Alter Elbtunnel
A historic, tiled tunnel under the Elbe River, connecting Hamburg's heart to its port with free pedestrian and bike access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walk
Alter Elbtunnel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful walk
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, tiled tunnel under the Elbe River, connecting Hamburg's heart to its port with free pedestrian and bike access.
"A perfectly kept tunnel running under the Elbe river. A fun free experience."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike Through
Experience the full length of the tunnel by walking or cycling. Be aware of cyclists moving at speed .
⬆️ Elevator Access Available
Don't want to take the stairs? Large, historic elevators are available on both sides for easy access .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tiled Interior
Inside the tunnel tubes
Marvel at the beautifully preserved tiles adorned with sea animals, creating a unique and slightly eerie atmosphere.
Historic Elevators
Tunnel entrances
Experience the grandeur of the massive, old elevators that transport visitors down to the tunnel level.
Panoramic City Views
South side of the Elbe River
After crossing, enjoy a quiet, panoramic view of the Hamburg skyline, including the Elbphilharmonie.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Alter Elbtunnel
Navigating the Tunnel: Walk, Bike, or Elevator?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike Through
Experience the full length of the tunnel by walking or cycling. Be aware of cyclists moving at speed.
⬆️ Elevator Access Available
Don't want to take the stairs? Large, historic elevators are available on both sides for easy access.
📸 Capture the Tiles
The intricate sea animal tiles are a highlight. Take your time to admire and photograph them.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy this unique experience without any cost. A great budget-friendly activity in Hamburg.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike Through
Experience the full length of the tunnel by walking or cycling. Be aware of cyclists moving at speed.
⬆️ Elevator Access Available
Don't want to take the stairs? Large, historic elevators are available on both sides for easy access.
📸 Capture the Tiles
The intricate sea animal tiles are a highlight. Take your time to admire and photograph them.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy this unique experience without any cost. A great budget-friendly activity in Hamburg.
➡️ Explore the Other Side
Continue to Steinwerder on the south side for a different perspective and city views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Alter Elbtunnel as a unique, free, and historically significant attraction in Hamburg. The beautifully preserved tiled interior and impressive engineering are major highlights, offering a memorable experience. While some note it's a functional tunnel with cyclists to be mindful of, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-see.
"A perfectly kept tunnel running under the Elbe river. A fun free experience. I recommend taking the stairs down and the lift up.
The tiles are beautiful and adorned with various sea animals.
The tunnel connects central Hamburg with the docks and shipyards on the south side of the river Elbe. It is used daily by commuters as a shortcut across the river. Be sure to stick to the pavements inside the tunnel as cyclists move quite quickly."
Petra P
"This is a public, toll-free tunnel for pedestrians and bikes. One tube is currently undergoing maintenance, so be aware of traffic in both directions when you cross.
The tunnel is manned, and if you don’t feel like taking the stairs down, there’s good elevators to take you down on both sides of the tunnel.
Built in 1911 and still very much alive beneath the Elbe.
The tiled tunnel feels more like a film set than public infrastructure, beautifully preserved and slightly eerie.
Walk it, bike it, or just descend for the atmosphere. If you have time, continue to Steinwerder on the south side for a quiet panoramic view of the city."
Per Steen
"Incredible engineering and really well renovated. Totally free. No wait. Gorgeous inside. Easy 10-12 minute walk to other side. Make sure you use the large left for the bicycles and scooters but also check out the main hall via the stairs."
Lindsay Ewing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alter Elbtunnel is easily accessible from the Landungsbrücken in Hamburg. You can reach it by public transport (U-Bahn or S-Bahn to Landungsbrücken) or by walking along the harbor. Many visitors start their journey here.
Parking directly at the tunnel entrance can be challenging due to its central location. It's recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking garage and walk to the tunnel.
Yes, several bus lines stop near the Landungsbrücken, providing convenient access to the Alter Elbtunnel. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The Landungsbrücken station is a major transport hub, served by U-Bahn lines U1, U2, U3, and S-Bahn lines S1, S2, S3, making it very easy to reach the Alter Elbtunnel via public transport.
Most visitors approach the Alter Elbtunnel from the Landungsbrücken. From there, you can descend via stairs or use the historic elevators.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Alter Elbtunnel is completely free! It's a public, toll-free tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists.
Opening hours vary: Monday to Friday, it's typically open from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays, hours are usually 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Always check for any updates as maintenance can affect access.
While generally open daily, one tube is often undergoing maintenance, which can affect traffic flow. It's advisable to check for any temporary closures or specific access information before your visit.
The Alter Elbtunnel is a fantastic free attraction. You can walk or cycle through it without paying any admission fees.
While there aren't official 'tours' in the traditional sense, you can explore the tunnel independently. Some guided city tours might include it as a point of interest.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the beautifully tiled interior, featuring marine life motifs. You can also admire the historic architecture and the impressive engineering of the tunnel itself.
Yes, walking through the Alter Elbtunnel is a popular activity. Just be sure to stick to the designated pavements and be aware of cyclists.
Absolutely! Cycling is a common way to traverse the tunnel. Remember to be considerate of pedestrians and follow any posted rules.
Yes, there are large, historic elevators on both sides of the tunnel that can take you down to the tunnel level, making it accessible for those who prefer not to use the stairs.
The tunnel is approximately 426.5 meters long, with the deepest point reaching 23.5 meters below the riverbed.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Alter Elbtunnel. It's a great spot to capture unique architectural details and the tiled walls.
Focus on the intricate tile work, the grand staircases, and the historic elevators. The entrance and exit points also offer interesting perspectives.
Drone usage is typically not permitted in enclosed public spaces like tunnels due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to avoid flying drones inside.
The tunnel is well-lit, but the lighting can be somewhat dim in certain areas. Using a camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a night mode can be beneficial.
While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography that might disturb other visitors. Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians when setting up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great way to break up a day of sightseeing and provides a unique, slightly mysterious environment for exploration. The walk is short enough not to tire out little legs, and the views from the other side offer a great reward.Tip: Encourage children to spot different sea animals on the tiles. The elevators are also a big hit! Consider bringing a small snack to enjoy on the south side while taking in the harbor views.
🚶♀️ Pedestrians & Cyclists
The tunnel's unique atmosphere, with its tiled walls and historic elevators, makes it more than just a transit point – it's a destination in itself.Key Advice: Be aware of cyclists sharing the tunnel. While walking is encouraged, cyclists can move quickly. Stick to the designated paths and enjoy the journey. The views from the Steinwerder side are a fantastic bonus for any cyclist's route.
📸 Photographers
Pro-Tip: Experiment with different angles and lighting conditions. The panoramic views of the Hamburg skyline from the south side are also a must-capture, especially during golden hour or at dusk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Engineering
The tunnel's construction involved innovative techniques for its time, allowing for the passage of pedestrians, cyclists, and even horse-drawn carriages initially.Its distinctive tiled interior, featuring a mosaic of marine animals, was not just decorative but also served a practical purpose, adding to the tunnel's unique ambiance and making it a memorable experience for visitors. The tunnel's survival and continued use, even after undergoing significant renovations, speak to its enduring importance and architectural significance.
Today, the Alter Elbtunnel continues to serve as a functional passageway, but it also stands as a testament to Hamburg's rich industrial heritage. It's a place where history, engineering, and daily life converge, offering a unique perspective on the city's past and present.
Navigating the Tunnel: Practicalities for Visitors
Visitors can choose to descend to the tunnel level using the grand, historic staircases or opt for the convenient elevators available on both sides. These elevators are a highlight in themselves, showcasing the original engineering of the structure.Once inside, the tunnel is well-lit, and the tiled walls create a distinctive atmosphere. It's important to remember that this is an active thoroughfare for both pedestrians and cyclists. While walking is perfectly fine, be mindful of cyclists who use it as a quick route and may travel at a moderate pace.
The journey through the tunnel takes about 10-12 minutes on foot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit