14 Best Parks in Hamburg to Chill At

Updated on January 20, 2024  

best parks in hamburg

Ready to explore the best parks in Hamburg? From the tranquil Planten un Blomen and the scenic Altonaer Balkon, to the lush greenery of StadtPark and Wilhelmsburger Inselpark, there's no shortage of beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy in this vibrant city.

14 Best Parks in Hamburg

Planten un Blomen Hamburg

Planten un Blomen is a beautiful spot in the heart of Hamburg. With 47 hectares to explore, you'll find amazing themed gardens like a rose garden and Mediterranean terraces – but it's the large Japanese garden that truly stands out.

It's called Hamburg's "green lung" for good reason; families, couples, and people looking for peace all come here.

You can catch incredible light shows or just relax and soak up nature around you.

fountain light show

If you love plants, this park is perfect with its top-notch landscape design. Don't miss out in spring – that's when Planten un Blomen really shines with fresh air and stunning gardens!

StadtPark Hamburg

StadtPark Hamburg is a huge green space in the city. With over 150 hectares, it's the second-biggest park where locals and visitors alike love to hang out. You can find people jogging, biking, or just chilling on sunny days.

It's got an outdoor swimming pool and even a place where you can watch plays under the stars. The planetarium is there too for anyone who loves staring at space.

The park isn't just big on nature; it brings people together from all walks of life. More than 200,000 folks come here when the weekend weather is nice! [1]

cologne-botanical-garden-germany

Looking for some live music? This spot hosts open-air concerts that are sure to get your feet moving.

And if you're into art, keep your eyes peeled for cool sculptures scattered around. Plus, those views of the Elbe river are something else—don't miss them while you're exploring Jenisch Park's beauty.

Altonaer Balkon Hamburg

Altonaer Balkon Hamburg is a gem tucked away in the Altona neighborhood, close to the water's edge. You'll love the breath-taking sights it offers of the Elbe River and the bustling port.

It's a haven for everyone—couples steal quiet moments here, families enjoy picnics, and adventurers seek out its hidden trails.

This park isn't just about views; it has woodlands to wander through and glades that light up with flowers. Kids can laugh and play on different playgrounds while adults might try their hand at mini-golf.

Visiting this spot gives you a chance to soak in some natural beauty far from Hamburg's beaten paths.

Wilhelmsburger Inselpark Hamburg

Wilhelmsburger Inselpark, located in the Wilhelmsburg district, is Hamburg's most innovative and international city park.

This 100-hectare site was designed for the International Garden Show (IGS 2013) and offers numerous opportunities for recreation and enjoying nature. [2]

Known for its green spaces and nature reserves, the park is a popular destination for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of this socially disadvantaged river island.

nordpark

The Wilhelmsburger Inselpark presents a unique blend of natural landscapes and modern design, making it an ideal spot to disconnect from urban hustle. With its diverse attractions and serene ambiance, the park stands as a testament to how urban spaces can harmoniously coexist with nature.

Altonaer VolksPark Hamburg

Altonaer VolksPark Hamburg is the largest public park in Hamburg, spreading across 205 hectares. It's easy to get there via public transport and offers various training options for runners. 

The park is a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat within the city, making it an essential part of preserving green spaces in Hamburg.

Known as one of the top green spots in Hamburg, Altonaer VolksPark provides recreational havens for everyone. It's not just renowned for its vastness but also stands out as an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature amid the hustle and bustle of urban life.

This makes it a must-visit spot when looking for the best things to do in Hamburg, attracting people from all walks of life who seek relaxation amidst nature's beauty.

Ojendorfer Park Hamburg

Öjendorfer Park is situated near the Bilstedt and Jenfeld area, offering stunning views of Öjendorfer Lake. This park is famous for its breathtaking scenery, making it a popular choice for nature lovers.

The accessibility and beauty make this park a must-visit destination in Hamburg, conveniently located not too far from the city center.

With exceptional natural beauty to appreciate, Öjendorfer Park provides an enjoyable experience for those seeking to immerse themselves in Hamburg's natural charm.

Whether it's strolling along the pathways or simply taking in the picturesque surroundings, this park offers a delightful retreat for visitors looking to soak up the tranquility of nature.

Hammer Park Hamburg

Hammer Park Hamburg is among the top parks in the city. It's small but packs a punch with its picturesque lake and charming surroundings.

The park's art pavilion adds to its allure, making it a favorite spot for people to unwind and soak up nature's beauty.

flowers-in-park

This unassuming gem offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors can revel in the tranquility provided by this delightful green space, perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls.

Park Fiction Hamburg

Park Fiction in Hamburg is not your typical park. It's an art project designed to look like a park and can be found near the upscale harbor-side promenade.

This unique grassy terrace was proposed, planned, and built by artists, locals, and community institutions.

Its offbeat charm offers visitors a quirky and unusual experience when exploring the Hamburg harbor area.

The park symbolizes participatory artistic projects and stands as a testament to creative collaboration between residents, artists, and local organizations.

With its unconventional design and grassroots origins, Park Fiction provides an alternative perspective on what a park can be—making it a must-see for those seeking something different in their park experience while visiting Hamburg.

JenischPark Hamburg

JenischPark in Hamburg is a large park with open meadows and old trees. It also has woodland paths for walking and places to picnic with views of the Elbe River.

The park dates back to 1800 as a model farm and arboretum, offering a place to enjoy nature.

Jenisch House

In addition, JenischPark is home to two museums: the Jenisch House and the Jenisch Museum.

Located near the historical landmark of Jenisch Villa, this diverse park offers beautiful countryside scenery that includes rolling meadows, woodlands, and a small stream.

Botanischer Sondergarten Hamburg

Botanischer Sondergarten Hamburg is an off-the-beaten-path gem, nestled in Hamburg. Few people know about this green paradise, but it's a treasure trove of historical and botanical wonders.

The gardens offer a peaceful retreat where you can immerse yourself in diverse plant species and learn from the informative displays. With its charming greenhouses, the park is a haven for relaxation and education.

This little-known garden hides many stories waiting to be discovered amidst its lush surroundings. It's one of those places that may not make it to the must-see lists, but once you step into its serene ambiance, you realize it's a true hidden marvel in Hamburg.

Loki Schmidt Gardens

Loki Schmidt Gardens boasts a rich collection of plants from around the globe. It's designed into different continents, like South America, giving an educational experience for visitors.

This botanical garden is both historically significant and culturally unique due to its abundance of global plant life.

Plant lovers should definitely visit this serene spot known for its peaceful and educational atmosphere, making it perfect for families and anyone seeking relaxation.

nordpark-colorful-flowers

This new addition to Hamburg's parks offers a tranquil haven with diverse plant species attracting nature lovers looking for an immersive experience.

Whether you're there to learn or unwind, Loki Schmidt Gardens provides a blend of education and tranquility that makes it stand out among the city's many recreational spots.

Hirschpark Hamburg

Hirschpark in Hamburg boasts expansive meadows, stunning French gardens, and rich historical elements. It’s a prime spot for unwinding, recreation, and various sports activities.

Visitors and locals alike flock to Hirschpark for its mesmerizing views and well-maintained gardens. This popular park offers an ideal setting for relaxation right in the heart of urban Hamburg.

Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll among the gardens or enjoy a laid-back picnic with family and friends, Hirschpark is one of the best parks in Hamburg that provides ample opportunities for both locals and tourists to unwind amidst natural beauty.

Alsterpark and Alsterwiesen

Alsterpark, located on the northwest shore of Außenalster, offers breathtaking views and a variety of recreational activities across its vast 178 acres.

The well-manicured park boasts beautiful shade trees and cultivated gardens, making it a favorite spot for Hamburg residents to unwind and enjoy nature.

alster lake hamburg

On the east bank lies Alsterwiesen, featuring expansive lawns popular among both people and waterfowl like swans and geese.

The park is an ideal place for leisurely strolls or picnics by the water's edge while taking in the tranquil surroundings. It presents an excellent opportunity to escape bustling city life and immerse oneself in serene natural beauty right in the heart of Hamburg.

Ohlsdorf park cemetery

Ohlsdorf Park Cemetery is not just a burial ground, it's also a vast green space where you can stroll among beautiful trees, colorful flowers, and well-maintained paths.

Spanning over 400 hectares, it's even larger than New York's Central Park. [3]

Within the cemetery's grounds are 12 chapels and a small museum for those interested in history. You can take a guided tour to explore its various areas, including serene ponds and natural settings.

Ohlsdorf Cemetery is not only one of the biggest rural cemeteries globally but also considered one of Hamburg’s best parks alongside other popular ones like Planten un Blomen and Stadtpark.

Japanese Garden Hamburg

The Japanese Garden in Hamburg was created by Yoshikuni Araki in 1988. This beautiful garden is situated in Planten un Blomen Park, alongside a romantic rose garden and a tea pavilion.

japanese-garden-trees

The design of the garden follows traditional Japanese styles and aesthetics, offering visitors a serene and peaceful atmosphere to enjoy.

Conclusion: Best Parks in Hamburg

Hamburg's best parks offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, making them quintessential destinations for those seeking respite and leisure on their city break.

With an array of meticulously maintained green spaces, each park not only provides a serene escape from urban hustle but also presents a myriad of things to do in Hamburg

Whether it's a leisurely stroll, vibrant events, or simply basking in nature's embrace, these parks stand as testament to the city's commitment to fostering a harmonious balance between urban living and tranquil retreats. Not to mention, all of these parks are free to enter!


References:

1: Stadtpark Hamburg, retrieved from https://www.hamburg-travel.com/see-explore/green-hamburg/parks-green-spaces/stadtpark/
2: Inselpark Wilhelmsburg by RMP Stephan Lenzen Landschaftsarchitekten — Landscape Architecture Platform | Landezine, retrived from https://landezine.com/inselpark-wilhelmsburg-by-rmp-stephan-lenzen-landschaftsarchitekten/
3: Ohlsdorf cemetery Hamburg, retrived from https://www.hamburg-travel.com/see-explore/green-hamburg/parks-green-spaces/ohlsdorf-cemetery/

About the Author

Stephan Drescher, founder of germanytravel.blog, is a German travel expert and insider, providing trusted tips and advice for a perfect trip to Germany. Born & bred German.