Wuppertal Suspension Railway
Nordrhein-Westfalen
The Wuppertal Suspension Railway, inaugurated in 1901, is a 13-kilometer-long suspended monorail running through the city of Wuppertal in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. It features 20 stations and serves as both a vital public transport link and a distinctive city landmark, renowned worldwide. The railway is the oldest operational suspended monorail system globally and is recognized for its unique engineering, where vehicles hang from a single rail above the Wupper River, typically 8 to 12 meters high. It has become a symbol of Wuppertal's industrial heritage and urban identity, often affectionately dubbed the "Green Dragon" or "Iron Lady." The system was developed by Eugen Langen and represents a pioneering transportation technology of the early 20th century. Over the decades, it has undergone modernization, including station renovations, while maintaining its original charm. The railway is also famous for notable historical events, such as the 1950 incident involving the circus elephant Tuffi and a tragic 1999 accident. Today, it remains both a functional transit system and a major tourist attraction, offering passengers scenic views of the city and river from an elevated perspective.
Plan your trip to Germany with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: For the best experience, visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a smooth ride. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via the official website, which also offers information on discounts and group rates. The full journey between the two end stations, Vohwinkel and Oberbarmen, takes approximately 30 minutes, allowing visitors to admire the cityscape from 8 to 12 meters above the Wupper River. Station renovations have improved accessibility, but checking current schedules and maintenance updates before visiting is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The Wuppertal Suspension Railway is the oldest operational suspended monorail system in the world.
- •It runs mostly above the Wupper River, typically 8 to 12 meters above water level.
- •The railway inspired various nicknames such as "Green Dragon," "Iron Lady," and "Flying Bus."
- •In 1950, a circus elephant named Tuffi famously jumped from a moving train into the river but survived with minor injuries.
- •The system was designed by Eugen Langen, who coined the term "Schwebebahn" (suspension railway).
History
The Wuppertal Suspension Railway was opened in 1901 as an innovative solution to urban transit challenges in the narrow Wupper Valley.
Designed by Eugen Langen, it was the world's first suspended monorail system and has operated continuously since.
Originally known by various names such as the Elberfeld Suspension Railway, it became a defining feature of the city upon Wuppertal's formation in 1929.
Over the 20th century, it underwent expansions and modernization, including integration into the Rhine-Ruhr transport network in 1980.
Despite incidents like the 1950 Tuffi elephant jump and the 1999 train crash, the railway has remained a vital and beloved part of Wuppertal's infrastructure and cultural identity.
Place Guide
Main Stations and Route
The railway has 20 stations along its 13-kilometer route, mostly suspended above the Wupper River, providing unique views of the city and its industrial heritage. Only four stations are on land. The journey from Vohwinkel to Oberbarmen takes about 30 minutes.
Contact
Phone: 0800 6504030
