Hamburg: Self-guided Walk of the Ohlsdorf Cemetery

Are you interested in experiencing an eerie yet fascinating self-guided tour in Hamburg? Then you might want to visit the Ohlsdorf Cemetery, the largest rural cemetery in the world. Follow these instructions to plan your visit.

Step 1: Getting There

The Ohlsdorf Cemetery is easy to reach. You can take the U-Bahn (subway) line U1 or the S-Bahn (metro) line S1 to the Ohlsdorf station. From there, you can walk to the main entrance of the cemetery.

Step 2: Planning Your Tour

Before you start your tour, you have to decide which parts of the cemetery you want to see. The Ohlsdorf Cemetery is enormous, covering an area of over 400 hectares, and it is impossible to explore it all in one go. Therefore, it is essential to get a map at the main entrance, which shows you the different sections of the cemetery.

Once you have the map, you can pick and choose which sections interest you the most. The cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent people, such as former Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, and you can find their gravestones on the map. Additionally, there are many other tombs, monuments, and sculptures worth seeing, such as the mausoleum of the Hamburg-born coffee trader Carl Woermann or the monument to the victims of the Luxtorpeda submarine disaster.

Step 3: Experience

Once you have planned your itinerary, you can start your tour. The cemetery has several paved roads and trails that make it easy to navigate. However, there are also many smaller paths that lead to hidden tombs or chapels, so be sure to explore these as well.

During your walk, you will experience a unique atmosphere. The ohlsdorf cemetery provides a peaceful oasis in the bustling metropolis of Hamburg. The graveyard is home to over one million graves, and you can observe many different styles and techniques for tombstones and sculptures.

Step 4: Highlights

Some of the highlights of the cemetery include:

– The Kapelle 13, a remarkable Art Nouveau chapel designed by the prominent Hamburg architect Martin Haller.
– The Russian Cemetery, where many Russian emigrants and former prisoners of war have found their last resting place.
– The Jewish Cemetery, which contains historical tombstones from the 17th to the 19th century and is a reminder of Hamburg’s former Jewish community.

Step 5: Book the Tour

To book a guided tour of the cemetery or to get more information, you can visit the following website: book the tour here.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a unique and haunting experience in Hamburg, be sure to plan a visit to the Ohlsdorf Cemetery. With proper planning, you can explore many interesting parts of the cemetery and experience the peaceful atmosphere of this final resting place of many illustrious people.

Hamburg: An Insider’s Guide to Exploring this Vibrant City

Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany and one of the most sought-after destinations in the country. Located in the north of Germany, the city boasts a rich maritime history and is a thriving hub of culture, entertainment, and gastronomy. There is no shortage of things to see and do in Hamburg, whether you’re a first-time visitor or have returned to experience more. Here’s an insider’s guide to Hamburg, offering you an in-depth look at the city’s attractions, food, cultural experiences, history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

Hamburg is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Germany, including the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, St. Michaelis Church, and Miniatur Wunderland. You can start your tour of Hamburg by taking a stroll along the Elbe River and appreciating the magnificent view of the port and harbor. The Elbphilharmonie concert hall is undoubtedly one of the must-visit attractions in Hamburg. The building’s futuristic design is awe-inspiring, and the panoramic view from the viewing platform is breathtaking.

For art enthusiasts, the Museum of Art and Industry and the Hamburger Kunsthalle are worth exploring. You can also visit the Internationales Maritimes Museum, which houses a vast collection of marine artifacts from all over the world. Another must-visit attraction is the St. Michaelis Church, also known as Michel, which dates back to the 17th century. Climb the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and harbor.

Dining Spots

The food scene in Hamburg is vibrant and diverse, with something to appeal to every traveler. Hamburg’s locals are particularly fond of fish, which is no surprise since the city is located on the shores of the Elbe River. You can head to the famous Fischmarkt on Sunday morning to try some of the freshest seafood in town.

For traditional German cuisine, visit Die Bank, which is located in the heart of Hamburg’s banking district. This renowned restaurant is known for its excellent service and classic dishes such as Schnitzel and Bratwurst. For a contemporary twist on traditional German cuisine, try the trendy Vlet restaurant, which offers a seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

Hamburg is a city that is rich in cultural experiences. The nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with numerous jazz clubs, bars, and live music venues. Be sure to check out the Elbphilharmonie, which hosts some of the most unique and innovative musical performances in the world.

The city is also home to many museums and art galleries that are worth a visit. For an immersive art experience, head to the Koppel 66 gallery, which showcases the work of some of Hamburg’s most prominent artists. You can also visit the Theater im Hafen, which is a unique venue that stages musical productions in an old warehouse.

Local History

Hamburg has a unique and fascinating history that is intertwined with the sea and maritime trade. The city’s rich history can be seen in many of its landmarks, such as the Speicherstadt warehouse district and the St. Michaelis Church.

You can gain insights into the city’s past by visiting the Hamburg Museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of Hamburg’s history. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts from the city’s beginnings through to the present day. Another must-visit destination is the Ohlsdorf Cemetery, one of the largest and most beautiful cemeteries in Europe. The cemetery’s vast size, ornate tombs, and impressive mausoleums provide a revealing insight into the city’s cultural and social history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While Hamburg has numerous well-known attractions and cultural experiences, there are many lesser-known and off-the-beaten-path destinations worth exploring. One such destination is the Planten un Blomen park, a vast parkland that is home to beautiful gardens, concert pavilions, and even a miniature golf course.

To experience Hamburg’s unique maritime culture, you can visit the Tideelbe, which is a traditional red-sailed ship that offers sailing trips and tours of Hamburg’s harbor. You can also head to the Alster Lakes to enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the city’s most picturesque waterway.

In conclusion, Hamburg is undoubtedly one of Germany’s most amazing cities, offering a mix of cultural, historical, culinary, and natural attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages. This insider’s guide has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the city’s must-see destinations, food scene, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. We hope that it inspires you to explore the city further and discover its many hidden gems.