First-time solo trip to Wuppertal, how should I explore? Answer: Take a ride on the suspended monorail.
Speaking of Wuppertal’s suspended monorail, it is the world’s oldest electric elevated railway. Inaugurated in 1901 under the patronage of German Emperor Wilhelm II, it remains a vital transportation system in Wuppertal to this day, providing easy access to most of the city’s attractions.
For first-time solo travelers to Wuppertal, all you need to remember are the station locations and the positions of attractions. This way, you can easily check off most of the city’s landmarks. Convenient, isn’t it?
Engels’ Residence, or Engelshaus, in Wuppertal is the childhood home of Friedrich Engels, a prominent figure in German history familiar to Chinese tourists. The site documents Engels’ life journey—from his education to managing the family business and collaborating with Karl Marx. Preserving precious manuscripts and showcasing ancient textile machines, the residence has expanded to include the Museum für Frühindustrialisierung (Museum of Early Industrialization). This museum provides insights into the impact of the early industrial revolution on Germany through Wuppertal’s urban development.
Wuppertal Zoo
Leaving Engels’ residence and once again taking the locally known “shaky car,” you can head to the zoo to spend leisurely time with these adorable creatures. Established in 1881, Wuppertal Zoo is one of Germany’s oldest zoos. It serves as a home to approximately 4,600 animals representing around 470 species from around the world. In addition to common animals like monkeys and lions, the zoo boasts stars such as the unique king penguins and herds of elephants.
Louisenord, Northern District
In the western part of the city center, Elberfeld, along Friedrich-Ebert-Strasse and Luisenstrasse, there are numerous restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. On Luisenplatz Square in front of St. Lawrence’s Church, you can choose from many cafes to enjoy a leisurely coffee time.
Concert and Congress Hall
The historic Concert and Congress Hall, built in 1900, stands as an architectural gem in Wuppertal. Located at the top of Johannisberg, near the central station, it is one of Europe’s most beautiful concert halls and conference venues.
Elberfeld City Hall
Elberfeld City Hall (Rathaus Elberfeld) features a unique and intriguing Paternoster elevator, an old-style lift that operates continuously without doors and doesn’t stop on floors. Riding this type of elevator requires nimble passengers to seize the right moment, jump in as the lift approaches, reach the desired floor, and then step out. It adds an element of adventure to the experience of moving between floors in the city hall.
