ADAC study on public transport services during night-time hours published

Anyone travelling in large cities at night needs safe and reliable ways to get home. Journeys are often long, especially beyond the city limits, making public transport a good option. But how well does night-time public transport from large cities to surrounding communities actually work?

In December 2024, ADAC e.V., an independent consumer protection organisation in the field of mobility and tourism, commissioned PB Consult as a test partner to examine night-time transport services between selected cities and their surrounding areas. The focus was primarily on services for young people.

Specifically, 20 major cities were selected, from which connections to five municipalities in the surrounding area were analysed, resulting in a total of 100 connections. The aim of the study was to obtain objective data on the actual availability and user-friendliness of public transport at night and thus provide impetus for the further development of sustainable and attractive mobility services. Specifically, the availability of connections at different times of the day was examined. Other criteria for an exemplary connection were the frequency of changes, travel time and any walking distances that might be involved.

With our many years of experience in mobility research and consulting, we were able to make an important contribution to the study and present the results in a transparent and comprehensible manner. The findings from the study can form a valuable basis for local authorities, transport companies and political decision-makers to improve public transport in a targeted manner and meet the needs of citizens, even at night.

The study is available online at the following link.

Image source: @ADAC e.V. 09.2025