The St. Pauli Landungsbrücken are one of the most famous places in Hamburg – and a central hub at the harbor. Originally built in 1839 as a landing stage for steamships, they are now the place for harbor tours, ferry connections, sightseeing, and dining.

What makes the Hamburg Landungsbrücken so special?

The distinctive terminal with its green domes stretches about 700 meters along the Elbe. From here, small barges and large harbor tours start, taking you through the Speicherstadt, container harbor, and Elbphilharmonie. Between piers 1 and 10, the HADAG ferry lines operate daily. You can use a regular HVV ticket, making it an affordable way to explore the harbor from the water. Especially popular is line 62 towards Finkenwerder – providing views of docks, container terminals, and the Elbe beach. For a more touristy experience, you can book a guided harbor tour right on site. Boats leave continuously.

Also worth seeing are the Old Elbtunnel from 1911, which runs directly beneath the Elbe and can be used on foot or by bike, as well as the nearby Rickmer Rickmers – a historic sailing ship that now serves as a museum ship.

In short: The Landungsbrücken connect tourist highlights such as the Reeperbahn, Elbphilharmonie, and Fish Market and offer ships, seagulls, harbor air, and panoramic views around the clock – there is always movement on the water.
 

Tip: Along the Landungsbrücken, souvenir shops, fish sandwich stands, ice cream parlors, and restaurants line up next to each other. Despite the crowds, the process works surprisingly smoothly. And if you just want to watch: The passing ships – from giant cruise liners to inland vessels – provide movement around the clock.

1. The landing bridges consist of floating pontoons, which are connected to the mainland by movable bridges. This construction allows the docking areas to flexibly adjust to the fluctuations in the water level of the Elbe. ​
2. During World War II, the landing bridges were severely damaged and were partially rebuilt in the 1950s. The original architecture was largely preserved in the process. ​
3. One of the two towers of the reception building displays not only the time but also the current water level of the Elbe.
4. The reception building of the landing bridges has been under monument protection since 2003. It is characterized by its distinctive green domes and towers. ​
5. Until 1991, the landing bridges served as a departure point for ferries to Great Britain. From here, ships began their journey across the North Sea.
6. The landing bridges are a popular spot for ship spotting. From here, various types of passing ships can be observed. ​
7. In the immediate vicinity of the landing bridges is the entrance to the Old Elbe Tunnel. This historic tunnel allows pedestrians and cyclists to cross the Elbe underground. ​
8. The landing bridges host various events, including the annual Harbor Birthday and the Hamburg Cruise Days.
9. The landing bridges are a popular starting point for harbor tours. Numerous tours through the Hamburg harbor depart from here. ​
10. The landing bridges are an important transportation hub for the subway, commuter trains, buses, and ferries.

The landing stages are suitable for everyone who wants to experience Hamburg – whether on foot, by boat, or simply while enjoying a fish sandwich with a view of the Elbe. Access to the water is continuously available. Families with children can go on an exploration tour: watching ships, taking the ferry, or walking through the historic Elbtunnel. The paths are mostly barrier-free, but may not always be easy to navigate with a stroller during peak times. For couples, a walk at sunset with a fish sandwich picnic by the shore is worthwhile. Those traveling alone will find countless photo opportunities and spontaneous excursion options.

Access to the landing bridges themselves is free. Costs only apply when using ferries, sightseeing tours, or museum visits.

Tip: With a regular HVV day pass, you can use line 62 like a harbor tour – just cheaper.

 

Note: The schedules for ferries and tours may vary depending on weather conditions and the season. Checking online in advance is advisable.

The landing stages are a vibrant hub by the water – perfect for experiencing the flair of Hamburg’s harbor. Whether as a starting point for a sightseeing tour, a viewpoint, or just to relax while looking at the Elbe and ships – there is something for everyone here. Anyone visiting Hamburg should definitely stop by here at least once. It's worth planning at least an hour – ideally more, as there is a lot to experience in a small area.