Surprising artwork
The arcades are a historic treasure which stand out in the modern city of Hamburg. Their special design was the work of Alexis de Chateauneuf, one of the most important urban planners in Hamburg after the Great Fire of 1842. The Mediterranean flair of the shopping arcades is no coincidence; Chateauneuf designed the Alsterarkaden in an Italian style, emphasising symmetry and circular shapes. Between the shopping arcades and the Neuer Wall shopping street lies the Mellin Passage, the oldest and smallest shopping arcade in Hamburg. Here you will find luxurious pharmacies, authentic book stores and elegant purse shops. In 1989 there was a fire in one of the shops and the building was subsequently torn down. During the restoration, workers made an amazing discovery: beautiful art deco ceiling frescos and stained-glass windows were found behind the rubble. Today these have been completely restored and can be admired once again.
A slice of Käsekuchen
Sweet temptations
The Alsterarkaden are located in the heart of Hamburg, only a 5-minute walk from the Jungfernstieg subway station. Follow the Kleine Alster to the Rathausmarkt for the most beautiful view of the charming white arcades on the water. Then go across the street to marvel at the shining watches, expensive hats and elegant purses and shoes. For a tasty souvenir visit Godiva Chocolatier – the chocolate creations are impossible to resist. For more sweet temptations continue to the Arkaden-Café and choose from the overwhelming selection of cakes and pastries. Sample a creamy Käsekuchen or a moist Apfelstrudel.
