Hanau rolls out free city centre buses to cut congestion and boost footfall
Hanau is launching a free bus service in the city centre starting February 14. The move aims to boost access to shops and events while easing traffic congestion. Passengers will no longer pay fares when travelling within a designated zone on selected routes.
The fare-free zone covers seven key stops, including Marktplatz/Stadthof, Freiheitsplatz, and Heumarkt. Around 30,000 passengers board or alight at these stops daily. The offer applies to HSB lines 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 10, and 12 operating within the city centre.
The initiative also includes eight parking garages on the outskirts. Drivers can park there and use the free buses to reach downtown. However, standard fares still apply when entering or exiting the free zone from outside it.
The launch date coincides with Valentine's Day, a busy Carnival weekend, and the opening of the Banksy exhibition at Stadthof Hanau. Local businesses and the hospitality sector had pushed for the scheme to attract more visitors. Season ticket holders, though, will not receive refunds, and no discounts will be offered.
The free service will run at all times during HSB's operating hours. It covers the entire city centre without restrictions. Passengers travelling beyond the zone or arriving from outside will still need to pay the usual fare.
