How do you commute in Stuttgart?

The S-bahn from the airport to my dormitory was the very first public transport I took when I arrived in Stuttgart. Even after all these years, the memory is so fresh. I had signed up for the Buddy program (a support program for international students), meaning a student from the University would pick me up upon my arrival at the airport and guide me to my student dorm.

Of all days, I arrived on a national holiday at the onset of autumn. A student from the Buddy program was waiting for me at the Stuttgart airport. I was glad she was there! In hindsight, I hope she didn’t regret doing this on her day off. She helped me buy a ticket, which cost around 3 euros, from this strange machine that I could see was complicated to use even for a German. Trust me, it was not just her. I’ve seen many more people struggle with the ticket machines. Luckily, it was one of the only few times I had to use it. Warm lights and a cool, crisp autumn weather complemented my S-bahn journey. We changed to a U-bahn at the Hauptbahnhof to get to the dorm. Once we arrived at the dorm, two of my classmates welcomed me and helped me move in. I still cherish this😊

Why am I talking about this? Well, arriving in a foreign country when I didn’t speak the language, it was the kindness of strangers (now friends) and a good public transportation system that eased my first steps in Stuttgart. Arriving at the dorm with two suitcases in hand by a safe and well-maintained public transport, two minutes away from the doorstep, is indeed a privilege. I’ve been more and more appreciative of the public transport recently. You’ll know why in a minute. Public transport, sometimes taken for granted, is hands down the best mode of transport! Complaining about the tardiness and strikes is all true (especially for long-distance travel), but if you think about it, we can easily commute thanks to the S-bahns, U-bahns and buses for everyday travel from your residence to the University or to work.

I come from a country with one of the world's largest train networks. I have used it extensively when I was studying back home because, as a former architecture student, I had the opportunity to travel to many cities across the country. Although intercity travel is well-connected and relatively easy, the challenge lies in travelling within city limits via public transport. Even with a decent city public transportation system with mostly buses and maybe metros, we still rely heavily on private modes of transport to achieve the last mile. Back home, as an adult, I mainly commuted to the University with a privately owned vehicle, a two-wheeler or a car. It was the most efficient way. Now that I go back home every year, my family, who do not own any vehicles anymore, relies much on taxis and tries to use public transport when possible. This can be sometimes inconvenient and expensive. This has made me appreciate a safe and well-functioning public transport system in Stuttgart. This is important for me, especially as a woman, because it makes me feel more independent and free to move around.   

As a student, commuting to the university is something I never had to worry about. My only worry was missing the U-bahn and having to wait 10 minutes for the next one :D It is not much! But if you lived on campus, you are lucky to just walk to your classes. Also, here to achieve the last mile, in most cases, a 5 to 15 minute walk is all it takes. That too on pedestrian-friendly sidewalks! 

Another popular way for students to get to the uni was by bicycle. I saw many students use it and thought of giving it a try. Like many, I bought mine on the second-hand market. It was not only to get to commute in the city but also to sometimes cycle along the Neckar on weekends :) Cycling along the river was far easier than cycling in the city! Cycling in the city was not the most joyful. On one hand, I didn’t feel safe riding so close to cars, and in some places, the cycle lane just abruptly ended. I think we can all agree that Stuttgart needs more cycle lanes that prioritise cyclists. On the other hand, given the ‘kessel’ status of Stuttgart, it was indeed challenging for someone who is not so adventurous. It was an uphill battle.

Now, tell us, how do you commute in Stuttgart? What’s your preferred mode of transport? If you have any interesting anecdotes, share them in the comments!

Kavya