The Old Elbe Tunnel: A Time Travel under the Elbe

The Old Elbe Tunnel, also known as St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel, is one of the most significant landmarks of Hamburg. For over 100 years, it has connected the northern side of the Elbe with the port areas on the southern side and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. But what else can be experienced there, apart from a walk and taking souvenir photos? And what exactly is behind the Old Elbe Tunnel?

What to expect at the Old Elbe Tunnel Hamburg

• Insights into history: technical masterpiece of the early 20th century.
• Breathtaking architecture: artistic reliefs and decorative elements.
• Historical elevators: original elevators, impressive relics of the time.
• Unique perspectives: Photo opportunities both inside the tunnel and at the entrance areas.
• Free access: for pedestrians and cyclists.

The Old Elbe Tunnel was an engineering masterpiece in its time. The tunnel consists of two tubes, each 426.5 meters long, and runs under the Elbe. It connects the Landungsbrücken in the St. Pauli district with Steinwerder. Its task was to facilitate traffic between the two sides of the Elbe and to offer port workers a safe and quick route to work.

Today, the Old Elbe Tunnel is a protected monument and is mainly used by pedestrians and cyclists. Car drivers are only allowed to use the tunnel at certain times and for a fee.

When was the Old Elbe Tunnel built?

Construction of the Old Elbe Tunnel began in 1907 and lasted four years until it was officially opened on September 7, 1911. It was the first river tunnel on the European continent and set new standards in tunnel construction technology.

How has the Old Elbe Tunnel changed over time?

The Old Elbe Tunnel has been renovated and modernized several times to meet current safety standards. Nevertheless, it has retained its historical charm. The regular maintenance and renovations have helped ensure that the tunnel is still in excellent condition and can fulfill its original function today.

The Old Elbe Tunnel played an important role during the Second World War, when it was used as an air-raid shelter. In the post-war years, the tunnel was a symbol of Hamburg's reconstruction and modernisation. Today, it is a technical monument and a living testament to the engineering of the early 20th century.

The Old Elbe Tunnel attracts visitors from all over the world because it represents a unique piece of Hamburg's history and offers an extraordinary opportunity to cross under the Elbe. The tunnel tubes are decorated with impressive Art Nouveau reliefs, and the ride on the historical lifts is a special experience.

Tip: Furthermore, from Steinwerder, there are beautiful views of the Hamburg skyline and the port.

A popular photo spot is the entrance at the Landungsbrücken with its green dome. The tunnel itself offers numerous motifs with its artful reliefs and impressive architecture. Also, the view from Steinwerder to the Hamburg skyline and the harbor is an absolute highlight.

1. Entrance facility St. Pauli

• Description: The entrance facility at the north shore of the Elbe at the Landungsbrücken is an architectural highlight with its green dome and historical design. Here, impressive photos of the entrance facility itself and the surrounding area can be taken.
• Best time: During daylight, especially in the morning or evening when the light is softer.

2. Inside the Tunnel

• Description: The tunnel tubes themselves offer a unique perspective with their tiled walls, the long, slightly curved shape and special lighting. Photos inside the tunnel can capture a dramatic and almost timeless atmosphere.
• Best time: During the day when the tunnel is open for pedestrians and cyclists.

3. Southern exit in Steinwerder

• Description: The southern exit of the tunnel in Steinwerder offers an excellent view of the Hamburg skyline and the Landungsbrücken. It is a great place to take panoramic photos of the city, especially at sunset.
• Best time: Late afternoon to sunset for the best lighting conditions.

4. View from the Elbe

• Description: On a harbor tour or a ride on one of the harbor ferries, you get a unique perspective on the entrance buildings and the underground construction of the tunnel. This perspective shows the integration of the tunnel into the Hamburg harbor.
• Best time: During a harbor tour in the late afternoon.

5. Night shots at the St. Pauli entrance

• Description: At night, the northern entrance of the tunnel is beautifully lit, allowing for impressive night shots. The lighting of the dome and the entrance area highlights the architectural details and creates a atmospheric atmosphere.
• Best time: After dark, when the lighting is in full swing.

6. Elevator areas

• Description: The historic elevators, transporting cars and people into and out of the tunnel, offer interesting photo subjects. The mix of industrial technology and historical architecture is particularly fascinating.
• Best time: During the day when the tunnel and elevators are in operation.

The Old Elbe Tunnel is accessible to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Pedestrians and cyclists can use the tunnel free of charge. Motorists are only allowed to use the tunnel at certain times and must pay a fee. The historical elevators transport pedestrians and cyclists down into the tunnel and back up again.

How does use of the tunnel work for motorists?

Motorists are only allowed to use the tunnel on weekdays between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. There is a maximum height limit of 1.92 meters and a fee of 2 euros per journey. The lanes are narrow, and the speed limit is 30 km/h. The tunnel is not designed for daily commuter traffic, but provides a nostalgic driving experience.

The Old Elbe Tunnel is the setting for many tales and legends. One of the most well-known legends asserts that a worker died during the tunnel's construction and his spirit has haunted the tunnel tubes ever since. In addition to legends of ghosts and treasures, there are also historical anecdotes. For instance, it is thought that the tunnel was prepared to be a secret escape route during the Cold War in case of an invasion.

The spirit of a construction worker

One of the most famous legends claims that a worker tragically lost his life during the construction of the Old Elbe Tunnel. It is said that his spirit has since wandered through the tunnel tubes, occasionally causing inexplicable noises and strange occurrences.

The Ghost Ship

Another myth tells of a ghost ship that supposedly sails through the tunnel when there is fog over the Elbe. This legend is based on ancient seafaring tales and has been perpetuated over the years through stories from dockworkers and seafarers. Many claim to have seen the mystical ship in the tunnel.

The hidden treasures

Some legends suggest that during World War II, valuable treasures and works of art were hidden in the tunnel to protect them from bomb attacks. These stories have inspired treasure hunters and adventurers to search the tunnel for hidden secrets. However, to this day, nothing has been found to confirm these legends.

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2. St. Pauli Landing Bridges:  A central focal point for tourists with numerous restaurants, cafés, and tours around the harbor.
3. Rickmer Rickmers: A historical sailing ship that now serves as a museum, highlighting Hamburg's maritime history.
4. Cap San Diego: A museum freighter that can be visited, offering insights into freight shipping.
5. Elbphilharmonie: An architectural masterpiece and concert hall that features a public viewing platform, the Plaza, which offers a breathtaking view over the harbor.
6. Speicherstadt: The historic warehouse district with narrow canals, which today is home to many museums and attractions, including Miniatur Wunderland and Hamburg Dungeon.
7. HafenCity: A modern district with a mix of residential, office, and leisure areas, showcasing various architectural styles and innovative construction projects.
8. Old Elbe Tunnel: In addition to visiting the tunnel itself, the area around the southern exit in Steinwerder offers a great view of the Hamburg skyline and the harbor.
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• Opening hours: The tunnel is open 24 hours a day for pedestrians and cyclists. Cars are allowed to drive through the tunnel only on weekdays between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm.
• Safety: Pay attention to the maximum height limit of 1.92 meters for vehicles and the speed limit of 30 km/h.
• Photo spots: Take advantage of the best photo opportunities, especially the artistic reliefs in the tunnel and the view from Steinwerder.
• Weather conditions: As the tunnel runs underground, you are protected from the weather here. However, it can be cool in the tunnel, so appropriate clothing is recommended.
• Vehicles: Note the narrow lanes and the driving times for motorists. Pedestrians and cyclists have unrestricted access at all times.

How do I get to the Old Elbe Tunnel?

The entrance to the Old Elbe Tunnel is located at the St. Pauli Landing Bridges, right next to the famous landing bridges. You can either travel by public transport or use your car.

Public Transport

By subway:

• Subway line U3 and S-Bahn lines S1 and S3: Get off at the "Landungsbrücken" stop. The entrance to the Old Elbe Tunnel is located directly next to the station.

By bus:

• Bus lines 111, 112 and 610: These bus lines stop at the "Landungsbrücken". From there, it is only a short walk to the entrance of the Old Elbe Tunnel.

Car

Arrival:

• From the south (A1/A7): Follow the signs towards Hamburg-Centre, then the signs towards "Hafencity" and "Landungsbrücken".
• From the north (A23/A7): Follow the A7 to the "Hamburg-Othmarschen" exit and then drive in the direction of "Altona" and "Landungsbrücken".

Parking:

• Landungsbrücken Car Park (APCOA)
• Michel Garage Car Park
• On-street parking: There are several paid on-street parking spaces in the vicinity of the Landungsbrücken, but these are often quickly occupied.

The Old Elbe Tunnel in Hamburg is an impressive technical monument and a fascinating travel destination. With its rich history, unique architecture, and special atmosphere, the tunnel offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you are on foot, by bicycle, or by car - the Old Elbe Tunnel allows a remarkable crossing under the Elbe and provides insights into the engineering art of the early 20th century. A visit is worthwhile at any time of the year and offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Hamburg's maritime history up close.