Kunstmuseum Stuttgart is hard to miss: a glass cube at the edge of Schlossplatz that glows like a lantern after dark. Opened in 2005 and designed by Berlin architects Hascher Jehle, the building houses galleries both inside its limestone core and below ground. Its bold exterior has made it a landmark in the centre of Stuttgart, but the art is the stronger reason to go inside.
The museum’s collection ranges from classical modernism to contemporary art, with particularly important holdings by Otto Dix. His unsparing portraits of Weimar-era Germany are closely associated with the New Objectivity movement and reward a slow look. Works by artists including Willi Baumeister add depth to the collection, while changing exhibitions bring fresh perspectives; check what is on display if you are visiting for a particular artist.
The Kunstmuseum is easy to reach by public transport, with Schlossplatz U-Bahn station nearby. It is generally closed on Mondays, so check current opening hours and exhibition details before setting out. Leave time to cross Schlossplatz afterwards and return after dusk to see the illuminated cube against the square.