Banks of the Rhine in Wiesbaden: Car-free weekend generates mixed feedback!

Banks of the Rhine in Wiesbaden: Car-free weekend generates mixed feedback!

A bold step towards environmentally friendly mobility is currently being tried out in Wiesbaden. The second car-free weekend took place on Rheingaustraße from August 8th to 10th, 2025. The entire route between Biebrich Castle and Wilhelm-Kopp-Straße was closed to car traffic except for the last space. The aim of this measure is to test the feasibility of a permanently car-free Rhine bank area. This idea was met with both support and skepticism.

Security forces worked well during the lockdown, but visitor numbers remained below expectations. Many citizens preferred to spend time on the popular Rhine promenade. Residents reported difficulties such as unclear signage and a lack of controls during the first weekend of testing, which motivated organizers to make improvements subsequently. This includes more staff and secured closure points as well as clear signs to better inform drivers and visitors. However, discussions about possible detours and traffic jams in the surrounding streets continued to simmer on social media.

Bus transport and diversions

The closure also had an impact on bus services in the region. Lines 9, 14 and N3 are particularly affected, where extensive diversions and possible delays are to be expected, especially in night traffic. Passengers must move to the western side of the street at the “Paul-Ehrlich-Straße”, “Nansenstraße” and “Elsa-Brändström-Straße” stops in order to board the buses. The “Schloss Biebrich” stop will not be served at all during the traffic test. The transport company has positioned service employees at busy stops to assist passengers and communicate changes to trip planning.

The next test weekends

Further test weekends are scheduled for the coming weeks, taking place from August 15th to 17th and August 22nd to 24th. Those responsible are again planning to close Rheingaustrasse to car traffic from Friday evening at 6 p.m. to Sunday evening at 10 p.m. There are already voices from the population who would like additional activities such as music, street art and market stalls to make the car-free zone more lively.

Viewed in a larger context, a survey shows that 29% of the population in Germany can imagine life in a city without cars. This willingness is particularly pronounced in urban areas and among those under 30. Studies indicate that a reduction in private motorized transport not only has health and environmental benefits, but can also boost local commerce through more pedestrians and cyclists. Successful examples of car-free cities such as Oslo and Copenhagen show that real change is possible when citizens are actively integrated into the dialogue.

The information is easily accessible to anyone who wants to travel by bus and train during the experiment. On the side of Wiesbaden.de There is comprehensive information about the affected stops and diversions, while current timetables are available netzplan-wiesbaden.de be provided. The ESWE traffic service telephone can also be reached if you have any questions.

It remains to be seen whether the coming test phases will lead to greater acceptance of the car-free zone and how the discussion about the modern approach to mobility in the city will develop.