Nestled in the heart of Hamburg, Lake Alster is a magnificent body of water that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This artificial lake, formed by the Alster River, is divided into two parts: the Binnenalster (Inner Alster) and the Außenalster (Outer Alster), each with its own unique charm and array of activities.

The Lake Binnenalster in Hamburg in Germany during spring time. In the toreground the famous Alter Lake fountain.

The Binnenalster, the smaller of the two, is a picturesque setting that captivates visitors with its stunning views and central location at Neuen Jungfernstieg. It’s a popular tourist destination, surrounded by an impressive promenade that invites you to stroll, jog, or simply relax and soak in the ambiance. The proximity to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops makes a visit to the Binnenalster an unforgettable experience.

On the other hand, the Außenalster, or Outer Alster Lake, is the larger expanse of water that provides a sophisticated, exquisite charm with its surrounding ancient trees, green parks, and beautiful mansions of the Winterhude, St. Georg, and Rotherbaum districts. It’s a place where people come to leave the stress of city life behind and enjoy activities like grilling, sunbathing, or jogging around the lake. The Outer Alster is also a hub for water sports enthusiasts, offering boat, canoe, and kayak rentals, as well as the increasingly popular stand-up paddling.

Hamburger Binnenalster (view to ballindamm)

The Alster Lakes are not just a haven for leisure activities; they are a central part of Hamburg’s city life. When the sun shines, the lakes fill up with sailors, paddlers, and rowers, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The Kennedy and Lombard bridges separate the Inner and Outer Alster, providing a stunning backdrop of the city’s magnificent buildings, churches, and the iconic fountain at the lake’s center. After sunset, the city lights reflect off the water, offering spectacular photo opportunities.

Historically, the Alster River was dammed in medieval times to create a water reservoir for powering mills along its banks. This significant event shaped the face of central Hamburg, leading to the creation of the two lakes that are now integral to the city’s identity. The phrase “outer” refers to the former city walls of Hamburg, with the Außenalster being the part of the lake that was “outside” these walls. Over time, the areas around the Außenalster developed distinct characteristics, with the western side becoming a wealthy suburban area and the eastern side developing later as a property of the City of Hamburg’s finance department.

Today, the Außenalster is a sizeable 1.64 square kilometers and is, on average, only 2.5 meters deep. It is fed by the Alster, Osterbek, and Wandse rivers, and features several canals and smaller bays. The Alster River enters the Außenalster at the north and leaves it at the south, flowing into the Elbe River just south of the city center.

The districts bordering the Außenalster, such as Harvestehude and Rotherbaum on the western shore, and Winterhude, Uhlenhorst, Hohenfelde, and St. Georg on the eastern shore, boast some of the most desirable addresses in Hamburg. Many streets around the Außenalster are lined with villas that house various organizations or small professional businesses, adding to the area’s prestige.

Lake Alster is more than just a body of water; it’s a cultural and recreational landmark that embodies the spirit of Hamburg. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Alster Lakes offer a myriad of experiences that cater to all ages and interests. From the serene walks along the promenade to the exhilarating water sports, Lake Alster is a destination that promises beauty, relaxation, and adventure in the heart of an urban landscape.