Hamburger Stadtpark ⇒ Nature & Relaxation in the Heart of the City

Explore the "City Park Hamburg", the green oasis of Hamburg with numerous leisure opportunities. Ideal for walks, sports, and relaxed time outdoors.

Table of Contents - All information about the Hamburg City Park

The Hamburg City Park: Nature and culture in the heart of the Hanseatic city

The Hamburg Stadtpark is a green paradise in the middle of Hamburg, offering extensive meadows, dense forests, lakes, and a variety of leisure and sports facilities to provide you with a place of peace, fun, and relaxation. With over 148 hectares, it is one of the most important and largest green spaces in the city, yet the numerous opportunities it offers may not be immediately apparent.

A tour through the Hamburg City Park

Here's what to expect in Hamburg's city park.

  • Versatile attractions: From the impressive planetarium to the historic open-air stage, there is a lot to discover.
  • Leisure activities: Whether jogging, cycling, boating, or simply relaxing on the large meadows - the city park has something to offer for everyone's taste.
  • Family-friendly: Playgrounds, paddling pools, and child-friendly facilities make the park an ideal destination for families.
  • Natural beauty: Explore the diverse plant world, including magnificent magnolias and colorful hydrangeas.
  • Cultural events: Regular open-air concerts and other events ensure a diverse program.
Der Hamburger Stadtpark von oben

What is the Hamburg City Park?

The Hamburg City Park is a public park located in the Winterhude district, north of the city center. It stretches along Hindenburgstraße and the Südring and was opened on July 1, 1914. From the beginning, it served as a public park, offering recreation and leisure opportunities for people of all social classes. Planning began in 1901, initiated by Fritz Schumacher and Friedrich Sperber, as well as the garden architect Otto Linne, who collaborated to combine elements of English landscape gardens and French architectural gardens.

The City Park through the Ages

During World War II, the City Park was heavily damaged, and many facilities had to be rebuilt after the war. In the post-war years, money and effort were invested to create new attractions and modernize existing facilities. It is now known as a hub for diverse activities: including leisurely walks around the City Park lake, stargazing at the planetarium, concerts at the open-air stage, and much more.

Great impressions from the Hamburg Stadtpark

Stadtpark See
Stadtpark Hamburg
Stadtpark Hamburg
Stadtpark Hamburg

In the Hamburg Stadtpark, you can experience a variety of activities such as jogging, cycling, relaxing by the lake, having a picnic, playing sports like football or volleyball, visiting the planetarium, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk through the park's beautiful green spaces.

The Hamburg City Park offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for all age groups and interests. You can go jogging, cycling, rowing, or simply relax on the vast meadows. In summer, the Stadtpark Lake is perfect for swimming and boating, and there is even a barbecue area for outdoor social gatherings.

The Open-Air Stage: Festival atmosphere under the open sky

The open-air stage in the Hamburg City Park is one of the oldest and largest open-air stages in Germany. It was opened in 1915 and can accommodate up to 4,000 spectators. In summer, regular concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events from various genres take place. The special atmosphere under the open sky makes every concert an unforgettable experience that you will rave about for a long time.

The Hamburg Planetarium: Stars within reach

The Hamburg Planetarium is located in the former water tower, inviting visitors to spectacular shows and exhibitions. It is one of the most modern of its kind in Europe, showcasing the wonders of the universe. These are complemented by music shows and special events that make every visit worthwhile.

Cooling off in the water: The Stadtpark Lake

A proper park also includes a lake, and the City Park in Hamburg is no exception. Whether you want to dip your feet in the water, swim a few laps, or take a boat ride, the choice is yours. You can visit a boat rental and hire rowing and pedal boats to explore the lake. Alternatively, you can take a plunge into the cool water, as there is a designated swimming area for safe water adventures. Once you've had enough, grab your picnic blanket and enjoy the sun, either by reading a book, playing ball sports with your loved ones, or grilling some delicious snacks.

Picnic and BBQ areas: Dining alfresco

Throughout the entire City Park, there are numerous picnic and BBQ areas ideal for a family outing. The spots near the Stadtpark Lake are particularly popular, offering beautiful views.

Plant and garden lovers get their money's worth

In addition to old oaks, beeches, and maple trees, there are exotic plants to discover such as magnolias and hydrangeas. Additionally, there are special garden areas, like the rose garden, which has been restored to its former glory through comprehensive renovation work.

In the rose garden, over 300 different varieties of roses await you, blooming in a variety of colors, offering a colorful and fragrant experience. Furthermore, regular events revolving around the rose take place, where you can learn all about the care and cultivation of this noble flower. The Garden of the Senses is also worth a visit, as it was designed specifically for blind and visually impaired individuals, offering them the opportunity to experience plants and flowers through touch and smell. You can find it east of the Rest Garden and north of the Country House Path.

Other specially designed green spaces include the botanical nature trail, where you can learn about various native and exotic plant species, and the Alpinum Garden, where you'll find alpine plants in a simulated mountain landscape. Also of interest is the Hydrangea Garden, which is especially worth a visit in July and August due to the bloom of different hydrangea varieties, or the Hedge Maze.

TIP: Especially in spring and summer, the park is in full bloom, making it a paradise for nature lovers and hobby photographers.

Which events regularly take place in Hamburg's Stadtpark?

Among the most important regular events are the open-air concerts at the outdoor stage, featuring national and international artists. These concerts attract thousands of visitors every year and provide a unique atmosphere under the open sky.

In addition, there are sports events such as the annual City Park Open, a popular running event that also attracts many participants and spectators.

What seasonal events are there in Hamburg City Park?

In spring and summer, the rose gardens and flower shows are a highlight for garden enthusiasts. In autumn, Oktoberfest and harvest festivals take place, captivating attendees with seasonal specialties and traditional music. In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating rinks and a festive Christmas market.

Which historical or cultural monuments can I find in the Hamburg City Park?

Discover impressive sculptures, fountains, and memorials scattered throughout the park. Some of the most well-known include the "Bathing Women" by Georg Kolbe and the Penguin Fountain by August Gaul.

Overview of Monuments in Hamburg Stadtpark

Monument Description Artist
Bathing Women (Georg Kolbe) Two Muschelkalk sculptures of bent women flanking the beginning of the axis from Stadtparksee Georg Kolbe
Penguin Fountain (August Gaul) Fountain with penguin sculptures from 1912 August Gaul
Lying Dog (Ludwig Wilhelm Wichmann) Bronze sculpture of a lying dog, originally a grave decoration Ludwig Wilhelm Wichmann
Diana on the Hind (Georg Wrba) Bronze sculpture of a Diana on a hind, created in 1910 Georg Wrba
Heinrich Heine Monument (Hugo Lederer) Bronze sculpture honoring the poet Heinrich Heine, erected in 1913 and later melted down but replaced by a new creation Hugo Lederer
Bowl (Hugo Lederer) 1912 Kunststein bowl, a gift to the Stadtpark Hugo Lederer

Sports and leisure activities in the Hamburg City Park

In addition to cultural and nature-related attractions, the city park offers numerous opportunities for sports activities.

Diverse Routes for Jogging and Cycling

The extensive paths and trails of the city park are ideal for you if you are a jogger or cyclist. Look forward to varied routes through forests, along meadows, and around the city park lake.

Popular Routes

  • Main Paths: Well-developed paths suitable for beginners.
  • Forest Trails: More challenging routes for experienced runners and cyclists.
  • Lake Loop: A popular route around the city park lake offering magnificent views.

Sports Fields and Fitness Areas: Get Fit

In the city park, there are numerous sports fields and fitness areas that you can use for free:

  • Soccer Fields: Well-maintained fields for spontaneous games and organized tournaments.
  • Basketball Courts: Popular among teenagers and perfect for exciting matches.
  • Outdoor Fitness Equipment: These devices are perfect for a holistic training experience in the fresh air.

What does the Hamburg Stadtpark specifically offer for families?

The Hamburg City Park is also an interesting destination for families, which is why on sunny days you can hear children's laughter from almost everywhere. There are several playgrounds with a variety of play equipment, a paddling pool, and other opportunities for children to let off steam.

  • Large playground at the paddling pool: This large playground is located right next to the paddling pool and is especially popular with families. Children can climb, swing, and play in the sand to their heart's content, while parents can relax at the adjacent café by the paddling pool and enjoy a cup of coffee. The paddling pool provides a welcome cooling off in the summer.
  • Playground at Otto-Wels-Straße: Another large playground, which stands out for its various climbing options and slides. Here you will also find a large sand area and many swings that provide plenty of entertainment.
  • Playground at the sunbathing lawn: This playground is ideal for families who want to spend the day on the sunbathing lawn. In addition to classic play equipment such as slides and swings, there is also a small rope course and balancing beams here.
  • Adventure playground: For slightly older children, the adventure playground offers many exciting climbing and exploring opportunities. Large climbing structures, zip lines, and suspension bridges ensure that there is no room for boredom.
  • Nature playground: This playground integrates natural elements such as tree trunks, stones, and water features, encouraging creative and free play in nature.

Tip: Some of the playgrounds in the park are equipped with elaborate climbing structures and rope courses that offer older children and teenagers exciting challenges.

Water fun for the little ones

Located right next to the large playground, there is a paddling pool in the summer. The little ones can play and splash around in the shallow water to cool off from the summer temperatures. Additionally, there are smaller paddling areas that are ideal for toddlers. These areas are safe and specially designed to meet the needs of the youngest visitors.

Are there any gastronomic offers in the Hamburg City Park?

You are not dependent on bringing your own food and drinks. The city park offers a variety of dining options that can also be visited independently of a visit to the park.

  • Café Summer Terraces: This café offers breakfast, North German dishes, and pasta in a cozy atmosphere right by the Goldbek canal. It features a summer terrace and heated awnings for cooler days.
  • Café at the Wading Pool: Ideal for families, this café offers coffee, cake, and ice cream specialties. It is located right by the park's largest playground and also hosts company and family events.
  • Park Villa: An elegant restaurant and café offering a selection of upscale dishes and coffee specialties. Located on Otto-Wels-Straße, it provides a pleasant atmosphere for lingering.
  • Landhaus Walter: This historic restaurant offers a wide range of German dishes, from beetroot foam soup to grilled veal chop, and features a large beer garden and lounge terrace.
  • Sierichs Beer Garden: Situated in the heart of the city park, this beer garden offers a splendid view of the park lake and the planetarium. It offers a selection of drinks and light meals, perfect for a relaxed evening in the park.
  • Schmidtchen at the Planetarium: This café offers various coffee specialties, cakes, and small snacks, ideal for a break after a visit to the planetarium.

How accessible is Hamburg's Stadtpark for people with disabilities?

Many paths and entrances in the Hamburger Stadtpark are wheelchair accessible, and there are barrier-free toilet facilities at several locations in the park. Additionally, main attractions such as the planetarium and dining facilities are accessible for people with disabilities​. **How safe is the Hamburger Stadtpark?** To ensure your safety in the evening hours, the Hamburger Stadtpark is equipped with lighting in the main areas and along the main paths. The side paths and secluded areas have less lighting. If you are not familiar with these areas, it is best to stay within the well-lit sections and follow the signs. To enhance safety, there are regular patrols by park wardens and the police. Emergency contact numbers are prominently displayed, and in case of emergencies, you can quickly seek help. **Are guided tours offered in Stadtpark Hamburg?** Guided tours are conducted by various organizations, including the Stadtparkverein and private providers. They offer an excellent opportunity to learn more about the park's flora and fauna, its historical buildings and sculptures, as well as the park's history​. **What is the cost of participating in a tour?** Costs vary depending on the provider and type of tour, ranging from 5 to 15 euros per person. Private tours or theme-specific tours may be more expensive. Some offerings, particularly those by the Stadtparkverein, are free or accessible for a small donation​. **Important rules to keep in mind** To ensure everyone enjoys the Stadtpark, we recommend following these rules for peaceful coexistence: - Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. - Grilling is only permitted in designated areas. - Swimming in the Stadtparksee lake is only allowed in designated swimming areas. - Playing loud music and other disruptive activities are prohibited. - Trash must be disposed of in designated bins. **How to get to Hamburger Stadtpark** - **By car:** Coming from the west, exit the A7 at Stellingen and follow the signs towards Ring 2/City Nord. From the east, use the A1 via the Elbbrücken and follow signs towards the city center, then Barmbek/City Nord. Parking is available along Überseering in City Nord, from where you have a short walk of about 5-10 minutes to the park. Parking fees vary but are usually moderate​. - **By public transport:** The nearest train stations are "Alte Wöhr" (S1), "Saarlandstraße" (U3), and "Borgweg" (U3). From these stops, you can easily reach the park on foot in 5 to 15 minutes. Additionally, bus lines 6, 20, and 118 provide good connections to the park. Another convenient option is to use the StadtRAD bike rental stations available in and around the park​.

Opening hours, Admission & Co.

General opening hours and entrance fees

Area Opening Hours Entrance
City Park in general
  • open 24/7
  • free
Planetarium
  • Tue - Fri 9am - 8pm
  • Sat - Sun 10am - 8pm
  • Adults: 12 €
  • Children: 7 €
City Park Lake Swimming Pool
  • May - Sep: 10am - 6pm
  • Adults: 4 €
  • Children: 2 €
Mini Golf
  • Apr - Oct: daily 10am - 7pm
  • Nov - Mar: closed
  • Adults: 5 €
  • Children: 3 €

Opening hours of restaurants and cafes in Hamburger Stadtpark

Restaurant/Cafe Opening Hours
Cafe Summer Terraces
  • Sat: 12pm - 10pm
  • Kitchen until 9pm
  • Closed during winter months
Cafe at the Paddling Pool

Conclusion: Hamburg Stadtpark - relaxation, fun, and culture combined

Plenty of attractions and leisure activities: That's what the city park in Hamburg has to offer. Whether you are interested in the historical sculptures, want to take a swim in the city park lake, or simply relax on the spacious lawns - you just have to decide.

FAQ - Hamburg City Park

Dogs are allowed in the Hamburg City Park, however, they must be kept on a leash. There are specific dog meadows where the dogs can run freely. Make sure to clean up after your dog.

There are several ways to rent bicycles. Various providers offer rental bikes that can be rented by the hour or for the whole day.

The city park offers designated barbecue areas that can be used for free. These areas are equipped with barbecue stations and provide enough space for a cozy outdoor barbecue.

The planetarium in Hamburg's Stadtpark offers a variety of astronomical shows, laser shows, concerts, and a spectacular view over the park and the city from the observation platform.

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