In the west of Hamburg lies the staircase district in the neighborhood of Blankenese. It has earned its name, as one might expect from the name, due to its narrow alleys, numerous stairs, and the incomparable view of the Elbe. Originally, it was a fishing village, but over time the staircase district has developed into one of the most desirable residential areas in Hamburg.

What makes the staircase district of Blankenese so special?

The architecture of the district is characterized by a mix of old fisherman’s houses and modern villas. Many of the historic buildings have been lovingly restored and give the district its unique charm. The winding paths and stairs lead you through a unique scenery that invites you to linger and explore.

Historically, Blankenese was a significant fishing village. Some of the oldest preserved fishermen's houses, such as Elbterrasse 6 built in 1570, testify to this past. These buildings tell stories from times when life here was still shaped by fishing and seafaring.

The location on the Elbe slope gives the district a special flair. The steep slopes and narrow alleys remind you of Mediterranean coastal towns and offer you surprising perspectives of the surroundings. Especially from Süllberg, the highest elevation in the district, you have an impressive view over the Elbe all the way to the Old Land.
 

Insider tip: If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, visit the staircase district in the early morning hours. Then you will have the alleys almost to yourself and can enjoy the special atmosphere in peace.

1. Number of Stairs: The neighborhood has about 5,000 steps, spread across 58 staircases.
2. Beach Stairs: The most famous staircase, the beach stairs, has 170 steps and leads directly to the Elbe beach.
3. Oldest House: The house at Elbterrasse 6 dates back to 1570 and is one of the oldest preserved buildings in Hamburg.
4. Highest Point: The Süllberg is the highest elevation in the neighborhood at 74.7 meters and offers an impressive view.
5. Waste Disposal: Due to the narrow alleys, waste collection here is traditionally done by bag collection, as garbage trucks cannot reach the houses.
6. Origin of the Name: The name "Blankenese" derives from the Low German "blank ness," which means "white headland."
7. Transport Links: Some areas of the neighborhood are only accessible on foot, contributing to the quiet atmosphere.
8. Popular Filming Location: The picturesque ambiance makes the stair neighborhood a sought-after location for film and television productions.
9. Park Facilities: There are several parks in the vicinity, such as Baurs Park and Hesse Park, which invite visitors to linger.
10. Population: Blankenese is considered one of the wealthiest districts in Hamburg, with a high quality of life.

The Treppenviertel is an ideal destination for anyone who enjoys being out and about on foot and wants to explore its winding alleys. For families with children, the neighborhood offers exciting opportunities for discovery; however, parents should keep in mind that the numerous stairs can present a challenge for strollers. For individuals with limited mobility, visiting is less suitable due to the many steps.

The visit to the Treppenviertel is free of charge. There are no entry fees, allowing you to explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

Tip: Use public transport such as the S-Bahn or the ferry to get to Blankenese. This way, you can make your journey relaxed and focus entirely on exploring the neighborhood.

The Treppenviertel is a publicly accessible neighborhood and is therefore open around the clock.

The Blankenese staircase district is not a classic sightseeing destination with fixed attractions – that’s precisely what makes it appealing. It’s about slowing down, consciously exploring paths that wind in all directions, and discovering surprising perspectives on the Elbe and its surroundings. If you enjoy being outdoors, have no fear of heights, and are in the mood for a walk off the beaten path, you’ll find yourself in the right place here. Despite its popularity, the district never feels overcrowded – provided you avoid weekends during lunchtime. Those interested in unusual neighborhoods will find plenty to explore here. Particularly beautiful is the combination of views of the Elbe, proximity to nature, and the feeling of being in another world, even though you’re only 30 minutes away from the center of Hamburg.