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

What makes the Hamburg landing stages so special?

The striking terminal with its green domes stretches for around 700 metres along the Elbe. Boat trips and large harbour tours through the Speicherstadt warehouse district, container port and Elbphilharmonie concert hall depart from here. The HADAG buses depart daily between bridges 1 and 10. You can use them with a normal HVV ticket and discover the harbour from the water at a reasonable price. Particularly popular: Line 62 towards Finkenwerder – with views of the docks, container terminals and Elbe beach. Those who prefer a more touristy experience can book a commented harbour tour directly on site. The ships depart regularly.

Also worth seeing is the Old Elbe Tunnel from 1911, which runs directly under 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 landing bridges connect tourist highlights such as the Reeperbahn, Elbphilharmonie concert hall and fish market and offer ships, people, harbour air and panoramic views around the clock; there is always movement on the water here.

Tip: Souvenir shops, fish stalls, ice cream parlours and restaurants are lined up along the jetties. Despite the crowds, everything runs surprisingly smoothly. And if you'd rather just watch: the passing ships - from cruise liners to barges - keep things moving around the clock

1. The landing bridges consist of floating pontoons that are connected to the mainland by movable bridges. This construction allows the docks to flexibly follow the water level fluctuations of the Elbe.
2. During World War II, the landing bridges were severely damaged and partially rebuilt in the 1950s. The original architecture was largely preserved in the process.
3. One of the two towers of the reception building shows 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. The landing bridges served as a departure point for ferries to Great Britain until 1991. From here, the ships began their journey across the North Sea.
6. The landing bridges are a popular spot for ship spotting. From here, one can observe passing ships of various kinds.
7. In close proximity to the landing bridges is the entrance to the Old Elbtunnel. This historic tunnel allows pedestrians and cyclists to cross the Elbe underground.
8. Various events take place at the landing bridges, including the annual Port Birthday and the Hamburg Cruise Days.
9. The landing bridges are a popular starting point for harbor tours. Numerous tours through the Hamburg harbor start from here.
10. The landing bridges are an important transport hub for subways, S-trains, buses, and ferries.

The landing bridges are suitable for everyone who wants to experience Hamburg - whether on foot, by boat, or simply enjoying a fish sandwich while looking at the Elbe. Access to the water is continuously possible. Families with children can go on a discovery tour: watching ships, taking the ferry, walking in the Old Elbtunnel. The paths are mostly barrier-free, but during peak times, they may not be easily navigable with a stroller everywhere. For couples, a walk at sunset with a fish sandwich picnic by the shore is worth it. Those traveling alone will find countless photographic opportunities and spontaneous outing possibilities.

Access to the landing stages themselves is free of charge. Costs are only incurred for the use of tours, round trips or museum visits.

Note: The timetables for the ferries and round trips may vary depending on the weather and season. It is worth checking online in advance.

The landing bridges are a vibrant hub by the water – perfect for feeling the flair of Hamburg's harbor. Whether as a starting point for a round trip, as a viewpoint, or simply to linger with a view of the Elbe and the ships – everyone will find something to enjoy here. Anyone in Hamburg should definitely stop by at least once. It's worth planning at least an hour – ideally more, as there is a lot to experience in a small space.