Old Botanical Garden Hamburg (Alter Botanischer Garten Hamburg)
Old Botanical Garden Hamburg (Alter Botanischer Garten Hamburg)
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Old Botanical Garden Hamburg (Alter Botanischer Garten Hamburg)
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The Old Botanical Garden Hamburg, known locally as the Alter Botanischer Garten Hamburg, is a captivating botanical garden nestled within the expansive Planten un Blomen park in Hamburg, Germany. Situated centrally on the Hamburg Wallring at Stephansplatz, this unique attraction primarily consists of impressive greenhouses showcasing a diverse array of plant life from around the globe. At an elevation of approximately 12 meters, it offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the bustling city.
Visitors consistently praise the garden for its accessibility and the sheer variety of its botanical collections, all available without an admission fee. Many consider it a must-visit for nature lovers, offering a peaceful retreat from urban life. Its central location within Planten un Blomen makes it a popular destination for both local recreation and excursions, providing a green oasis where one can relax and discover.
Before your visit, it's helpful to know that the Alter Botanischer Garten Hamburg is easily accessible, located on the Hamburg Wallring at Stephansplatz. Its central position means public transport options are plentiful, and parking is available nearby. The garden is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy its botanical wonders. It's also a family-friendly destination, with playgrounds and various seating options within the wider Planten un Blomen park.
The Old Botanical Garden Hamburg is a wonderful place to visit year-round, with its greenhouses providing a warm, humid environment that's particularly inviting during colder months. It's ideal for leisurely strolls, botanical exploration, and simply unwinding. Beyond the greenhouses, the surrounding Planten un Blomen park offers additional activities, including water light concerts and children's theater performances during the summer.
Wandering through the garden's interconnected greenhouses, you can journey through various climatic zones, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, all within moments. Hikers and casual visitors alike appreciate the opportunity to explore different plant worlds, including subtropical plants, ferns, and succulents. The broader Planten un Blomen park also features attractions like the largest Japanese Garden in Europe, adding to the rich experience.
Whether you're interested in a short, contemplative walk or a longer exploration of the diverse plant collections, the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg offers numerous possibilities. You can discover various routes and plan your visit using komoot, finding paths that suit your pace and interests, from gentle strolls through the greenhouses to exploring the wider park's trails.
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June 22, 2019
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Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
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Wednesday 13 May
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main features of the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg's greenhouses?
The Old Botanical Garden Hamburg is primarily known for its complex of five interconnected greenhouses, covering 2,800 square meters. These include the Schaugewächshaus (Show Greenhouse) with subtropical plants, the large Tropical House focusing on South American and tropical crops, a dedicated Fern House, the Palmfarnhaus displaying ancient plants, and the Succulent House featuring plants from dry regions of Africa and the Americas.
Is the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg suitable for a winter visit?
Absolutely! The greenhouses provide a warm and humid environment, making them an ideal escape during colder months. You can experience diverse plant worlds from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, all while staying comfortable indoors. The surrounding Planten un Blomen park also offers a unique winter landscape for a stroll.
How long does it typically take to visit the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg?
While you could spend hours exploring the intricate plant collections, a typical visit focusing on the greenhouses might take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. If you combine it with a walk through the wider Planten un Blomen park, including attractions like the Japanese Garden, you could easily spend half a day or more.
Is the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg dog-friendly?
No, dogs are generally not permitted inside the greenhouses of the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg to protect the delicate plant collections. However, leashed dogs are welcome in the wider Planten un Blomen park, where you can enjoy walks around the garden's exterior and other park areas.
Where can I find parking for the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg or Planten un Blomen?
The Old Botanical Garden is centrally located, and while direct parking within the garden is limited, there are several public parking garages nearby. Options include those around Stephansplatz or within walking distance of the Planten un Blomen park. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during events, so arriving early or using public transport is often recommended.
What public transport options are available to reach the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg?
The garden is very well connected by public transport. You can reach it via the U-Bahn (subway) station Stephansplatz (U1), which is directly adjacent. Several bus lines also stop nearby, making it easily accessible from various parts of Hamburg.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg?
Yes, within the wider Planten un Blomen park, you'll find several kiosks and cafes offering refreshments, snacks, and light meals. There are also numerous cafes and restaurants in the surrounding city center, just a short walk from the garden, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Is the Japanese Garden part of the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg?
No, the Japanese Garden is a distinct and prominent feature within the larger Planten un Blomen park, but it is not part of the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg itself. The Old Botanical Garden primarily refers to the greenhouse complex and its immediate outdoor collections. Both are wonderful attractions within the same expansive park.
What is the history of the Old Botanical Garden Hamburg?
The garden's history dates back to 1821 when it was established by Professor Johann Georg Christian Lehmann. It served as the Botanical Garden of the University of Hamburg for many years. While most outdoor collections moved to a new site (Loki-Schmidt-Garten) in 1979, the original site retained its impressive greenhouse complex, which was built between 1962 and 1963.
What kind of special plant collections can be found here?
Beyond the main greenhouse sections, the garden boasts special collections including Aizoaceae, Orchidaceae, Bambusoideae, Begoniaceae, Bromeliaceae, Cycadaceae, Masdevallia, Piperaceae, and Zingiberaceae. You can also find herbal and medicinal plantings clustered around the city's former moat, offering a diverse botanical experience.