The Best Swimming Pools in Hamburg: The Ultimate Guide for Indoor and Outdoor Pools

Hamburg offers a diverse swimming pool landscape with over 30 public pools. From modern adventure pools to traditional outdoor pools, water sports enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation can find the right option here. This article introduces you to the best swimming pools in the Hanseatic city and helps you choose the perfect pool for your needs.

The top indoor swimming pools in Hamburg

Alster swimming hall

The Alster swimming hall in the Hohenfelde district is Hamburg's largest and most visited public swimming pool and an architectural highlight from the 1970s. The indoor swimming pool impresses with its generous glass front, the curved ceiling, and its proximity to the Outer Alster. The 50-meter lanes offer optimal conditions for swim training and competitions. Particularly noteworthy is the excellent water quality and the professional equipment for club swimmers. In 2023, the swimming hall was reopened after a three-year renovation.

Highlights:

• 50-meter sport pool with 8 lanes
• Separate teaching pool
• Sauna and steam bath
• Generous lawn area outdoors
• Ideal location near the Alster

Holthusenbad

Holthusenbad in Eppendorf is considered one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau baths in Germany. The historical swimming hall from 1914 has been extensively restored and combines nostalgia with modern standards. The warm water and the unique atmosphere make every visit a special experience.

Highlights:

• Historical Art Nouveau architecture
• 25-meter pool with constant warm water
• Finnish sauna and steam bath
• Small, intimate atmosphere
• Listed changing rooms

Swimming Hall Billstedt

The modern swimming hall in Billstedt is a family pool with a variety of offers. In addition to the sports pool, there is a separate children's area and a paddling pool for the little ones. The facility scores with its family-friendly equipment and low entrance fees. A highlight for kids is the 96-meter long tire slide (from 7 years) and the 40-meter long turbo slide (from 13 years).

Highlights:

• 25-meter sports pool
• Children's splash pool with slide
• Parent-child area
• Spacious changing areas
• Free parking spaces

The most beautiful outdoor pools in Hamburg

Bondenwald outdoor pool

The Bondenwald outdoor pool in Niendorf is one of the largest outdoor facilities in Hamburg. Located in the middle of a forest area, it offers a perfect mix of Sport and relaxation. The different pools and the spacious sunbathing lawn make it an ideal destination for families and sun worshippers.

Highlights:

• 50-meter sports pool
• Diving tower with 1, 3, and 5-meter boards
• Separate children's pool
• 8-hectare sunbathing lawn
• Beach volleyball court
• Kiosk and restaurant

Naturbad Stadtparksee

The Naturbad Stadtparksee is Hamburg's only outdoor pool with natural water treatment. The idyllic bathing lake in the city park offers a close-to-nature swimming experience in the middle of the city. The water quality is maintained through plant filters and biological cleaning processes.

Highlights:

• Natural water treatment
• 100-meter swimming area
• Separate non-swimmer zone
• Large sun terrace
• Direct access to the city park
• Eco-friendly concept

Ohlsdorf outdoor pool

The Ohlsdorf outdoor pool impresses with its quiet location and family atmosphere. The smaller pool is particularly suitable for families with children and anyone looking for relaxation. The well-kept facility offers everything for a successful day at the pool.

Highlights:

• 25-meter sports pool
• Children's paddling pool
• Expansive sunbathing lawn
• Shade-providing trees
• Playground
• Family-friendly atmosphere

Special swimming pool experiences in Hamburg

MidSommerland

MidSommerland in Harburg is Hamburg's largest adventure pool. The Scandinavian-inspired bathing landscape offers water fun for the whole family. With various slides, a wave pool, and a very spacious sauna area, it is the perfect destination for a day trip.

As of July 2025: The pool is temporarily closed as the facility is being modernized and expanded.

Highlights:

• Scandinavian bathing landscape
• Several water slides
• Children's area Wikiland with Viking ship and water cannon
• Large sauna landscape
• Open all year round

Mainland Poolland

The mainland in Planten un Blomen is a unique fun pool in the heart of Hamburg with Germany's largest water play area. The facility combines swimming with wellness and offers spectacular slides and attractions. The outdoor area with a view of the city makes every visit unforgettable.

Highlights:

• Central location in Planten un Blomen
• Spectacular water slides
• Outdoor pool with city view
• Wellness and sauna area
• Gastronomy with terrace

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Tips for your swimming pool visit in Hamburg

Best visiting times

Most swimming pools are less crowded in the mornings and early afternoons. Those seeking tranquility should prefer weekdays. In the summer months, outdoor pools are naturally more frequented.

Prices and discounts

Hamburg offers a tiered pricing system for its pools. Children, pupils, students, and seniors receive discounts. Family tickets and multi-tickets offer additional savings. Prices vary depending on the facilities and location of the bath.

Directions and parking

Most swimming pools are easily accessible by public transport. Many pools offer free or low-cost parking, although these can fill up quickly in the summer months.

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Conclusion: Swimming in Hamburg for every taste

Hamburg impresses with a diverse swimming pool landscape that offers something for every taste. From traditional Art Nouveau baths to modern adventure pools to natural outdoor pools, water sports enthusiasts and relaxation seekers will find ideal conditions here. The combination of high water quality, well-maintained facilities, and attractive additional offerings makes Hamburg a first-class swimming pool location.

Whether you want to train, relax, or have fun with the family – the Hamburg swimming pools offer a variety of options for your perfect bath day all year round.