I highly recommend using a bicycle when travelling the industrial parts of the harbor. You can get here through the "Alter Elbtunnel" at Landungsbrücken, and I've never done this by foot as it might take way more than an hour to reach this spot. However, it is totally worth it, as you have an incredible view to the city and can see many different areas with and without water and with industrial charm. The city of Hamburg has made it part of its "Hafenerlebnisroute" for cyclists.
On the website (only in German...) and on the "harbour experience route" (the literal translation) you'll find information at the corresponding spots in English as well. There is a 45-km-long tour of the harbour for you if you follow the information tables. But don't worry: you can do just parts of it as well of course. I love the atmosphere and the tranquility plus the industrial charm (did I already mention its "industrial charm"?). It is a great way to explore hidden city gems for me.
Find your way with 190 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
A café, culture spot and still a working laundry—Wäscherei Vollmer in Hamburg Lokstedt is a cozy, vine-covered gem where coffee supports community and creativity.
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Come over for Bibimbap, Kimbap and other very yummy food. As a tea lover, I am especially keen on their Korean sweet potato latte. It tastes like a cake!
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"0519 Store" Hamburg is one of those stylish clothes shops that make a case against shopping for fashion online. It's hard not finding anything here...
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"WEIDE" Hamburg has stylish plants, flowers... no; it has everything. I can spend hours browsing there and will always find something curious or unique...
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"Central Park" in Hamburg is the cafe I go for when all I need is some sand under my feet, a ping pong table and a glass of beer. And friends, of course...
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"Luicella's Ice Cream" in Hamburg was love at first sight. My favorite ice cream in town, located in colorful St Pauli, is just so creative, and perfect...
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"Willi Villa" in Inselpark Wilhelmsburg in Hamburg is a cafe in the park by the water. Get some tea, a cake or ice cream or rent a canoe -- my favorite!
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"Delzepich Ice Cream" is a Hamburg shop that makes handmade, delicious, locally-sourced gelato! They have a different menu every single day, but I...
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Winterhuder Kai in Hamburg is a beautiful canal in the center of the city. What makes it special is that it can be used as a public swimming pool!
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Gängeviertel is where I go to experience the alternative side of Hamburg. It's a hidden little treasure in the middle of the cold office blocks in the center.
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Oberhafenkantine is a true Hamburg original. It's the only harbor canteen still working. But it's not just the unique feel — I also really love its food!
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190 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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