Stuttgart sits on top of one of Germany's richest deposits of mineral springs, and the Berg bath is where residents have come to soak since the 19th century. The water comes up naturally warm and rich in sodium and sulfur compounds — the smell takes getting used to, but regulars swear by its restorative properties.
The facility has both indoor and outdoor pools, including an outdoor pool open in warm months that draws a mixed crowd of lap swimmers and relaxed soakers. The setting in the Berg neighbourhood, just east of the city centre, is pleasantly low-key — this is a working bath for locals, not a spa resort.
Stuttgart has two other mineral baths — Leuze and Cannstatter Volksbad — but Berg is the quietest and most traditional. A good choice for a weekday morning.
Admission prices are reasonable by German standards; bring your own towel or rent one on-site.