Known for its unique suspension railway, this German city has a rich industrial past and green spaces. It houses the world's largest bicycle collection and a car-free city center.
Wuppertal, located in western Germany, features the historic Schwebebahn monorail, the Von der Heydt Museum for 19th and 20th-century art, and the Skulpturenpark Waldfrieden filled with contemporary sculptures. The city's hilly terrain and numerous parks provide ample opportunities for walking and enjoying green spaces.
Riding the Schwebebahn
The Wuppertal Suspension Railway (Schwebebahn) opened in 1901 and has been operating since. This monorail travels 8-12 meters above the Wupper River along its 13.3 km route. Riding the entire line takes about 30 minutes, offering city views from a distinctive height. For an extra experience, you can book a trip in the Kaiserwagen, the ornate carriage used by Kaiser Wilhelm II during the railway's first journey.
Exploring Art and Sculpture
Visit the Von der Heydt Museum to see a collection of 19th and 20th-century art, including pieces by Monet, van Gogh, and Picasso. The museum building, a former town hall, features neoclassical architecture. At Skulpturenpark Waldfrieden, explore contemporary sculptures by artist Tony Cragg set within 14 hectares of woodland. Walk the paths to view artworks that are integrated with the natural surroundings.
Green Spaces and Wildlife
Two-thirds of Wuppertal's area consist of parks and gardens. The Hardt-Anlage near the city center includes walking trails and gardens with city views. Inside Hardt-Anlage, you'll find the Botanischer Garten Wuppertal, which displays various plant species from different regions. The Wuppertal Zoo houses over 4,000 animals from 500 species within a landscaped area that utilizes the city's hilly terrain.
Historic Neighborhoods
Explore neighborhoods like Luisenviertel, also known as Elberfelder Altstadt, with 19th-century buildings that now house boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Walk along Luisenstraße to view the preserved architecture and visit Laurentiusplatz to see St. Laurentius Church, built in the neoclassical style. In Briller Viertel, a residential area with around 250 listed villas, you can find homes designed in Art Nouveau style from the early 20th century.
Cultural Venues
The Opernhaus Wuppertal, constructed in 1905, hosts opera, theater, and dance performances, including shows by the Tanztheater Wuppertal dance company founded by Pina Bausch. Stadthalle Wuppertal is a concert hall known for its acoustics and features Renaissance-style frescoes and chandeliers.
Getting There and Around
Take regional trains to reach Wuppertal from nearby cities such as Cologne and Düsseldorf, with the trip from Cologne taking about 30-40 minutes. Within Wuppertal, use the Schwebebahn as a practical mode of transportation through the city. Regular buses connect areas not served by the monorail. Due to the hilly terrain, expect some uphill walks when exploring on foot.
