Elbphilharmonie: Hamburg's Architectural Symphony

Experience Hamburg's architectural and musical masterpiece: the Elbphilharmonie, a stunning concert hall offering breathtaking views and world-class performances in a unique waterfront setting.

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Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

The Elbphilharmonie, affectionately known as "Elphi," is Hamburg's iconic concert hall, a stunning architectural marvel rising from the Elbe River. Perched atop a historic brick warehouse, its shimmering glass facade resembles a hoisted sail or a crystalline wave, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. More than just a concert venue, the Elbphilharmonie is a cultural hub, housing three concert halls, a hotel, apartments, and a public plaza. Its Grand Hall boasts world-class acoustics, while the Plaza provides a mesmerizing 360-degree vista of Hamburg's harbor and skyline. Whether you're a music aficionado or an architecture enthusiast, the Elbphilharmonie promises an unforgettable experience, blending history, innovation, and artistic brilliance into a harmonious whole. A visit to the Elbphilharmonie is a must for any traveler seeking to immerse themselves in Hamburg's vibrant cultural landscape.

A brief summary to Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Platz d. Deutschen Einheit 4, Hamburg, Hamburg-Mitte, 20457, DE
+49403576660
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Local tips

Book Plaza tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues and guarantee access to the panoramic viewing platform.
Consider attending a concert to experience the Elbphilharmonie's world-class acoustics and unique atmosphere. Concert tickets often include access to the Plaza.
Take a guided tour to learn about the Elbphilharmonie's history, architecture, and musical program. Tours start from the Elbphilharmonie Ticket shop on the ground floor.
Explore the HafenCity district surrounding the Elbphilharmonie, a vibrant urban area with modern architecture, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before your concert or tour to allow time for security checks and to explore the building's public areas.

Getting There

Public Transport

For the final approach to the Elbphilharmonie, public transport is highly recommended due to limited parking. From Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take the U3 underground line to Baumwall (Elbphilharmonie) station. From there, it's a short, approximately 450-meter walk. Alternatively, take the U4 line to Überseequartier station, which is about a 950-meter walk. Several bus lines also serve the area; bus 111 stops at Am Kaiserkai (Elbphilharmonie), just 150 meters from the entrance, while bus 6 stops at Auf dem Sande (Speicherstadt), about 550 meters away. A single HVV ticket for a short trip within Hamburg costs approximately €1.90 - €3.60.
Ferry

Another scenic option is to take Ferry line 72 from Landungsbrücken to the 'Elbphilharmonie' landing stage, which is directly in front of the building. This offers a unique perspective of the Elbphilharmonie from the water. A single ferry ticket costs around €3.60.
Taxi/Ride-Share

If arriving by taxi or ride-sharing service, direct the driver to Platz der Deutschen Einheit. Be aware that traffic can be congested, especially during peak hours or event times. A short taxi ride from Hamburg city center will cost approximately €9-€12.
Driving

If driving, parking is available in the Elbphilharmonie's multi-story car park, but spaces are limited and expensive. Pre-booking online is highly recommended. The car park is open 24/7. Short term parking costs from €5.50 per hour, with a daily maximum of €50. A flat rate of €15 is available for 4 hours if booked online at least 2 hours in advance. A 24-hour flat rate booked online costs €35. Please note that the car park entrance is marked 'Elbphilharmonie' and only cashless payments are accepted. As an alternative, consider parking in Speicherstadt and walking to the Elbphilharmonie.

Discover more about Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Rising majestically from the Grasbrook peninsula in Hamburg's HafenCity, the Elbphilharmonie is more than just a concert hall; it's a symbol of the city's innovative spirit and a testament to the power of architectural vision. Affectionately nicknamed "Elphi," this iconic structure seamlessly blends the historical with the contemporary, creating a unique cultural landmark that draws visitors from around the globe. The Elbphilharmonie's story begins with the Kaispeicher A, a former brick warehouse built in 1963. For decades, this sturdy structure served as a storage facility for cocoa, tobacco, and tea. However, with the rise of container transport, the warehouse gradually lost its significance and stood empty for years. In the early 2000s, a visionary idea emerged: to repurpose the Kaispeicher A into a world-class concert hall and residential complex. The Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron took on the challenge, conceiving a design that would transform the Kaispeicher A into a breathtaking architectural masterpiece. Their concept involved constructing a new, glassy structure atop the existing warehouse, creating a striking contrast between the old and the new. The result is a building that resembles a hoisted sail, a water wave, an iceberg, or a quartz crystal, depending on the observer's perspective. The Elbphilharmonie's facade is a marvel of engineering, comprising over 1,000 curved glass windows, each individually shaped with millimeter precision. These windows reflect the sky, the water, and the city, creating a shimmering, ever-changing spectacle. The building reaches a height of 108 meters (354 feet), making it the tallest inhabited building in Hamburg. The heart of the Elbphilharmonie is the Grand Hall, a stunning concert space with 2,100 seats arranged in a vineyard style around a central stage. This design ensures that no audience member is more than 30 meters from the conductor, creating an intimate and immersive musical experience. The hall's acoustics are world-renowned, thanks to the expertise of acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota, who designed the "White Skin," a wall and roof structure comprising 10,000 individually shaped gypsum fiber panels that guarantee precise sound distribution. In addition to the Grand Hall, the Elbphilharmonie also houses the Recital Hall, a more intimate space with 550 seats, ideal for chamber music, solo recitals, and jazz performances. The building also includes a hotel, 45 private apartments, various dining options, and a spacious music education area. One of the Elbphilharmonie's most popular features is the Plaza, a publicly accessible viewing platform located 37 meters above ground level. The Plaza offers breathtaking panoramic views of Hamburg's harbor, the Elbe River, and the city skyline. It's a perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere of this vibrant city and appreciate the Elbphilharmonie's architectural grandeur. The Elbphilharmonie's construction was not without its challenges. The project faced delays, revisions, and legal disputes, ultimately costing 789 million euros. However, since its opening in January 2017, the Elbphilharmonie has become a resounding success, drawing millions of visitors and solidifying Hamburg's reputation as a cultural destination. The Elbphilharmonie stands as a symbol of Hamburg's past, present, and future, a fusion of the old and the ultra-modern. It's a place where music, architecture, and culture converge, creating an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Whether you're attending a concert, exploring the Plaza, or simply admiring its stunning facade, the Elbphilharmonie is sure to leave a lasting impression. The Elbphilharmonie's impact extends beyond its architectural and cultural significance. It has also become a catalyst for urban development in the HafenCity district, attracting new businesses, residents, and tourists to the area. The Elbphilharmonie has helped to transform HafenCity from a former industrial area into a vibrant and thriving urban center. The Elbphilharmonie is more than just a building; it's a living, breathing entity that embodies the spirit of Hamburg. It's a place where people come together to celebrate music, art, and culture, a place where the past meets the future, and a place where dreams take flight. A visit to the Elbphilharmonie is an essential experience for anyone seeking to understand and appreciate the unique character of Hamburg.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Niederbaumbrücke

0.3 km

Cross the Niederbaumbrücke in Hamburg for stunning views of the Elbe, Speicherstadt, and HafenCity, bridging the city's rich maritime past with its modern future.

Binnenhafen Viewpoint

0.3 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Hamburg's harbor and HafenCity from the Binnenhafen Viewpoint, a serene escape offering a unique perspective on the city's maritime charm.

Baumwall

0.4 km

Explore Hamburg's maritime heart at Baumwall, where history meets modern innovation, offering access to iconic landmarks like the Elbphilharmonie and Speicherstadt.

Hohe Brücke 2

0.4 km

Discover Hamburg's maritime history and architectural beauty at the Hohe Brücke, a picturesque bridge offering stunning views of the Nikolaifleet and the historic Deichstraße.

Old Boiler House

0.4 km

Explore Hamburg's industrial past at the Old Boiler House, now the HafenCity InfoCenter, where history meets modern urban development on the picturesque Sandtorkai.

Kleines Dock

0.5 km

Discover Hamburg's maritime heart at Kleines Dock: historic Deichstraße, Hanseatic architecture, waterfront charm, and culinary delights await near the Speicherstadt.

Deichstraße

0.6 km

Discover Hamburg's oldest street, a picturesque lane of meticulously restored 17th-19th century houses along the Nikolaifleet, offering a glimpse into the city's Hanseatic past.

Mattentwiete 2

0.6 km

Discover Hamburg's maritime soul from Mattentwiete 2: Gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt, a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture.

Brooksfleet

0.6 km

Discover the serene beauty of Brooksfleet, a picturesque canal in Hamburg's historic Speicherstadt, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the city's maritime past.

Kibbelstegbrücke

0.7 km

Cross the Kibbelstegbrücke in Hamburg's Speicherstadt for iconic views of historic warehouses and modern architecture, a perfect blend of past and future.

Speicherstadt

0.7 km

Explore the Speicherstadt, Hamburg's UNESCO World Heritage Site: a captivating blend of neo-Gothic architecture, historic canals, and vibrant cultural attractions in the heart of HafenCity.

Michelwiese Fountain

0.7 km

Escape the city bustle at Michelwiese Fountain, a tranquil green space near St. Michael's Church offering relaxation, recreation, and unique public BBQ facilities in Hamburg-Mitte.

St. Nikolai Memorial

0.8 km

Explore the poignant St. Nikolai Memorial in Hamburg: a powerful symbol of wartime destruction, resilience, and a beacon for peace, offering history, panoramic views, and reflection.

Brunnen am Krayenkamp

0.8 km

Discover the historic Krameramtsstuben, a charming 17th-century courtyard in Hamburg-Mitte, offering a glimpse into the city's past with its well-preserved architecture and unique atmosphere.

St. Nikolai Museum

0.8 km

Explore the ruins of St. Nikolai, a WWII memorial in Hamburg, offering panoramic city views, a poignant museum, and a carillon, fostering remembrance and reflection.

Explore Harry's Hamburger Hafenbasar in Hamburg - a unique museum blending maritime history with contemporary art, offering stunning views and cultural insights.

Experience Hamburg's culinary delights at KITCHENS Restaurant & Bar - where modern cuisine meets vibrant atmosphere along the waterfront.

THE DINING RooM

0.8 km

Discover the exquisite flavors of American, French, and German cuisine at The Dining RooM in Hamburg - a fine dining experience like no other.

Experience the epitome of luxury at Montblanc Boutique Hamburg, offering exquisite jewelry, leather goods, and fine stationery in a sophisticated setting.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

BLICK Bar Elbphilharmonie

0.0 km

Discover Hamburg's stunning skyline while enjoying exquisite cocktails at BLICK Bar Elbphilharmonie, a must-visit gem in the city's nightlife.

Whiskyplaza & Altstadt Restaurant am Fleet

0.5 km

Discover Hamburg's Whiskyplaza & Altstadt Restaurant, a culinary haven where fine dining meets an exquisite cocktail experience in a historic setting.

Whiskyplaza & Altstadt Restaurant am Fleet

The Bohemian - Bar

0.5 km

Discover The Bohemian, Hamburg's premier cocktail bar, known for its signature drinks and vibrant nightlife in the heart of the city.

Three Fingers Bar

0.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hamburg at Three Fingers Bar, where stunning waterfront views meet expertly crafted cocktails.

MOON 46

0.8 km

Discover the lively ambiance and exquisite cocktail selection at MOON 46, a must-visit bar in Hamburg's vibrant nightlife scene.

The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt

0.9 km

Discover an extraordinary cocktail experience at The Boilerman Bar Hafenamt, where quality meets creativity in the heart of Hamburg.

Club 20457

0.9 km

Experience Hamburg's vibrant nightlife at Club 20457, where art meets music in a lively bar setting.

Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker

1.0 km

Immerse yourself in the lively spirit of the Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, Hamburg, where great food, drinks, and live music await.

Kumpin

1.1 km

Discover Kumpin, Hamburg's chic bar offering a vibrant atmosphere, exquisite drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

Ba Nomu | Bar

1.1 km

Discover Ba Nomu, Hamburg's cocktail haven, where creativity meets taste in a vibrant, stylish atmosphere perfect for unforgettable nights.

Paddy's Bar

1.1 km

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Paddy's Bar, Hamburg's favorite Irish pub, offering hearty meals, a wide drink selection, and live music.

Le Lion • Bar de Paris

1.2 km

Discover the luxury of Le Lion • Bar de Paris, Hamburg's premier destination for exquisite cocktails and elegant ambiance.

Gugu Bar

1.2 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hamburg at Gugu Bar, where eclectic decor meets an extensive drink menu in a lively atmosphere.

ZWICK St. Pauli

1.4 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at ZWICK St. Pauli, where live music and delicious dining create unforgettable experiences in Hamburg.

Liquid Garden - Cocktailbar

1.4 km

Discover Liquid Garden, Hamburg's vibrant cocktail bar where creativity and flavor blend for unforgettable nights and unique drinks.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Elbphilharmonie: Hamburg's Architectural Symphony

A brief summary to Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Ferry

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Niederbaumbrücke

Binnenhafen Viewpoint

Baumwall

Hohe Brücke 2

Old Boiler House

Kleines Dock

Deichstraße

Mattentwiete 2

Brooksfleet

Kibbelstegbrücke

Speicherstadt

Michelwiese Fountain

St. Nikolai Memorial

Brunnen am Krayenkamp

St. Nikolai Museum

Unmissable attractions to see

Elbphilharmonie Plaza

Elbphilharmonie concert box office

Platz der Deutschen Einheit

Elbphilharmonie Visitor Center

Mahatma-Gandhi-Brücke

Viewpoint Elphi

Elbpanorama Sandtorkai

Columbus Haus

Wilhelminenbrücke Speicherstadt observation deck

Sandtorhafen/Traditionsschiffhafen

Kehrwiedersteg viewing platform

Kehrwiederspitze - Hamburg-Hafen

Kehrwiederspitze

Treffpunkt Elbphilharmonieführung Sightseeing Kontor

Harry's Hamburger Hafenbasar

Essential places to dine

Kinfelts Kitchen & Wine

Heimathafen

Bootshaus Grill & Bar - Hafencity

Restaurant Porticello

Deichgraf Restaurant

Sala Thai Restaurant

Restaurant Kartoffelkeller

coast by east Hamburg

Restaurant Schoppenhauer

Goa HafenCity Indisches Restaurant

mama trattoria Hamburg Hafencity

Caramba Especial

Restaurant Brook

KITCHENS Restaurant & Bar

THE DINING RooM

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

D!FFERENT WOMEN | Hamburg-Hafencity

53 ° Hamburg | Store | CMD

Boutique de la Mer -Ti Breizh

Hoi Lieblingsstücke

Frau Vogel – Erinnerungen an Hamburg

The Art of Hamburg

Speicher & Consorten

25Things Shop

wasted hour - concept store

CHANEL BOUTIQUE HAMBURG

Shop des Maritimen Museums

nosame GmbH

Gudrun Sjödén - concept store Hamburg

I love Hamburg

Montblanc Boutique Hamburg - Neuer Wall

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

BLICK Bar Elbphilharmonie

Whiskyplaza & Altstadt Restaurant am Fleet