Germany Diaries: My Stay in Stuttgart
EmiLu Design Hotel
My Germany trip started off in Stuttgart, and I decided to base myself at the EmiLu Design Hotel for a few nights. The name caught my attention because it felt personal, and sure enough, it’s named after the founder’s daughter, Emilia. It’s a small detail, but you feel that kind of warmth and thoughtfulness throughout the whole place.
The hotel has this cool mix of velvety fabrics, rich colors like deep red and green, and a bit of an industrial edge with metal light fixtures. It feels design-forward but not in an over-the-top way. Just well put together. The building itself stands on a quiet street right in the middle of town, which makes it easy to explore on foot. Public transport is nearby too, so getting around was effortless. My room was one of their "cozy" options with a double bed. Clean, modern, and genuinely comfortable. I asked for a quieter room and was given one facing a laneway. It mostly did the trick, although I was still woken up a couple of mornings by delivery vans. The soundproofing isn’t perfect, but nothing dramatic. Just part of city life, really.
One little thing I appreciated was that they offer bottled water daily, included in the room rate—you just need to pick it up from the front desk. Small gesture, but it adds up. The staff were really kind too. Everyone I spoke to seemed genuinely happy to help, which always makes a difference when you’re travelling solo. A highlight of the hotel is definitely the rooftop lounge. It’s a calm, open space that looks out over the city and feels like a bit of an escape from everything. I’d head up there in the evenings with a drink from downstairs and just take a moment to unwind. Sometimes it’s closed for private events, but when it’s open, it’s a great spot to recharge. The location couldn’t be better. It’s central enough that I could walk to restaurants, shops, and a few galleries, but the hotel still feels tucked away from the busier streets. I liked that balance a lot.
Breakfast was simple but good, nothing fancy, but the essentials were covered and the quality was solid. Honestly, I’d rather have a well-made coffee and fresh bread than a massive buffet with mediocre food.
Viet Wok on Kronenstraße
On my first night in Stuttgart, I walked about 10 minutes from EmiLu Hotel and ended up at a casual little Vietnamese spot called Viet Wok on Kronenstraße. It wasn’t flashy or hyped up, just one of those places you walk into and immediately feel like you’ve made the right choice. The staff were warm, the lighting was mellow, and the whole place had this low-key, comforting vibe. I ordered the Pho Bo Tai (rare beef noodle soup), and it was exactly what I needed is a light, aromatic broth with super tender beef and rice noodles done just right. I also tried their crispy chicken dumplings, which were golden, crunchy, and not greasy at all, plus a prawn fried rice that had the perfect garlic hit without being overpowering. What I appreciated was that they’re mindful of gluten, there’s a separate gluten-free pho option if you ask, and they seem used to catering to dietary needs without making it awkward. With a 4.6 rating on Google and loads of solid reviews, it’s a local favorite. It’s not trying to be trendy, it’s just good food made well, and honestly, after a travel day, that’s all I wanted. Would I go back? Absolutely. Sometimes the best meals are the quiet ones you don’t plan for.
Coffee pick: Misch Misch Coffee
Just a 7‑minute walk (about 600 m) from your hotel, Misch Misch Coffee is a cozy little gem known for its welcoming vibe, solid brews, and croissants that locals rave about. Picture a tucked‑downside space with wooden tables, blue accents, and friendly baristas who take their craft seriously. It’s perfect if you’re after a relaxed morning or a quiet spot to plan your day's route.
Easy things to do nearby
• Explore Schlossplatz - A huge central square with Neues and Altes Schloss (New and Old Palace), fountains, and frequent outdoor events.
• Stroll through Rosenstein Park & Wilhelma – Just north, you’ll find a sprawling English-style park leading to Wilhelma’s famous zoo and botanical gardens - think Moorish-style buildings, plants, and animals.
• Car museum day – If you’re into cars, the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museums are must-sees- iconic brands, impressive displays, and just a short tram away
