Pick up insights into the history of the motor car at the Mercedes-Benz Museum. More than 160 vehicles and 1,500 exhibits are spread across nine floors. They cover some of the key moments in the evolution of the automotive industry, from its beginnings in the late 19th century to today’s technological innovations.
Self-guided tours of the exhibits start on the top floor. There are two routes that take visitors on a chronological or a thematic journey through the museum. Begin with a look at the first ever motorcar, the Benz Patent-Motorwagen built in 1886 by Karl Benz.
Take the chronological tour that details the history of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Study cars and exhibits charting the invention of the petrol-driven road vehicle and the origin of the famous automobile brand. Admire the Mercedes-Benz 260 D, one of the first diesel engine cars.
The second tour is split into five rooms, including the Gallery of Celebrities and the Gallery of Heroes. Examine cars that once belonged to famous figures such as the German Emperor Wilhelm II, Princess Diana and Pope John Paul II.
The routes meet on each floor, so you can easily switch from one to the other. Both finish at the Silver Arrows – Races and Records exhibit that examines the role Mercedes-Benz has played in motor racing since 1901. See cars of racing legends including the 300 SLR that drove Stirling Moss to victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia, an open-road endurance race. Sit in the grandstand and watch movies of historic races.
The Mercedes-Benz Museum is open every day except Monday and some public holidays. Admission charges apply and children up to the age of 14 get in for free. Older children receive a discount. Children are given a complementary audio guide with age-appropriate stories.
Reach the museum by bus, train or boat. It is 4 miles (6.5 kilometres) from downtown Stuttgart. Alternatively, drive and use the metered parking facilities in the museum’s car park or in the adjacent multi-story car park.
