Walk along the banks of the Elbe: between Blankenese and Wittenbergen

A stroll along the Elbe from Blankenese to Wittenbergen is always worthwhile.

You might think you are at the North Sea during a walk along the Elbe. On rainy days, the Elbe can whip itself up like the ocean. But there are also many warm and sunny days. Here, the river is 500 metres wide and reminds one of the sea: The ebb and flow of the water provides a quite decent tide. Wittenbergen beach in Blankenese is popular with people from all over Hamburg. You go down to the beach starting from the Blankenerser Treppenviertel, and from there as far as your rubber boots can take you. The sometimes gigantic container ships from all over the world contribute to the vast impression one gets here.

The Elbe

You can experience the "big pots" - big ships - up close at numerous places along the Elbe. Apart from the Landungsbrücke and the fish market, there are numerous other spots where you can experience the maritime lifestyle.

The Elbe

Shipping & Cruises

Experience the metropolis on the Elbe before or after your cruise or just watch the ships. Be there live and up close when the most amazing cruise ships arrive at Hamburg's cruise terminals.

Shipping & Cruises

Where to watch ships

In Hamburg, the best and most well-known ocean liners in the world regularly enter and leave the harbour, which makes Hamburg a popular place for ship-spotters - 12 months out of the year.

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Where to watch ships

Food and drink with a view Restaurants & Cafés where you can watch ships

We have compiled a list of the best places where you can watch the arriving and departing ships with a cup of coffee and a piece of cake or a delicious dinner.

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Restaurants & Cafés where you can watch ships

Stroll, relax and watch the ships on the Elbe beach Elbe beach

The Elbe beach near Övelgönne is a pretty hot tip in summer. When the temperatures rise and the sun burns, nothing is more refreshing than a jump into the cool water.

Elbe beach

The Treppenviertel in Blankenese

Blankenese is also home to the famous Treppenviertel, or 'stair quarter'. It got its name from the many winding alleys and steps leading down to the banks of the Elbe. Directly at the Elbe slope between the streets "Am Kiekeberg" and "Strandweg", over 5,000 steps lead down to the beach. Nested alleys and many nice pubs make the district very special. They blend perfectly into the beach atmosphere and reflect the maritime character of Hamburg. A stroll through the Treppenviertel, for example up to the Süllberg, is a must-see in this area. The Süllberg also features excellent restaurants on a star level. Gourmets can really treat their palates here.

Lighthouses in Hamburg - very special buildings

One highlight in Hamburg are the lighthouses in Blankenese. They are of the 'leading light' type that was built between 1983 and 1984 and still in operation. The complex consists of two lighthouses: one is the rear light, which is about 40 metres high, and the other is the front light, which is about 42 metres high. You can watch ships from here; and a tour is especially interesting in the evening. This also acquaints you much better with the Hamburg shore.

Romantic beacon and untouched nature near Wittenbergen

A stroll along the Elbe River often ends at the Wittenbergen lighthouse, which still points ships out to the North Sea. The romantic sight is not only pleasing to lovers. In addition, the neighbourhood Rissen, which adjoins Blankenese, offers a UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve together with Wittenbergen. The heath landscape and the wet meadows are partially flooded by the Elbe water and provide a habitat for many rare animals and plants. Observers who come here in summer can see the sand lizards sunbathing on the dark stones on warm days and in April/May checkered lily, which is threatened with extinction. During a stroll along the Elbe, the palette of impressions ranges from the noble quarter to Hamburg's last natural beach. If you are curious, you can use the Hamburg CARD to travel directly to the western area of Hamburg free of charge.

The whole world's port

Maritime Hamburg

Desire for the water, harbour flair and large boats? Then you're in the right place so close to the Elbe. No matter whether you take off on your own or want to experience such highlights as the Harbour Birthday or Cruise Days, we tell you when and where you can enjoy Hamburg's maritime flair pure.

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Purchase your tickets now! Harbour round-trips in Hamburg

Hafenrundfahrt Barkassen Ehlers — © Felix Neumann

1h Harbour Tour Ehlers

Cosy harbour tour
Starting at the Landungsbrücken
Following the vibrant quayside
Speicherstadt (depending on the tide)

1h Harbour Tour Ehlers

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from 24.00 €*

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A walk along the Elbe between Blankenese and Wittenbergen