In a way, this map of Leipzig reminds me quite a bit of Viteks Bariševs’ recently featured map of Riga: both feature an extensive tram/streetcar/bus network shown in a highly diagrammatic form. However, this highly detailed map goes one step further in that it also shows frequency of services. The thicker the route line, the more often it arrives, regardless of travel mode. This solution is so devastatingly simple, it’s a wonder it isn’t used more often on maps – frequency is definitely a huge factor in deciding whether or not to use transit.

Have we been there? No.

What we like: Even though the map is very complex and dense, there’s still a good hierarchy in the information: the tram lines are given brighter colours to allow them to stand out from the less colourful purple and grey bus lines. Regional train services are relegated to thin black lines. The circular treatment of the lines around the city centre is simply beautiful and elegant: there’s no doubt as to what the most important part of the map is. Labels are all set horizontally for easy reading.

What we don’t like: While an amazing achievement, the map is perhaps too informationally dense for quick scanning of the network, or for casual users. The placement of the grid at the very top layer of the map becomes visually distracting when it passes over elements like terminus names and tram lines. The grid is hardly the most important part of the map and should be placed behind many of the objects shown, not in front. The organic treatment of lakes and other bodies of water is at odds with the strict diagrammatic layout of everything else on the map.

Our rating: Informationally rich and quite beautiful. Let down a bit by the strange grid overlay and blobby looking lakes. Four stars, but definitely a map that’s meant for deep perusal rather than a quick overview.

Source: Official LVB website