Stuttgart

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Shopping and Groceries

Guidance on where to shop for everyday goods, groceries, and other essentials in Stuttgart.

Sections

1. Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Stuttgart has a wide range of supermarkets catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are the main types of grocery stores you’ll find:

Discount Supermarkets

These are budget-friendly stores offering basic groceries and household items at low prices. Popular chains include:

  • Aldi: Known for affordable prices and a limited but high-quality selection of products.
  • Lidl: Similar to Aldi, Lidl offers competitive prices and weekly special deals on non-food items.
  • Penny: Another discount chain with a focus on low-cost essentials.

Mid-Range Supermarkets

These stores offer a broader selection of products, including organic and international items:

  • Edeka: A popular chain with a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and specialty items. Prices are slightly higher than discount stores.
  • Rewe: Known for its fresh produce, bakery sections, and ready-to-eat meals. Rewe also has a delivery service.
  • Kaufland: A hypermarket offering groceries, household goods, and electronics under one roof.

Organic and Specialty Stores

For organic, vegan, or specialty products, Stuttgart has several options:

  • Alnatura: A chain specializing in organic and sustainable products.
  • Denn’s Biomarkt: Offers a wide range of organic groceries, including fresh produce, dairy, and baked goods.
  • Basic Bio: Another organic supermarket with a focus on eco-friendly and fair-trade products.

International Grocery Stores

Stuttgart is home to a diverse population, and you’ll find stores catering to various cuisines:

  • Asian supermarkets: Stores like Asia Markt and Vinh Loi offer Asian spices, noodles, and sauces.
  • Turkish and Middle Eastern stores: Shops like Öz-Gida and Baktat Markt sell halal meats, fresh bread, and spices.
  • Eastern European stores: Look for stores like Mix Markt for Russian, Polish, and Balkan specialties.

2. Farmers' Markets

Stuttgart is famous for its vibrant farmers' markets, where you can buy fresh, locally sourced produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. These markets are a great way to experience local culture and support regional farmers.

Key Farmers' Markets in Stuttgart

  • Markthalle Stuttgart: Located in the city center, this historic indoor market is a must-visit. It offers high-quality local and international products, including Swabian specialties like Maultaschen (Swabian dumplings) and Spätzle (egg noodles).
  • Schillerplatz Market: Held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, this outdoor market features fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and artisanal goods.
  • Wochenmarkt Karlsplatz: A smaller market with a focus on organic and regional products.

Tips for Farmers' Markets

  • Bring cash, as many vendors do not accept cards.
  • Arrive early for the best selection or later in the day for potential discounts.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask vendors about their products—they are usually happy to share information.

3. Shopping Malls and Department Stores

For a more comprehensive shopping experience, Stuttgart has several malls and department stores that combine groceries with fashion, electronics, and more.

Popular Shopping Malls

  • Milaneo: Stuttgart’s largest shopping mall, located near the main train station. It has over 200 stores, including a large Edeka supermarket.
  • Königsbau Passagen: Located on Königstraße, this mall offers a mix of retail stores, cafes, and a Rewe supermarket.
  • Gerber: A modern shopping center with a variety of stores, including a large organic supermarket.

Department Stores

  • Galeria (formerly Galeria Kaufhof): A department store offering groceries, gourmet foods, and household items. It’s a good place to find high-quality chocolates, wines, and other gifts.

4. Typical Costs for Groceries

The cost of groceries in Stuttgart depends on where you shop and the types of products you buy. Below is a rough guide to typical prices:

  • Milk (1 liter): €1.20–€1.50
  • Bread (loaf): €2.50–€4.00
  • Eggs (10-pack): €2.50–€4.00
  • Chicken breast (1 kg): €7.00–€10.00
  • Apples (1 kg): €2.00–€3.50
  • Potatoes (1 kg): €1.50–€2.50
  • Cheese (1 kg): €8.00–€15.00
  • Beer (0.5 liter): €0.80–€1.50
  • Wine (bottle): €4.00–€10.00

Discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl are the most affordable, while organic stores and farmers' markets tend to be more expensive.

5. Local Specialties to Look Out For

Stuttgart is located in the Swabian region of Germany, known for its unique culinary traditions. Here are some local specialties to try:

  • Maultaschen: Swabian dumplings filled with meat, spinach, and spices.
  • Spätzle: Soft egg noodles often served with cheese (Käsespätzle) or as a side dish.
  • Schwarzwälder Schinken: Black Forest ham, a regional delicacy.
  • Swabian Pretzels: Larger and softer than typical pretzels, often enjoyed with butter.
  • Local Wines: Stuttgart is surrounded by vineyards, so try regional wines like Trollinger or Riesling.
  • Kirschwasser: A cherry brandy from the Black Forest region.

6. Cultural and Procedural Tips for Shopping

  • Opening Hours: Most supermarkets are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. Stores are generally closed on Sundays, except for some bakeries and shops at train stations.
  • Bring Your Own Bags: Plastic bags are not free, so bring reusable bags to save money and reduce waste.
  • Deposit System (Pfand): Bottles and cans often have a deposit (Pfand) of €0.25. You can return them to machines at supermarkets for a refund.
  • Weigh Your Produce: In some supermarkets, you need to weigh fruits and vegetables yourself and print a price sticker before heading to the checkout.
  • Cash vs. Card: While card payments are increasingly accepted, smaller stores and markets may only take cash. It’s a good idea to carry some euros with you.

7. Additional Tips

  • Seasonal Products: Stuttgart’s markets and stores often feature seasonal items, such as white asparagus (Spargel) in spring or Christmas treats like Stollen and Lebkuchen in winter.
  • Tax-Free Shopping: If you’re a non-EU resident, you can claim a VAT refund on purchases over €50. Ask for a tax-free form at the store and present it at customs when leaving the EU.

By exploring Stuttgart’s diverse shopping options, you’ll not only find everything you need but also gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s culture and culinary traditions. Enjoy your time in Stuttgart!