It glides over the city of Wuppertal.
As the summer travel season begins to heat up, many travelers' eyes are on Germany.
The Wuppertal Schwebebahnhas given the city of Wuppertal in northern Rhine an unusual claim to fame.
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It is one of only two suspended public transit railways in the world still in operation.
(For those curious: the only other is in Japan.)
Passengers glide over rooftops and across the Wupper River, like they’re on some fanciful amusement park ride.
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The monorail has become a vital part of the city, carrying about 80,000 passengers every single day.
Cars come about every five minutes, so you’ll never have to wait long to board.
Construction on the Schwebebahn began in 1898 and it began offering its first rides in 1901.
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By 1925, the railway hit a major milestone when it ferried its 20-millionth passenger across the Wupper River.
And the innovations continue.
In 2019, all the carriages were replaced with sleek new “Generation 15” rail cars.
If you’re going to visit, try getting a seat at the rear of one of the cars.
It’s where you’ll have the best vantage point as you glide over the city.
The railway has become a beloved landmark in the area.
“It has always been there for me and I’m proud that it is still running.”
If you’re visiting, consider purchasingunlimited 24-hour accessto the Schwebebahn for 7.30 (about $7.70).
Single rides are available for 3.
Cailey Rizzo is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure, currently based in Brooklyn.
you’re free to find heron Twitter,Instagram, or atcaileyrizzo.com.
