With its distinct Scandinavian vibe, numerous canals, and bustling port, Hamburg is a city like no other in Germany. It is a city of many faces with the neon-lit Reeperbahn at night, verdant parks, and where elegant historic structures stand juxtaposed with towering steel-and-glass buildings. Due to its flat terrain, it is a fairly walkable city and a Hamburg walking tour is one of the best ways to see its many sights, important landmarks and soak in the charming atmosphere. This post includes a map for a self-guided free walking tour of Hamburg. Enjoy your walk! 🙂
Please note that this article contains affiliate links. Learn more about it on our Disclosure page. We use ads to support our small business – we hope you don’t mind them too much.
Table of Contents
Why Choose This Free Self-Guided Hamburg Walking Tour?
A self-guided Hamburg walking tour is an excellent option because it allows you to explore the city at your own pace, tailoring the experience to your interests. You can discover hidden gems, historic landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods without the constraints of a group tour.
Additionally, it’s cost-effective, giving you the freedom to linger at sites that captivate you while skipping those that don’t. With our free map, you can easily follow the route without hiring an expensive guide for the day.
The tour will take you past the city’s major attractions, landmark public buildings, places of worship, cultural venues, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll also learn a few lesser-known facts about Hamburg along the way.
The tour will take you through the center of Hamburg, principally focusing on the attraction studded areas of the Old Town and the UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt warehouse district.
Hamburg Walking Tour Itinerary
The free Hamburg walking tour covers a total distance of approximately 9.85 kilometers (6.1 miles). The tour starts at the Hamburg Central Station and terminates at the Old Elbtunnel. Feel free to take a break if you feel jaded along the way.
I have included some cafes and restaurants on the map where you can take a breather and grab a bite. On this Hamburg walking tour, you will see:
- Hamburg Central Station
- Kunsthalle Hamburg
- Binnenalster
- Alster Arcades
- Jungfernstieg
- Bleichenfleet
- Hamburg Stock Exchange
- Hamburg Town Hall
- Former Reichsbank Building
- Mönckebergstraße
- St. Peter’s Church
- St. James’ Church
- Kontorhausviertel & Chilehaus
- Poggenmühlen Bridge & Speicherstadt
- HafenCity & the International Maritime Museum
- St. Catherine’s Church
- St. Nikolai Memorial
- Nikolaifleet
- Deichstraße
- Elbphilharmonie
- St. Michael’s Church
- Cap San Diego
- Rickmer Rickmers
- St. Pauli Landing Bridges
- Old Elbtunnel
1. Hamburg Central Station
Kick off your Hamburg walking tour at Hamburg Central Station (Hamburg Hauptbahnhof). Conveniently located on the eastern edge of the Old Town, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring Hamburg.
It may not be Hamburg’s most beautiful train station—I reckon that honor likely goes to Hamburg Dammtor—but the building, which blends Art Nouveau and Neo-Renaissance architectural styles, is still quite impressive.
The station’s most striking feature is its expansive iron-and-glass roof, spanning 73 meters and allowing natural light to flood the concourse. The façade is adorned with decorative stonework, including intricate reliefs and sculptural elements reflecting early 20th-century design trends.
As northern Germany’s most important railway hub, Hamburg Central Station serves around 500,000 passengers and visitors daily, making it one of the busiest stations in Germany.
Inside, you’ll find plenty of cafés, specialty stores, and a wide range of food options, ensuring a vibrant start to your Hamburg adventure.
Directions
Your next stop is the Kunsthalle Hamburg (2). Head north-west on Glockengießerwall. You’ll be walking a distance of 350 m.
2. Kunsthalle Hamburg
The Hamburg Kunsthalle (Art Gallery) is one of the most fascinating art galleries in northern Germany.
Established in 1869, the museum is housed in a striking building designed in the Renaissance Revival style by architects Georg Theodor Schirrmacher and Hermann von der Hude. The red-brick façade, adorned with ornate terracotta reliefs, reflects the cultural richness found within.
The Kunsthalle’s collection offers a chronological review of European art movements, with a strong emphasis on 19th-century German Romanticism, featuring works by Caspar David Friedrich and Philipp Otto Runge.
The Old Masters section includes masterpieces by artists such as Lucas Cranach the Younger, Goya, Rembrandt, and Rubens.
In 1996, a four-story, cubelike extension known as the Galerie der Gegenwart (Contemporary Gallery) was added. This modern art collection is extensive, with notable works by 20th-century greats like Francis Bacon, Edvard Munch, Picasso, Warhol, and Yves Klein on display.
Directions
Your next stop is the Binnenalster (3). Head north-west on Glockengießerwall and turn left onto Ballindamm. You’ll be walking a distance of 150 m.
3. Binnenalster
The next attraction on this free self-guided Hamburg walking tour is the Binnenalster (Inner Alster), the smaller of the two artificial Alster lakes. It is separated from the larger Außenalster (Outer Alster) by the Kennedybrücke and Lombardsbrücke bridges.
This picturesque body of water has been a central feature of the city since the 13th century when a dam was constructed to power mills. Binnenalster enhances much of Hamburg’s inner-city charm, with elegant buildings lining three sides, creating a picturesque backdrop to the water.
At the center of the lake, the Alster Fountain shoots water nearly 40 meters (130 feet) into the air, operating from 9 AM to midnight between March and November.
The lake, about 2 meters deep, is popular for various watersports and is a favorite spot for joggers and locals meeting for coffee at one of the kiosks and bars along the tree-lined banks. Plenty of benches are available to sit and take in the scenic views.
Fun Fact
Hamburg was founded by Charlemagne as Hammaburg in AD 808, shortly after defeating the Saxons and forcing their conversion to Christianity. The etymology of Hamburg is somewhat uncertain. The first element, ham, derives from the Old High German word hamma, meaning “back of the knee” or “bend,” possibly referencing the city’s position on a river bend promontory. Alternatively, it may come from the Middle High German hamme, meaning “enclosed area of pastureland.” The second element, burg, is German for “fort,” referring to the moated castle built there in 825.
Directions
Your next stop is the Alster Arcades (4). Head south-west on Ballindamm and turn right onto Jungfernstieg. You’ll be walking a distance of 550 m.
4. Alster Arcades
The iconic Alster Arcades (Alsterarkaden) are a must-visit attraction in Hamburg, known for their elegant architecture and upscale shopping.
Constructed in the aftermath of the Great Fire of 1842, which devastated much of the city center, the Alster Arcades were part of Hamburg’s grand reconstruction efforts. The elegant colonnade, designed in a Venetian style by architect Alexis de Chateauneuf, reflects the 19th-century fascination with Mediterranean architecture.
The arcades feature a series of graceful arches, white stone façades, and wrought-iron lamps that create a distinctly European ambiance. The boutiques and fashion stores within the arcades offer high-end shopping, while the wine bars and bistros add a touch of Mediterranean flair, particularly in the summer months.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the arcades, with picturesque views of the water, and soak in the sophisticated atmosphere that has made the Alster Arcades one of Hamburg’s most exclusive and beloved spots.
Opposite the Alster Arcades stands a poignant monument that pays tribute to the men and boys of Hamburg who perished in the First World War. The inscription reads, “Forty thousand sons of the city who sacrificed their lives for you.” The Nazis, however, were displeased with this memorial and erected a more belligerent monument near Dammtor station.
Fun Fact
Hamburg is one of the wealthiest cities in Germany and home to the most millionaires in the country.
Directions
Your next stop is Jungfernstieg (5). Backtrack on Alsterarkaden and turn left onto Jungfernstieg. You’ll be walking a distance of 25 m.
5. Jungfernstieg
Jungfernstieg is one of Hamburg’s most famous and historic boulevards and easily ranks among Europe’s most attractive promenades. Established in 1838, it was the first street in Germany to be asphalted and has long been a hub for shopping, leisure, and social gatherings.
Its prime location along the Binnenalster made it a popular spot for Hamburg’s elite. The name “Jungfernstieg” translates to “Maiden’s Walk,” as it was traditionally where wealthy families would promenade their unmarried daughters (Jungfern).
Lined with elegant buildings, Jungfernstieg is home to luxury boutiques, high-end department stores, and chic cafés, making it a premier shopping destination. For those on a budget, more affordable stores are found within the stately Neoclassical buildings.
Architecturally, Jungfernstieg blends modern and classical styles, with sleek glass storefronts and grand façades overlooking the serene Alster waters. The Alex im Alsterpavillon, Hamburg’s best-known café, is also situated on Jungfernstieg, offering stunning views of the Binnenalster.
Directions
Your next stop is Bleichenfleet (6) which is best observed from Bleichenbrücke. Head north-west on Jungfernstieg, turn left left onto Große Bleichen, and turn left onto Bleichenbrücke. You’ll be walking a distance of 475 m.
6. Bleichenfleet
One of the things you’ll notice when taking a walking tour of Hamburg is that the city is surrounded and filled with water.
As a result, a network of 22 canals weaves through the inner city, offering stunning views of the surrounding architecture.
While Hamburg may not fully live up to its nickname, the “Venice of the North,” there are still several picturesque canals worth exploring. One such canal is Bleichenfleet, a straight waterway lined with office buildings, reflecting beautiful mirror images of the city’s architecture.
Fun Fact
The word “fleet” comes from the medieval German word fleten, which was used to describe the flow of water. Unlike canals, the fleets were originally dependent on the tide, and their water levels fluctuated accordingly. Many of the fleets disappeared in the 19th century, but in the remaining ones, locks now regulate the water level.
Directions
Your next stop is the Hamburg Stock Exchange (7). Head south-east on Bleichenbrücke, continue onto Adolphsbrücke, and continue onto Adolphsplatz. You’ll be walking a distance of 275 m.
7. Hamburg Stock Exchange
The Hamburg Stock Exchange Building (Hamburger Börse) is one of Germany’s oldest stock exchanges, established in 1558.
Located in the heart of the city, it has long been a hub of commerce, reflecting Hamburg’s historical prominence as a major trading center. The current building, completed in 1841, blends Renaissance and Neoclassical styles, designed by architect Carl Ludwig Wimmel.
The building’s façade features grand arched windows, intricate stonework, and towering columns that exude historical grandeur. Inside, the spacious trading halls, with their high ceilings and elegant decor, have been modernized while retaining their classic charm.
The Stock Exchange is operated by the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, which also has its headquarters here. Floor trading of stocks and securities ended in 2003, leaving the Grain Exchange as the only active commodity exchange.
Today, the building also houses business offices and regularly hosts conferences.
Directions
Your next stop is the Hamburg Town Hall (8). Head south-east on Adolphsplatz, turn left on Große Johannisstraße, and turn left. You’ll be walking a distance of 350 m.
8. Hamburg Town Hall
The Hamburg Town Hall (Rathaus) is undoubtedly one of the top 10 sights in Hamburg, standing in stark contrast to the city’s otherwise understated nature. This grand Neo-Renaissance building, constructed between 1886 and 1897, spared no expense in its design.
The massive structure, built atop 4,000 wooden stakes, measures 111 meters by 70 meters, with an impressive 112-meter-high tower. The Town Hall boasts 647 rooms—Hamburgers take pride in noting that this is six more than Buckingham Palace. Its richly adorned façade features bronze statues of 20 former German emperors.
The entrance portal is equally striking, decorated with sculptures, paintings, and Hamburg’s coat of arms. The building serves as the seat of the Hamburg City Council and Senate, and its fascinating interior can only be explored on guided tours.
The beautiful fountain in the interior courtyard commemorates the 1892 cholera epidemic, with Hygieia, the Greek goddess of health, presiding over the waters.
Adjacent Rathausmarkt Square hosts concerts, festivals, and protests, making it the heart of Hamburg.
Directions
Your next stop is the Former Reichsbank Building (9). Head north-west. You’ll be walking a distance of 60 m.
9. Former Reichsbank Building
The former Reichsbank building in Hamburg is a striking example of early 20th-century German architecture. Built between 1913 and 1917, the building originally served as the regional branch of the Reichsbank, the central bank of the German Empire.
Designed by architect Friedrich Thiersch, the structure reflects a blend of Neo-Renaissance and early modernist styles, showcasing Hamburg’s financial prominence at the time. The embellished façade features large arched windows, intricate stonework, and decorative sculptures depicting several workers in various professions and trades.
Look closely at the three figures on the building’s façade, each representing key stages of Hamburg’s history. The first figure is likely an artisan or farmer, symbolizing the region’s early origins.
The second represents a Hanseatic merchant-shipowner from the Middle Ages, highlighting the city’s maritime legacy. The third, a top-hatted merchant-banker from the early 1900s, embodies the epitome of modern civilization at the time, surrounded by symbols of wealth and power, with a sneering expression of superiority.
After World War II, the building served various governmental and commercial purposes. Today, it remains a prominent historical landmark in Hamburg.
Fun Fact
Hamburg’s cityscape is primarily dominated by buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries, with only a few older structures still standing. This is largely due to the massive destruction caused by the Great Fire of 1842 and the extensive bombing during World War II. Additionally, Hamburg residents have historically preferred tearing down old buildings and replacing them with new ones.
Directions
Your next stop is Mönckebergstraße (10). Head south-east on Rathausmarkt and turn left onto Mönckebergstraße. You’ll be walking a distance of 180 m.
10. Mönckebergstraße
Hamburg is a shopper’s paradise and is regarded as Germany’s shopping capital. The variety of goods on offer ranges from the elegant and chic to the unique, with items including fashion, jewelry, furniture, antiques, interior design, and arts and crafts.
Mönckebergstraße, often called “Mö” by locals, is Hamburg’s premier shopping street, bustling with local and out-of-town shoppers on Saturdays and public holidays.
Established in the early 20th century and named after Mayor Johann Georg Mönckeberg, the boulevard connects Hamburg’s Central Station to the historic Town Hall. The street’s architecture is a blend of Neo-Renaissance and modern styles, with stately red-brick buildings housing department stores, boutiques, and cafés.
Whether you’re shopping or strolling, this lively street is a must-visit during any trip to Hamburg.
Directions
Your next stop is St. Peter’s Church (11). Head east on Mönckebergstraße. You’ll be walking a distance of 100 m.
11. St. Peter’s Church
The skyline of Hamburg’s center is dominated by the towers and spires of its five main churches, the oldest being St. Peter’s Church (St. Petri Kirche), believed to have been built in the 11th century.
The church was expanded into a Gothic hall in the 14th century and completed with the addition of a second nave in the 15th century.
After falling victim to the Great Fire of 1842, the church was rebuilt in a Neo-Gothic style, modeled on the original structure.
Remarkably, the church suffered only minor damage during World War II and still houses many old artworks rescued from the fire. Notably, the lion doorknob on the left door of the main portal dates back to the 14th century and is considered Hamburg’s oldest artwork.
The church spire stands 132 meters high, and visitors can climb 544 steps to the viewing platform at 123 meters. The view of the inner city from here is breathtaking, making the climb well worth it.
Directions
Your next stop is St. James’ Church (12). Head east on Mönckebergstraße and turn right onto Barkhof. You’ll be walking a distance of 450 m.
12. St. James’ Church
St. James’ Church (or Hauptkirche St. Jacobi) is the second of five principal parish churches that you’ll be seeing on this free self-guided walking tour of Hamburg. It is one of the city’s most historically significant churches, with its origins dating back to the 14th century.
St. James’ was originally built as a Gothic hall church to serve the medieval merchant class. Its red-brick Gothic architecture, typical of northern Germany, is characterized by pointed arches, tall windows, and a soaring 125-meter spire that makes it a prominent feature of Hamburg’s skyline.
St. James’ Church has undergone various restorations, particularly after sustaining severe damage during World War II. Today, it remains a striking example of Gothic architecture blended with post-war reconstruction efforts.
Inside, the church is home to an impressive collection of religious art, including a 500-year-old altarpiece by Master Bertram. The church also boasts one of the largest and most historic organs in Germany, the Arp Schnitger organ, which dates back to the 17th century.
St. James’ Church is a must-visit for those interested in Gothic architecture, history, and sacred art in Hamburg.
Directions
Your next stop is the Kontorhausviertel & Chilehaus (13). Head south on Mohlenhofstraße and turn left onto Burchardstraße. You’ll be walking a distance of 210 m.
13. Kontorhausviertel & Chilehaus
Kontorhausviertel in Hamburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prime example of early 20th-century office architecture.
Developed during the 1920s and 1930s, this district showcases the unique Kontorhaus style, a blend of brick expressionism and modernist architecture, reflecting Hamburg’s growth as a global trade hub.
Famous for its red-brick façades and decorative details, Kontorhausviertel is home to several iconic buildings besides the Chilehaus.
The Sprinkenhof, with its distinctive stepped structure and elaborately decorated façade, is a highlight of the area. The Meßberghof, another standout, features a smooth brick façade with simple cut windows.
My favorite is the Montanhof building due to its characteristic jagged façade that sort of resembles an accordion.
The most striking of these edifices is the ten-story Chilehaus, which is arguably the most famous office building in Hamburg.
Constructed between 1922 and 1924, it was designed by architect Fritz Höger and financed by shipping magnate Henry B. Sloman, who made his fortune trading saltpeter in Chile, hence the building’s name.
This ten-story building features curved façades and is made from over 4.8 million dark clinker bricks.
The Chilehaus is famous for its ship-like form, with its pointed eastern corner resembling a ship’s prow. Due to its thin, unconventional form, it has been nicknamed “Ozeanriese” (ocean giant).
The verticality of the windows, combined with its sweeping lines and sharp angles, gives the structure a dynamic, almost futuristic appearance.
The sharp angles and meticulous brickwork of the Chilehaus make it one of Hamburg’s most recognizable and photographed landmarks, attracting both architecture enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Directions
Your next stop is Poggenmühlen Bridge & Speicherstadt (14). Head west on Pumpen, turn left and take the pedestrian tunnel. Then, turn right onto Wandrahmsteg, and continue onto Poggenmühle. You’ll be walking a distance of 350 m.
14. Poggenmühlen Bridge & Speicherstadt
There are many Instagrammable locations in Hamburg, but my favorite is the view from Poggenmühlenbrücke (Poggenmühlen Bridge). I believe the main reason this spot is so popular is the presence of the Wasserschloss in the background.
This moated red-brick castle sits on a peninsula at the confluence of the Wandrahmsfleet and Holländischbrookfleet, surrounded by imposing warehouses.
Despite its name, no royalty ever resided in the building; it was originally used by dockworkers. Today, the Wasserschloss houses a tea shop and restaurant, offering visitors a charming place to relax.
Fun Fact
Hamburg has approximately 2500 bridges, which is more than the number of bridges in Amsterdam, London and Venice combined.
The surrounding Speicherstadt is one of the top must-see attractions in Hamburg. Established at the end of the 19th century, it grew to become the largest warehouse district in the world.
Comprised of 15 warehouses and several individual buildings, most of the structures are designed in the iconic Neo-Gothic architectural style. The buildings are supported by oak piles and feature distinctive red-brick facades with entrances accessible by both land and water. These warehouses, typically five to eight stories tall, are equipped with winches for easy loading.
Once used to store valuable commodities like cocoa, cotton, rubber, silk, tea, and spices, the warehouses now mostly house electronic goods and oriental carpets.
Since the 1980s, Speicherstadt has transformed into a vibrant area with elegant office spaces, showrooms, restaurants, and apartments. In the evening, light projections on buildings, bridges, and canals create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
Now a major tourist attraction, Speicherstadt, along with the Kontorhaus District, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
Directions
Your next stop is HafenCity & the International Maritime Museum (15). Walk south-east on Poggenmühlen Bridge, turn right onto Brooktorkai, turn left onto Shanghaiallee, and turn right onto Koreastraße. You’ll be walking a distance of 550 m.
15. HafenCity & the International Maritime Museum
HafenCity is Hamburg’s new waterfront quarter, encompassing the historic Speicherstadt, and was officially established in 2008.
Spanning over 220 hectares, it is the largest urban construction project in Europe in the 21st century, built on what was once an industrial wasteland. This “city within a city” is expected to double the population of downtown Hamburg with thousands of new waterfront condominiums, gleaming high-rises, offices, art galleries, shops, restaurants, and cafés.
Many of Hamburg’s top attractions are now located in HafenCity, showcasing some of Europe’s most visionary architecture. Although the ambitious project is set for completion by 2030, visitors can already experience its futuristic appeal.
I would love to return to Hamburg once the entire development is completed so that I can witness its full transformation.
The International Maritime Museum in Hamburg is a must-visit destination for maritime enthusiasts, housed in the historic Kaispeicher B, the oldest warehouse in the HafenCity district. Built in 1879, this stunning red-brick structure embodies Hamburg’s maritime heritage with its striking Neo-Gothic architecture.
The International Maritime Museum is the largest nautical museum in the world. It is a fascinating place to discover more about Hamburg’s rich maritime history and all things sea-related.
The museum opened in 2008 and showcases over 3,000 years of seafaring history across its ten floors. Inside, visitors will find an impressive collection of ship models, historical maritime artifacts, navigational instruments, and rare documents.
One of the key highlights is a model of the Queen Mary 2 built from one million Lego bricks. The museum also features a vast array of uniforms, weapons, and maritime art.
Remarkably, virtually the museum’s entire collection was amassed by one man, Peter Tamm, the former chairman of Europe’s largest digital publishing house Axel Springer SE.
Fun Fact
Hamburg is Germany’s most important media city. It is home to more than 13,000 companies in the industry. Popular German language publications like DIE ZEIT and DER SPIEGEL have their headquarters in Hamburg. Many successful films have used Hamburg as a backdrop such as Tomorrow Never Dies, Hanna, and The Odessa File.
Directions
Your next stop is St. Catherine’s Church (16). Head west on Busanbrücke, turn right onto Osakaallee and Bei St. Annen, and continue onto Bei St. Annen. Then, turn left onto Zippelhaus and continue onto Katharinenkirchhof. You’ll be walking a distance of 600 m.
16. St. Catherine’s Church
St. Catherine’s Church (St. Katharinen) is the third of the five main churches that you’ll encounter on this Hamburg walking tour. It has been around since the 13th century and is often referred to as the “Mariner’s Church” due to its historical association with sailors and seafarers navigating the Elbe River.
The church is a striking example of North German Brick Gothic architecture, with its distinctive red-brick façade and towering 115-meter spire, which was added in the 17th century.
Throughout its history, St. Catherine’s has undergone numerous restorations, particularly after suffering severe damage during World War II. The church was rebuilt in the post-war years, and today, it retains many of its historical features, including the original medieval bell tower.
Like most Lutheran churches, it is quite simple from the inside with amazing stained glass windows and a beautiful wooden carving of St Catherine.
Directions
Your next stop is the St. Nikolai Memorial (17). Head north on Neue Gröningerstraße and turn left onto Willy-Brandt-Straße. You’ll be walking a distance of 550 m.
17. St. Nikolai Memorial
The erstwhile St. Nikolai Church (St. Nicholas’ Church) was erected in the 12th century and was one of Hamburg’s five principal churches. After the Great Fire of 1842, the church was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style, eventually reaching a height of 147 meters.
During World War II, particularly in the air raids of Operation Gomorrah, much of St. Nikolai was heavily damaged, except for its spire. Rather than rebuild, it was decided to preserve the ruins as a memorial to the tragic consequences of war and as a solemn plea for world peace.
A glass elevator whisks visitors up to a viewing platform 76 meters high from where you are accorded wonderful views of Hamburg, as well as historical photographs of the cityscape, permitting an intriguing contrast of the skyline before and after 1943.
History 101: Operation Gomorrah
Hamburg was a key target for Allied bombers during World War II due to its large port, munitions factories, and transportation links. The British employed the same techniques on Hamburg that the Luftwaffe used during their bombing of Coventry (Coventry Blitz) in 1940. The air raids began on July 24 but were most severe on the night of July 27, 1943, when RAF Bomber Command hit targets with explosive bombs to break open roofs and cut off streets and water supplies, making it difficult for firefighters to respond. This was followed by incendiary bombs that ignited fires across the city. Temperatures reached nearly 1,000°C, setting streets ablaze, uprooting trees, and hurling cars into superheated air. In just three hours, the inferno killed approximately 35,000 people and reduced 21 square kilometers of Hamburg to rubble. By the end of the eight-day bombing campaign, which included US air raids, around 42,000 people had died, and countless more were left homeless. While the firebombing of Dresden is more widely known, more people died in Hamburg. The attack, codenamed “Operation Gomorrah,” referenced the biblical city of Gomorrah, which was destroyed by fire and brimstone as divine judgment.
Directions
Your next stop is Nikolaifleet (18) which is best observed from the Holzbrücke. Head west on Willy-Brandt-Straße and turn left onto Holzbrücke. You’ll be walking a distance of 170 m.
18. Nikolaifleet
You’ve now arrived at one of the most photogenic locations on our Hamburg walking tour. Nikolaifleet is the prettiest of Hamburg’s canals and was once the main river mouth where the waters of the Alster flowed into the Elbe River.
Get your cameras ready, as the gentle curve of Nikolaifleet and the view of the backside of the buildings on Deichstraße offer an unforgettable scene.
Built along the banks of Nikolaifleet, these buildings once served as homes and storehouses for merchants, who relied on the canal for trade and transportation. The structures are typically narrow, with large windows and wooden shutters, lending an old-world charm to the area.
Directions
Your next stop is Deichstraße (19). Backtrack on Holzbrücke and turn left onto Deichstraße. You’ll be walking a distance of 100 m.
19. Deichstraße
One of my favorite things to do in Hamburg is to take a stroll down Deichstraße. This former 14th-century merchant street is a throwback to ‘Old Hamburg’ and provides a glimpse into the city’s Hanseatic past.
The buildings along Deichstraße are characterized by their distinctive half-timbered and red-brick facades, which reflect traditional North German architectural styles. Many of these houses were once used as merchants’ homes and warehouses, with their rear sides opening directly onto the Nikolaifleet canal for easy access to the harbor.
It was here, at No. 42, on the night of May 5, 1842, that the Great Fire of Hamburg began. The fire grew into a massive conflagration that lasted several days, leaving approximately 20,000 people homeless.
Most of the 17th-19th century merchants’ houses on Deichstraße have been restored to their original state, largely thanks to nonprofit foundations. Plaques on the buildings provide insights into their storied history.
The house at No. 37 survived relatively unscathed and is the last merchant house in Hamburg that remains in its original state. Today, restaurants, cafés, and shops now occupy these historic buildings.
Fun Fact
The Hanseatic League was an alliance of trading guilds that established a trade monopoly along the coast of Northern Europe during the Middle Ages. By joining the Hanseatic League, Hamburg’s fortunes flourished, making it the leading German trading and warehousing city between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea.
Directions
Your next stop is the Elbphilharmonie (20). Head south on Deichstraße, cross the Anlegerkjen footbridge, and take the stairs down onto Kehrwiedersteg. Continue south, turn right onto Am Sandtorkai, and turn left onto Am Kaiserkai. You’ll be walking a distance of 750 m.
20. Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie, or “Elphi,” is the newest star attraction in Hamburg’s cityscape. This phenomenal structure serves as the centerpiece of HafenCity and is an architectural marvel.
Perched atop a former cocoa warehouse, its shimmering glass façade resembles an undulating wave, reflecting the city’s maritime heritage.
The interior boasts a spectacular concert hall, a hotel, a public plaza, restaurants, 45 luxury apartments, and a large viewing platform offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city and harbor.
The Elbphilharmonie is open to the public 365 days a year. Visitors can access the main foyer (Plaza) and walk around the building for scenic views of Hamburg.
The opening hours of Elbphilharmonie are from 10:00-24:00 (last entry 23:30). The entrance to the plaza costs 3 EUR and can be booked online.
For a more in-depth experience, consider taking a guided tour of the interior of the Elbphilharmonie to discover fascinating facts about the building and enjoy some of the most beautiful views of Hamburg over the harbor.
Directions
Your next stop is St. Michael’s Church (21). Head north on Am Kaiserkai, turn left onto Am Sandtorkai, and continue onto Niederbaumbrücke. Then, turn left onto Jan-Fedder-Promenade, take the pedestrian overpass, go through Michelwiese, turn left onto Wincklerstraße, and turn right onto Englische Planke. You’ll be walking a distance of 1 km.
21. St. Michael’s Church
St. Michael’s Church (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis) is the newest and last of the five main churches you’ll visit on this free Hamburg walking tour.
Affectionately known as “Michel,” this church is Hamburg’s most beloved landmark, and the city’s skyline wouldn’t be the same without its 132-meter-high tower.
To say St. Michael’s Church has a storied history would be an understatement. The first church, built between 1649 and 1661, was struck by lightning in 1750. The second church, built between 1750 and 1762, burned down in 1906 and was fully rebuilt between 1907 and 1912 with the support of many donors.
Above the entrance, you’ll see the Archangel Michael vanquishing Satan with a cross-shaped lance.
The interior is beautifully decorated in Baroque style, featuring an impressive altarpiece, stunning organs, and a magnificent marble pulpit.
The 17th-century crypt, one of the largest in Europe, houses 2,400 tombs of prominent Hamburg natives. The observation deck at 106 meters offers breathtaking views of Hamburg and its surroundings.
Directions
Your next stop is the Cap San Diego (22). Head south on Englische Planke, turn right onto Böhmkenstraße, turn left onto Hohler Weg. Continue onto Neustädter Neuer Weg, turn right onto Jan-Fedder-Promenade, and turn left onto Überseebrücke. You’ll be walking a distance of 800 m.
22. Cap San Diego
The harbor is the true heart of Hamburg and you will come across a vast cornucopia of sightseeing boats, harbor tours, and ferries among the docks and massive containers. Due to Hamburg’s rich maritime history, there are some prominent ships moored at the harbor.
One famous vessel is Cap San Diego, the world’s largest museum ship stretching 159 meters, known as the “White Swan of the South Atlantic.”
This cargo ship was built in 1961 by Deutsche Werft and was part of a series of six general cargo ships designed for the South American trade routes. It served Hamburg Süd, transporting goods such as coffee, cotton, and tropical fruits between Europe and South America.
Retired from commercial service in the 1980s, the Cap San Diego has been meticulously restored and transformed into a floating museum, permanently docked at the Überseebrücke. Visitors can explore the ship’s decks, engine room, and cargo holds, and even stay overnight in its cabins.
Directions
Your next stop is Rickmer Rickmers (23). Head north on Überseebrücke and turn left onto Jan-Fedder-Promenade. You’ll be walking a distance of 550 m.
23. Rickmer Rickmers
The three-masted Rickmer Rickmers sailing schooner is one of the highlights of the Port of Hamburg. This 97-meter-long freighter has a long and colorful history since its construction at the Rickmers shipyard in Bremerhaven in 1896.
Initially, it was used in the saltpeter trade with Chile, and from 1912 to 1962, it served in the Portuguese Navy as a cadet school ship. The ship’s figurehead, designed to protect against bad luck and guide its course, was modeled after the four-year-old grandson of the Rickmers shipyard founder.
Since 1987, the Rickmer Rickmers has been permanently docked at Landungsbrücken, offering visitors a chance to explore its decks and discover its rich history.
The museum highlights the ship’s evolution from a merchant vessel to a naval training ship. Visitors can explore the crew’s quarters, engine room, and captain’s cabin for a glimpse into life at sea during the age of sail.
For adrenaline seekers, climbing the ship’s masts and rigging—rising 35 meters high—is available on Saturdays and holidays.
Directions
Your next stop is the St. Pauli Landing Bridges (24). Head west on Bei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken. You’ll be walking a distance of 250 m.
24. St. Pauli Landing Bridges
No sightseeing tour of Hamburg would be complete without a visit to the iconic St. Pauli Landing Bridges (Landungsbrücken).
The Landing Bridges consist of ten floating pontoons, totaling 700 meters in length. The long passenger hall, which is part of the complex, was built between 1907 and 1909.
The original Landing Bridges were constructed in 1839 as a docking point for steamships heading overseas.
Today, the complex includes Art Nouveau reception halls, archways leading to the pontoons, two corner towers, and distinctive cupolas. New pontoons were added after the complex sustained heavy damage during World War II.
Virtually all harbor cruises depart from here. The lively atmosphere created by buskers, souvenir stands, and boat companies adds to the charm. Numerous restaurants, bars, and food kiosks line the St. Pauli Landing Bridges.
Take a break, enjoy the sea air, and watch ships pass by while indulging in a delectable fischbrötchen (a popular fish sandwich in Hamburg) and sipping on chilled beer 🙂.
Directions
Your next and final stop of this free self-guided Hamburg walking tour is the Old Elbtunnel (25). Head west on Bei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken. You’ll be walking a distance of 200 m.
25. Old Elbtunnel
The Old Elbtunnel (Alter Elbtunnel), also known as the St. Pauli Elbtunnel, is an iconic part of Hamburg’s industrial heritage.
Built in 1911, it lies 24 meters beneath the Elbe River and spans a length of 426.5 meters, making it one of the longest river tunnels in the world. At the time of its construction, the tunnel was a groundbreaking feat of engineering, using massive hydraulic lifts to lower vehicles into the tunnel.
This revolutionary tunnel was constructed to provide easier access for thousands of harbor workers living on the north side of the Elbe to reach the shipyards on the south side, where they were employed.
The tunnel is adorned with light-blue ceramic tiles featuring glazed terracotta reliefs of nautical motifs such as fish, crabs, shells, and vintage signage. The tiles pay homage to Hamburg’s rich port history and the tunnel’s connection to the harbor.
The northern entrance at Landungsbrücken, marked by its vivid green-domed Art Nouveau building, adds an elegant touch.
Visitors can descend into the tunnel from the northern entrance, and it takes less than 10 minutes to walk from one end to the other. The Old Elbtunnel is open 24/7 and free to enter.
Guided Hamburg Walking Tours
If you are very short on time or simply don’t want to deal with the hassle of a self-guided Hamburg walking tour, you can also opt to take a guided tour instead.
Hamburg City Center Walking Tour: This two-hour walking tour of Hamburg overseen by the most knowledgeable locals takes you through the heart of the city center. Listen to interesting stories and legends as you go past historic landmarks.
Hamburg Speicherstadt and HafenCity Walking Tour: Led by a local guide, this two-hour walking tour takes you through the Speicherstadt and along the highlights of Hamburg’s waterfront.
Hamburg St. Pauli and Reeperbahn Walking Tour: Led by a knowledgeable local, this two-hour walking tour takes you through Hamburg’s famous St. Pauli neighborhood and the infamous Reeperbahn red-light district.
What Else to See in Hamburg
Obviously, there are plenty more things to see and do in Hamburg than what we have covered in our walking tour.
Due to the city’s close association with water, no trip to Hamburg would be complete without taking a Hamburg Harbor Cruise.
Alternatively, you can also enjoy some of Hamburg’s most popular sights by taking a boat tour on the Alster Lakes.
Places like the bohemian Sternschanze & St. Pauli districts, the iconic Reeperbahn, the beautiful Planten un Blomen park, the winding alleys and mansions of Treppenviertel Blankenese, and many more sights all deserve to be seen.
Other fun and popular activities in Hamburg include –
- Hamburg Scuddy Tour: See the main attractions of Hamburg on an eco-friendly segway with a local guide
- Hamburg 3-Hour Bike Tour: Experience the best of Hamburg on an easy-going bike ride
- Hamburg Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: Enjoy Hamburg’s main sights with a 1-day hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour
Where to Stay in Hamburg
Since most of Hamburg’s attractions are located in the city center area, it is best to select a hotel close to the center.
Even if you stay further out, it’s a good idea to stay anywhere on the metro line (i.e. 5-minute walk from the nearest metro station), which is part of Hamburg’s excellent public transit system.
Hostel: Generator Hostel, a great choice right next to the Central Railway Station
Budget: Motel One Hamburg-Alster, an unpretentious choice in the St. Georg district
Mid-range: Hotel Europäischer Hof Hamburg, an excellent choice within 2 minutes of the Central railway station
Splurge: Hotel Atlantic Kempinski Hamburg, a sumptuous top-choice pick on the Alster that has been the first choice of celebrities visiting Hamburg. It has also served as a set for numerous films
More Self-Guided Walking Tours in Europe
In case you enjoyed our self-guided Hamburg walking tour, do check out our other self-guided walking tours of major European cities.
Now, what do you think? Did you enjoy our self-guided walking tour of Hamburg? Are there any other stops that we should be adding? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
Get A Printable Guide
Want to access this walking tour offline? Get the PDF version and save it on your phone or print it on paper! Pay just USD 3.99
Buy on Gumroad >>
Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).
Thank you Janine! Great to hear you loved the tour!
Hey Mihir-
Thank you so much for your walking tour in Hamburg. We had a port in Hamburg as part of a cruise and this was a great tour of the city to see the city! Very easy directions and loved the fun fact!
My compliments really! Well written and easy to follow your Hamburg walking tour prroved itself perfect for our stop over of few hours. I d been scouting the internet for something like this and yours was sincerely the best guided tour I ve ever followed. Sort of planning my next short staying based on your walking tour selection! One thing: add that not everywhere in Hamburg (probably Germany but that I wouldn’t know) card payment is not accepted. Specifically on the harbor and docks we were thirsty hungry and tired and could not enjoy the fosh sandwich you were suggesting because they only accepted cash. Sort of a bummer
Thanks so much Silvia! Really glad you enjoyed the tour! Yes, it is rather vexing that card payment isn’t accepted everywhere in Germany.
Hi, Mihir: Great information! I like the route as well as the fun facts. We plan to visit there this year but our cruise ship will stop at Hamburg for 7 hours only. Could you please advise if we can complete this tour within about 5 hours? If we need to cut this tour short, any recommendation on which places we can omit?
Thank you in advance for your advice.
Hi Eric, thanks for stopping by. 5 hours ought to be enough with a short break or two. If you want to cut it short, start at the Alster Arcades or end at the Elbphilharmonie. Hope that helps. Happy travels 🙂
Really informative thank you, I’m looking to use this during our cruise 🙂
Thank you! Have a great time in Hamburg 🙂
Can we do/see all these attractions in one day?
Of course, it’s a walking tour.
Thanks for These amazing guides! I did part of these! I wish you had an audio!
Hi Natalie, glad you found the information useful. We’ll definitely consider incorporating audio in the future. Happy travels!
Thanks for the tour details. We did 90% of this last weekend and found it great fun
Hi Mike, glad you found the information useful and had a great time. Hamburg is a lovely city.
Cheers 🙂