Hamburg , Germany

Hamburg: 2-hour harbor cruise

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(157 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy the maritime charm on a two-hour harbor cruise through the Port of Hamburg and experience the lively hustle and bustle around the harbor during one of the daily tours.

The Port of Hamburg is massive – the entire city of Cologne could easily fit inside it. It is the second-largest port in Europe after Rotterdam and impresses with its vastness.

Hamburg has grown around the port, and many attractions as well as the city’s skyline are closely connected to it.

Experience the contrast between modernity and history: from Elbe fishing villages and the fish market to modern container terminals and cruise ships. Discover the Reeperbahn, old sailing ships, and gigantic container vessels. On board a harbor-ready ship, you’ll get an up-close view of the gateway to the world.

Sail through the historic Speicherstadt, explore the modern HafenCity quarters, and see the famous Elbphilharmonie from the water. A unique experience for every visitor!

Available options

The 2-hour harbor cruise

Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Audio guide app “RainerAbicht” on the Apple & Play Store – available in several languages.

Guaranteed daily departures.

Live commentary by the tour guide in German.

Restroom on board

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

New landmarks of Hamburg

Stop 2 Pass by

Historic buildings and warehouses, museums, cafes, restaurants, and much more.

Stop 3 Pass by

A modern and new Hamburg district under development.

The St. Pauli Landungsbrücken are a large docking station for passenger ships on the northern edge of the Port of Hamburg. The Landungsbrücken are located in Hamburg's St. Pauli district, between Niederhafen and the St. Pauli Fish Market along the Elbe River.

Stop 5 Pass by

The Altona Fish Market is a public market in Hamburg's Altona-Altstadt district. From fish and groceries to flowers and clothing, you can find everything here on Sundays.

Stop 6 Pass by

Container terminals, container ships, and impressive views of the loading of ships.

Beautiful Hamburg Elbe beach for relaxing, sunbathing, or enjoying a coffee.

Stop 8 Pass by

A place where many cruise ships dock, such as the Queen Mary 2, AIDA, and many more, depending on the date.
Additionally, here you'll find the Blohm & Voss shipyard, where ships are built and/or repaired.

Stop 9 Pass by

A historic tunnel that is still functional and runs under the Elbe from the Landungsbrücken to Steinwerder.

The most successful musical in Hamburg. Additionally, next to it is another musical (which varies) and a beautiful viewing platform.

Stop 11 Pass by

The Fish Auction Hall is a historic event venue in Hamburg, now used for events, concerts, and the Sunday fish market.

What's not included

Drinks and meals (available for booking on-site).

Available languages

Audio guide

NO SV FI RU CMN EN IT FR DA NL ES

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.5

33 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.9

124 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not suitable for wheelchair users.

Meeting point

Please come to the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, Bridge 1. There you will find staff from Rainer Abicht Elbreederei. Please ask the staff where the ship departs.

Important notes

Proceed directly to the ticket counter of Rainer Abicht Elbreederei at Bridge 1 on the promenade or at Bridge 4 down by the water.
There you will receive information on where the ship for the 2-hour harbor cruise departs.

About Hamburg

Hamburg is Germany's second-largest city and a major port hub with a rich maritime history. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, picturesque canals, and iconic Reeperbahn entertainment district, it offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern energy.

Top Attractions

Elbphilharmonie

An iconic concert hall and architectural marvel with stunning views of the city and the Elbe River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to enter the plaza, concerts vary in price

Miniatur Wunderland

The world's largest model railway exhibition, featuring intricate landscapes and miniature cities.

Museum 2-3 hours €21 (adults), €11 (children)

Speicherstadt

A historic warehouse district with red-brick buildings, canals, and bridges, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, museums have entry fees

Reeperbahn

Hamburg's famous entertainment district, known for its nightlife, theaters, and the Red Light District.

Entertainment Evening and night Varies by venue

Planten un Blomen

A beautiful public park with gardens, water features, and seasonal events.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Finkenwerder Scholle

A local delicacy of buttered and fried plaice, often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Franzbrötchen

A sweet, cinnamon-filled pastry similar to a croissant.

Breakfast/Snack Contains wheat and dairy

Rote Grütze

A berry dessert made with red currants, raspberries, and strawberries, served with cream or vanilla sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy and may contain gelatin

Hamburger Aalsuppe

A traditional eel soup made with vegetables, potatoes, and spices.

Soup Contains fish and may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Lüneburg Heath Cycling along the Elbe River Boat tours on the Alster and Elbe Walking along the Alster Lake Relaxing at Elbstrand beach Visiting spas and wellness centers Visiting museums and historic sites Attending concerts and theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous festivals. The city is lively with outdoor events and water-based activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hamburg is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services to avoid overcharging.
• Be cautious when approached by strangers, particularly in the Reeperbahn area.

Getting there

By air

Hamburg Airport • 8.5 km from city center

By train

Hamburg Hauptbahnhof

By bus

ZOB Hamburg (Central Bus Station)

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and frequent, the U-Bahn is the backbone of Hamburg's public transport system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Mytaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Altstadt (Old Town) Neustadt (New Town) St. Pauli HafenCity

Day trips

Blankenese

10 km from Hamburg • Half day to full day

A charming suburb known for its historic houses, scenic views, and the famous Elbstrand beach.

Lübeck

65 km from Hamburg • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, marzipan, and historic city center.

Lüneburg Heath

50 km from Hamburg • Full day

A vast area of heathland, forests, and meadows, known for its natural beauty and hiking trails.

Festivals

Hamburg Maritime Festival • May (annual) Reeperbahn Festival • September (annual) Christmas Markets • November to December (annual)

Pro tips

Visit the Elbphilharmonie's plaza for free and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Elbe River.
Explore the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district and its canals, especially at sunset.
Try local specialties like Finkenwerder Scholle and Franzbrötchen at traditional restaurants.
Take a boat tour on the Alster and Elbe rivers to see the city from a different perspective.
Visit the Miniatur Wunderland early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.