Fish Market

St Pauli Fish Market is an open-air market which brings character and life to its part of the city every weekend. It has been an important centre for trade since the start of the 18th century, and continues to have significant social and cultural importance in Hamburg life. It is the oldest market in the city, and the most traditional, with an atmosphere all of its own.

Rub shoulders with the locals (and with chefs from all of the city's trendiest restaurants) and pick up the best the sea has to offer, as well as clothing and antiques, tea and sweet treats. Over 70,000 people come to enjoy the atmosphere of the market each week.

The market is a great place to visit for coffee and a pastry at breakfast time, or to enjoy a succulent piece of fruit anytime. It’s also very popular with lots of late-night partygoers, who love to finish a good night out with a fish sandwich and one last beer before they head for home.

The ambience is best if you arrive early – the market gets going from 5 a.m. during the summer, and 7 a.m. in the winter – this is also the best time to pick up a bargain. Chat with the stallholders, or pick up a piece of fish just off the boat.

When you’ve finished in the market, head for the adjoining fish auction hall, which has been converted to serve beer and food, and to host live music. Try a local speciality like green herring or oxtail stew. Despite the early hours and the (incorrect) stereotype of the dour German, this hall often sees plenty of drinking and dancing early on a Sunday morning!

The market closes midmorning, by 9.30 or 10 a.m., while the auction hall stays open later. To get here, take the urban rail to Reeperbahn station, and stroll down Pepermölenbek Street towards the Elbe. Entry is free of charge, but don’t forget to bring cash for the stalls – cards usually aren’t accepted.