Starting Point: Jungfernstieg or Ballindamm

You start centrally at Jungfernstieg - the southern shore of the Binnenalster. From here, you can look across the water to the Kennedy Bridge. Surrounding you: the Alsterarkaden, luxury shops, and the Alster fountain in the middle of the lake. At Ballindamm, there is also the dock for Alster boats - in case you want to go out on the water before or after your walk.

Over the Kennedy Bridge to the Außenalster

The Kennedy Bridge separates the Binnen- and Außenalster. From here, the actual circular path begins. On the left, the Alsterfleet spreads out towards the city, while on the right, the large lake opens up. You walk along the eastern shore - with views of sailing boats, Alster canoes, and the striking panorama of the western side.

Beautiful Views Along the Außenalster

At Schwanenwik, you might make a short stop - there are rowing clubs, green meadows, and a small boat dock. You continue through the Alsterpark with its wide promenade. There is space for everyone here: walkers, joggers, dog owners, and picnic blankets. The Alster is not just water, but also a habitat right in the city.

Stresemannstraße & Fährhausstraße - Villa View & Café Time

Between Uhlenhorst and Harvestehude, magnificent city villas line your way. From time to time, a small Alster staircase leads down to the water. Around the height of Fährhausstraße, you can take a break in one of the cafés with lake views - for example, at "AlsterCliff" or "Bodo's Bootssteg." The view extends from there all the way to the Lombardsbrücke.

Return via the Western Side

You now cross over the northernmost point of the Alster and turn onto the western side. Here, the path is quieter, a bit greener, and not as bustling. Nevertheless, the view remains spectacular: You can see the television tower, the Hotel Atlantic, church steeples, and sails in a line.

Endpoint: Lombardsbrücke

At the Lombardsbrücke, the circle closes. You cross the water once more - this time from the west back to the Binnenalster. The panoramic view here is particularly strong: City Hall, the Kunsthalle, Binnenalster, and the sparkling water beneath you.

🎉 Insider Tip:
If you are tired or simply looking for a change: You can spontaneously jump on one of the red Hop-on Hop-off Buses at Jungfernstieg or Dammtor. Many lines stop here, and with a day ticket, you can get on and off flexibly. Especially practical if you only want to walk part of the route - or if you want to save the return trip.