The View From St. Peter’s Church, Hamburg

We were only up here for a geocache. But I’m glad we climbed the 544 steps… As the city’s highest accessible viewing platform (and city’s oldest church), the climb was definitely worth the panoramic views.

The viewing platform only has space for two people, it’s like being in a cupboard in an attic! We were constantly having to shuffle carefully as we switched window views.

I love these little circular ship-like windows which frame the city streets and buildings below including the magnificent city hall and River Elbe.

There are a number of viewing platforms in Hamburg including the Elbphilharmonie, but none compare to the experience of St. Peter’s Church.

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History of St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church is Hamburg’s oldest surviving parish church, with origins dating back to the 11th century. First documented in 1195 as a market church, it was rebuilt in Gothic style between 1310 and 1418. The church has stood through centuries of upheaval — from Napoleonic occupation to the Great Fire of 1842, which destroyed much of the building. Remarkably, many artworks, including the famous lion-head door handles from 1342, were saved.

Rebuilt in its original style, the church reopened in 1849 and its 132-meter tower was completed in 1878. During WWII, St. Peter’s escaped major damage and today remains a symbol of Hamburg’s resilience. It continues to serve as a Lutheran place of worship and a cultural venue, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and community events. Located in the heart of the Altstadt, it offers visitors a rich blend of medieval heritage, Gothic architecture, and panoramic city views.

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10 Interesting Facts About St. Peter’s Church

1. The bronze lion-head door handles (1342) are Hamburg’s oldest surviving artworks.
2. The church’s tower is 132 meters tall, with a viewing platform accessed via 544 steps.
3. It was used as a horse stable by Napoleonic troops during the occupation of 1813.
4. The Great Fire of 1842 destroyed the church, but key artworks were salvaged.
5. The Gothic mural of St. Ansgar (1460) depicts Hamburg’s first bishop.
6. A statue by Bernt Notke (c. 1480) shows Archbishop Ansgar and the Marienkirche.
7. The church’s portal gateway was rebuilt into the Hamburg Museum and restored in 1995.
8. The Christmas 1813 painting shows citizens locked inside by French soldiers.
9. A modern sculpture of Dietrich Bonhoeffer portrays him as a bound prisoner.
10. The church’s rib-vaulted ceiling is adorned with over 500 gilded stars.

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Things to See and Do at St. Peter’s Church

• Climb the Tower
  Ascend 544 steps to reach Hamburg’s highest publicly accessible church tower. The viewing platform offers sweeping views of the city, Alster Lakes, and port.
• Admire the Lion-Head Door Handles
  Located at the west portal, these 14th-century bronze handles are a highlight of Hamburg’s medieval craftsmanship.
• Explore the Gothic Interior
  Marvel at rib-vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and neo-Gothic representations of the Four Evangelists.
• Visit the Crypt
  Discover the resting place of notable figures, including Hamburg’s first mayor, Heinrich von Borste.
• See the Mural of St. Ansgar
  This 1460 Gothic fresco honors the “Apostle of the North” and Hamburg’s Christian origins.
• View Historic Paintings
  Look for Gottfried Libalt’s 17th-century works: Jacob’s Dream and Christ’s Birth, restored after an acid attack in 1977.
• Attend a Concert or Exhibition
  Enjoy organ recitals, choral performances, and rotating art displays in a dramatic setting.
• Join a Guided Tour
  Learn about the church’s architecture, history, and symbolism with expert-led tours in German and English.
• Relax in the Nave
  Take in the peaceful atmosphere and admire the gilded stars overhead.
• Explore Nearby Attractions
  St. Peter’s is steps from Hamburg City Hall, Mönckebergstraße shopping street, and the Speicherstadt district.

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Practical Information for Visiting St. Peter’s Church

• Location: Bei der Petrikirche 2, 20095 Hamburg, Germany
• Opening times: Mon–Sat 9:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sun & holidays 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
• Entry: Church free; tower climb €4–€5; guided tours extra
• Parking: Paid parking nearby; public transport recommended (U-Bahn Rathaus station)
• Accessibility: Church accessible; tower via stairs only
• Dogs: Assistance dogs only
• Food: Cafés and restaurants nearby
• Toilets: Available, including accessible facilities
• Nearby: Hamburg City Hall, St. Nicholas’ Church, Alster Lakes, Mönckebergstraße
• Official website: St. Peter’s Church Hamburg