Außenalster
A sprawling urban lake offering serene waters, lush parks, and vibrant recreational activities, a true gem in Hamburg.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Außenalster
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling urban lake offering serene waters, lush parks, and vibrant recreational activities, a true gem in Hamburg.
"The Alster Lakes offer a blend of scenic beauty and recreational options, the best nature spot near Hamburg."
Rent a Paddleboat! :rowboat:
Rent a paddleboat for a unique perspective of the Außenalster. It's a beautiful way to spend an afternoon!
Early Bird Gets the Calm :sunrise:
Go early morning for a peaceful run or walk. It gets crowded later, especially on weekends.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Paddleboat Adventure
Various rental points around the lake
Glide across the serene waters, enjoying the city skyline and lush surroundings. A quintessential Außenalster experience.
Alster Cruise Views
Jungfernstieg and other piers
See Hamburg from a different angle on a relaxing Alster cruise, offering picturesque views of mansions and parks.
Lakeside Strolls & Runs
Pathways around the Außenalster
Enjoy scenic walks or runs along the well-maintained trails, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty and city vistas.
Dior Beauty Cafe
Exclusive pop-up location
Experience a chic pop-up cafe celebrating new fragrances with stunning lake views. Check for seasonal availability.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Embrace the Waterways
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent a Paddleboat! :rowboat:
Rent a paddleboat for a unique perspective of the Außenalster. It's a beautiful way to spend an afternoon! +1
Early Bird Gets the Calm :sunrise:
Go early morning for a peaceful run or walk. It gets crowded later, especially on weekends.
Alster Cruise Charm :ferry:
Take an Alster cruise for stunning city views and a relaxing experience. Great for all ages!
Pack Bug Spray :bug:
If visiting in the evening during warmer months, be prepared for mosquitoes near the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent a Paddleboat! :rowboat:
Rent a paddleboat for a unique perspective of the Außenalster. It's a beautiful way to spend an afternoon! +1
Early Bird Gets the Calm :sunrise:
Go early morning for a peaceful run or walk. It gets crowded later, especially on weekends.
Alster Cruise Charm :ferry:
Take an Alster cruise for stunning city views and a relaxing experience. Great for all ages!
Pack Bug Spray :bug:
If visiting in the evening during warmer months, be prepared for mosquitoes near the water.
Swan Etiquette :bird:
While you can't be jailed for offending a swan, it's best to admire them from a distance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Außenalster as a beautiful urban oasis, perfect for recreation and relaxation. The scenic beauty, opportunities for water activities like paddleboating, and pleasant running/walking paths are frequently praised. Some mention evening crowds and mosquitoes as minor drawbacks.
"The Alster Lakes in Hamburg offer a escape within the city, perfect for outdoor activities, trail around lake is ideal for running and walking. For water activities, the lakes provide opportunities for kayaking and paddling, and rentals are available. In my experience, the Alster Lakes stand out as the best nature spot near Hamburg, offering a blend of scenic beauty and recreational options. I really liked it."
Travel & Food
"My go to running route during my 1 week stay in Hamburg. I personally find this is the best place to run in Hamburg as it is uninterrupted and the whole lake clockwise/anticlockwise is about 4km.
For runners, most part of the runs are on trails but they are use granites etc. Entire stretch of the lake are well maintained and three are many ducks and swans around. Would suggest going early morning as the whole place will be crowded late afternoon onwards."
Terence Yeo
"The Alster Lakes area is absolutely dreamy. It's a great spot to watch the sail boats, the ducks, the people out for a stroll or a run. I sat on one of the benches for a bit and then walked into the city from there. What a treat for people living or visiting that area of the city. I enjoyed it so much that I booked a boat tour of both the Inner and Outer Lakes today."
Irma Zandl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Außenalster is easily accessible from Hamburg's city center. You can walk from areas like Jungfernstieg, take a bus, or use the U-Bahn (subway) to stations near the lake, such as Uhlandstraße or Eppendorfer Baum. Many visitors enjoy strolling along the lake's perimeter, which offers beautiful views.
While there isn't a direct public transport line that circles the entire Außenalster, several bus and U-Bahn lines stop near its shores. For a scenic journey, consider the Alster ferry service, which offers a unique way to travel between different points along the lake for a small fee.
Yes, cycling to and around the Außenalster is very popular. Hamburg is a bike-friendly city, and there are dedicated paths along many parts of the lake. You can also rent bikes near the Alster for a leisurely ride.
Many visitors start their exploration from Jungfernstieg, which offers beautiful views of the Binnenalster and connects to the Außenalster. Other popular starting points include areas around Uhlenhorst or Winterhude, depending on your preferred activities.
Driving directly to the shores of the Außenalster can be challenging due to limited parking and residential areas. It's generally recommended to use public transport or cycle, and then walk or run around the lake. If you do drive, look for parking garages in nearby neighborhoods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Außenalster and its surrounding parks is free. You only pay if you choose to rent a boat, enjoy a specific cafe, or take an organized Alster cruise.
The Außenalster is a public outdoor space and is accessible 24/7. However, boat rental services and cafes will have their own operating hours, typically from morning until early evening.
Absolutely not! Walking, jogging, and simply enjoying the scenery around the Außenalster is completely free. It's a beloved public space for locals and visitors alike.
Rental prices for paddleboats and kayaks can vary depending on the rental company and duration. Expect to pay around €15-€25 per hour for a paddleboat. It's always a good idea to check current rates before you go.
While some rental services might allow advance bookings, it's often on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during peak season. Arriving earlier in the day can increase your chances of securing a boat.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Außenalster is perfect for a variety of activities! You can go for a run or walk, rent a paddleboat or kayak, sail, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax by the water. There are also scenic Alster cruises available. 
Yes, the Außenalster is a fantastic spot for running. The well-maintained paths around the lake offer a scenic and relatively flat route, with the full loop being approximately 4km. It's a popular choice for locals.
Absolutely! You'll find several cafes and restaurants along the shores, offering everything from casual snacks to more upscale dining. The Alsterperle is a popular spot for drinks with a view. Keep an eye out for seasonal pop-ups like the Dior Beauty Cafe.
You'll likely see plenty of ducks and swans, which are iconic to the Alster. The swans are particularly well-known, and there's even a dedicated swan father who cares for them. +1
Yes, the Außenalster is very family-friendly. Children often enjoy watching the swans and ducks, and renting a paddleboat can be a fun adventure. There are also plenty of open spaces for them to run around.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Außenalster offers beautiful photo opportunities. Look for shots capturing the city skyline, the elegant mansions along the shore, sailboats on the water, and the abundant birdlife. Sunsets over the lake are particularly stunning.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most beautiful light for photography. Early mornings also offer fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere, perfect for capturing reflections on the water.
Definitely! Taking photos from a rented paddleboat or a cruise boat offers unique perspectives of the lake and the Hamburg skyline that you can't get from the shore.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at the Außenalster. However, always be mindful of private property and respect the privacy of others.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sky and water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as while there are cafes, having your own supplies can be convenient. The relatively flat paths make it easy for strollers, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for families looking for a pleasant day out in nature within the city.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Many locals use the Außenalster for their daily runs, so you'll find a friendly and active community. You can easily extend your run by doing multiple laps or exploring different sections of the shoreline. It's an excellent way to stay active while immersing yourself in Hamburg's beauty.
💖 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Enjoying a sunset from one of the lakeside cafes or a scenic viewpoint is also incredibly romantic. The gentle lapping of the water and the beautiful cityscape create a perfect ambiance for couples looking for a peaceful and picturesque escape within Hamburg.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Außenalster by Water
For a more guided experience, consider an Alster cruise. These boat tours provide a relaxing way to see the sights, learn about the history of the lakes, and enjoy the scenery without the effort of paddling. The Alster ferry service also offers a charming and affordable way to hop between different points along the lake, feeling like a local commuter.
When on the water, remember to be aware of other watercraft, including sailboats and rowboats, and always follow safety guidelines provided by the rental companies. The gentle breeze and picturesque views make any time spent on the Außenalster a memorable experience.
Running and Recreation on the Shores
Beyond running, the lakeside paths are perfect for walking, cycling, and leisurely strolls. It's a place where locals come to unwind, exercise, and enjoy the fresh air. You'll see people of all ages engaging in various recreational activities, from power walking to simply sitting on benches and enjoying the view. Instagram reels often showcase the vibrant atmosphere and the beauty of the surroundings during these activities.
+1For those seeking a more active pursuit, sailing and rowing are also popular on the Außenalster, with various clubs and facilities available. The combination of urban beauty and natural recreation makes the Außenalster a dynamic hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
Seasonal Highlights and Unique Experiences
Wildlife is a constant attraction, with the Alster swans being a particular point of interest. These majestic birds return to the lake in spring, adding to the picturesque scenery. While it's illegal to offend them, observing their grace from a distance is a delightful part of the Außenalster experience.
Even in cooler months, the Außenalster retains its charm. The reflections of the city lights on the water during evening strolls can be magical. For those seeking warmth while enjoying the view, some establishments offer heated greenhouses or cozy indoor seating with lake vistas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit