Esslingen am Neckar combines medieval charm with modern economic strength. Learn more at esslingen.de. The city of around 95,000 residents lies just 14 kilometers southeast of Stuttgart and is one of the most attractive business locations in the region. Whether you are arriving for a project at Festo or visiting Mercedes-Benz – this guide provides all the essential information for a successful stay.
Esslingen as a Business Location
Esslingen is home to several major companies that regularly bring business travelers, consultants and project teams to the city:
Festo has its headquarters in Esslingen-Berkheim and employs over 20,000 people worldwide. The automation specialist is one of the largest employers in the region and attracts engineers, IT professionals and consultants from around the world.
Mercedes-Benz AG operates an important powertrain, foundry and axle manufacturing plant in Esslingen-Mettingen. The facility ensures a steady demand for specialists and project staff.
Eberspaecher, a specialist in exhaust technology and vehicle heating systems, is also headquartered in Esslingen. Bechtle, one of Europe's largest IT system houses, has a branch here. Additionally, INDEX-Werke, a leading manufacturer of CNC turning machines, is based in the city.
This concentration of industrial companies makes Esslingen a hotspot for business travelers in the Stuttgart region.
| Esslingen at a Glance | |
|---|---|
| Population | approx. 95,000 |
| Federal State | Baden-Württemberg |
| Distance to Stuttgart | 14 km (20 min. S-Bahn) |
| Stuttgart Airport (STR) | approx. 10 km (15 min. by car) |
| Largest Employers | Festo, Mercedes-Benz, Eberspaecher |
| Highlights | Medieval Old Town, Kessler Sparkling Wine |
| TravelSuites Apartment | Krone (90 m², from 89 EUR/night) |
Getting There and Transport Links
Esslingen has excellent connections to Stuttgart and the surrounding region:
By S-Bahn: The S1 line connects Esslingen to Stuttgart main station in just 20 minutes. Esslingen station is centrally located and serves as an ideal starting point.
By Car: Esslingen is easily accessible via the A8 motorway (Stuttgart–Munich) and the B10 federal road. The drive from Stuttgart Airport takes only about 15 minutes. Parking in the city center is limited – underground car parks at the station and in the old town offer alternatives.
Airport: Stuttgart Airport (STR) is only about 10 kilometers away and reachable in 15–20 minutes by car. By S-Bahn via Stuttgart main station, the journey takes around 40 minutes.
Best Neighborhoods for Business Travelers
Old Town (Altstadt) – The historic heart of Esslingen with impressive half-timbered houses, restaurants and short walks to the station. Ideal for those who want to enjoy city life in the evening.
Mettingen – This northern district is particularly convenient for Mercedes-Benz employees. Good connections to the B10 and quiet residential areas characterize Mettingen.
Berkheim – Located in eastern Esslingen, Berkheim is the ideal base for anyone working at Festo. The company's headquarters are in the district, ensuring short commutes.
Sights and Leisure
Esslingen surprises visitors with a remarkably well-preserved medieval old town:
Esslingen Castle sits above the city and offers stunning panoramic views across the vineyards, old town and Neckar valley. The climb is especially worthwhile in the evening.
The Old Town Hall with its astronomical clock is one of the most beautiful half-timbered buildings in southern Germany. The facade with its distinctive carillon attracts visitors daily.
The Kessler Sparkling Wine Cellars is the oldest sparkling wine producer in Germany, founded in 1826. Tours through the historic vaulted cellars are a special experience – also ideal for team events or client entertainment.
The Medieval Christmas Market transforms Esslingen into a journey back to the Middle Ages each year and is one of the most famous Christmas markets in all of Germany.
Dining and Going Out
Esslingen lies in the heart of the Wuerttemberg vineyards – the local wine taverns are therefore an absolute must. Here you can enjoy regional wines straight from the winemaker, accompanied by Swabian classics such as Maultaschen, Rostbraten and Spaetzle.
In the old town, you will find a diverse restaurant scene: from traditional Swabian to Italian to modern bistros. The lanes around the Market Square and the Innere Bruecke are particularly popular for a relaxed dinner after the working day.
Accommodation in Esslingen: TravelSuites Apartment Krone
For business travelers seeking more than a hotel room, TravelSuites offers the Apartment Krone in Esslingen. The designer apartment spanning 90 m² is located directly at the train station and combines stylish design with all the comfort you need for a productive stay.
The apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, a separate work area, high-speed WiFi and a washing machine. Self-check-in via smart lock allows flexible arrival times – even late at night or on weekends. To learn why serviced apartments are the better choice for longer stays, read our comparison Corporate Housing vs. Hotel.
With a rating of 4.95 stars on Airbnb and 9.4 on Booking.com, the TravelSuites Apartment Krone is one of the highest-rated accommodations in Esslingen. Whether for a two-week project assignment at Festo or a multi-month stay at Mercedes-Benz – at TravelSuites you will live more comfortably and often more affordably than in a hotel. For tips on finding furnished apartments in the region, see our guide to furnished apartments in Heilbronn.
FAQ
Which major companies are based in Esslingen?
How do I get from Stuttgart to Esslingen?
What is there to see in Esslingen am Neckar?
How much does a business apartment in Esslingen cost?
Where do business travelers working at Festo or Mercedes-Benz stay in Esslingen?
Sources
- City of Esslingen – Official Portal
- Festo – Corporate Website
- Kessler Sparkling Wine Cellars
- Mercedes-Benz – Esslingen Location
- Esslingen am Neckar – Wikipedia
