The Alter Elbpark was created on the Casparus Bastion of the historic Hamburg fortifications and was officially renamed in 1906. Today, you will find carefully maintained lawns, old chestnut and plane trees, as well as more exotic species like Japanese cherry trees and Aleppo pines. The park is accessible daily and serves as a retreat, walking, and jogging route – perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a moment.

What makes the Alter Elbpark so special?

It takes you along the course of the former fortifications, combining military function from the past with contemporary park design. From 1820 to 1837, Isaak Altmann transformed the bastion to create promenades with viewpoints. The International Garden Exhibition in 1869 influenced pathways and plantings – traces of which can still be seen today.

From 1901 to 1906, the monument for Chancellor Otto von Bismarck was built – around 34 meters high, placed on a hill like a castle. The base once housed air raid shelters with bunker function. The park paths lead you past this colossus and offer surprising views of the harbor. Numerous trees from the 19th century give the park a quiet, almost venerable character – yet you can still feel urban life when the honking of ferries reaches you as you pass by.

Several renovations – most recently from 2019 to 2022 – have renewed pathways, improved lighting, and created barrier-free access. The area is now accessible, featuring a playground, sports field, and even a small vineyard on the southern slope. Especially beautiful: at sunset, the park takes on a mystical feel – a sudden tranquility over the harbor.

Insider tip: Visit the small vineyard: Here, vines grow whose grapes are processed into local wine – a rare treat in the midst of the metropolis.

1. The park is located on bastions that served as part of the city wall in the 17th century.
2. Between 1820 and 1837, Isaac Altmann redesigned the green space in the English style.
3. In 1869, the first international garden shows in Hamburg took place in the park.
4. In 1906, the Bismarck monument was inaugurated, connecting monument height with war history.
5. Within the foundation of the monument, there is a World War II air raid shelter.
6. Some of the trees date back to the 19th century, including chestnuts and maples.
7. The southern slope houses a small urban vineyard - unusual for Hamburg.
8. A part of the park was closed until the early 1950s due to war destructions.
9. Between 2019 and 2022, the park was made accessible, illuminated, and modernized.
10. From the Bismarck Hill, you have one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the Elbe, the harbor, and the landing bridges.

Families benefit from the central location, the modern playground, and the expansive meadows where children can play or have a picnic. The park is also well-suited for strolls with a stroller or short relaxation breaks with a view of the harbor. Active people – whether joggers or casual athletes – appreciate the gently undulating terrain and the well-developed paths that are also excellent for a running loop. Those out with their dogs will find plenty of space and variety without having to dive into the hustle and bustle of the landing stages. For history enthusiasts, the park is particularly exciting: the Bismarck Monument, the remnants of the old city fortifications, and the unusual history of the park invite exploration. At the same time, those seeking tranquility will also find what they're looking for.

Offer	Price
Park Access	free
City Tours	mostly donation-based
Vineyard Tours	occasionally small fee

Tip: Join a historical city tour – you often get background information about the bastion, the bunker, and the Bismarck memorial that you wouldn't get on your own.

 

Period	Opening Hours
Year-round	06:00 - 22:00

The Alter Elbpark is a charming blend of listed welfare, urban nature, and surprising elements such as the Bismarck Monument and the small vineyard. As you stroll between the ancient trees, the view over the Elbe complements the urban character.