Hamburg, one of Germany’s most diverse cities, has always taken a backseat, in terms of attracting tourists, to its more popular and mainstream hotspots like Munich and Berlin. However, in recent times, Hamburg has been slowly and steadily climbing its way to becoming Germany’s hottest destination! With a booming nightlife, world-famous culinary landscape and youthful vibe, it comes as no surprise why Hamburg has become one of the go-to places in Europe. And a major reason for this success is because of its port. The Hamburg Port is the largest port in Germany and serves as the primary connect between Germany and the rest of the world. The port is as old as Hamburg itself, and exploring this with a Hamburg Harbour Tour is the perfect way to delve into the city’s rich history and culture.
Port of Hamburg - History Under A Minute
Often referred to as the country’s “Gateway to the World”, the Port of Hamburg is not only Germany’s most important transport hub but all of Northern Europe’s as well. The port itself was founded in 1189 by Frederick I, and since then it has played a pivotal role in Germany’s import/export industry, and furthermore, has also made Hamburg a leading centre of international trade. However, apart from its logistical significance, the Port of Hamburg has also greatly influenced the culture of the city and the way of life of its people. Many restaurants, museums, shops, bars and other commercial establishments have opened up right beside/around the port and the general maritime vibe has spread to all corners of the city.
And finally, with a ton of international visitors coming into Hamburg all year round, this city has become a melting pot of cultures, something that is greatly reflected in its food, music and architecture. Taking all this into account, it is safe to say that the Port of Hamburg is one of the most important, diverse and simply awesome places to visit and experience on your next trip to Hamburg.
Hamburg Harbour Tour - What Are My Options?
There are multiple ways to enjoy the Hamburg Harbour Cruises and make the most of your experience. Depending upon your availability, budget and personal preference, you can choose to go for a tour of the harbour during the day or at night-time when the city is illuminated by beautiful lights. You can also take harbour tour along with a guided tour of the world-famous Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and lastly, if you’re pressed for time, you can even take the tour as part of a hop-on hop-off boat pass.
Each of these experiences is unique in their own way, but they are also all similar in the sense they all allow you to enjoy and explore the Hamburg harbour and port.
Top Hamburg Harbour Tour Tickets
If you're looking experience the Port of Hamburg and glide across the Hamburg Harbour, here are the best tours that can give you an impeccable experience. Pick one and experience Hamburg from the sea.
1
Harbour by Night - Illumination Cruise by Night
Monday-Sunday
£18
1 hour
Enjoy a lovely 1-hour cruise of the Hamburg harbour under the moonlight and explore the romantic side of the city. Marvel at the beautiful sights of the Speicherstadt and the Kontorhaus district, while you learn about their history from your on-board guide.
Hamburg Harbour Tour Features
- Get a chance to experience the beauty of the Hamburg harbour after dusk.
- Learn about the maritime history of this port city from your on-board captain.
- Savour the wonderful views of Kontorhaus district, the container bridges and the modern buildings of the HafenCity.
- Enjoy an on-board coffee shop during your tour.
- Gaze at the brightly lit Elbphilharmonie at night, a sight to behold!
2
Great Harbour Tour - Cruise
Monday-Sunday
£14
Flexible Hours
Dive head straight into the rich history of Hamburg and its world-famous port on this marine experience, as you cruise along its harbour and into the canals of the historic Speicherstadt and Hafencity. Lean all there is to know about the port and take in the wonderful sights of Hamburg from the Norderelbe.
Hamburg Harbour Tour Features
- Relax and unwind on this 1-hour cruise that will take you all around the Hamburg harbour.
- Uncover Hamburg’s rich and dotted naval history with immersive on-board commentary from the Captain himself.
- Get a chance to explore and learn about Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district!
- Enjoy an on-board coffee shop during your tour.
- Gaze at the brightly lit Elbphilharmonie at night, a sight to behold!
3
Harbour Cruise + Elbphilharmonie Guided Tour
Saturday & Sunday
£29
2 hours 15 minutes
Save time and money with this delicious combo, which will allow you to experience the best of Hamburg! Start the day off with a tour of the Elbphilharmonie, one of the best and most recognized concert halls in the world. Follow that up with a relaxing cruise around the harbour and learn all about Hamburg’s seafaring past.
Hamburg Harbour Tour Features
- Explore HafenCity and the famous Elbphilharmonie with an expert, local guide by your side.
- Find out all the nuances and special features that make this concert hall one of the best in the world.
- Get a chance to explore and learn about Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district!
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Hamburg from atop the Elbphilharmonie, with special access to the Plaza’s terrace.
- Cap off the day with a relaxing cruise around the harbour
4
Hop On Hop Off Harbour Tour
Monday-Sunday
£15
Flexible Hours
Spend your day on the water with this 1-day hop-on hop-off boat pass that allows you to cruise past and visit the Hamburg Harbor, Speicherstadt, the Hamburg emigration museum ‘Ballinstadt’, HafenCity and more!
Hamburg Harbour Tour Features
- Cruise past all the sights of Hamburg and hop-off wherever you like, with this 24-hour pass
- Visit all your favourite places in Hamburg at your own pace and once you’re done, simply hop-on to the boat and move onto the next location
- Take your time and make the most out of your trip with this convenient pass
- Discover amazing places like the ‘Ballinstadt’ and the urban wonder HafenCity
Handy Tips for your Hamburg Harbour Tour
- To make the most out of your experience, make sure you take a guided boat tour of the harbour. The on-board commentary really helps you understand the history of the port as well as the sights you see around you.
- Book your tickets online! This not only helps you save valuable time at the counter itself, but you can also avail discounts and deals online.
- Be sure to carry a camera with you as you will have a number of great photo opportunities.
- If you’re travelling to Hamburg during the colder months (October - April), make sure to carry an umbrella or raincoat with you as it can get quite damp.
- Sunday is a day for leisure in all of Germany, so taking a tour on this day wouldn’t be too wise. Try going on the weekdays for a minimal crowd.
Ready for a Hamburg Harbour Tour?
Get your Hamburg Harbour Tour tickets here, or check out other attractions in Hamburg here.
