The Hamburg Town Hall (Rathaus) stands as one of the most impressive city halls in Germany, showcasing magnificent neo-Renaissance architecture that has been the seat of Hamburg’s government since 1897. This stunning landmark dominates the central square of Hamburg with its imposing façade, crowned by a 112-meter tower that reaches proudly into the city skyline.
Architectural Highlights:
- Built between 1886 and 1897
- Features 647 rooms spread across 17,000 square meters
- Ornate façade adorned with sculptures of emperors from the Holy Roman Empire
- Beautiful copper-covered roof with distinctive green patina
- Impressive central courtyard with a fountain featuring the goddess Hygieia
Interior Attractions:
- Grand staircase with intricate marble work
- Emperor’s Hall (Kaisersaal) with stunning paintings and chandeliers
- Great Hall with impressive wooden paneling and historical artifacts
- Regular guided tours available in multiple languages
- Historical exhibition about Hamburg’s history
Visiting Information:
- Address: Rathausmarkt 1, 20095 Hamburg
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Guided Tours: Available several times daily
- Admission: €5 for adults, €3.50 for concessions
- Duration of guided tour: Approximately 45 minutes
How to Get There from Moxy Hamburg City:
By Public Transport (Recommended):
- Walk to Hammerbrook station (5 minutes)
- Take the S3 or S31 towards Altona
- Get off at Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (Central Station)
- Either walk 10 minutes to the Rathaus or take the U3 to Rathaus station
Total journey time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
By Taxi/Uber:
- Direct route takes about 10-15 minutes
- Estimated cost: €15-20
Walking Route:
- Distance: 2.5 km
- Walking time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Route: Follow Anckelmannstraße to Steindamm, continue onto Mönckebergstraße, which leads directly to the Rathaus
Tips for Visitors:
- Best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds
- Photography is allowed in most areas
- Consider combining your visit with the nearby Alster Lake
- The Christmas Market in December transforms the square into a magical winter wonderland
- Several cafés and restaurants are located in the vicinity
- The Tourist Information Center is located in the building’s courtyard
The Hamburg Rathaus is not just a government building but a symbol of Hamburg’s independence and prosperity. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for any tourist in Hamburg. The building continues to serve as both a working city hall and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Hamburg’s rich history and cultural heritage.