Overview
The Old Elbe Tunnel, also known as the Alter Elbtunnel, is an underwater pedestrian tunnel in Hamburg. It's a historic engineering marvel that connects the St. Pauli district with the port facilities on the opposite side of the Elbe River.
It's one of the first underwater tunnels in the world and a significant example of early 20th-century engineering.
Location
Address
Bei den Sankt Pauli-Landungsbrücken, Hamburg
Neighborhood: St. Pauli
Coordinates
53.546000, 9.954200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-June, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
fewer crowds and better lighting for photos
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to warm
- • Blooming flowers
- • Spring festivals
summer
Warm to hot
- • Extended daylight hours
autumn
Cool and crisp
- • Fall colors
- • Harvest festivals
winter
Cold and sometimes rainy
- • Holiday lights
- • Christmas markets
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No advance booking required
- Bring ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low to moderate
- • Uneven surfaces, stairs
Medical facilities: First aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothes, Comfortable walking shoes, Walking shoes or sneakers, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but guided tours can be booked ahead
- • Official website or local tour operators
- • Depends on the tour operator
- • Available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Explore Hamburg
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map of the area, Audio guide, Tickets for attractions, Local events
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Nearby cafes
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Nearby cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Hamburg Airport (HAM)
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a piece of Hamburg's history and a unique way to experience the port
Historical Significance: One of the first underwater tunnels in the world, built to connect workers with the port
Insider Tips
- Free entry, but guided tours provide great insight
- Best views are at sunset
- Local cafes and stalls offer great snacks
Local Recommendations
- • Try local fish sandwiches at nearby stalls
- • Ask for guide John for the best tours
- • Visit the nearby Reeperbahn for nightlife
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: German, English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for dramatic effect
Result: Great shot of the historic entrance
Inside the tunnel
Best Time: Any time
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the brickwork
Result: Unique views of the tunnel's interior
Elbe River views
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Capture the city skyline in the background
Result: Breathtaking views of Hamburg and the Elbe River
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
Distance: 0.1 km
Walking: 2 min
Type: Transport Hub
Reeperbahn
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 7 min
Type: Entertainment District
Hamburg Museum
Distance: 1 km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Museum
Elbphilharmonie
Distance: 2 km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Concert Hall