Hamburg’s gateway to the world with maritime flair and a historic backdrop
Address: Landungsbrücken, 20359 Hamburg | Built: 1839 | Length: approx. 700 meters
The Landungsbrücken (landing bridges) in the St. Pauli district are an important, symbolic part of Hamburg’s city history. Built in the 19th century, they were the landing stages for ships to dock in the Port of Hamburg. Several renovations and expansions were necessary to meet the ever-growing demands of a developing port.
Anyone taking a city trip to Hamburg and looking to discover special sights is guaranteed to come across the Hamburg Landungsbrücken (landing bridges). Not only do they offer magnificent views and a picturesque location on the waterfront, they are also an important hub of the Hanseatic city. There, you can immerse yourself in the history of shipping and the special charm of this impressive area.
Directions and location of the Hamburg warning sign
The Landungsbrücken, or St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, stretches 700 meters along the Elbe River between the fish market, the Reeperbahn, and the Niederhafen harbor. This imposing ensemble of buildings was once a pier for steamships and today invites you to stroll and linger with views of the harbor, restaurants, and shops.
The connection between the mainland and the floating pontoon system is provided by 10 movable bridges. The Landungsbrücken offer berths for harbor ferries, passenger ships, and cruise ships. Those wishing to take a harbor tour usually start at the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken.
The listed building complex adjoins the waterfront promenade. There is a historic passenger terminal, which no longer serves this purpose. The entrance to the old Elbe Tunnel is at the western end, while the striking clock tower marks the end of the Landungsbrücken at the eastern end.
Opening Hours and Tours
The St. Pauli Landungsbrücken are open 24 hours a day and can therefore be visited at any time.
Entrance Fees for the Landungsbrücken
There is no entrance fee to visit the Landungsbrücken, as it is a publicly accessible area. However, anyone planning a harbor tour, boat tour, or ferry ride from there will pay the respective price charged by the shipping company for the tour.
Guided Tours of the Landungsbrücken
There is a special tour dedicated solely to the Landungsbrücken. It starts on the Reeperbahn and leads down to the historic fish market. The guides have extensive knowledge and provide additional fascinating information for those interested. The fish market alone has many interesting stories to tell. Beforehand, the tour passes the houses on Hafenstraße, which have seen good times and bad. The mayor of Hamburg has championed their preservation by offering his mayoral office as a counterweight.
During the tour, participants can immerse themselves in the impressive history of the Landungsbrücken during the era of emigration. A picture of the countless emigrants and the numerous ships in the most magnificent colors quickly emerges. You can also experience all facets of suffering and joy up close on a guided tour at the Landungsbrücken in Hamburg.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the Landungsbrücken in Hamburg
Why are the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken so interesting?
The St. Pauli Landungsbrücken in the Port of Hamburg is a historic pier. It opened in 1839. Since then, the Landungsbrücken have been an important part of the Port of Hamburg. Today’s facilities date primarily from the early 20th century.
How many Landungsbrücken are there in Hamburg?
In earlier times, there were 10 Landungsbrücken, of which only 9 remain today. The area stretches for almost 700 meters and extends from the Fish Market to the so-called Niederhafen.
Which ships use the Landungsbrücken as a pier?
The Landungsbrücken is used as a pier by ferries, smaller barges, and harbor tour boats.
How can the old Elbe Tunnel be reached from the Landungsbrücken?
The entrance to the historic vehicle and pedestrian tunnel is located right next to the Landungsbrücken and can be reached in just a few minutes on foot.
When is a visit to the Landungsbrücken particularly worthwhile?
The Landungsbrücken exude a very special charm at sunset, when the harbor is bathed in a magical display of light. A visit is also interesting during the Hamburg Port Anniversary and other harbor festivals.
Landungsbrücken – Special Features and Interesting Facts
Just as the sun and the earth belong together, the Port of Hamburg and the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken belong together. They are a special place, where one is hard to imagine without the other. Particularly striking are the two towers with green domes on the Elbe River, which are impossible to miss and frame the Landungsbrücken. The Landungsbrücken fulfill several functions: On the one hand, they are an impressive sight, and on the other, they serve as a transport hub and starting point for various excursions.
The Landungsbrücken are one of Hamburg’s special landmarks and stretch over a length of 700 meters between the so-called Niederhafen and the Fischmarkt. Of the original 10 Landungsbrücken, only 9 remain today. After World War II, bridge 8 was not rebuilt.
Walking from the S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations to the Landungsbrücken immediately provides an exclusive overview of their uniqueness and location. The eye quickly takes in the sights and interesting features. For example, a three-masted sailing ship and the Cap San Diego are moored at Landungsbrücken 1, which are worth visiting. If you attend special events such as the Port Anniversary, you can even take a cruise on these ships.
With a little luck, you can watch from the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken as huge cruise ships enter the Port of Hamburg and pass through the Landungsbrücken. The number of cruise ships steadily increases every year.
From Landungsbrücken 2 and 3, you can take ferries to Finkenwerder or Teufelsbrück. During the summer months, ferries also travel via Blankenese to Crantz, which is located in the Altes Land (Old Land). Over the years, the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken have developed into a special promenade. Those strolling towards the fish market will pass numerous restaurants where they can indulge in freshly caught fish and other regional delicacies such as Hamburg’s Pannfisch (pan-fried fish).
Sights and attractions in the immediate vicinity of the Landungsbrücken
Not only in the immediate vicinity, but also directly at the Landungsbrücken, there are sights worth seeing, interesting, and impressive to discover on a long walk.
The Rickmer Rickmers, Hamburg’s floating landmark, is firmly moored at the Landungsbrücken. The ship is an impressive three-masted ship with a green bow that can be seen from afar.
Numerous Portuguese people came to Hamburg in the 1970s to work in the Port of Hamburg. The Portuguese Quarter was built on the edge of the Landungsbrücken. The unique Wilhelminian-era architecture is particularly impressive. The streets are lined with numerous restaurants. In the summer months, the Portuguese Quarter exudes a Mediterranean flair.
Behind Landungsbrücken 10 is a special attraction: the Old Elbe Tunnel. It served as a connection between the Landungsbrücken and the Elbe island of Steinwerder to the south. The Elbe Tunnel, opened in September 1911, was considered a masterpiece of engineering and made it easier for dockworkers to get to their jobs in the shipyards. Hydraulically operated elevators transported vehicles into the tunnel, which is located 24 meters below the Elbe River. Pedestrians can use the 132 steps or two passenger elevators. The tiled tunnel is 426.5 meters long to the other side of the Elbe.
If you’re walking along the Elbe riverbank toward the U-Boat Museum, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Hamburg’s wholesale fish market. The fish market is particularly interesting in the early morning hours. There, you can watch how freshly caught fish, skin and bones, is prepared into a delicious fish fillet. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious fish sandwich, even if it’s still early in the day.
In the summer months, a visit to the beach club at the Landungsbrücken is worthwhile to round off the day. With delicious cocktails and chilled music, you can enjoy the sunset over Hamburg and the harbor panorama in special lighting conditions. Afterwards, continue to the world-famous entertainment district and the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli.
Cafés and Restaurants Near the Landungsbrücken
Not only nearby, but also directly at the Landungsbrücken, numerous restaurants cater to your culinary needs with a variety of culinary delights, delicious cocktails, and typical Hamburg specialties.
The Astra Beer Garden is located right next to the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken and offers spectacular views of the Landungsbrücken and the harbor. There, you can enjoy the beautiful weather and a delicious Astra beer. It’s an ideal spot for boat watching and listening to live music.
Address: Astra Beer Garden, Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 2, 20359 Hamburg
At Captain’s Dinner, Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 3, you can sit comfortably and enjoy the view of the Elbe. The menu features numerous fish dishes. Seafood, delicious salads, and tasty desserts are also available. There are even dishes for vegetarians on the menu. The fish dishes and other German, European, and Central European dishes are lovingly prepared. As we all know, eating is a feast for the eyes.
Address: Captain’s Dinner, Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 3, 20359 Hamburg
The Ocean Restaurant, Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 4, offers its guests delicacies from German, European, and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu includes delicious fish dishes, seafood, and delicious steaks with a variety of side dishes. The extensive drinks list perfectly complements the selected meal. Pure enjoyment can be experienced in a cozy atmosphere.
Address: Ocean Restaurant, Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 4, 20359 Hamburg
The Rickmer Rickmers Gastronomie, near the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, is a truly special experience, as the restaurant is located on a ship and offers a fantastic view of the landing stage. The menu features delicious salad creations as well as tasty German and international dishes.
Address: Rickmer Rickmers Gastronomie, near the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, Brücke 1, 20359 Hamburg
The Hafen-Club Hamburg, near the Landungsbrücken 3, offers a wonderful view of the harbor, the Elbe River, and incoming ships. When the weather is nice, the tastefully designed outdoor terrace is also open. International cuisine is served, including regional dishes such as Büsum crabs, smoked eel, or a delicious beef steak. Good food is available at attractive prices.
Address: Hafen-Club Hamburg, Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 3, 20359 Hamburg