Alster Lakes

The Alster is a river dammed within central Hamburg to form two artificial lakes that shape the city's character. The smaller Binnenalster, ringed by grand facades and hotels, lies inside the historic centre, while the larger Aussenalster opens out into a broad expanse framed by parks and villas. Created by a medieval mill dam, the lakes are today a hub for sailing, rowing, and lakeside promenades, with a tall fountain jet marking the inner basin. In winter, hard frosts occasionally allow crowds to venture out onto the ice.