Exerzierweide Hamburg: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Exerzierweide is a pivotal historical and cultural site in Hamburg, reflecting the city’s transformation from a military stronghold to a vibrant urban hub. Once a military drill field for the city’s militia and later Prussian troops, Exerzierweide has evolved to become a central venue for festivals, social gatherings, and sporting events. Closely connected today with the Heiligengeistfeld in St. Pauli and the Bahrenfeld district, Exerzierweide offers visitors a unique blend of heritage, recreation, and urban culture. This guide explores its rich history, practical visitor information—including hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions—and tips for making the most of your visit (hamburg-travel.com; hamburg.com; Welt.de).
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Overview
- Key Events and Cultural Legacy
- Current Layout and Physical Features
- Visiting Exerzierweide
- Tips for Visitors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Sustainability and Responsible Travel
- Conclusion and Final Tips
- References
Historical Overview
Military Origins and Early Development
Exerzierweide, translated as “drill field” or “parade ground,” was established in the late 18th and early 19th centuries as a military exercise area for the Hamburg militia and later for Prussian troops. Positioned strategically on the outskirts of the old city walls, it played a key role during the Napoleonic Wars and other major conflicts, serving as a site for troop assembly, drills, and parades (hamburg.com).
Civic and Cultural Evolution
As Hamburg expanded, Exerzierweide began to host civic gatherings, public celebrations, and political rallies. Its function shifted from exclusively military to a more inclusive civic space, reflecting Hamburg’s status as a Free and Hanseatic City and its tradition of self-governance and public life (historyhit.com).
Football and Sporting Heritage
Exerzierweide is also renowned as the cradle of organized football in Hamburg. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, its grounds in Bahrenfeld and Altona accommodated up to nine football pitches simultaneously. The field famously hosted the first-ever final of the German football championship in 1903 and served as home ground for clubs such as Altonaer FC 93 and forerunners of Hamburger SV (Wikipedia: Exerzierweide; Welt.de).
Urban Transformation
With Hamburg’s urban growth, the original open fields of Exerzierweide were gradually absorbed into the city’s fabric. What was once a military and sporting ground has become a combination of public parkland, event spaces, and urban neighborhoods, particularly in the St. Pauli and Bahrenfeld districts (explorecity.life; destinationabroad.co.uk).
Key Events and Cultural Legacy
The Hamburger Dom Festival
Perhaps the most famous contemporary use of the Exerzierweide (now largely corresponding to the Heiligengeistfeld) is as the venue for the Hamburger Dom—the largest public festival in Germany. The Dom, with roots in the 14th century, moved to this area in 1893 after the demolition of Hamburg Cathedral, and now takes place three times a year, drawing millions with rides, food stalls, and entertainment (hamburg.de).
Political and Social Gatherings
Throughout its history, Exerzierweide has hosted significant political events, including labor rallies and demonstrations during the German Revolution of 1918–1919—moments that shaped Hamburg’s and Germany’s modern history.
Current Layout and Physical Features
St. Pauli/Heiligengeistfeld Area
In the present day, Exerzierweide is most closely associated with the Heiligengeistfeld in St. Pauli, a multifunctional space hosting festivals (especially the Hamburger Dom), concerts, flea markets, and sporting events. The area is open, flat, and well-integrated into Hamburg’s urban life, surrounded by landmarks like the Reeperbahn, St. Pauli football stadium, and the city’s harbor (hamburg-travel.com).
Bahrenfeld/Altona Context
The Bahrenfeld area, part of historical Exerzierweide, is now a green space with grassy fields and walking paths—ideal for leisure and recreation. Though the original parade ground is no longer distinctly visible, commemorative events and football history tours highlight its legacy. The nearby Diebsteich Cemetery marks the field’s former location (Welt.de).
Visiting Exerzierweide
Hours and Admission
- Open Access: Exerzierweide (and Heiligengeistfeld) is open to the public year-round, 24/7. There is no entrance fee.
- Special Events: Admission to festivals (like the Hamburger Dom) is free for entry, but rides and attractions may require tickets. Event times vary and are published in advance (hamburg-travel.com).
Getting There
- St. Pauli/Heiligengeistfeld: Accessible via U-Bahn (St. Pauli station, U3 line), S-Bahn (Landungsbrücken, S1/S2/S3), and multiple bus routes.
- Bahrenfeld Area: Reachable via Bahrenfeld S-Bahn station (S1, S11) and bus lines from Altona and the city center. Diebsteich S-Bahn station (S21, S3) also gives access to the former parade ground.
- Cycling and Walking: Both areas are bike-friendly, with dedicated paths and bike-sharing options (HVV transit network).
Accessibility and Facilities
- Paths and Surfaces: Paved and flat, accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Some grassy or unpaved areas may be uneven.
- Restrooms: Available during major events; otherwise, facilities can be found in nearby cafés, restaurants, or public buildings.
- Food and Drink: Numerous options in St. Pauli, Ottensen, and Bahrenfeld, from bakeries to international cuisine.
- Seating and Leisure: Benches and open lawns are available for relaxation or picnics.
What to See and Do
- Festivals and Events: Attend the Hamburger Dom or local markets, concerts, and cultural festivals.
- Historical Exploration: Look for commemorative plaques, join a guided walking tour, or use digital resources to discover the site’s layered history.
- Recreation: Enjoy walking, jogging, informal sports, and photography of the area’s urban and green landscapes.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with the Reeperbahn, Speicherstadt UNESCO district, Altonaer Balkon park, Planten un Blomen, and the HSV Museum (HSV Museum).
Special Events and Tours
- Guided Tours: Available through Hamburg tourism providers and local historical societies. These cover Exerzierweide’s military, civic, and football history—advance booking recommended.
- Cultural Festivals: Nearby districts host the annual altonale, open-air concerts, and street fairs (Hamburg Tourism).
Tips for Visitors
- Combine Attractions: Plan a route that includes Exerzierweide, nearby parks, and historical sites for a full day of exploration.
- Use Public Transport: Parking is limited; the HVV network makes access easy and sustainable.
- Check Event Calendars: For festival dates, tours, and local happenings, consult official tourism websites.
- Respect Local Etiquette: Keep noise low, dispose of litter properly, and respect commemorative areas.
- Be Weather Ready: Hamburg’s weather can be changeable—bring layers and rain gear as needed.
- Engage with History: Bring or download historical maps and photos to enrich your visit, and ask locals for insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is there an entrance fee for Exerzierweide?
A: No, access is free and open to the public year-round.
Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: The site is accessible 24/7; for events like the Hamburger Dom, check specific schedules.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, through local tourism offices and historical societies. Booking ahead is recommended.
Q: Is Exerzierweide wheelchair accessible?
A: Most areas are accessible, with paved paths and ramps.
Q: Are there restrooms and food options?
A: Facilities are available during events; otherwise, nearby cafés and restaurants provide amenities.
Q: Can I visit with children?
A: Yes, the open spaces and festivals make it family-friendly.
Sustainability and Responsible Travel
Hamburg promotes green mobility and sustainable tourism. Use public transport or bike rentals, and follow ‘leave no trace’ principles to help preserve Exerzierweide’s green spaces (Onestepguide).
Conclusion and Final Tips
Exerzierweide’s journey from a military parade ground to a lively urban park and festival venue epitomizes Hamburg’s adaptability and civic spirit. Today, it stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, vibrant community life, and commitment to sustainable urban development. Whether you’re drawn by history, festivals, football, or simply a tranquil green escape, Exerzierweide offers something for everyone.
For a richer experience, download the Audiala app for guided tours and real-time event updates. Explore official resources to plan your visit, and immerse yourself in Hamburg’s unique blend of past and present.
References
- Historic Hamburg, Hamburg Travel, 2025, Hamburg Tourism (hamburg-travel.com)
- Hamburg Sights and Heritage, Hamburg.com, 2025 (hamburg.com)
- The Forgotten Site of the First Football Final, Welt.de, 2025 (Welt.de)
- Festivals in Hamburg, Hamburg Tourism Official Site, 2025 (hamburg-tourism.de)
- Cultural Activities in Hamburg, Culture Activities, 2025 (cultureactivities.com)
- Exploring City Life in Hamburg, ExploreCity.life, 2025 (explorecity.life)
- History Hit’s Guide to Hamburg, HistoryHit.com, 2025 (historyhit.com)
- Wikipedia: Exerzierweide
- HSV Museum
- HVV transit network
For up-to-date festival dates, access, and event information, always check official tourism platforms before your visit. Download the Audiala app for guided tours and follow us on social media for more insider tips and travel inspiration.
