Old Elbe Tunnel (Alter Elbtunnel)

icon-locationBei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
“When the Old Elbe tunnel, also known as the “St.Pauli Elbe Tunnel”, was opened in 1911, it was an emotional event for the people of Hamburg. Today, it is a nostalgic and lovely piece of the city's history and celebrates its 100th anniversary.”

In 1911, the Old Elbe Tunnel was built to provide a more direct route for dock workers to the south bank of the River Elbe from the Landungsbrücken pier in St. Pauli. A technical innovation at the time of construction, the tunnel became a tourist attraction when the new Elbtunnel and several other bridges were built in the 1970s. Today, pedestrians and cyclists alike Those wishing to cross the river can take the free elevator down to the deep tunnel, and cars can use the hydraulic control cage for a small fee.

The green dome at Landungsbrücken faces the 426 meter long tunnel. The tunnel was used by city dwellers to explore the far corners of the port area or to reach Wilhelmsburg or Altes Land. The southern observation platform of the river is also of great interest to residents and visitors as it offers a beautiful panoramic view of the city.

The modern tunnels are incomparable to the Alter Elbtunnel, which has been a preserved historic site since 2003. The lights are symmetrical with the vaulted tunnel walls creating another cozy atmosphere. 24 meters below the river surface. The Art Deco beauty of the Old Elbe tunnel, combined with the unique reliefs lining the brick walls, make this attraction particularly popular with photographers.


Address: Bei den St. Pauli Landungsbrucken 7, 20359 Hamburg

Visiting hours: always open to pedestrians and cyclists

*December 31: 21:00 – 04:00