Wuppertal Suspension Railway (Schwebebahn)
Ride the world's oldest suspension railway, gliding above Wuppertal's streets and the Wupper River since 1901.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother ride
Wuppertal Suspension Railway (Schwebebahn)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, smoother ride
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the world's oldest suspension railway, gliding above Wuppertal's streets and the Wupper River since 1901.
"It's not just public transport - it's a piece of living history! Such an amazing engineering."
🎯 Sit at the Back
For the best views and photo opportunities, snag a seat at the rear of the Schwebebahn car.
🎟️ Use Public Transport Tickets
Your regular public transport tickets are valid for the Schwebebahn, making it easy to use.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Schwebebahn Ride
Entire route from Vohwinkel to Oberbarmen
Glide above the city in the world's oldest suspension railway, a true engineering marvel since 1901.
Tuffi the Elephant's Leap
Local legend
Hear the quirky tale of Tuffi, the elephant who famously jumped from the Schwebebahn in 1950.
Architectural Scenery
Along the Wupper River
Admire Wuppertal's diverse architecture from a unique aerial perspective as you travel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ride the Historic Schwebebahn
Embrace the Unique Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sit at the Back
For the best views and photo opportunities, snag a seat at the rear of the Schwebebahn car.
🎟️ Use Public Transport Tickets
Your regular public transport tickets are valid for the Schwebebahn, making it easy to use.
📸 Capture Unique Angles
The Schwebebahn offers incredible photo ops, especially from its unique elevated position.
⏳ Full Route Experience
Consider riding the entire 13.3 km route for a complete experience of this historic transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sit at the Back
For the best views and photo opportunities, snag a seat at the rear of the Schwebebahn car.
🎟️ Use Public Transport Tickets
Your regular public transport tickets are valid for the Schwebebahn, making it easy to use.
📸 Capture Unique Angles
The Schwebebahn offers incredible photo ops, especially from its unique elevated position.
⏳ Full Route Experience
Consider riding the entire 13.3 km route for a complete experience of this historic transport.
🐘 Learn Tuffi's Story
Ask locals or research the famous story of Tuffi the elephant's daring leap from the train.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Wuppertal Schwebebahn, calling it a unique and unforgettable experience that blends history, engineering, and stunning city views. It's praised as both an efficient transport system and a living museum, offering a perspective unlike any other. While generally smooth, some mention the occasional need for patience with ticket machines or finding seats during peak times.
"Riding the Wuppertal Schwebebahn 🚟 was an unforgettable experience. We rode the same Schwebebahn # 20 😁 back and forth. It has 20 stops and 30 minute-ride. We started from Vohwinkel to Oberbarmen Bf and vice versa.
It's not just public transport - it's a piece of living history! Such and amazing engineering 🇩🇪 Opened in 1901, the Schwebebahn is the oldest electric suspended monorail in the world and the longest. It still runs daily through the heart of Wuppertal with impressive efficiency.
The route stretches about 13.3 kilometres, gliding above the Wupper River and city streets, offering unique views of urban life from above. The ride is smooth, quiet, and surprisingly fast - perfect for sightseeing or commuting.
One of the most famous stories is the time an elephant named Tuffi jumped out of the train in 1950 during a publicity stunt - a quirky moment that's now part of local legend. The Schwebebahn has also survived bombings during WWII and underwent major renovations to preserve its legacy while upgrading its technology.
It's a perfect blend of engineering, heritage, and everyday life and riding it feels like stepping into a moving museum.
Tip 💡 Sit at the back to have a perfect 👌🏻 view 😉"
Gee Ong-Vasile
"As an "attraction" is simply out of this world and I believe the only one of its kind in Europe. As a transportation system is an awesome experience and it is super efficient and connects the city from west to east, you can combine it with buses to shorten the time you'd use if you do the whole trip by bus only."
Edgard G.
"This has been on my bucket list for a long time and I'm glad I got to see and ride it. It's not only useful for navigating the city, but also a piece of industrial history. Definitely worth seeing."
Martin Kubler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Schwebebahn is easily accessible via public transport. The main station, Hauptbahnhof/Döppersberg, is a central hub where you can connect to the Schwebebahn. +1 Many visitors arrive by train to Wuppertal Hauptbahnhof and can directly access the Schwebebahn station.
Yes, the Schwebebahn operates as part of the local public transport network. Standard public transport tickets are valid for rides on the Schwebebahn, making it convenient for exploring the city.
Absolutely! Wuppertal Hauptbahnhof is well-connected by train to major German cities, including Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Dortmund. +1 This makes it a feasible day trip destination.
While some stations might have limited parking, it's generally recommended to use public transport to reach the Schwebebahn, especially if arriving from outside Wuppertal.
Yes, the Schwebebahn is an efficient way to travel across Wuppertal, connecting the city from west to east. It can be combined with buses for shorter travel times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Riding the Schwebebahn is very affordable as it accepts standard public transport tickets. You can use day passes, single tickets, or group tickets valid for the local transport network.
No, you do not need a special ticket. Any valid public transport ticket for the Wuppertal area will work on the Schwebebahn.
The Schwebebahn generally operates daily, but specific hours can vary. It's best to check the official WSW (Wuppertaler Stadtwerke) website for the most up-to-date schedule.
While it's best to have your ticket beforehand, ticket machines are available at most stations. Using a mobile app for tickets is also an option.
There is no separate entrance fee to access the Schwebebahn stations. You only need a valid ticket for your journey on the train itself.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Sitting at the back of the train offers a fantastic panoramic view for photography. The sections along the Wupper River and the urban landscape provide unique photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed on the Schwebebahn. Many travelers share their experiences on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. 
You'll see the city of Wuppertal from above, gliding over the Wupper River, passing by buildings, and offering a unique urban perspective.
While the ride is smooth, always be mindful of your surroundings and other passengers. Ensure your equipment is secure.
The entire route offers unique viewpoints. However, stations like Hauptbahnhof/Döppersberg provide good access and photo opportunities.
🎫 💡 Interesting Facts & History
The Schwebebahn was ceremoniously opened in 1901, making it the world's oldest electric elevated railway with hanging cars.
In 1950, an elephant named Tuffi, part of a circus, was taken on a promotional ride and famously jumped out of the train into the Wupper River. Miraculously, Tuffi survived and the incident became a local legend.
Yes, the Schwebebahn is still in regular daily operation, serving as a vital public transport system for Wuppertal.
Its unique design involves cars hanging from a single rail overhead, a system pioneered by Eugen Langen. It's the oldest of its kind globally.
While generally safe, there was a tragic accident in 1999 when a train fell, injuring several people. This event led to significant safety upgrades.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider using a family day ticket for public transport, which can be cost-effective. The stations are generally accessible, but it's always good to check specific station accessibility if you have very young children or strollers. Pack some snacks and drinks, as the journey offers great views to enjoy while munching.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The rear carriages are often recommended for the best, unobstructed views, perfect for sweeping panoramas.Experiment with different shutter speeds to capture the motion of the train and the city. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the photographic appeal.
🏛️ History Buffs & Engineering Fans
+1 Learning about its inventor, Eugen Langen, and the innovative design principles behind the hanging cars adds depth to the experience.Consider visiting the Wuppertal Hauptbahnhof area, which serves as a central point and offers insights into the railway's historical context. The railway's survival through significant historical events, including WWII, adds another layer to its fascinating narrative.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: The Schwebebahn's Legacy
+1 Designed by Eugen Langen, its unique Einschienige Hängengebahn System (single-rail hanging railway system) was revolutionary for its time. The railway has witnessed over a century of Wuppertal's development, surviving even bombings during World War II.The Schwebebahn's route stretches approximately 13.3 kilometers, gliding gracefully above the Wupper River and through the heart of the city.
The ride is known for being smooth and efficient, connecting the city's eastern and western districts.Beyond its engineering prowess, the Schwebebahn is steeped in local lore. The most famous anecdote is the 1950 incident involving Tuffi the elephant, who, during a publicity stunt, jumped from a carriage into the river below.
Experiencing the Schwebebahn: Tips for Travelers
The entire journey from Vohwinkel to Oberbarmen takes about 30 minutes, covering 20 stations, and offers a comprehensive look at the city's layout.As the Schwebebahn is integrated into the local public transport network, your standard public transport tickets are valid for your ride.
For those interested in photography, the Schwebebahn provides a unique canvas. The aerial perspective offers dynamic shots of the river, bridges, and buildings.
Whether you're a history buff, an engineering enthusiast, or simply looking for a novel travel experience, the Schwebebahn promises an unforgettable journey through Wuppertal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit