Hamburg Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Hamburg, Germany)



Photo of Alster Lake (Binnenalster)Hamburg's cityscape is an attraction in itself, with its lakes, rivers and plenty of wide-open spaces. Many tourist attractions await you within the city of Hamburg, and a great way to start your sightseeing is to take one of the numerous guided tours of the city. Especially popular are the tours around the Altstadt (Old Town), the Neustadt (New Town) and the St. Pauli districts, which pass many outstanding tourist attractions along the way. For others, a cruise along one of Hamburg's many canals and lakes is the most relaxing way to sightsee.

The world-famous Reeperbahn is a definite must-see, as is the more respectable Jungfernstieg shopping esplanade, and the old Elbtunnel, which will take you back in time, and under the river and to a beautiful island, all in one trip. Hamburg's main tourist attractions are explained below.


Further picture of Alster Lake

Alster Lake (Binnenalster)

Address: Harvestehude, Hamburg, D-20099, Germany, DE
This huge lake is a fundamental part of Hamburg's cityscape and gives the city its unique ambience. It was developed in the 13th century by blocking a tributary of the Elbe River. Covering an area of around 400 acres / 160 hectares, the Aussenalster (Outer Alster) is nearly completely encircled by lovely green areas and other similar attractions, which are ideal for picnics or summer strolls. The Binnenalster (Inner Alster) covers around 50 acres / 20 hectares and has three main esplanades flanking its shores.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge

Photo of the Alter Elbtunnel (Old Elbe Tunnel)

Alter Elbtunnel (Old Elbe Tunnel)

Address: St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, Hamburg, 20359, Germany, DE
This is a unique attraction, possibly not suitable for claustrophobics. Hamburg's Alter Elbtunnel is the oldest of the tunnels under the Elbe River and was constructed in the first decade of the 20th century. Connecting the district of St. Pauli with Steinwerder Island, its length of more than 400 metres / 1,310 feet accommodating cars, bicycles and pedestrians. The theme of the remarkable dome-shaped entry hall is continued in the tunnel itself, with its colourful, decorative tiles. This is a great way to get to the island of Steinwerder, from where fine views of the harbour can be enjoyed.
Open hours: daily - 05:00 to 21:00
Admission: charge for vehicles

Hamburger Dom

Address: Heiligengeistfeld, Hamburg, D-20359, Germany, DE
Tel: +49 040 3005 1300
This huge amusement fair is held in Hamburg three times a year, in spring, summer and winter, and offers fine entertainment and attractions for the whole family. All the old favourites are represented, from roller coasters and merry-go-rounds to a giant Ferris wheel. Plenty of stalls sell traditional snacks and sweets. Wednesdays are family days, with steep discounts on rides and food if you buy a family ticket. A fireworks show is held on Friday evenings when the Hamburger Dom takes place.
Open hours: Monday to Thursday - 15:00 to 23:00; Friday and Saturday - 15:00 to 24:00; Sunday - 14:00 to 23:00
Admission: charge

Reeperbahn

Address: Reeperbahn, Hamburg, D-20359, Germany, DE
This is where Hamburg lives it up at night, attracting all sorts of punters to its sex stores and adult-only bars. It's not all sleaze however, there are dozens of excellent bars and theatre attractions here, making it a magnet for all types. Open all night, the neon-lit street, which is one of the most famous stretches in the country, has seen many a tourist stumble out of a bar with no money left in his pocket. The unique atmosphere makes it well worth a visit.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: no charge