Hamburg’s green oasis full of nature, culture, and relaxation
Address: Marseiller Promenade, 20355 Hamburg | Built: 1935 | Size: approx. 45 hectares
In the heart of Hamburg lies a special park, Planten un Blomen. Surrounded by St. Pauli district, shopping malls, the exhibition center, and the Congress Center, it covers an area of 45 hectares. The name says it all. Throughout the park, there are impressive flowerbeds and plant borders just waiting to be discovered and admired. There are also uniquely designed themed gardens. Idyllic streams, small lakes, and expansive lawns perfectly complement this oasis of tranquility. The park is also a perfect place for special experiences, such as summer concerts in the bandstand and other events held every day from May to September.
Directions and Location of the Hamburg Park
Planten un Blomen Park is a central location in Hamburg. The large area stretches between the city center and the districts of Neustadt, Rotherbaum, and St. Pauli. The park is the Free Hanseatic City’s most important green space and offers a perfect blend of recreational spaces and urban life.
To the north, Planten un Blomen Park is bordered by Dammtor train station and the Congress Center. The southern end of the park leads towards St. Pauli, where Heiligengeistfeld is located. The Reeperbahn is just a few minutes’ walk away. To the east, Stephansplatz and the Binnenalster Lake are in the immediate vicinity. To the west, the park borders the Karolinenviertel and the Hamburg Exhibition Center.
Planten un Blomen Park is accessible via the main entrances on Dammtorstraße, near Millerntorplatz and Marseiller Straße.
Opening Hours and Tours
The Planten un Blomen park is open year-round. However, opening hours vary depending on the season. The times also vary slightly in the various areas of the park.
Planten un Blomen, Old Botanical Garden and Small Ramparts – Opening Hours
January to March
7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
April
7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
May to September
7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
October to December
7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Large Ramparts – Opening Hours
January to April
7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
May to September
7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
October to December
7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Planten un Blomen Admission Prices
Admission to Planten un Blomen Park and use of the roller skating rink is free, even when events are taking place in the park.
Guided Tours of Planten un Blomen
Guided tours are offered through Planten un Blomen Park and the ramparts. Tours begin at Dammtor Station, at the Dag-Hammarskjöld-Platz exit. Participants will gain unique insights into the history and development of the park over the decades. Plant, flower, and nature lovers can also opt for a guided tour of the old Botanical Garden, which is part of Planten un Blomen Park. This tour offers a wealth of information about the various flower and plant species.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Planten un Blomen
What’s so special about Planten un Blomen Park?
Located in the heart of Hamburg, the park covers an area of 45 hectares. The themed gardens with their flower and plant borders are a particular eye-catcher. Impressive water light concerts are regularly held by the lake. Planten un Blomen is an oasis of peace and a magical retreat from the stresses of everyday life.
Why is the park in the heart of Hamburg called Planten un Blomen?
The park received this name in 1935 when the Low German Garden Show was held there. The landscape architect Karl Plomin from Hamburg transformed the grounds into an enchanting park. The Low German expression “Planten un Blomen” reflects the regional tradition and Hanseatic culture.
Which attractions are a must-see in Planten un Blomen Park?
In addition to the water light displays by the lake, the romantic Rose Garden with its sea of rose petals and the Japanese Garden are worth a visit. For music lovers, the bandstand is the perfect place to treat your ears to music from a variety of genres.
What activities are available at Planten un Blomen Park?
In addition to long walks, the park is perfect for relaxing and picnicking. There is a mini golf course, trampolines, and a roller skating rink. In winter, the park is a wonderful place to go ice skating or enjoy the special winter atmosphere.
When do the water light concerts take place at Planten un Blomen?
Between May and September, there is a water light concert every evening, providing a magical experience. However, the exact times vary depending on the season.
Is there a café or restaurant at Planten un Blomen?
The park is home to the Café Seeterrassen, where you can enjoy coffee specialties, cakes, and small dishes. Small snack bars are also available for a break and to enjoy the beauty of the park.
Planten un Blomen – Special Features and Interesting Facts
Hamburg has one of the city’s most diverse and beautiful parks right at its heart. It’s called Planten un Blomen, which is Low German and means “plants and flowers.” The park’s 45-hectare area is home to lush nature, interspersed with colorful flowerbeds, watercourses, and impressive themed gardens.
The park’s history dates back to the 19th century. At that time, parts of what is now the area were used as a botanical garden. In 1935, the park was renamed Planten un Blomen. Over the years, the park has continued to evolve.
The park is not only an oasis of calm for stressed city dwellers and tourists, but also a special place for recreational activities and events. From May to September, the park offers a wide range of activities. The water light show is an impressive spectacle. Colorful water fountains and music combine to create a magical interplay. In the winter months, you can enjoy wonderful ice skating in the same spot.
The Japanese Garden is a special highlight and the largest of its kind in Europe. With its artistic plants, waterways, and teahouse, it conveys the special flair of Far Eastern culture and serenity.
In the Rose Garden, visitors experience an indescribable blaze of color and enchanting scents that enchant the senses. The Apothecary Garden, with its numerous spices and medicinal plants, offers interesting insights.
The park is crisscrossed by paved paths that are easily accessible by wheelchair, walker, or stroller. Cycling is not permitted in the plants and flowers. Dogs must also be kept on a leash in the park. Sports activities can be enjoyed on the trampoline, roller skating track, or miniature golf course.
Historical Facts and History of Planten un Blomen
After the ramparts in Hamburg lost their military significance at the end of the 18th century, this area was to be used sensibly and redesigned. During this time, the Bremen-based landscape gardener Isaak Hermann Altmann was commissioned to create a landscape for city dwellers seeking relaxation. The goal was a park modeled on an English model.
After completion, the former, redesigned ramparts became a popular local recreation area. In the 20th century, the eastern ramparts had to make way for increasing traffic and the construction of a train station. The western part of the park remained as a green space.
Gradually, the area Altmann had redesigned was expanded. The park was expanded to include the cemeteries in front of the Dammtor, the Zoological Garden, and the Botanical Garden. In 1930, the zoo became a public and amusement park.
The park was renamed Planten un Blomen for the Low German Garden Show in 1935. The redesign of the park for the show was carried out by the landscape architect Karl Plomin from Hamburg. During the IGA (International Garden Exhibition), the park was redesigned several times in 1953, 1963, and 1973.
After the last IGA was over, sections of the park were merged and named Wallringpark. This included the old Botanical Garden, Planten un Blomen, and the small and large ramparts. Since 1986, the entire park has been called Planten un Blomen.
Bastions, exhibition architecture, and historic moats still bear witness to a varied history. Since 2011, there has been a new entrance on the north side, providing access to the impressive park and allowing visitors to enjoy the enchanting world of flowers and plants.
Things to see and do in the immediate vicinity of Planten un Blomen
The wonderful park in the heart of Hamburg offers a wealth of things to see and do. Planten un Blomen captivates with its diverse plant life, its sea of flowers, recreational activities, and events. However, there are other interesting places and sights in the immediate vicinity that are worth a visit.
One museum that is definitely worth a visit is the Hamburger Kunsthalle. It houses a collection of impressive exhibits, including works of art from the Middle Ages to modern art.
A lovely detour from Planten un Blomen Park is the Inner Alster Lake and the Alster Arcades. The elegant walking paths and the Alster Arcades offer a wonderful stroll and charming views.
The Jungfernsteig Trail is also located along the Inner Alster. The exclusive shops invite you to browse and shop. The numerous restaurants and cafés are a wonderful place to linger and watch the hustle and bustle. Celebrities, stars, and starlets are also frequently found there.
An impressive building near Planten un Blomen is Hamburg’s City Hall, located in the heart of the old town. The historic architecture of the magnificent building immediately catches the eye. Those interested can also explore the impressive interior of the City Hall.
Another attraction located right next to the park is the Hamburg State Opera’s opera house. The building’s architecture combines modern functionality with historical elegance. While the facade clearly and objectively reflects the post-war architecture, music and theater lovers will experience modern stage technology and unique acoustics inside.
Cafés and Restaurants near Planten un Blomen
After a long stroll through the impressive park, you won’t have to look far to indulge in specialty coffees, delicious cakes, or a tasty meal. The numerous restaurants make it easy to find just the right restaurant and café with a perfect selection of dishes.
TWOSIX in the Radison Blu Hotel at Congressplatz 2 is located on the roof of the building and offers a magnificent view of the Hanseatic City of Hamburg. The menu features a fine selection of international dishes. In addition to delicious cocktails and tasty gin, there is an excellent wine selection.
Address: TWOSIX in the Radison Blu, Congressplatz 2, 20354 Hamburg
Békaa
The Lebanese restaurant Békaa is located at Rentzelstraße 59 in Hamburg. The kitchen serves Lebanese, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean dishes, perfectly seasoned and lovingly presented. The drinks menu offers a fine selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic delicacies. The cozy atmosphere invites you to linger and enjoy.
Address: Békaa Linanesisches Restaurant, Rentzelstraße 59, 20146 Hamburg
Theo’s, located at Rothenbaumchaussee 10 in Hamburg, is a steakhouse with an elegant ambiance. The menu features an exclusive selection of steaks and American cuisine. The meat is cooked to perfection and served with delicious side dishes. An extensive selection of drinks completes the culinary experience.
Address: Theo’s, Rothenbaumchaussee 10, 20148 Hamburg
Stadtsalat, located at Große Theaterstraße 31-35, is a restaurant where guests can enjoy international, contemporary, and healthy dishes. The menu features a wide selection of salad creations, and guests can create their own exciting combinations. The modern dining room offers comfortable seating and a chance to enjoy your signature bowl.
Address: Stadtsalat, Große Theaterstraße 31 – 35, 20354 Hamburg
Downunder
If you’re in the mood for a burger, you’ll find a delicious selection of burgers, American and Australian dishes at Downunder, located at Grindelallee 1. The ambiance is rustic, and there’s a nice selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to accompany your meal, or at the bar if you just want a drink.
Address: Downunder, Grindelallee 1, 20146 Hamburg