Features

• Unique amphibious vehicle in Germany

• Combination of city and water travel without transfers

• Perfect for families, groups, and tourists looking to explore Hamburg in an extraordinary way

Opening Hours & Departure Times

• Season: usually from April to October

• Multiple departures daily (depending on weather and water levels)

• Duration: approx. 70 minutes

Access & Parking

The starting point is in the Hafencity Hamburg, close to the Speicherstadt and the Elbphilharmonie. Parking is available in the surrounding parking garages, such as Überseequartier or Speicherstadt. Arriving by subway (U4, station Überseequartier) is also possible.

Contact Information

Hafencity Riverbus GmbH
Hohe Brücke 2
20459 Hamburg

Phone: +49 (0)40 209 337 19
Email: info@hafencityriverbus.de

• Tour duration: Approximately 70 minutes – around 40 minutes on land and about 30 minutes on the Elbe

• Season: From early February to December 30, paused in January

• Departures: Usually starts at 10 AM, approximately every 90 minutes – exact times may change due to tides or weather.

For the exact current availability and times, it is advisable to check directly on the ticket page of the official website or inquire by phone.

Ticket prices

• Youths from 15 years & adults: €38.00

• Children from 5 years & youths up to 14 years: €28.00

• Children under 5 years & dogs: Travel not possible for safety reasons

The ride with the Hafencity Riverbus begins in the heart of Hamburg – in the historic Warehouse District, at Brooktorkai, not far from the International Maritime Museum. It becomes clear right from the start: Guests can expect anything but an ordinary city tour.

1. Land Route – Architecture Meets History (approx. 40 minutes)

First, the bus travels on the road through HafenCity, Hamburg's most modern district. Here, high-tech glass and steel buildings meet the red brick facades of the old warehouses. From the Riverbus, guests can admire landmarks such as the Elbphilharmonie, the Maritime Museum, and the surrounding canals. The contrast between the traditional Warehouse District and futuristic architecture makes this section particularly exciting.
During the ride, the guide shares interesting anecdotes, such as the transformation of the harbor area from a former goods handling site to a modern residential and office district.

2. Water Transition – the Spectacular Change at Entenwerder

After the tour through HafenCity, the most exciting moment of the trip follows: In Rothenburgsort, in the area of Entenwerder, the bus transforms into a boat. Via a specially built ramp, the amphibious vehicle glides slowly yet impressively into the Elbe River. For the guests on board, this is a true experience – accompanied by a light splash of water and the feeling of being on the move in a completely new way.

3. Elbe Cruise – Nature and Technology Up Close (approx. 30 minutes)

On the Elbe River, a completely different perspective of the Hanseatic city unfolds. The Riverbus passes by:

• Tiefstack – an important industrial and power plant site that shapes the energy supply of Hamburg.

• The second largest storm surge barrier in Germany, which impressively shows how much Hamburg has always lived in harmony with the forces of water.

• The Billwerder Bay, a spacious side arm of the Elbe, known for being one of Hamburg's quieter waterways.

• The Holzhafen Nature Reserve, where numerous species of birds and plants have found a protected home – a surprisingly green contrast to the big city.

During this water journey, guests can not only admire nature and technology but also enjoy the special tranquility on the water – in contrast to the bustling activity of the city center.

4. Return to Land – Through the HafenCity 

5. Live Commentary – Knowledge & Entertainment Combined

The entire trip is accompanied by a "Cruise Director", who enriches the tour with humor, exciting facts, and little stories. The mix of interesting information about urban development, harbor history, and curious anecdotes makes the 70 minutes fly by. The commentary is lively, entertaining, and turns the Riverbus into a true experience for children and families alike.

The Hafencity Riverbus is much more than just a city tour – it is a true adventure that allows you to experience Hamburg from two perspectives: on land and on water. The spectacular entry into the Elbe, the blend of modern architecture, historic warehouse buildings, and nature-friendly Elbe branches, along with the entertaining commentary, make this tour unique in Germany.

The Riverbus is particularly recommended for families with children, for visitors to Hamburg who want to discover the city from a completely different perspective, and for locals looking for an extraordinary experience. Those who appreciate the contrast between urban harbor life and peaceful waterways will get their money's worth here.

A tip: It's best to reserve tickets online in advance, as many trips get fully booked quickly. And be sure to have your camera ready – the entry into the water and the journey through the Elbe present unforgettable photo opportunities.

In short: The Hafencity Riverbus is an absolute highlight among Hamburg's excursion destinations and is one of the experiences that should not be missed when visiting the Hanseatic city.