The Old Elbe Tunnel is one of Hamburg's most impressive structures – and simultaneously one of its most underrated. While tourists take photos at the Landungsbrücken piers, cyclists and pedestrians pass right by their feet through a tunnel under the Elbe River that is over 100 years old. Anyone who has experienced it once will never forget it.
Here are the 10 most important facts about the Old Elbe Tunnel – from its history to practical tips for your visit.
The Old Elbe Tunnel (officially: St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel) was opened on September 7, 1911 opened. This makes it over 110 years old and it is still in use today.
It was created during the heyday of the Port of Hamburg, when thousands of workers had to cross the Elbe River every day.
The tunnel is 426.5 meters long and lies at its lowest point around 24 meters below the water level of the Elbe.
It was built in the so-called Shield tunneling under compressed air – a highly modern method for the time. The construction workers worked under positive pressure to prevent water from penetrating.
This construction method was not only technically demanding, but also risky to health: many workers suffered from the so-called Decompression sickness (Caisson disease).
The Old Elbe Tunnel was one of the first major infrastructure projects specifically designed for the mixed traffic was built.
From the very beginning, it was designed for:
Later it was also used by motorized vehicles.
The tunnel was a technological sensation at the time of its construction. The large freight elevators, which transported vehicles, bicycles, and people underground, were particularly innovative.
These historic elevators are still partially in operation today and are a highlight for visitors.
The tunnel consists of two parallel tubes.
Important details:
The two access structures (St. Pauli and Steinwerder) each have:
Originally, there were only [number] per page. eggA staircase – additional staircases were added during the renovation.
Current information: One of the two tubes is still undergoing extensive renovation, so traffic is currently only being routed through one tube.
The tunnel was severely damaged during the bombing of Hamburg in 1943. Water seeped in, and parts of the interior were destroyed.
However, after the war it was rebuilt – with a focus on its historical character.
Since The Old Elbe Tunnel was placed under monument protection in 2003..
Particularly characteristic are:
Today, the tunnel is one of Hamburg's most popular tourist attractions.
It is used by both tourists and locals – especially cyclists appreciate it as a connection to the south side of the Elbe.
What makes the tunnel so special is the atmosphere: the echo of footsteps, the tiled walls, the subdued light, and the feeling of being directly under the river.
The walls also feature artistic tile reliefs with motifs from shipping and the underwater world.
The tunnel is still open today Freely accessible – for pedestrians and cyclists.
Cars are no longer allowed to use it today.
Address:
At the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, 20359 Hamburg
Opening hours:
Directions:
S-Bahn (S1, S3) or U-Bahn (U3) to Landungsbrücken
How long is the Old Elbe Tunnel?
426.5 meters.
How deep is the tunnel?
Approximately 24 meters below the water level of the Elbe.
When was it opened?
On September 7, 1911.
Is it free to use?
Yes, for pedestrians and cyclists.
Is it allowed to cycle through?
Yes, that's allowed and a great experience.
When will the tunnel be open?
Pedestrians around the clock, elevators with restricted hours.
The Elbe Tunnel is part of one of Hamburg's most beautiful cycling routes: From the Landungsbrücken through the tunnel to the south side, along the Elbe riverbank towards Övelgönne and on to Blankenese – a route with breathtaking views of the Port of Hamburg and the Elbe.
A rental bike from Happy Bikes is perfect for this tour. We're within walking distance of the main train station and rent out road bikes, gravel bikes, e-bikes, and city bikes – including a free helmet, lock, and phone holder, with no booking fees.
Rent a bike now and explore the Elbe Tunnel on your own →
Or you can book one of our guided bicycle tours, where we drive through the Elbe Tunnel – for example the tour “The best of Hamburg”, which leads directly through the tunnel.
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We provide helmets, locks, and cell phone holders free of charge.
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