✓ Find the best offers on your Stays on 🏡 booking.com
✓ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips on 🛵 GetYourGuide | on 🛵 Klook
If you have done the things to do in Germany, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Wuppertal.
Nestled within the tranquil forests of North Rhine-Westphalia, Wuppertal is a city of hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.
Whether it’s meandering through the beautiful botanical gardens or gliding atop of the city on the famed Schwebebahn, Wuppertal has something for everyone.
So come and explore this enchanting city, where adventure and tranquility collide in perfect harmony.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Wuppertal:
1. Wuppertal Suspension Railway
The Wuppertal Suspension Railway is a unique mode of transportation that runs on a single suspended rail, also known as the “floating tram.
What to see or do: Ride the suspension railway and take in views of the city from above.
Don’t miss: The Kaiserwagen, a special carriage decorated in a luxurious style that was once reserved for the emperor.
Insider travel tips: – Try to ride during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
2. Von der Heydt Museum
Von der Heydt Museum is an art museum located in the German city of Wuppertal.
What to see or do: The museum houses an extensive collection of art from the 19th and 20th century, with works from artists such as Monet, Degas, and Picasso.
Visitors can admire paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from a variety of art movements such as Impressionism, Expressionism, and Bauhaus.
Don’t miss: One of the museum’s highlights is the Skulpturenpark (sculpture park) which features modern and contemporary sculptures set in a lush outdoor garden.
The museum’s Art Nouveau building is also worth admiring with its intricate details and grand staircase.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers free admission every first Thursday of the month. Visitors can also take advantage of the museum’s audio guide to learn more about the collections.
The museum can be accessed via the Wuppertal Suspension Railway, which is a unique mode of transportation in itself.
3. Botanischer Garten (Botanical Garden)
The Botanischer Garten in Wuppertal is a large botanical garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species from around the world.
What to see or do: There are over 5,000 different types of plants spread across the gardens’ 15 hectares of land.
Visitors can wander through a number of different themed areas, including a Japanese Garden, a Rhododendron Valley, and a Mediterranean Garden.
There are also glasshouses housing a variety of tropical and subtropical plants.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Queen Silvia Garden, which features over 1,000 different types of roses. The arboretum is another highlight, boasting a collection of over 2,000 different tree species from around the world.
Insider travel tips: – Go early in the day to beat the crowds and have more peace and quiet to enjoy the gardens.
4. Skulpturenpark Waldfrieden (Waldfrieden Sculpture Park)
Skulpturenpark Waldfrieden is a sculpture park and museum located in Wuppertal, Germany. Spread over 30 hectares of land, it is home to more than 100 contemporary sculptures from around the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park and admire the sculptures, which range from small, delicate pieces to large, imposing structures.
The park also features a museum, which showcases the works of contemporary artists and hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the Skulpturenpark Waldfrieden is the famous “Forgotten Giants” exhibit by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
The exhibit features six enormous sculptures made from recycled wood, each of which is hidden away in a different corner of the park.
Insider travel tips: – The park is best visited during the summer months, when the weather is mild and the sculptures are surrounded by lush greenery.
5. Zoo Wuppertal
The Zoo Wuppertal is a zoo located in the city of Wuppertal, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can see a wide range of animals including big cats, primates, birds, reptiles and more. The zoo is known for its extensive bird collection and rare species like the Bactrian camel and the white-handed gibbon.
There are also several themed areas like the elephant park, the big cat canyon, and the Ape House.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the elephants in their large outdoor enclosure as well as the bird show that takes place twice a day.
The big cat canyon is also a must-visit area where visitors can observe the behavior of several big cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards.
Insider travel tips: Visit the zoo early in the day to avoid crowds.
6. Engels-Haus (Engels House)
Engels-Haus (Engels House) is a museum in Wuppertal, Germany that was once the residence of Friedrich Engels, a philosopher, economist, and political theorist.
What to see or do: The museum offers visitors a fascinating insight into the life and work of Engels. Exhibits include a permanent collection of photographs and documents, highlighting Engels’ revolutionary ideas and his relationship with Karl Marx.
Visitors can also explore the beautifully preserved interiors of Engels’ former residence, which showcase his personal effects, as well as his library and study.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the beautiful garden at the rear of the house, which was lovingly tended to by Engels himself.
Visitors can walk along the garden paths, admire the blooming flowers, and relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Insider travel tips: If you plan to visit the Engels-Haus, be sure to take a guided tour to get the most out of your experience.
The knowledgeable guides offer fascinating insights into Engels’ life and work, as well as the history of the house itself.
Additionally, the museum is located near other points of interest in Wuppertal, including the famous Wuppertal Suspension Railway, so it’s easy to combine a visit here with other activities in the area.
7. Stadthalle Wuppertal (Wuppertal City Hall)
Stadthalle Wuppertal is a prominent event space located in the heart of Wuppertal’s city center.
What to see or do: The venue hosts a wide range of events, from concerts and theatrical performances to trade fairs and conferences. Check their website for an updated calendar of events to see what’s happening during your visit.
Don’t miss: Take a moment to appreciate the historic architecture of the building, which was completed in 1900.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to events to get the best seating, and be sure to check out the nearby restaurants and bars for a pre- or post-event drink or meal.
Additionally, public transportation to and from the venue is convenient and reliable.
8. Luisenviertel (Luisen Quarter)
Colorful and lively neighborhood in the city of Wuppertal, Germany.
What to see or do: Stroll through the lively Luisen Quarter and explore its charming mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Take a walk along the historic Luisenstrasse with its beautiful 19th-century buildings.
Check out the art galleries and studios of local artists, or catch a performance at the historic Tanztheater Wuppertal.
Don’t miss: The weekly farmers’ market on Fridays and the annual Luisenfest street festival in summer.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to try the local specialties, including the delicious “Wuppertaler Schwebebahn Pilsener” beer. If you’re looking for a unique souvenir, visit the Luisenviertel’s vintage shops and boutiques to find one-of-a-kind pieces.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for walking on the hilly streets and to ride the Wuppertal Suspension Railway, an iconic local mode of transportation.
9. Schwebebahn Express
The Schwebebahn Express is a suspended monorail train that runs through the city of Wuppertal, Germany. The train looks like a space-age contraption and has become a popular tourist attraction.
What to see or do: Riding the Schwebebahn Express is an attraction in itself. The train runs for 13.
3 kilometres and passes through many beautiful areas of Wuppertal. It’s a unique way to see the city and is especially impressive when crossing the Wupper River.
Don’t miss: Be sure to look out for the impressive architecture along the route. The train passes several historic buildings, including the town hall and the opera house.
Another highlight is the suspension bridge over the Wupper River.
Insider travel tips: The Schwebebahn Express can get quite busy, so it’s best to avoid peak hours if possible. There are also some great photo opportunities along the route, so be sure to take your camera.
10. Historische Stadthalle Wuppertal (Historical City Hall)
A historic event venue located in the heart of Wuppertal, Germany.
What to see or do: Visitors can attend a variety of events at the Historical City Hall, including concerts, performances, conferences, weddings, and more. The venue’s stunning architecture, featuring ornate ceilings, chandeliers, and decorative details, is also worth admiring.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch a performance or event at the venue if you have the opportunity. The Historical City Hall is known for its excellent acoustics and atmosphere, making for a memorable experience.
Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance for popular events, as the venue can sell out quickly. Additionally, take some time to explore the surrounding area, which is home to a variety of restaurants and shops.
11. Hardt-Anlagen (Hardt Gardens)
Hardt-Anlagen, also known as Hardt Gardens, is a beautiful park located in the city of Wuppertal, Germany.
What to see or do: The park features a large variety of trees, flowers, and other plants, as well as several well-manicured lawns and walking paths.
Visitors can take a stroll through the park while enjoying the natural beauty, or sit and relax on one of the many benches scattered throughout.
Don’t miss: One of the key highlights of Hardt-Anlagen is the large fountain located near the park’s entrance. The fountain features several unique sculptures and is a popular spot for visitors to take photographs.
Insider travel tips: Those looking for a more vigorous activity can take a jog or run on one of the park’s many trails.
Additionally, there are several cafes and restaurants located in close proximity to Hardt-Anlagen, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or coffee break.
12. Odysseum Wuppertal
Odysseum Wuppertal is a science museum located in the German city of Wuppertal.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of interactive exhibits that explore topics such as outer space, the human body, and technology. There are also special exhibitions on a variety of themes throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Odysseum Wuppertal is the life-size reconstruction of the legendary Greek ship, the Argo. Visitors can climb aboard and experience what it was like to sail the high seas.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is best visited during the week when it’s less busy.
13. Hardtberg-Kletterpark (Hardtberg Climbing Park)
A high ropes course and adventure park located in the forests of Hardtberg, Wuppertal.
What to see or do: The park offers various levels of difficulty for adults and children, with different challenges such as zip-lining, rope bridges, and tree-climbing.
There are also guided tours available for those who want to explore the forest and learn more about local flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: The adrenaline-filled “Flying Fox” zip-line that takes you over a pond and through the trees, offering stunning aerial views of the park.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, as the park can get busy during peak season. Bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are limited on-site facilities.
14. Müngstener Brückenpark (Müngsten Bridge Park)
Müngstener Brückenpark is a public park located in Wuppertal, Germany. It is famous for its spectacular Müngsten Bridge, which is the highest railway bridge in Germany.
What to see or do: The main attraction of the park is the breathtaking Müngsten Bridge, which spans across the valley of the River Wupper. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area.
The park also features several tree-lined trails and hiking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a ride on the historic Wuppertal Suspension Railway, which runs through the park. The suspension railway provides a unique and scenic perspective of the park and surrounding areas.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit during the summer months as the park can get very busy on weekends.
15. Historisches Zentrum (Historical Center)
Historisches Zentrum is the heart of the town of Wuppertal, showcasing the city’s rich history and architecture.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the charming Altstadt (Old Town) with its colorful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Visit the impressive Town Hall, built in the neo-renaissance style.
Explore the historic Engels House, once home to the famous philosopher Friedrich Engels, and now a museum. The Von der Heydt-Museum showcases art collections from Van Gogh, Picasso, and other notable artists.
Don’t miss: The Schwebebahn Wuppertal, an iconic suspended monorail that has been in operation for over 100 years and provides breathtaking views of the city.
The Historic Suspension Railway Station houses a museum that tells the story of this engineering marvel.
Insider travel tips: Take a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the history and architecture of the area.
Don’t miss the restored Art Nouveau facade of the Woolworth Building, which once housed the German headquarters of the iconic American retail chain.
Sample the delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes in the area. Visit the Old Market Square, where you can find a farmers market on most days of the week.
✓ You on Insta? 👍@triplyzer✓ Find the best offers on your Stays on 🏡 booking.com
✓ Deals on Private xfers, SIM Cards, City tours, Day trips on 🛵 GetYourGuide | on 🛵 Klook
