Stuttgart Airport

Stuttgart Airport (STR), the aerial gateway to the federal state of Baden-Württemberg, is not just a transport hub but a true symbol of the region. Located just 13 kilometers south of the center of Stuttgart, it impresses with its modern architecture, particularly the unique tree-shaped support columns that symbolize the famous forests of this part of Germany. As the country's sixth-busiest airport, it serves as a vital center for both tourists and business travelers, largely due to its proximity to one of the largest exhibition complexes, Messe Stuttgart.

One of the key features of the airport is its well-thought-out and compact structure. Four passenger terminals are interconnected, ensuring fast and convenient navigation for passengers. The airport offers excellent transport links to the city: S-Bahn commuter trains (lines S2 and S3) will take you to Stuttgart Central Station in just 27 minutes. Travelers have access to numerous shops, restaurants, free Wi-Fi, an observation deck, as well as specialized services such as dry cleaning and entertainment facilities, making the wait for your flight as comfortable as possible.

• Official Website: www.stuttgart-airport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +49 711 948-0
• Address: Flughafenstraße 32, 70629 Stuttgart, Germany
• Email: info@stuttgart-airport.com
• Social Media: Follow airport news on official pages on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost & Found Information: If items are lost in the terminal, it is recommended to contact the Lost & Found office (Fundbüro). If your luggage was lost by the airline, you must contact their representative directly. Contacts and a form for tracing items are usually available on the airport's official website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For inquiries and assistance with general questions, you can use the information desk phone number.

Stuttgart Airport (STR) is located just 13 kilometers from the city center, making the journey quick and convenient. Thanks to the renowned efficiency of the transport system in Germany, travelers have several reliable ways to get to the terminals.

City Train (S-Bahn) and Buses

The most popular and practical method is the S-Bahn city train. Lines S2 and S3 directly connect Stuttgart Central Station (Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof) with the airport (Flughafen/Messe station). The trip takes only about 27 minutes, and trains run at frequent intervals throughout the day. Next to the terminals, there is also the central bus terminal (SAB), which accommodates regional and international buses, which is very convenient for those traveling to the airport from other cities.

Taxi or Private Transfer

For those who value maximum comfort, especially when traveling with children or a large amount of luggage, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is the ideal option. The trip from the center of Stuttgart to the airport will take 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of a taxi ride is 35–45 euros. This is the easiest way to get to the terminal "door-to-door".

By Personal or Rental Car

If you are traveling by car, getting to the airport is easy via the A8 and B27 motorways. The airport grounds feature numerous parking zones: from short-term parking right at the terminal entrances to more budget-friendly long-term car parks, from which free shuttles run to the terminals. It is recommended to book a parking space online in advance, especially during holiday periods, to save money and guarantee a spot.

Nearest Alternative Airports

Although Stuttgart Airport is the main one for the region, it is worth considering other options, especially if you are flying with low-cost carriers or heading to neighboring states. Within a radius of 100-120 km, you will find Baden Airpark in Karlsruhe, Memmingen Allgäu Airport, as well as Friedrichshafen Airport. Additionally, the French Strasbourg Airport is located nearby.

Stuttgart Airport (STR) is a single architectural complex consisting of four terminals: T1, T2, T3, and T4. Despite having four numbers, they are not separate buildings but flow seamlessly into one another, making navigation between them intuitive and convenient for passengers. You will not need shuttles or trains to move around — everything is within walking distance.

The airport structure is organized by levels. Arrival zones are located on Level 2, while departure zones with check-in counters and security checkpoints are on Level 3. This layout is standard for many European airports and makes orientation easy. All terminals have access to a common security area after check-in, simplifying further movement to the boarding gates.

Each terminal has its own specialization, although this division is somewhat flexible:

• Terminal 1 mainly serves Eurowings flights and Lufthansa Group partners, such as Austrian Airlines and Swiss.
• Terminal 2 is the smallest; it effectively serves as a check-in area for some Eurowings/Germanwings flights and does not have its own boarding gates. Passengers proceed to other terminals after check-in.
• Terminal 3 serves the majority of major international airlines, including Air France, KLM, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines. Gates for both Schengen and non-Schengen destinations are located here.
• Terminal 4 specializes in charter and holiday flights, used by carriers such as Condor, SunExpress, and TUIfly.

Check-in and security procedures at Stuttgart Airport usually proceed quite quickly thanks to its well-thought-out organization. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure for Schengen destinations and 3 hours before international flights, especially during peak periods (morning hours, holidays, summer season). To orient yourself easily, check in advance which terminal your airline operates from, and upon arrival, follow the signs and information on the electronic boards.

The history of Stuttgart Airport did not begin exactly at its current location. Initially, in 1936, the airport was founded in Böblingen, but it soon became clear that growing aviation needs required more space. As a result, a new site was chosen — the fields of Echterdingen, where the official opening took place in 1939. The start of its operations coincided with a complex historical period, which left its mark on the early years of its existence.

After World War II, the airport came under the control of the US Air Force and was used as an airbase. However, by 1948, it was reopened for civil aviation, marking the starting point for its peaceful development. A significant event was the arrival of the first jet passenger aircraft, the Sud Aviation Caravelle, in 1959, which required a significant extension of the runway. This moment symbolized the airport's entry into the jet age.

A real breakthrough in development occurred at the turn of the 80s and 90s. In 1991, the new main terminal (today's Terminal 1) was opened, designed by the famous architect Meinhard von Gerkan. Its innovative design with steel structures resembling trees is still considered the airport's calling card and an example of functional and aesthetic architecture. In subsequent years, Terminals 2 and 3 were built, significantly increasing capacity.

One of the key events in recent history was the opening of the new Messe Stuttgart exhibition center in 2007 in the immediate vicinity of the terminals. This turned the airport into a powerful transport and business hub, ideal for international events and business trips. Another interesting fact: in 2014, the airport was named after Manfred Rommel — the former Lord Mayor of Stuttgart, who made a huge contribution to the development of the city and the region.

Stuttgart Airport (STR) offers its guests a developed infrastructure and a full range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. The terminals house numerous cafes, lounges, and restaurants where you can grab a quick snack or have a full lunch, enjoying dishes of local Swabian and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, numerous stores are open: from classic Duty Free shops with perfumes, beverages, and sweets to fashion boutiques, bookstores, and electronics shops.

For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, as well as numerous charging stations for mobile devices. If you prefer to wait for your flight in a calmer atmosphere, several business lounges and VIP lounges are at your service (for example, the Lufthansa Lounge and Executive Club Lounge), where you can relax, work, and enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks.

Stuttgart Airport provides all necessary services. Here you will find bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs. In case of feeling unwell, you can seek help at the medical center. For families with children, there are mother-and-child rooms equipped with changing tables and play areas. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on comprehensive support: the airport is fully equipped with ramps, elevators, and offers an escort service, which is recommended to be booked in advance.

For business travelers, the modern Wöllhaf conference center operates on the airport grounds, offering rooms for meetings, seminars, and events. If you need a rest between flights, hotels such as Mövenpick Hotel Stuttgart Airport and Wyndham Stuttgart Airport Messe are located directly opposite the terminals, making them an ideal choice for early departures or long layovers.

At Stuttgart Airport (STR), you will find many options for a snack or a full meal to suit any taste and budget. Food and beverage outlets are located both in the public area and after passing security control, allowing you to spend time comfortably while waiting for your flight.

In the public zone (landside), before passing control, there are several restaurants and cafes. This is a great place to sit with those seeing you off or to have a leisurely dinner if you arrived early. Here you can find, for example, the Red Baron restaurant, offering international and German cuisine, as well as coffee shops and bakeries serving fresh pastries and sandwiches.

After passing security control (airside), the choice becomes even wider. Most establishments are concentrated in the departure zones of Terminals 1, 3, and 4. Here you will find everything: from lounges where you can enjoy local beverages to Italian restaurants such as Trattoria Pignolo. Numerous coffee shops and sandwich spots are perfect for a quick snack. The selection allows you to find an option for both a light breakfast and a hearty dinner before your flight.

When traveling through Germany, be sure to try local Swabian delicacies. In some airport restaurants, you can find dishes such as Maultaschen (similar to large dumplings) or Käsespätzle (egg noodles with cheese). Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian dishes are available in most establishments. It is best to check directly with the café or restaurant staff regarding vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options.

The price range at Stuttgart Airport varies from budget options in fast-food chains to mid-level prices in full-service restaurants. The opening hours of most establishments are adapted to the flight schedule: many open early in the morning and work until late in the evening. However, please note that the selection may be limited at night.

If you are short on time, stop by one of the bakeries, for example, Kamps, for fresh pastries and coffee. For a more substantial and relaxed meal, we recommend visiting one of the restaurants in the public area before control or choosing a place to your liking in the departure zone to enjoy a meal with a view of the airfield.

Planning a trip through Stuttgart Airport is the first step in your journey through Germany or other countries. To ensure everything runs smoothly, use our tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2–2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5–2 hours before flights within the Schengen area. In the morning hours and during holiday periods, passenger traffic may be higher, so it is better to allow extra time.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance. This will allow you to go straight to the bag drop counter or, if you are traveling light, to the security checkpoint. Security at Stuttgart Airport works efficiently, but be prepared to present liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and large electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, separately.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. Window seats will give you beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. Tip: check the layout of your aircraft on specialized websites to avoid seats with limited space or near the lavatories.

Strictly observe the rules for carrying hand luggage. In addition to restrictions on liquids, it is forbidden to carry any sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous goods. The size and weight of hand luggage may vary depending on the airline, so be sure to check this information on your carrier's website before traveling.

If you have a transfer in Stuttgart, follow the "Connecting flights" or "Transit" signs. The airport is quite compact, making transfers convenient. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if passport control is required (for example, when transferring from a flight from a non-Schengen country to a flight within the Schengen area).

Customs control when entering from non-EU countries operates on a "green" and "red" channel system. If you have no goods to declare, proceed through the "green channel". Otherwise, you must go through the "red" one and declare your goods. Travelers within the EU do not need to pass through customs.

To save money, use public transport: S-Bahn trains (lines S2 and S3) will take you quickly and inexpensively from the airport to the city center. You can also book parking online in advance, which is often cheaper. Bring an empty water bottle with you — after passing security, you can fill it at drinking fountains.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline's counter for information. According to European legislation (EU261), for long delays, passengers are entitled to meals, drinks, and if necessary, hotel accommodation. Remain calm and check with the airline representative what services you are entitled to.