Leipzig

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Buses

The city operates an extensive bus network, providing coverage for areas not served by trams or trains.

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Overview of Buses in Leipzig

Leipzig has an efficient and well-integrated public transportation system, operated by the Leipziger Verkehrsbetriebe (LVB). Buses are an essential part of this network, complementing the city’s extensive tram system. Buses primarily serve areas not covered by trams, including suburban neighborhoods and some rural areas. They are reliable, punctual, and well-maintained, making them a convenient option for getting around.

Ticket Types and Costs

Leipzig is part of the Mitteldeutscher Verkehrsverbund (MDV), a regional transportation network that covers Leipzig and surrounding areas. Tickets are valid across all forms of public transportation in the MDV network, including buses, trams, and regional trains.

Ticket Types

  1. Single Ticket (Einzelfahrschein):

    • Valid for one trip in one direction, including transfers, for up to 1 hour.
    • Cost: €3.00 (adults), €1.50 (children aged 6–14).

  2. Short Trip Ticket (Kurzstrecke):

    • Valid for up to 4 stops on buses or trams (no transfers).
    • Cost: €2.00 (adults), €1.20 (children).

  3. Day Ticket (Tageskarte):

    • Unlimited travel within the selected zone(s) for one day.
    • Cost: €7.60 (adults), €3.80 (children).

  4. Weekly and Monthly Tickets:

    • Weekly Ticket: €24.40 (adults, Zone 110 - Leipzig city center).
    • Monthly Ticket: €89.90 (adults, Zone 110).

  5. Group Tickets:

    • Day ticket for up to 5 people traveling together.
    • Cost: €12.40 (Zone 110).

  6. Leipzig Card:

    • A tourist card offering unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.
    • Cost: €13.90 (1-day card), €27.90 (3-day card).

Discounts:

  • Children under 6 travel for free.
  • Students, seniors, and people with disabilities may qualify for reduced fares (check eligibility with LVB).

How to Purchase Tickets

  1. Ticket Machines:

    • Found at major bus stops, tram stops, and train stations.
    • Accept cash (coins and small bills) and debit/credit cards.

  2. Onboard Purchase:

    • Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver. Note that drivers only accept cash, and exact change is preferred.

  3. Mobile Apps:

    • LeipzigMOVE App: The official app by LVB for purchasing tickets, planning routes, and checking schedules.
    • DB Navigator: Useful for regional and long-distance connections, including MDV tickets.

  4. Retail Outlets:

    • Tickets are available at LVB service centers, kiosks, and some convenience stores.

  5. Contactless Payment:

    • Some buses are equipped with contactless payment systems for quick ticket purchases.

Bus Schedules

  • Buses in Leipzig generally run from 4:30 AM to midnight, with reduced service during late-night hours.

  • Night Buses (Nachtbusse):

    • Operate on select routes after midnight, connecting key areas of the city.
    • Night buses are marked with an "N" (e.g., N1, N2).

  • Frequency:

    • Peak hours: Every 10–20 minutes.
    • Off-peak hours: Every 20–30 minutes.
    • Night buses: Every 30–60 minutes.

  • Timetables:

    • Posted at every bus stop.
    • Available on the LeipzigMOVE app and the LVB website.

Major Bus Routes

While trams cover most of the city center, buses are essential for reaching suburban and peripheral areas. Some key routes include:

  • Route 60: Connects Leipzig’s southern and northern districts.
  • Route 70: Serves the Plagwitz and Lindenau neighborhoods.
  • Route 89: A central route connecting Leipzig Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to the city center and surrounding areas.
  • Night Bus Routes (e.g., N1, N2): Provide late-night connections to major residential areas.

Accessibility Features

Leipzig’s buses are designed to be accessible for all passengers:

  1. Low-Floor Buses:

    • Most buses have low floors and ramps for easy boarding, especially for wheelchair users, strollers, and those with limited mobility.

  2. Priority Seating:

    • Clearly marked seats near the front of the bus are reserved for elderly passengers, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

  3. Audio and Visual Announcements:

    • Stops are announced both audibly and visually on screens inside the bus.

  4. Assistance:

    • Drivers are generally helpful and can assist passengers with special needs.

Connections to Other Public Transportation

Leipzig’s buses are fully integrated with the city’s tram and train networks, making it easy to transfer between modes of transport:

  1. Trams:

    • Most bus routes connect to tram stops, especially at major hubs like Leipzig Hauptbahnhof, Augustusplatz, and Connewitz.
    • Trams are the backbone of Leipzig’s public transport system, so buses often serve as feeders to tram lines.

  2. Regional Trains (S-Bahn Mitteldeutschland):

    • Buses connect to S-Bahn stations for travel to nearby cities and towns.
    • Example: Bus routes to Leipzig Hauptbahnhof provide access to S-Bahn lines.

  3. Biking and Walking:

    • Many bus stops have bike racks nearby, encouraging multi-modal transport.

Apps and Websites for Navigation

  1. LeipzigMOVE App:

    • Official app by LVB for route planning, real-time schedules, and ticket purchases.
    • Available in English and German.

  2. Google Maps:

    • Reliable for public transport directions in Leipzig, including buses.

  3. DB Navigator:

    • Useful for planning regional and long-distance trips, as well as purchasing MDV tickets.

  4. LVB Website (www.l.de):

    • Comprehensive information on routes, schedules, and ticketing.

Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  1. Punctuality:

    • Buses in Leipzig are known for their punctuality. Arrive at the stop a few minutes early to avoid missing your bus.

  2. Boarding and Exiting:

    • Enter through the front door and exit through the rear doors. This helps with passenger flow.

  3. Validating Tickets:

    • If you purchase a paper ticket, validate it in the machine on the bus immediately after boarding. Tickets bought via apps are pre-validated.

  4. Quiet Atmosphere:

    • Public transport in Germany is generally quiet. Keep conversations low and avoid playing loud music.

  5. Cyclists:

    • Be mindful of cyclists when waiting at bus stops, as bike lanes often run alongside them.

  6. Late-Night Safety:

    • Night buses are safe and well-patrolled, but it’s always a good idea to stay alert and keep your belongings secure.

By following this guide, you’ll find it easy to navigate Leipzig’s bus system and make the most of your time in the city. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask!