace complex built for King Wilhelm I. It’s the only place in Germany that combines a zoo and botanical garden, with around 11,000 animals from roughly 1,200 species, and about 8,500 plant species from all over the world. The grounds are a mix of historic architecture, greenhouses, and themed enclosures like the new Terra Australis area, home to koalas and other Australian species.

Stuttgart's State Theatre (Staatstheater Stuttgart) is a major cultural hub, comprising the Opera House (Opernhaus), Playhouse (Schauspielhaus), and Ballet. The Opera House, built between 1909 and 1912 by architect Max Littmann, is one of the few German opera houses to survive World War II bombings. It was restored to its original condition between 1982 and 1984 and now seats 1,404 spectators. The theatre hosts a diverse range of performances, including opera, ballet, and drama, with a schedule that spans almost every day of the year. For current show listings and ticket information, it's best to check their official website.

Bačvice is the closest beach to downtown Split and, though it gets extremely crowded in summer, is a delightful spot to relax under the hot sun. Hide from the heat and rehydrate at any of the numerous quaint cafes frequented by locals playing picigin, a ball game that sees its origin here in Split.