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Cruise Through Hamburg - Discover, Dine & Relax
- Hamburg in a day? You got it! Explore the largest German port city with a 1-day hop-on hop-off bus tour and see the best port views on a harbor cruise.
- Venture into Hamburg on your time – Hop on and off the bus at 15 stops, with rides every hour to keep your journey uninterrupted.
- Glide along Hamburg’s port on a 1-hour cruise and see the Elbphilharmonie performance hall and more with live commentary and an English audio guide.
- Live German commentary, 6-language audio guides, handy route maps, and open-air views from the double-decker bus ensure you never miss a beat.
- Shop, see, savor! This Hamburg tour hits the bustling Landungsbrücken, iconic St. Michael's Church, grand City Hall, chic Gänsemarkt square, and more.
- Hamburg in a day? You got it! Explore the largest German port city with a 1-day hop-on hop-off bus tour and see the best port views on a harbor cruise.
- Venture into Hamburg on your time – Hop on and off the bus at 15 stops, with rides every hour to keep your journey uninterrupted.
- Glide along Hamburg’s port on a 1-hour cruise and see the Elbphilharmonie performance hall and more with live commentary and an English audio guide.
- Live German commentary, 6-language audio guides, handy route maps, and open-air views from the double-decker bus ensure you never miss a beat.
- Shop, see, savor! This Hamburg tour hits the bustling Landungsbrücken, iconic St. Michael's Church, grand City Hall, chic Gänsemarkt square, and more.
Inclusions
Hamburg Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
- 1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
- Live guide in German
- Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, Russian, Italian & German
- Headphones
- Sightseeing map
Hamburg Harbor Cruise
- 1-hour Hamburg Harbor cruise
- Live commentary in German
- Audio guide in English
Hamburg Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
- First bus: 9:45am from Kirchenallee (Hauptbahnhof)
- Last bus: 11:45pm from Kirchenallee (Hauptbahnhof)
- Frequency: every 60 mins
- Popular stops: Goose market, Gerhart Hauptmann Platz, Marco-Polo-Terrasse
Hamburg Harbor Cruise
Summer timetable (March to Oct)
Mon to Thu
- First cruise: 10am from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Last cruise: 6pm from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Frequency: approx 20 mins
Fri to Sun
- First cruise: 10am from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Last cruise: 7pm from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Frequency: approx 20 mins
Winter timetable (Nov to Feb)
Mon to Thu
- First cruise: 10am from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Last cruise: 5pm from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Frequency: approx 30 mins
Fri to Sun
- First cruise: 10am from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Last cruise: 5pm from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
- Frequency: approx 30 mins
Click here for detailed route maps and boarding points.
- Tip: Inside the Speicherstadt district, visit Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway, featuring intricate miniatures of various regions, including Hamburg.
- The buses are wheelchair pram/stroller accessible.
- Your guide dogs and pets are allowed.
- Note that during special events, construction, or other incidents the services and timetable are subject to change.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
All photos
Stadtrundfahrt: 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour of Hamburg with Harbor and/or Alster Lake Cruise
- Discover Hamburg's highlights on a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour – valid for 1 day – with 2 cruise experiences along the harbor and Alster Lake.
- Enjoy a flexible bus schedule as you hop on and off at any of the 20 stops along the Line A route.
- Observe magnificent villas and gardens from a waterfront perspective on a 1-hour harbor cruise and Alster Lake cruise.
- Learn all about the city and its history with an audio narration in 11 languages, complete with headphones, on board the bus.
- See the impressive Rathaus City Hall, Hamburg's seat of government, the 18th-century St. Michael's Church, and more.
- Discover Hamburg's highlights on a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus tour – valid for 1 day – with 2 cruise experiences along the harbor and Alster Lake.
- Enjoy a flexible bus schedule as you hop on and off at any of the 20 stops along the Line A route.
- Observe magnificent villas and gardens from a waterfront perspective on a 1-hour harbor cruise and Alster Lake cruise.
- Learn all about the city and its history with an audio narration in 11 languages, complete with headphones, on board the bus.
- See the impressive Rathaus City Hall, Hamburg's seat of government, the 18th-century St. Michael's Church, and more.
Inclusions
- Valid for 1 day
- Unlimited hop-on hop-off access
- Audio guide in 11 languages
- Sightseeing map
- Headphones
- 1-hour Harbor Cruise (optional)
- 1-hour Alster Lake Cruise
Line A
Mon to Thu
- First bus: 9:25am from stop #1 (St. Pauli Landungsbrücken)
- Last bus: 4:55pm from stop #1 (St. Pauli Landungsbrücken)
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Popular Stops: Elbphilharmonie, HafenCity & Speicherstadt
Fri to Sun, Public & Bank Holidays
- First bus: 9:15am from stop #1 (St. Pauli Landungsbrücken)
- Last bus: 4:55pm
- Frequency: Every 20 mins
Please click here for a detailed route map and its boarding points & click here to see the winter timetable from 1 February to 29 March 2024.
Harbor Cruise
Apr to Oct
- First cruise at 10am from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 1 or 4
- Last cruise at 6pm
- Frequency: Every 15 to 30 mins
Nov to Mar
- First cruise at10am from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken 1 or 4
- Last cruise at 6pm
- Frequency: Every 35 to 40 mins
Alster Lake Cruise
- First cruise at 11am from Anleger Jungfernstieg
- Last cruise at 4pm
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
- Tip: With flat roads and dedicated cycle paths throughout the city, Hamburg is a very bike-friendly place. Some hostels and hotels have their own bike rental. Hop on one and ride through the city.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Buggy (on prior request).
- The audio guide on the bus is available in English, German, French, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Danish, Japanese, Mandarin, Brazilian Portuguese, and Arabic.
- Dogs are welcome onboard.
- Special events, construction, or other incidents may require Line A services and timetables changes.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
All photos
From happy customers
Julie
oct, 2018
So pleased with our decision. The enormous escalator up to the balcony is insane and once you get there, you can take in views of the harbor, the city, ships sailing by.
Combo: Hamburg Harbor Cruise & Elbphilharmonie Guided Tour - Sat & Sun
Kerstin
Germanymar, 2025
We had the guided tour to the Elphi with Klaus on 03.03.2025. There were only four of us with another couple. We learned a lot about the Elphi and Klaus had many more tips for our stay in Hamburg. It was great fun. We hope that many more visitors to the Elphi will be guided just as well by the very likeable Klaus. A big thank you to him.
We also enjoyed the subsequent harbor tour. The captain was very relaxed with his jokes. The day was absolutely to our taste. Thank you very much.
View original review in German
Combo: Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets
Angela
Austriajul, 2024
The tour with KLAUS was very interesting and entertaining, the building great and the city of Hamburg as a whole a beautiful city!
View original review in German
Combo: Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets
Simona
Italymay, 2025
It is a good way to see Hamburg from a different perspective.
We attended on a relatively mild and sunny day, which allowed us to take our seats on the outside terrace of the ship, from which we were able to take some very nice photographs.
Contrary to the description, we were not given any audio guides in languages other than German, but since this was not our first visit to the city, it was fine anyway.
Good experience, I would recommend it.
View original review in Italian
Hamburg Harbor and Speicherstadt Cruise
Paul
ago, 2024
There could have been a bit more narrative. The tour was meant to be a bit of fun, of course, but a little more information would have been nice.
View original review in German
Hamburg Harbor and Speicherstadt Cruise
Martig
jun, 2025
Easy to find the boat tour provider. Super-friendly people on the boat and a super-friendly guide.
View original review in French
2-Hour Hamburg Harbour Cruise
Rebekka
Germanyago, 2024
The captain commented on the tour in an informative and very humorous way, we saw and learned a lot. He obviously enjoyed his job and knew a lot about the port of Hamburg. Great!
View original review in German
2-Hour Hamburg Harbour Cruise
Schultze,
ago, 2023
das Wetter war super und die Stimmung auf dem Schiff war heiter und gelöst. Da es voll und laut war, konnte man den Ansager nicht gut verstehen.
1-Hour Illumination Cruise in Hamburg
Why go on a Hamburg cruise?
Spectacular harbor views
River cruises on the Elbe River in Hamburg offer panoramic views of Hamburg harbor from the water. Glide past iconic landmarks like the Elbphilharmonie and Speicherstadt and explore lesser-known sights that are only accessible by boat while listening to informative audio guides available onboard.
Read more
Your Hamburg cruise options
If you are a sightseeing enthusiast
Go for: Harbor cruise tickets
Duration: 1 or 2 hours
- Explore the iconic sights of Hamburg harbor like the Speicherstadt district, Elbphilharmonie, and Fischmarket, with live commentary in German providing detailed insights. You can also download audio guides in multiple languages for convenient exploration.
- Just a heads-up: Depending on the tide, Speicherstadt may not be reachable. But don’t worry, alternative routes will be taken so you can check out other iconic spots around Hamburg harbor.
Recommended tickets:
- Hamburg Harbor Cruise
- Hamburg Speicherstadt and Harbor Cruise
- 2-Hour Hamburg Harbour Cruise
- 1.5-Hour Harbour & Speicherstadt Cruise
If you are looking for an evening cruise
Go for: Harbor lights cruise tickets
Duration: 1 or 1.5 hours
- Witness the magic of Hamburg's evening lights dancing on the waters during a serene harbor lights cruise on a spacious open-deck ship. It is the perfect cruise option for couples or those looking to enjoy a quieter, more intimate tour of Hamburg's waterways.
- Dive deeper into the city's history and culture with comprehensive live commentary in German or a multilingual audio guide.
- Speicherstadt district is a sight to behold at night in all its gothic grandeur. However, on some occasions, Speicherstadt may not be reachable due to tides.
Recommended tickets:
- Hamburg Evening Lights Speicherstadt & Harbor Cruise
- 1.5-Hour Grand Harbor Evening Lights Cruise
If you want a comprehensive Hamburg experience
Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: Flexible
- Combine your Hamburg boat tour with a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for a full-day adventure. This combo offers great value, combining two popular Hamburg experiences.
- Or combine your harbor cruise with a guided tour of the iconic Elbphilharmonie to learn all about its architecture and history. There's also an option to combine your cruise with a guided tour of the Elbphilharmonie Plaza, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city from one of its highest vantage points.
Recommended tickets:
- Hamburg City Tours: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Hamburg Harbor Cruise
- Combo: Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets
- Combo (Save 17%): Elbphilharmonie Plaza Guided Tour + 1-Hour Harbor Cruise Tickets
Find your best Hamburg cruise match here
Experience
Type
Boarding point
Timings
Live commentary
Book Tickets
Hamburg Speicherstadt and Harbor Cruise
Sightseeing
Will be mentioned on the final voucher
10am & 10:30am
German
Hamburg Evening Lights Speicherstadt & Harbor Cruise
Evening
Will be mentioned on the final voucher
8:30pm and 9pm
German
Panoptikum + Hamburg River Cruise
Combo tour
St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, Brücke 1
10am - 6pm
German
Hamburg City Tours: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Hamburg Harbor Cruise
Combo tour
Will be mentioned on the final voucher
10am - 4:30pm
German
Combo: Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets
Combo tour
St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, Brücke 1
11am, 1:30pm, and 3pm
German
Combo (Save 17%): Elbphilharmonie Plaza Guided Tour + 1-Hour Harbor Cruise Tickets
Combo tour
Will be mentioned on the final voucher
10am - 6pm
German
Hamburg Harbor cruise map
Barge or passenger ship – choose the right vessel for your Hamburg cruise
When it comes to exploring Hamburg's beautiful harbor, choosing the right Hamburg cruise ship can make all the difference. You can get this choice in some of the harbor cruise tickets. Here's a quick comparison between the barge and passenger ship options to help you decide which one suits your preferences:
Barge
- Cozy setting: A barge provides an intimate atmosphere with rustic charm, perfect for those seeking a more personal cruise experience around the Hamburg harbor.
- Ideal for exploring Speicherstadt: Opt for a barge (if there is an option to choose different ships) if you want to cruise through Speicherstadt, Hamburg's historic warehouse district, as the bridges in this region are too low for the large passenger ships to get through.
- Dependent on tides: There's a little downside to choosing barges. All Hamburg cruises aboard little barges are subject to the tide. So, check the tides before you embark on your cruise adventure.
Passenger ship
- Luxurious and spacious setting: If comfort and luxury are what you seek, then a passenger ship is the way to go. These larger vessels provide ample space to stretch out and relax as you take in the sights of Hamburg's bustling harbor.
- Accessibility: Passenger ships are better equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, making them a convenient option for families and individuals with mobility needs.
- Higher price: While passenger cruise ships in Hamburg come with added comfort and amenities, it's worth noting that they typically come at a higher cost compared to the smaller barges.
For some of the Hamburg cruises, you'll get an option to choose the type of vessel before finalizing your purchase. This selection is crucial as it determines the specifics of your journey, from the size and amenities of the Hamburg cruise ship to the itinerary and overall atmosphere. Be sure to review the information provided about each ship type on the ticket before making your decision.
Your Hamburg harbor cruise boarding points: Where the adventure begins
St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
Famous for: A variety of cafes and restaurants, gift shops, views of massive container and cruise ships, St. Pauli football club, and street performers.
Nearest subway: Landungsbrücken
Anleger Jungfernstieg
Famous for: Beautiful views of the Alster Lake, shopping centers, luxurious dining, bakeries, rooftop cafes, and charming Christmas market.
Nearest subway: Jungfernstieg
Plan your Hamburg harbor cruise
Timings
Getting there
Best time to go on a cruise
Rules
Tips
Dine
Stay
- 1.5-Hour Harbour & Speicherstadt Cruise: Run from 11am to 5pm, departing every 45 minutes.
- Hamburg Speicherstadt and Harbor Cruise: Starts from 10 or 10:30am, departing every 15-30 minutes
- Hamburg Harbor Cruise: 12:45 pm
- 2-Hour Hamburg Harbour Cruise: Run from 10:30am to 3pm, departing every 30 minutes.
- Panoptikum + Hamburg River Cruise: Runs between 10am to 6pm
- Hamburg City Tours: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Hamburg Harbor Cruise: Runs between 10am to 4:30pm
- Combo (Save 17%): Hamburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Hamburg Harbor Cruise: Runs between 10am - 6pm
- Hamburg Evening Lights Speicherstadt & Harbor Cruise: 8:30 pm and 9pm
- Combo: Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets: 11am, 1:30pm, and 3pm
- Combo (Save 17%): Elbphilharmonie Plaza Guided Tour + 1-Hour Harbor Cruise Tickets: Runs between 10am to 6pm
St. Pauli Landungsbrücken
Getting there:
- By bus: Board buses 111 or 608
Nearest bus stop: U S Landungsbrücken - By metro: Board metro lines S1, S2, or S3
Nearest metro station: Landungsbrücken
Anleger Jungfernstieg
Getting there:
- By bus: Board buses 4, 5, 19, 602, or 603
Nearest bus stop: U S Jungfernstieg - By metro: Metro U2 or U4
Nearest metro station: Jungfernstieg
Best time of day:
The best time of day for a Hamburg cruise largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience.:
- Early morning Elbe cruises offer a peaceful time to soak in the beauty of Hamburg before the city awakens.
- Midday cruises are perfect for those who want to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the Hamburg harbor during peak hours.
- Evening Hamburg cruises offer a magical experience as the city lights up, creating a picturesque backdrop for a romantic evening cruise.
Best time of year:
The best time of the year to embark on a Hamburg boat tour is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild, the skies are often clear, and the city comes alive with vibrant colors and events.
- No weapons or sharp objects allowed: As with most public transportation and leisure activities, weapons and sharp objects are strictly prohibited onboard the cruise.
- Bring your ID: A valid passport or ID card is required for boarding your Hamburg cruise ship.
- Leave outside food behind: While it might be tempting to pack a picnic for your cruise adventure, outside food is generally not permitted.
- Pets and guide dogs: Some cruises welcome furry companions and guide dogs aboard, but it's always best to check in advance. However, keep in mind that not all cruise experiences are suitable for pets, so it's wise to plan accordingly.
- Accessibility considerations: While many cruises strive to accommodate all passengers, including those with mobility challenges, it's important to note that some experiences may not be suitable for wheelchair users. Larger passenger cruise ships in Hamburg offer better accessibility options, including space for wheelchairs and strollers.
- Glass roof protocols: Depending on the weather conditions, your boat will have an open or closed glass roof.
- Reserve your tickets online: Secure your spot by booking your Hamburg cruise tickets online in advance. Not only does this save you time, but you might also score some sweet deals or discounts.
- Check your ticket voucher: Every cruise is a unique voyage, and your ticket voucher is your map to this maritime adventure. Take a moment to peruse the details: departure times, meeting points, and any other unique details.
- Carry your ID: Hamburg cruises require ID verification, especially if you've snagged a discounted ticket. It's a small detail that can save you from any unforeseen hiccups.
- Dress comfortably: Even on sunny days, the breeze off the Hamburg river water can be brisk. Bring along a light jacket or sweater, just in case.
- Follow the guidelines: Listen to safety instructions and follow guidelines given by the crew.
- BYO headphones or grab some onsite: Many cruises offer insightful commentary in multiple languages, so it's always a good idea to bring your own headphones for optimal comfort.
- Fischereihafen Restaurant: Enjoy caviar, oysters, and grilled seafood with a side of stunning harbor views at Fischereihafen Restaurant, located just a short distance away from St Pauli Landungsbrücken.
- Blockbräu: Situated right on the waterfront, Blockbräu offers mouthwatering cuisine and breathtaking views of the Hamburg harbor. Indulge in hearty German fare accompanied by freshly brewed beer.
- Störtebeker Elbphilharmonie: For a truly unforgettable dining experience, make your way to Störtebeker Elbphilharmonie, located within Hamburg's iconic Elbphilharmonie concert hall. Enjoy innovative cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients, all while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor and city skyline.
Top sights to see on your Hamburg river cruise
See all photos
Things to do at the Hamburg Harbor: Go on an exciting Hamburg Harbor tour
Hamburg harbor is more than just a gateway for ships; it's a vibrant hub of activity and a pivotal part of the city's identity. Here, you'll find a boatload of exciting things to do (pun intended), whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone who loves to soak in the atmosphere of a bustling waterfront. Here are some of our favorite picks:
Visit Hamburg Dungeon
Prepare for a spine-tingling adventure at the Hamburg Dungeon, where history comes to life with interactive shows and thrilling rides. Experience the city's darker past through gripping storytelling and realistic sets.
Hamburg Dungeon tickets
See the Elbphilharmonie
This iconic concert hall, nicknamed Elphi by locals, is a marvel of modern architecture situated on the banks of the Elbe River. Admire its stunning glass facade and enjoy panoramic views of Hamburg from its observation deck.
Elbphilharmonie tickets
Have fun at Reeperbahn
From theaters and galleries to clubs and restaurants, this famous street located along the Elbe river boasts an eclectic nightlife. Here, you will also find many flea markets, open-air concerts, and other interesting experiences.
Reeperbahn tours
Relax at the beach clubs
Need a break from all the sightseeing? Head to one of the beach clubs along the riverbank and soak up the sun with a refreshing drink in hand. It's the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Hamburg's waterfront.
Explore the Speicherstadt
Admire the red-brick buildings and picturesque canals of the Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't forget to stop by Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway exhibition.
Visit the Hamburg Fish Market
Fresh produce, fruits, flowers - name it and you will find it here. Every Sunday morning, this area is transformed into an endearing mix of bargaining, hollering, and haggling. Watch fishermen show off their fresh catch as you explore the stalls selling a wide variety of commodities.
Visit Cap San Diego Museum
MS Cap San Diego was once a sprawling ship that carried cotton, coffee, and other essentials to Germany. It has now been transformed into a museum, making it the largest museum ship in the world.
Frequently asked questions about Hamburg cruises
What are the different types of Hamburg cruises?
Hamburg offers a variety of cruises catering to different tastes. There are sightseeing cruises to explore Hamburg's iconic landmarks and waterfront at your preferred time of the day, evening light cruises to witness the city illuminated under the night sky, and combo packages if you want to experience Hamburg both on land and water, blending sightseeing with cultural exploration.
How much do Hamburg cruises cost?
Prices for Hamburg cruises start from €17.60 and may vary based on inclusions and features such as onboard amenities or combo tours.
Are guided tours of the Port of Hamburg available?
Your German-speaking captain will regale you with tales of the Port of Hamburg and point out all the major attractions as you pass them by on your Hamburg cruise.
What can I see on a Hamburg cruise?
Hamburg cruises offer breathtaking views of the city's iconic landmarks like the Elbphilharmonie, Speicherstadt (the historic warehouse district), HafenCity, and the impressive container ship terminals. You'll also catch sight of the bustling activity along the Elbe River and witness the maritime charm that defines Hamburg.
Do I need separate tickets to enter the Elbphilharmonie?
Unless you opt for a combo tour, you need to purchase a separate ticket to enter the Elbphilharmonie.
Are audio guides available for Hamburg Harbor cruises?
Yes. Free downloadable audio guides are available on Hamburg Harbor cruises, allowing you to gain in-depth knowledge of the various attractions in multiple languages.
What are the best times to go on a Hamburg cruise?
The best time of the year to embark on a Hamburg cruise is usually during the spring and autumn months when the weather is quite pleasant. The best time of the day to go on a cruise depends on your preferences and the type of experience you wish to have.
How long are typical Hamburg Elbe cruises?
Hamburg cruises usually last between 1 to 2.5 hours, offering ample time to soak in the sights and sounds of the Port of Hamburg.
Are Hamburg cruises wheelchair accessible?
Yes, some cruises are wheelchair accessible while others are not. Please note that larger passenger cruise ships in Hamburg can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, while barges can not. So please choose your preferred ship accordingly.
What are the Hamburg cruise timings?
Cruises are available throughout the year, with timings starting from 6 am onwards. However, specific timings may vary depending on the type of cruise and experience selected.
What is the cancellation policy for Hamburg cruise tickets?
Cancellation policies vary depending on the chosen experience. Some cruises allow cancellations up to 24 hours in advance with a refund, while others may have different policies. It's advisable to check the cancellation policy when booking your tickets.
Are Hamburg cruises suitable for children?
Absolutely! Hamburg cruises are family-friendly, providing an enjoyable experience for both adults and children. If you are carrying a stroller, then please note that choosing a passenger ship will be the ideal option as they can accommodate strollers, while barges can not.
Where do Hamburg cruises depart from?
Hamburg cruises typically depart from either St. Pauli Landungsbrücken Brücke 1 or Brücke 3. These locations offer convenient access to the heart of Hamburg's harbor district, ensuring you start your journey with ease.
