How to get to Leverkusen

Planning a trip to Leverkusen reveals a dynamic city in western Germany, known for its harmonious blend of industrial architecture and cosy green spaces. The question of how to get to Leverkusen is easily solved thanks to excellent transport accessibility: you can comfortably arrive by train, bus, or car, as well as utilise flights to neighbouring major airports. The developed infrastructure of the North Rhine-Westphalia region makes the journey to this city convenient and pleasant for any traveller.

There is no airport within Leverkusen itself; however, the city is located in the centre of a dense transport network, making it very simple to arrive by air. Travellers typically fly into one of two major international aviation hubs located in the immediate vicinity.

The nearest option is Cologne/Bonn Airport (CGN), located approximately 20 kilometres from the city. It receives numerous flights from European countries and is ideal for those wishing to minimise transfer time. The journey from the airport to the centre of Leverkusen by regional train or car takes very little time.

Another excellent choice is Düsseldorf Airport (DUS), located to the north of Leverkusen. This is one of Germany's largest airports, serving a vast number of international destinations, including intercontinental flights. Thanks to excellent rail connections, the journey from the terminal to Leverkusen station via a direct suburban train (S-Bahn) or regional express is also very convenient and fast.

Rail travel to Leverkusen is a choice for comfort and the renowned punctuality characteristic of transport in Germany. The main gateway for those arriving by train is Leverkusen-Mitte station, situated in close proximity to the pedestrian zone and main attractions. Regional expresses and S-Bahn suburban lines arrive here regularly, ensuring seamless connections with the country's key hubs.

Thanks to the dense network of tracks, the journey takes very little time: for example, from the neighbouring metropolis, the city of Cologne, you can arrive in just 15–20 minutes. Routes also conveniently connect the city with nearby towns such as Langenfeld and Dormagen, allowing tourists to easily plan comprehensive trips around the North Rhine-Westphalia region.

Bus services in the North Rhine-Westphalia region are organised with traditional punctuality and serve as an excellent supplement to the suburban train (S-Bahn) network. A trip to Leverkusen by bus is a convenient option if you plan to travel from the nearest suburbs or wish to enjoy leisurely views of city streets rather than high-speed railway tracks.

Regular routes link the city with neighbouring settlements such as Cologne, Langenfeld, and Dormagen. Although tourists more often choose trains for express travel between city centres, buses are indispensable for local trips and allow you to observe the daily life of Germany from the window of a comfortable cabin. The route network is designed so that travellers can easily reach even those districts where railway stations are absent.

Travelling to Leverkusen by car is a comfortable option that allows you to appreciate the quality of the famous German Autobahns and enjoy independence from public transport schedules. The city boasts excellent transport accessibility as it sits at the intersection of important motorways. Because Leverkusen directly borders Cologne, the journey from the centre of this metropolis takes very little time, turning the trip into a short and pleasant drive.

Equally fast and convenient is the route from other neighbouring cities, such as Langenfeld or Dormagen. The proximity of these towns allows you to reach your destination in literally a matter of minutes. If you prefer not to drive, you can always use taxi services: a trip from nearby areas ensures maximum comfort and saves you the need to search for parking in the city centre.

To ensure your trip to Leverkusen is as comfortable as possible, it is worth learning about some nuances of local life in advance. We have gathered practical recommendations to help you easily navigate the city and enjoy your holiday in Germany without any hassle.

1. Clothing and Weather: The climate in the region is mild but changeable. Even in summer, it is worth bringing a light windbreaker and an umbrella, as rain is not uncommon here. For walks in the parks and the city centre, choose comfortable flat shoes, as there will be plenty of walking.
2. Transport: The city operates a unified public transport system integrated into the regional VRS network. To save money, it is recommended to purchase day passes (TagesTicket), which are valid on buses and suburban trains. The city is also very convenient for cyclists—renting a bike is a great way to explore the surroundings.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Euro. Although Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most supermarkets and restaurants, the culture of cash payments is still strong in the country. Be sure to carry small notes and coins for payments in bakeries, kiosks, small cafes, or ticket machines.
4. Health and Safety: Leverkusen is a safe city, but standard precautions are always advisable. Pharmacies are easily recognised by a large red letter "A" (Apotheke). If you require medication on a weekend or at night, look for the address of the duty pharmacy (Notdienst) posted on the door of any pharmacy.
5. Communication: Locals speak German, but the level of English proficiency, especially among young people and service staff, is very high. However, knowing basic polite words such as "Hallo" (hello) and "Danke" (thank you) is always received with gratitude and creates a friendly atmosphere.
6. Local Etiquette: Germans value punctuality and order. It is best to arrive on time for meetings or tours. Remember that Sunday (Sonntag) is a day of quiet and rest: most shops are closed, and making noise on the street or in residential areas is considered bad manners.
7. What to Avoid: Be attentive on pavements and do not walk on designated bicycle lanes (usually red in colour or separated by markings). Cyclists ride quickly, and blocking their path can lead to conflict or injury. It is also not customary to cross the road on a red light, even if there are no cars.
8. Extra Tip: Be sure to visit the Japanese Garden (Japanischer Garten)—it is one of the city's gems. Entry is free, and it is the ideal place to take a break from the city bustle in an atmosphere of Eastern harmony, which is particularly beautiful during the spring blossom season or golden autumn.

Following these simple rules will allow you to feel confident and focus on your experiences. May your journey be smooth, safe, and full of pleasant discoveries.