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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.
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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.
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Combo (Save 8%): Elbphilharmonie Plaza Guided Tour + 1-Hour Harbor Cruise Tickets
from €45
€41.40
8% off
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Panoptikum + Hamburg River Cruise
from
€31.50
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- See the best of Hamburg on this hop-on hop-off bus tour, valid for a day with unlimited access, combined with a 1-hour Alster Lake cruise.
- Hop off at any of the 20 stops along the route and take your time exploring the attractions before hopping on the bus and continuing your tour.
- The white Alster steamer takes you around the Inner and Outer Alster as you spot the 1909 Hotel Atlantic, while the Harbor cruise lets you witness the Elbphilharmonie in all its glory.
- Learn about famous landmarks aboard the bus with an audio guide in 11 languages, a sightseeing map, and complimentary headphones.
- Stop at iconic landmarks such as the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, Rathaus (City Hall), St. Michael's Church, and more.
- See the best of Hamburg on this hop-on hop-off bus tour, valid for a day with unlimited access, combined with a 1-hour Alster Lake cruise.
- Hop off at any of the 20 stops along the route and take your time exploring the attractions before hopping on the bus and continuing your tour.
- The white Alster steamer takes you around the Inner and Outer Alster as you spot the 1909 Hotel Atlantic, while the Harbor cruise lets you witness the Elbphilharmonie in all its glory.
- Learn about famous landmarks aboard the bus with an audio guide in 11 languages, a sightseeing map, and complimentary headphones.
- Stop at iconic landmarks such as the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, Rathaus (City Hall), 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 Alster Lake Cruise
- 1-hour Harbor Cruise (optional)
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.
Alster Lake Cruise
- First cruise at 9:30am from Anleger Jungfernstieg
- Last cruise at 3pm
- Frequency: Every 30 mins
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
- Tip: For a unique shopping experience, visit the 'Frieda Hain' boutique in the Karolinenviertel district, and enjoy a delightful lunch at 'Café Sternchance' with a cozy bohemian vibe.
- Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility, Buggy (on prior request).
- The audio guide is available in English, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, French, Japanese, Danish, Italian, Arabic, Portuguese and German.
- 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.
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Why go on a Hamburg sightseeing cruise?
Captivating views from the Elbe River
Glide through the heart of Hamburg, watching breathtaking panoramic views of the city's iconic skyline, charming bridges, and bustling waterfront scenes. The views from the water offer a unique perspective of this vibrant city.
Hamburg sightseeing cruise options
If you want to go on a daytime sightseeing cruise
Hamburg Speicherstadt and Harbor Cruise
- This cruise offers flexibility, with options ranging from 1, 1.5, or 2 hours, so you can choose the duration that suits your schedule. Enjoy live commentary in German, or opt for a multilingual audio guide to get a detailed understanding of Hamburg's maritime heritage and modern harbor.
- You also get the option to disembark at the iconic Elbphilharmonie or the boarding pier, making it easy to integrate this Hamburg boat tour with other sightseeing activities.
2-Hour Hamburg Harbor Cruise
- This cruise option is perfect for those who want a deeper exploration of Hamburg's bustling harbor. The 2-hour tour covers a wide range of harbor highlights, from massive container ships to the historic Speicherstadt.
- In addition to the live German commentary, a multilingual audio guide is available to download so you can learn in your preferred language.
If you want an evening sightseeing experience
1.5-Hour Grand Harbor Evening Lights Cruise
- Perfect for travelers seeking a magical evening experience. The 90-minute tour allows you to witness the harbor illuminated by thousands of lights, offering a romantic and serene setting.
- The live commentary in German adds context to the visual spectacle, giving you an informative yet peaceful way to end your day.
Hamburg Evening Lights Speicherstadt & Harbor Cruise
- This cruise is perfect for those who want a mix of history and modernity in their evening experience. You'll cruise through the Speicherstadt district before witnessing the dazzling lights of the harbor.
- Choose between 1 to 1.5 hours of sightseeing, with live commentary in German and an optional audio guide in multiple languages.
If you want to explore more of Hamburg harbor
Combo Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets
- A fantastic option for architecture lovers, this combo allows you to explore the iconic Elbphilharmonie with a certified German-speaking guide and includes a harbor cruise for a well-rounded day.
- You'll get inside access to the Elbphilharmonie Plaza and an hour-long harbor cruise with live commentary, making it a top pick for culture enthusiasts.
Panoptikum + Hamburg River Cruise
- Perfect for those who want to combine history and culture, this combo ticket includes entry to the Panoptikum, a wax museum, alongside a 2-hour river cruise.
- The cruise offers live German commentary and an informative audio guide in English, providing rich insights into Hamburg's harbor.
If you want a comprehensive Hamburg experience
Hamburg City Tours Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Hamburg Harbor Cruise
- This combo allows you to explore Hamburg both on land and water. The ticket includes a 1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour, with an expert guide and audio guides in multiple languages.
- The 1-hour harbor cruise includes live commentary in German and an audio guide in English.
Combo (Save 17%): Hamburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Hamburg Harbor Cruise
- This budget-friendly combo offers savings while still delivering a full-day sightseeing experience by bus and boat. Ideal for travelers looking to maximize their time and budget.
- Enjoy a hop-on-hop-off tour with an audio guide and a 1-hour harbor cruise with live commentary in German and an audio guide in multiple languages for a well-rounded experience.
Plan your Hamburg sightseeing cruise
Timings
Boarding points & getting there
Best time to go on a cruise
Rules
Tips
- Hamburg Speicherstadt and Harbor Cruise: Slots available from 10am to 5:30pm
- 2-Hour Hamburg Harbor Cruise: Slots available from 10:30am to 3:30pm
- 1.5-Hour Grand Harbor Evening Lights Cruise: 7:30pm & 9:30pm
- Hamburg Evening Lights Speicherstadt & Harbor Cruise: 7:30pm & 9:30pm
- Hamburg City Tours Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Hamburg Harbor Cruise: Enter the bus anytime within operating hours: 10am - 4:30pm; cruise slots are available from 10am - 6pm
- Combo (Save 17%): Hamburg Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Hamburg Harbor Cruise: Enter the bus anytime within operating hours: 10am - 4:30pm; cruise slots are available from 10am - 6pm
- Combo Hamburg Harbor Cruise + Elbphilharmonie German Guided Tour Tickets: Slots available from 11am to 3pm
- Panoptikum + Hamburg River Cruise: Enter Panoptikum anytime within operating hours: 10am - 10pm; cruise slots are available from 10am - 6pm
St. Pauli Landungsbrücken Brücke 1 or Brücke 3
Address: Bei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken 8, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
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, Pier 5
Address: ATG Alster-Touristik GmbH, Anleger, Jungfernstieg, 20354 Hamburg, Germany.
Getting there:
- By bus: Board buses 4, 5, 19, 602, or 603
Nearest bus stop: U S Jungfernstieg. - Nearest metro station: Jungfernstieg
The best time of the day for a Hamburg sightseeing cruise depends on your personal preferences and desired experience.
- For early risers, morning sightseeing cruises provide a serene opportunity to appreciate Hamburg's allure before the city hustle begins.
- Midday excursions cater to those craving the vibrant energy of the harbor amid its busiest hours, immersing visitors in its lively atmosphere.
- As the day transitions into night, evening harbor lights cruises unveil Hamburg's enchanting transformation under the shimmering city lights, offering an idyllic setting for a romantic voyage.
- No weapons or sharp objects allowed
- A valid passport or ID card is required for boarding.
- Outside food is generally not allowed.
- Some cruises allow pets and guide dogs
- Some cruises may not be suitable for wheelchair users.
- Your boat will have an open or closed glass roof as per the weather conditions.
- Book your tickets online: Secure your spot by booking your Hamburg cruise tickets online in advance. Save time and potentially score sweet deals or discounts.
- Check your ticket voucher: Every cruise is unique in itself, and your ticket voucher is your guide. Take a moment to review the details: departure times, meeting points, and any other important information.
- Carry your ID: Hamburg cruises require ID verification, especially for discounted tickets. Remember to carry your ID to avoid any unexpected issues.
- Dressing comfortably: Even on sunny days, the breeze off the water can be brisk. So, bring along a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
- Bring your headphones or grab a pair onsite: Hamburg cruises offer insightful audio guides. So, bring your own headphones for optimal comfort during the tour. Alternatively, you can grab headphones onsite if needed.
Top sights to see on your Hamburg sightseeing cruise
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Frequently asked questions about Hamburg sightseeing cruises
What are Hamburg sightseeing cruises?
Hamburg sightseeing cruises are delightful boat trips along the stunning harbor of Hamburg, Germany. They offer a unique perspective of the city's iconic landmarks, bustling ports, and scenic waterfront, making them a must-do activity in Hamburg.
How much does a Hamburg sightseeing cruise cost?
The cost of a Hamburg sightseeing cruise typically starts from per person. However, prices may increase depending on the type of cruise and additional facilities or services provided.
Is it necessary to book Hamburg sightseeing cruise tickets in advance?
Booking Hamburg sightseeing cruise tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures you secure your preferred time slot and avoids disappointment due to sold-out cruises.
What is included in a typical Hamburg sightseeing cruise?
A typical Hamburg sightseeing cruise includes a leisurely boat ride through the harbor, offering breathtaking views of the city's skyline and waterfront attractions. Live commentary in German provides insights into Hamburg's rich history and culture, while audio guides in English and other languages cater to international visitors.
How long does a Hamburg sightseeing cruise last?
Hamburg sightseeing cruises typically last between 1 to 2 hours, offering ample time to explore the city's highlights from the water.
What are the main attractions seen during a Hamburg sightseeing cruise?
During a Hamburg sightseeing cruise, you can marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, Speicherstadt (Warehouse District), HafenCity, and the bustling Port of Hamburg. These landmarks showcase the city's rich maritime history and architectural marvels.
Do Hamburg sightseeing cruises operate year-round?
Yes, Hamburg sightseeing cruises operate year-round, allowing visitors to explore the city's harbor in every season. Whether it's the vibrant colors of spring, the warmth of summer, or the enchanting winter lights, each season offers a unique perspective of Hamburg's waterfront.
What is the best time to go on a Hamburg sightseeing cruise?
The best time to go on a Hamburg sightseeing cruise depends on personal preferences and weather conditions. However, early morning or late afternoon cruises often offer stunning views of the sunrise or sunset, casting a magical glow over Hamburg's skyline.
Are Hamburg sightseeing cruises wheelchair accessible?
Not all cruises may have facilities to accommodate wheelchairs, so it's advisable to check the accessibility options when booking your tickets.
Can I bring my pet on board a Hamburg sightseeing cruise?
While some cruises may allow pets on board, others may have restrictions or specific guidelines. It's recommended to check the cruise's pet policy at the time of booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your furry friend.
From happy customers
Julie
ott, 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
Austrialug, 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
Italymag, 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
giu, 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