Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hamburg's Port History

Hamburg , Germany

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hamburg's Port History

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this self-guided audio tour, navigate tunnels and promenades in search of maritime tales and landmarks. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this stroll through Hamburg, from Hamburg Harbour to the iconic Elbphilharmonie. You’ll explore its unique quaysides and soaring architecture and discover how the city developed into a cosmopolitan centre of culture.

You’ll see a variety of ships docking and departing from the landing bridge or Landungsbrücken. You’ll descend into the depths of the Old Elbe Tunnel, which helped to facilitate trade and commerce in the region. At the end of the tour, the jewel of the harbour awaits you: the magnificent Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, a landmark concert venue. You’ll hear about the concert hall’s unique design journey and learn to appreciate Hamburg’s love affair with arts and culture.

Whether you’re drawn to history, architecture, or the thrill of adventure, prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most dynamic port cities.

Available options

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hamburg's Port History

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

As you start at Landungsbrücken, witness the bustling activity of Hamburg’s vibrant harbour. Ships of all sizes come and go, painting a vivid picture of the city’s maritime heritage.

Stop 2 Pass by

Descending into the depths of the Old Elbe Tunnel, marvel at its impressive engineering. This historic tunnel played a vital role in connecting the city’s bustling harbour with its growing urban centre.

Stop 3 Pass by

Explore Das Feuerschiff LV 13, a historic lightship that serves as a symbol of Hamburg’s maritime legacy. Step aboard and immerse yourself in the rich history of seafaring.

Stop 4 Pass by

Step aboard the Rickmer Rickmers, a magnificent museum ship with a storied past. Discover its fascinating history and gain insight into Hamburg’s maritime industry.

Stop 5 Pass by

Stop at Harbor Police Station No. 2 and learn about the intriguing history of Speicherstadt. This former duty-free harbour area reflects Hamburg’s complex relationship with trade and taxation.

Stop 6 Pass by

Hear about Hamburg’s maritime industry’s turbulent history at the Cap San Diego, the world’s largest sailable museum ship. Explore its decks and imagine life at sea aboard this iconic vessel.

Stop 7 Pass by

Enjoy panoramic views of the Speicherstadt district from the observation deck of Wilhelminenbrücke. Marvel at the intricate network of canals and warehouses that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stop 8 Pass by

Take a leisurely stroll along the Jan Fedder Promenade, named after the beloved actor and Hamburg native. Enjoy picturesque views of the Elbe River and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

Stop 9 Pass by

Explore the scenic Montcalm-Taché Park and take in its lush greenery and serene surroundings. This peaceful oasis offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Stop 10 Pass by

Cross the Mahatma-Gandhi-Brücke and admire its elegant design. This picturesque bridge provides a charming vantage point for capturing panoramic views of Hamburg’s waterfront.

What's not included

Entrance fees to optional stops en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All travellers can join

Meeting point

The tour starts at the Landungsbrücken bridge nr.3 directly next to the clocktower. You can reach the meeting point using public Transportation like the U-3 or S-Bahn stations "Landungsbrücken" as well as various buses (2, 112, 111 and so on).

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Hamburg

Hamburg is Germany's second-largest city and a major port hub with a rich maritime history. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, picturesque canals, and iconic Reeperbahn entertainment district, it offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern energy.

Top Attractions

Elbphilharmonie

An iconic concert hall and architectural marvel with stunning views of the city and the Elbe River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free to enter the plaza, concerts vary in price

Miniatur Wunderland

The world's largest model railway exhibition, featuring intricate landscapes and miniature cities.

Museum 2-3 hours €21 (adults), €11 (children)

Speicherstadt

A historic warehouse district with red-brick buildings, canals, and bridges, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore, museums have entry fees

Reeperbahn

Hamburg's famous entertainment district, known for its nightlife, theaters, and the Red Light District.

Entertainment Evening and night Varies by venue

Planten un Blomen

A beautiful public park with gardens, water features, and seasonal events.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Finkenwerder Scholle

A local delicacy of buttered and fried plaice, often served with potatoes and vegetables.

Main Course Contains fish and dairy

Franzbrötchen

A sweet, cinnamon-filled pastry similar to a croissant.

Breakfast/Snack Contains wheat and dairy

Rote Grütze

A berry dessert made with red currants, raspberries, and strawberries, served with cream or vanilla sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy and may contain gelatin

Hamburger Aalsuppe

A traditional eel soup made with vegetables, potatoes, and spices.

Soup Contains fish and may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Lüneburg Heath Cycling along the Elbe River Boat tours on the Alster and Elbe Walking along the Alster Lake Relaxing at Elbstrand beach Visiting spas and wellness centers Visiting museums and historic sites Attending concerts and theater performances

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and numerous festivals. The city is lively with outdoor events and water-based activities.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: German
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hamburg is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services to avoid overcharging.
• Be cautious when approached by strangers, particularly in the Reeperbahn area.

Getting there

By air

Hamburg Airport • 8.5 km from city center

By train

Hamburg Hauptbahnhof

By bus

ZOB Hamburg (Central Bus Station)

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and frequent, the U-Bahn is the backbone of Hamburg's public transport system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Mytaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Altstadt (Old Town) Neustadt (New Town) St. Pauli HafenCity

Day trips

Blankenese

10 km from Hamburg • Half day to full day

A charming suburb known for its historic houses, scenic views, and the famous Elbstrand beach.

Lübeck

65 km from Hamburg • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its medieval architecture, marzipan, and historic city center.

Lüneburg Heath

50 km from Hamburg • Full day

A vast area of heathland, forests, and meadows, known for its natural beauty and hiking trails.

Festivals

Hamburg Maritime Festival • May (annual) Reeperbahn Festival • September (annual) Christmas Markets • November to December (annual)

Pro tips

Visit the Elbphilharmonie's plaza for free and enjoy the stunning views of the city and the Elbe River.
Explore the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district and its canals, especially at sunset.
Try local specialties like Finkenwerder Scholle and Franzbrötchen at traditional restaurants.
Take a boat tour on the Alster and Elbe rivers to see the city from a different perspective.
Visit the Miniatur Wunderland early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.