The capital city of southwest Germany’s Baden-Württemberg is often overlooked for Germany’s larger cities of Berlin, Munich and Cologne. But this historic city is well worth a visit for many reasons. In fact, travelers are often pleasantly surprised to find a wide range of experiences and sites many wouldn’t think exist in such a place.

Here are 5 things in Stuttgart sure to astonish (and exceed expectations):

It’s a Spa City

Did you know around 11.5 million gallons of mineral water gush out of Stuttgart’s springs every day? The city’s medicinal and mineral springs can be found in the Bad Cannstatt and Berg districts, frequently enjoyed by locals and visitors for cures, medical purposes and bathing. The city has three municipal mineral baths: Leuze, Mineralbad Berg and SoleBad Cannstatt am Kurpark.

© Stuttgart Marketing

It’s Home to Rare Horticulture in a Versailles-Like Palace

Hohenheim Palace, south of the city, resembles (and was actually built on the model of) Versailles. Its state rooms are open during public events and for tours, but its gardens are particularly fascinating. You’ll find giant trees more than 200 years old, rare Magnolia trees and a poplar-lined promenade. There are more than 8,000 plant species on site, covering gardens like the Botanical Garden, Landesarboretum, Exotic Garden and Landscape Garden.

© Sarah Schmid

There’s a Neighborhood Called The Bean Quarter

Bohnenviertel, or bean quarter, is a special part of the city. This quarter is home to a plethora of cozy cafés, but also antique shops, quaint wine bars and artists’ studios. Every year, the neighborhood also hosts Stuttgart Bohnenviertel Festival, featuring live music, food and cool drinks. Residents of the quarter plant beans and hang garlands during the festival, and one lucky person is named Bean King.

Walk Through a Solitude Palace

Yes, it’s actually called that. Solitude Palace (Schloss Solitude) was built by Duke Carl Eugen and boast views across the Württemberg lowlands. Designed in the late Rococo and Neoclassical styles, the palace is almost entirely intact, with parts now a tarmacked public footpath.

Schloss Solitude © Werner Dieterich

Take in Views from a Hilltop Sepulchral Chapel

Built by King Wilhelm I for his wife who died young in 1819, this chapel is considered one of the most romantic spots in the region. After his wife’s death, the king tore down the Württemberg ancestral castle and built this chapel on the site. Now, when visitors stand at the top of the hill, they’re spoiled with sights of the capital city, as well as Rosenstein Palace and Wilhelm’s Palace.