The analysis can be downloaded free of charge from the Publications section at www.wiesbaden.de/statistik (opens in a new tab), specifically at www.wiesbaden.de/leben-wohnen/stadtportraet/daten-fakten/publikationen (opens in a new tab).

The city center is under pressure to adapt due to digitalization, changing consumption and mobility habits, demographic shifts, and the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the ZIZ federal program, measures were implemented by City Management in the “Historisches Fünfeck” district. The Office for Statistics and Urban Research provided scientific support for this effort, conducting selective surveys of business operators and passersby as well as collecting pedestrian traffic data. This urban analysis constitutes the final report on this research effort.

The results show that brick-and-mortar retail remains the main reason for visiting the downtown area. However, online retail and changing consumer behavior are altering the economic conditions for businesses. Overall, businesses view location factors with mixed feelings: Municipal fees and taxes, demand and foot traffic, as well as the availability of labor, are perceived as burdens. Traffic and public transportation connections are rated comparatively positively. Across all sectors, lower rents, greater cleanliness, and an improved sense of safety are cited in particular as key prerequisites for a sustainable long-term business foundation.

The results of the passerby survey also reveal changing usage and purchasing habits. In-store shopping for everyday goods is declining, while online shopping is on the rise. At the same time, the downtown area remains a relevant destination for purchasing durable consumer goods, dining, strolling, and cultural and recreational activities. Convenience and accessibility, value for money, as well as expert advice and quality are highlighted positively. There is a desire for additional offerings in dining, art and culture, sports and recreation, as well as non-consumer-oriented gathering places.

Perceptions of atmosphere and quality of stay are generally viewed with mixed feelings, though they have improved moderately over time. The downtown area is generally perceived as beautiful and safe. At the same time, noise levels and cleanliness remain critical issues. In particular, those under 18 and over 55 report a lower sense of well-being and emphasize the need for age-appropriate, non-consumer-oriented spaces.

An analysis of foot traffic shows a slight decline from 10.1 million visitors in May 2023 to 9.5 million in May 2025, with varying visitor flows within the downtown area. The pedestrian zone remains heavily frequented, while the inner Westend sees similarly high or even higher foot traffic at certain times of the day. This should be given greater consideration for holistic downtown development.

Based on the key findings, the report identifies six areas of action: evidence-based analyses; retail and dining; non-consumer-oriented gathering places; cleanliness and quality of the public environment; traffic and accessibility; and accompanying communication and branding efforts. According to the analysis, an integrated downtown development strategy is needed that brings these areas of action together and is based on sustained, methodologically sound monitoring of downtown development.

Questions regarding the analysis can be directed to the Office for Statistics and Urban Research at (0611) 315691 and amt-fuer-statistik-und-stadtforschungwiesbadende.