Be Safe in Stuttgart

Stuttgart is generally a safe city, though as in other big cities; it’s advisable to be wary of a number of issues and protect yourself against any loss by investing in a comprehensive insurance policy prior to departure.

Safety

There is a slight homeless problem towards the central streets of the city, though pedestrians are unlikely to be bothered. Nevertheless, you should remain alert to your belongings at all times and avoid dimly-lit, sparsely populated streets at night-time.

Pick-pocketing can be a significant problem at busy times of year, especially during the popular festivals. With the influx of outsiders and crowded streets, there is an increased risk of petty theft, so pay close attention to your valuables. The Christmas Market and Harvest Festival draw particularly large crowds, so it’s important to be aware of the risk.
 
Due to Stuttgart’s long history of automobile manufacture and development, traffic can be a problem in the city, with pedestrians occasionally treated as second-class citizens. Care is required when crossing the street and in some places, there are no surface-level crossings provided for cyclists or pedestrians. In fact, there is a multi-lane thoroughfare located right in front of the main station, Hauptbahnhof.

Police: 110

Health

Stuttgart is a modern European city, with excellent facilities and public services, and virtually no serious health risks for visitors. Nevertheless, it’s important to come prepared and to take out comprehensive medical and travel insurance, lest the unforeseen should happen. EU citizens now benefit from reciprocal healthcare arrangements with other European countries, but EU visitors are still advised to have medical insurance, to ensure that they will receive preferential attention at hospitals.

There are four municipal hospitals: Bürger, Katharinen, Bad Cannstatt and Olga. These hospitals have joined forces to form the Stuttgart Clinic, which has specialists in virtually every medical discipline. Travel and medical insurance will ensure that travellers can access the services at Stuttgart’s various medical institutions, should the need arise.

Emergency services: 112