Rathausmarkt: The Heart of Hamburg
Discover the Rathausmarkt in Hamburg: a historic square, architectural marvel, and vibrant hub for events, culture, and Hanseatic charm in the heart of the city.
Rathausmarkt, the square in front of Hamburg's City Hall, is a vibrant hub steeped in history and brimming with activity. Rebuilt after the Great Fire of 1842, its design was inspired by Venice's Piazza San Marco. Today, it serves as a central meeting point, a stage for numerous events, and a gateway to the city's main attractions. Flanked by the imposing City Hall, the Alsterarkaden, and the Binnenalster, the Rathausmarkt offers a picturesque setting for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're exploring the Christmas market in winter, enjoying a summer festival, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Rathausmarkt encapsulates the spirit of Hamburg. Its central location makes it easily accessible and a perfect starting point for discovering the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant modern life. The square is also a key transport hub, ensuring seamless connections to other parts of Hamburg. Don't miss the Heinrich Heine monument, a tribute to the renowned poet, and the war memorial, both adding layers of historical significance to this iconic space.
A brief summary to Rathausmarkt
- Hamburg, Hamburg-Mitte, DE
Local tips
- Visit during the Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt) for a magical experience with festive stalls, mulled wine, and traditional treats.
- Take a guided tour of the Hamburg City Hall to explore its opulent interiors and learn about its history and political significance.
- Stroll along the Alsterarkaden for picturesque views of the Kleine Alster canal and browse the unique shops and cafes.
- Check the event calendar for concerts, festivals, and other public gatherings that often take place on the Rathausmarkt.
- Visit the Heinrich Heine monument and the war memorial to reflect on Hamburg's history and cultural heritage.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Rathausmarkt is easily accessible via Hamburg's extensive public transport network. Take the U-Bahn line U3 to the 'Rathausmarkt' station, which exits directly onto the square. Alternatively, the Jungfernstieg station (U1, U2, S1, S2, S3 lines) is a short walk away, approximately 5-10 minutes, following signs for the Rathaus. Numerous bus lines also stop at Rathausmarkt and Jungfernstieg. A single ride ticket (depending on zones) costs approximately €1.80 - €3.50. Consider purchasing a Hamburg Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions from €11.90.
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Walking
From the Jungfernstieg, walk south towards the Alsterarkaden, keeping the Binnenalster on your right. Cross the Schleusenbrücke (bridge) and you'll arrive directly at the Rathausmarkt. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers scenic views. No costs are associated with walking.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) to Rathausmarkt will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between €10-€15. Be sure to specify 'Rathausmarkt' as your destination.
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Driving
Driving to Rathausmarkt is possible, but parking in the immediate vicinity is limited and can be expensive. There are several parking garages within walking distance, such as the Q-Park Rathausmarkt. Hourly parking rates typically range from €3-€5, with daily maximums around €20-€30. Be aware that traffic in the city center can be congested, especially during peak hours. There are no toll roads required to reach the Rathausmarkt.
Discover more about Rathausmarkt
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rathausmarkt
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Discover the Rathausmarkt in Hamburg: a historic square, architectural marvel, and vibrant hub for events, culture, and Hanseatic charm in the heart of the city.
Heinrich Heine Monument
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A poignant tribute to the celebrated German poet Heinrich Heine, commemorating his legacy of literary brilliance and his struggles against intolerance, located in the heart of Hamburg.
Denkmal für die Gefallenen beider Weltkriege
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A poignant memorial in Hamburg-Mitte honoring the fallen of both World Wars, featuring Ernst Barlach's moving sculpture and offering a space for reflection and remembrance.
Hygieia Fountain
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Discover the Hygieia Fountain in Hamburg's City Hall: a symbol of resilience and a tribute to the city's triumph over the cholera epidemic of 1892, embodying Hamburg's enduring spirit.
Otto Liss Gedenktafel
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A poignant memorial in Hamburg honoring Otto Liss, a worker who died building the U-Bahn, serving as a reminder of the human cost of progress and the city's history.
Reesendamm bridge
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Experience Hamburg's heart at the Reesendamm Bridge: where history meets stunning views and vibrant city life on the Jungfernstieg, connecting you to the best of the Hanseatic city.
Alte Post
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St. Peter's Church
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Discover Hamburg's oldest parish church, a symbol of resilience and architectural splendor, offering panoramic city views and a journey through centuries of history and cultural heritage.
Jungfernstieg Promenade
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Explore Hamburg's iconic Jungfernstieg Promenade – a scenic waterfront destination for shopping, dining, and unforgettable views of the Alster Lakes.
Hulbe house
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Trostbrücke
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Cross the Trostbrücke in Hamburg, where history whispers from every stone, connecting you to the heart of the city's Hanseatic past and offering stunning views of the Nikolaifleet.
Archaeoscope Hammaburg
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Journey back to the 9th century at the Archaeoscope Hammaburg, where virtual reality unveils the origins of Hamburg on the historic Domplatz, the site of the Hammaburg fortress.
St. Nikolai Museum
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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.
Gerhart Hauptmann Square
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Inner Alster
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Unmissable attractions to see
Alster Arcade
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Bucerius Kunst Forum
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Mellinpassage
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Börsentag Hamburg
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Bleichensteg
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Jungfernstieg
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Bishop's Tower
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Mönkedamm channel
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Thalia Theater
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St. Nikolai Memorial
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Hopfenmarkt
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Mönckeberg fountain
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Original Hamburg Walks
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St. Catherine Church
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Gänsemarkt
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Parlament Hamburg
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Wloka‘s
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Restaurante Español Picasso
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I Vigneri Osteria Enoteca
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Le Plat du Jour
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brasserie TORTUE
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chez l'ami TORTUE
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Restaurant Perle
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NIKKEI NINE
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THE DINING RooM
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Haerlin Restaurant
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Kornhauskeller
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Restaurant Rialto
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Casse Croute
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Restaurant Brook
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Europa Passage
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La plus belles rue
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PRADA Hamburg Neuer Wall Store
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Elbenwald
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Alsterhaus
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Gudrun Sjödén - concept store Hamburg
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Montblanc Boutique Hamburg - Neuer Wall
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C'N'C
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hessnatur Store Hamburg
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GALLERIA
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American Vintage
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GALERIA Hamburg Mönckebergstraße
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Der Nordische Stil
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CHANEL BOUTIQUE HAMBURG
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Hanseviertel
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Lion • Bar de Paris
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Paddy's Bar
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Ba Nomu | Bar
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Gugu Bar
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Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker
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CIU` DIE BAR
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Liquid Garden - Cocktailbar
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Meyer Lansky's
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The Bohemian - Bar
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Whiskyplaza & Altstadt Restaurant am Fleet
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Central Congress
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Tipsy Baker Bar Hamburg
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Three Fingers Bar
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MOON 46
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Club 20457
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Die Insel Hamburg
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Cotton Club
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Chilli Club
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Golden Cut - Hamburg
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The Room Bar & Club
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Relax Nightclub - Nachtclub - Bordell Hamburg
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Volt
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Terrace Hill
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Baalsaal - Hamburg
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Cave Club & Lounge
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Summer Salon in the clubhouse
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GAGA
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GeizClub
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Angie's
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Headcrash
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