Hamburg Leisure

There is an abundance of leisure and sports opportunities in Hamburg, with residents regularly taking to the waters of Alster Lake for or indulging in water sports in the Elbe. Those who prefer not to get wet can take advantage of the fantastic walking trails in reach of the city.

Sailing

Right in the centre of Hamburg, you will find Alster Lake. Here you can hire sailing and rowing boats. Should you want to go sailing, you should keep in mind that the winds can be treacherous. Due to the buildings around the lake, the wind often comes from unexpected directions. You also can go canoeing through the upper Alster and its tributaries with their connecting canals. This gives lots of possibilities for nice, relaxing tours.

Water sports

Although the Elbe has a lot of ocean-going commercial vessels coming in and out of Hamburg, it also is possible to enjoy water sports like sailing, kayaking and canoeing. Of course, you have to keep out of the main traffic route if you want to avoid a collision with a big cargo vessel. So, for a relaxed boat trip, it is best to stay just on one side! Before you go, you also should get information about the tide schedule and plan your trip according to the tide otherwise it might become a little frustrating, when the pedestrians on the Elbufer-Wanderweg (the scenic walk along the Elbe) are travelling faster than you.

Walking

A favourite route for long walks or jogging is the pedestrian walkway that circumnavigates the Alster lakes. The total perimeter of the larger of the two lakes measures about six kilometres; that of the more congested Binnenalster, less than two kilometres. The public parks flanking the northwestern edge of the inner city are also suitable for walks.