Squeeze in some sightseeing around Stuttgart's historic centre. High on the must-see list are the Stiftskirche's spires, the Alte Schloss and Neue Schloss (old and new palaces), Bad Cannstatt's Roman baths and the world-class Staatsgalerie. The FIFA World Cup kicks off with special events like the Fan Arena on Marktplatz, hosting interactive games and sporting events, plus 120 stalls making up the Wine Village on Schillerplatz.

Motor Madness: Mercedes Benz Museum
Near the stadium, the city's newest landmark, the Mercedes Benz Museum (Mercedesstrasse 137) opens its doors in May 2006. The spacey glass structure towers 47 metres high and traces 120 years of automotive history. Check out the laboratories to see the inner workings of this motor giant.

Water Works : Bad Cannstatt Mineral Baths
Escape for a soak at one of Germany's leading spas. A stone's throw from the stadium, Bad Cannstatt Mineral Baths (Sulzerrainstrasse 2) comprise five mineral and thermal baths, Roman steam rooms and a vast sauna complex.

Art Attack: Staatsgalerie
If you're into art, the Staatsgalerie (Konrad-Adenauer-Strasse 30-32) comes up with the goods. Housed in Stuttgart's cultural mile, its collection includes masterpieces by Rubens, Dali, Picasso and Munch.