UNESCO Warehouse District Tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Price: 200 € / group (1-25 persons)
- Tour Type: Walking tour
- Meeting Point: Deichstraße
Description
Built in 1888 the Speicherstadt belongs to the heart of Hamburg's harbour. Yet today Hamburg is utilizing this space to construct the Hafencity, Europe's largest city development project amongst the restored UNESCO Speicherstadt.
This tour explores the vibrant history of the ornate red brick buildings of the Speicherstadt which once stored tea, coffee, spices and many other exotic goods from around the globe. We will learn about the past, present and future of this ever changing wonder of the modern world.
What will this tour cover?
Deichstraße
Step back in time on Hamburg’s oldest street! This charming lane of half-timbered houses and cobblestones tells tales of merchants, floods, and the city’s maritime past. Perfect for history lovers.
Construction of the Speicherstadt
Uncover the story of Hamburg’s iconic warehouse district! Built in the late 19th century, this red-brick marvel was a hub for global trade—coffee, tea, and spices galore!
Tea, Coffee, Spices, and Chocolate
Indulge your senses! Hamburg’s trading history is steeped in exotic flavors. Follow the aroma through Speicherstadt and discover how these goods shaped the city’s culture and economy.
The Townhall of the Speicherstadt
This historic building, surrounded by canals and red-brick charm, was once a hub for global goods like coffee, tea, and spices. Today, it symbolizes Hamburg’s role as a global trade powerhouse.
Saint Anne’s Square
Tucked away in Hamburg’s Neustadt, this charming square is a quiet escape with cobblestone charm, cozy cafés, and a rich history. A perfect spot to pause and soak in the city’s vibe!
Persian Rug Stores
Step into a world of woven wonders! Hamburg’s Persian rug stores are treasure troves of intricate designs and vibrant colors, each piece telling a story of ancient craftsmanship and culture. A feast for the eyes!
Wasserschloss
Marvel at the “Water Castle”! This picturesque building in Speicherstadt sits at the intersection of canals, offering a fairytale-like backdrop for photos and a glimpse into Hamburg’s trading past.
Container Shipping
Witness the backbone of global trade! Hamburg’s port is a powerhouse of container shipping. Learn how these metal giants keep the world connected—and see them in action!
St. Katharine’s Church
A historic marvel in Hamburg’s heart! This Gothic church was once a spiritual hub for sailors and merchants. Today, its striking architecture and serene atmosphere invite visitors to explore its rich past. A true hidden gem!
Hafencity
Hafencity is a dynamic waterfront district, featuring modern architecture, cultural spaces, and scenic promenades along the Elbe River, offering vibrant views and a lively urban atmosphere.
Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall
The Elbphilharmonie, a futuristic concert hall, sits atop historic warehouses and offers spectacular views of Hamburg’s harbor, while hosting world-class music performances and cultural events.
Landungsbrücken
Where Hamburg’s maritime soul comes alive! This historic pier, dating back to 1909, is a bustling hub for ferries, fish markets, and stunning Elbe River views. A harbor lover’s paradise!
Book Online
Life can get busy—we understand. So we believe that organizing your trip should be as convenient as possible. That’s why you can make a booking with us anytime you like, just choose a time that suits you, and click!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this tour include a break?
If guests wish to take a break or not, it is entirely their choice. Some guests prefer a short break, others enjoy a longer one with tea/coffee, and some prefer to do the tour without a break at all.
Since this is your own private tour, it will proceed at your pace! Whether you want to take a break or not can be decided spontaneously on the day with your guide.
How far will we walk?
This tour typically covers a total of 1.5 km (1 mile) on foot.
We will be walking over very flat terrain at a relaxed pace, with opportunities to stop at each location. Most (but not all) locations offer seating where you can rest.
If you feel this distance is too far for your group, we can offer a more compact route to minimize the walking distance further. For those unable to walk, a vehicle can be arranged. Please contact us directly for these options.
How will we find the guide? What is the exact meeting point?
The meeeting point will be on the street called "Deichstraße". To be exact we will meet in front of the coffee shop called "Nord Coast Coffee Roastery" and you will recognize your guide as they will stand outside wearing a name badge to make them easy to spot.
Our tip: If you have time come early and grab a coffee before your tour at this local coffee roastery!
Don't worry however, as part of the booking process you are required to fill in your telephone number. We then use this to send you a reminder the evening before your tour which includes the time, date, the meeting point and contact details for your guide. The guide will also have your contact details, so as we can call or message you if for any reason you are having trouble finding us.
What is the best way to get to the meeting point?
The meeeting point will be on the street called "Deichstraße". To be exact we will meet in front of the coffee shop called "Nord Coast Coffee Roastery" and you will recognize your guide as they will stand outside wearing a name badge to make them easy to spot.
This location can be easily reached by walking by those staying in the city centre. Alternatively taxi is possible or travel like a local and take the metro. The nearest metro station is Rödingsmarkt or Baumwall; both of these stations are on the line U3.
Where will this tour end?
This tour typically ends at the Elbphilharmonie Concert hall.
If you require the tour to end somewhere else or wish to be dropped back to the start location (Deichstraße) please let us know this in advance.
Which districts will we see on this tour?
On this tour we will see the districts Speicherstadt and Hafencity along with small sections of the Neustadt.
Hamburg is a city of almost 2 million inhabitants and 104 different districts in total; so there is still plenty to see!
I need to be picked up and dropped off, do you offer this service?
Yes, we can pick you up and drop you off before and after the tour if you wish.
Depending on your location and the size of your group, there may be several options for the best way to do this (walking, public transit, taxi, private transfer, or bus for larger groups). Please contact us directly to discuss these options, and we will be happy to help!
What if it rains or there is bad weather?
As we say in Hamburg, "There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing!"
Our tours take place rain, hail, or shine. If poor weather is forecast, we encourage all guests to dress appropriately. Of course, in such cases, we can also adjust our routes to spend more time inside and less outside.
Experience Hamburg Tours will not cancel a tour due to bad weather—don’t worry!
I would like to take this tour but do not want to book it just for me. Can I join another group?
Sadly, it is not possible for us to add guests to another group's tour, as we only offer private group tours. We ask for your understanding, as we do not currently offer public tours where individuals typically join a larger group.
The good news is that if you wish to book a private tour with us, groups start with just 1 person!
What does the tour cost per person?
Our tours are priced per group, not per person, as we charge for the guide's time, not the number of guests attending.
One hour of guiding costs €100, meaning a 2-hour tour costs €200 per group. Group size is determined by the guest, with a maximum group size of 25 persons allowed. For example, if you book as a group of 25 people, the group price of €200 would be shared, working out to €8 per person.
If I book a car and driver will I see more?
We offer the option of a vehicle and driver. Anyone can book this add-on, we actively recommend it only for those unable to walk the distance of the tour, but not as a way to see "more."
Some guests may wish to book a vehicle to see "more." However, as much of Hamburg is pedestrianized, it is often no faster to move from A to B by vehicle than it is to walk or use public transit. Therefore, booking a vehicle does not mean you will see twice as much in the same amount of time. Even with a vehicle, we can only cover the same number of stops with the group.
To see "more," our advice is to contact us to arrange an extended tour or consider booking an additional tour. To see more, we need more time with you!