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The fish market is as much a part of Hamburg as the Michel or the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli. That's why you shouldn't miss out on a trip to the Altona fish market during your trip to Hamburg. In this article, you can find out why it's worth getting up early on a Sunday morning and what else there is to discover at the historic market besides fresh fish.
As early as the beginning of the 18th century, Altona fishermen were given the opportunity to sell their catches on Sundays at the gates of Hamburg. Even then, it was stipulated that haggling and trading was only permitted until 9:30 am. The market could not open any later than this so that the delicious fish and seafood would not spoil in the sun and the fishermen would still arrive on time for church. Nevertheless, the Altona fish market only developed into Hamburg's largest staple market and crowd-puller after a few detours. Initially, many local fishermen continued to sell their goods at the more important hop market in Hamburg. It was not until 1715 that Detlev Christian had the fish market completely rebuilt and attracted additional visitors by relocating the fruit and vegetable trade. As a result, not only eels and herrings, but also dairy products, fruit, vegetables, meat, sausages and everyday products were now offered on the Elbe. Thanks to the incredible variety, the market quickly gained public importance. By 1870, however, the site had become too small and had to be fundamentally expanded. By 1889, the Altona market had clearly surpassed the auction turnover of the old Hamburg rival market and sold tons of fresh fish every Sunday. At the same time, the weekly market attracted numerous visitors, private and bulk buyers to Altona, so that the city had a new fish auction hall built by 1896. In order to withstand the growing competition in the surrounding area, Hamburg and Altona finally merged their fish markets in 1934. The fish market was only canceled during the Second World War. However, the historic market was resumed not far from the Landungsbrücken in 1948. The historical merger of the city's fish markets in particular still causes confusion today. After all, the Altona fish market, the St. Pauli fish market and the Hamburg fish market all describe the same institution. Nevertheless, the fish market in Altona can look back on almost 300 years of history, while St. Pauli has only been involved in the market since 1870. At that time, the local fish market was moved from Hamburg city center to St. Pauli due to a lack of space - right next to the Altona fish market. When Hamburg and Altona merged their fish markets in 1934 to counter the growing competition from Cuxhaven and Geestmünde, Altona took over the administration of the new, large market, but the Hamburg fish market was born.
Even today, the world-famous fish market still attracts thousands of visitors to the city every Sunday morning. Whether early risers or night owls, Große Elbstraße 9 continues to grow in popularity. No wonder, as the quick-witted market criers, the Hamburg flair and the breathtaking view over the harbor create an indescribable atmosphere. In the past as well as today, there is nothing that is not available at the fish market. From fish and seafood in all shapes and varieties to fresh fruit and vegetables, pasta, cheese, sausage, bread and other delicacies, there is hardly a (culinary) wish left unfulfilled during a visit. Only alcohol is not served here. If your stomach is rumbling at the enormous range on offer, you should do as the Hamburgers do and order one of the fish sandwiches, usually served in Low German, directly on site. You can then take your time to discover cut flowers, houseplants, small animals, Hamburg souvenirs and much more. Or you can make yourself comfortable at the edge of the market to watch the hustle and bustle, the cheeky sayings and the colorful crowd from a distance.
Between April and October, almost 70,000 visitors a week are drawn to the 20,000 square meter fish market between 05:00 and 09:30 in the morning. From November to March, there are still around 10,000 visitors who take a short stroll around the historic marketplace between 07:00 and 09:30 and take a look at the diverse offerings of the almost 300 traders. Whether by car, by HVV public transport or on foot, the fish market in Hamburg always seems to be on the way. Many people, especially those from the Reeperbahn, are drawn to the nearby Elbe after a night of dancing to enjoy the sunrise with a shrimp cocktail or herring. Alternatively, you can easily reach the Altonaer Markt from the city center or from the Landungsbrücken.
Do you want to experience the heritage of the Hanseatic city up close? Then book a comfortable room at Hotel Hamburg Altona today or reserve a stay at one of the other B&B HOTELS in Hamburg. No matter what you choose, you're guaranteed fantastic value for money with rewarding services.
Whether single, double or multi-bed rooms with private bathroom, all our guests have access to free Wi-Fi from the moment they arrive, can book a comprehensive breakfast buffet at any time and are of course welcome to contact our competent service team for insider tips or suggestions for their time in Hamburg. We will be happy to help and advise you on worthwhile excursion destinations such as the Altona Museum, the Altonaer Volkspark, the green oasis of Hamburg's Planten un Blomen or the exciting U-Boot Museum Hamburg.
And if you want to explore the Hanseatic city with your pet, you've come to the right place. Because all B&B HOTELS are absolutely pet-friendly!
