Stuttgart
From gold statues to Hohenzollern Castle's hilltop spires, Stuttgart's overwhelming cauldron of antiquity and modernity might seem haphazard, but as seen in the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche museums, this automotive master is serious about precision. From Stuttgart Ballet's articulations to high-calibre academic pursuit, Stuttgart is industrious but knows how to let loose, whether over Swabian dinners and excursions through Königstraße, or intoxicating joviality during its annual wine, beer and spring festivals.