Elbe Tunnel in Hamburg: Iconic Crossing Faces Ongoing Renovations
Hamburg, 13 January 2026 – The Elbe Tunnel, a vital transport link in Hamburg, remains closed to motor vehicles while undergoing extensive renovations. Pedestrians and cyclists can still use the historic St. Pauli Elbtunnel around the clock, but drivers must seek alternatives. With a rich history dating back to 1911 and ongoing expansions on the A7, the tunnel continues to shape Hamburg’s infrastructure.
History of the Elbe Tunnel
The Elbe Tunnel has two main parts: the Old Elbe Tunnel (St. Pauli Elbtunnel) and the New Elbe Tunnel. The Old Tunnel, opened on 7 September 1911, was a pioneering feat of engineering, spanning 426.5 metres beneath the Elbe River. It connected St. Pauli with Steinwerder, facilitating access for dockworkers. The New Tunnel, inaugurated on 10 January 1975 by Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, is a 3.1-kilometre motorway tunnel on the A7, featuring eight lanes and advanced traffic management.
Current Usage and Restrictions
As of October 2023, the Old Elbe Tunnel has been closed to all motor vehicles to allow for renovations, including repairs to its historic structure. However, it remains open 24 hours a day for pedestrians and cyclists free of charge. The New Elbe Tunnel handles around 110,000 vehicles daily but is subject to closures for maintenance. In December 2025, the A7 section including the New Elbe Tunnel was fully closed for 55 hours for the installation of new traffic sign gantries and software updates, causing significant detours.
Key Facts About the Elbe Tunnels
| Aspect | Old Elbe Tunnel (St. Pauli) | New Elbe Tunnel (A7) |
|---|---|---|
| Opening Date | 7 September 1911 | 10 January 1975 |
| Length | 426.5 metres | 3.1 kilometres |
| Lanes | 2 tubes (pedestrians/cyclists only) | 8 lanes (4 bores) |
| Access | Pedestrians and cyclists: 24/7 free; Cars: Closed | Motor vehicles; Height limit 4 metres |
| Daily Usage (approx.) | 1 million pedestrians/cyclists | 110,000 vehicles |
Upcoming Maintenance and Closures
Renovations on the Old Elbe Tunnel are expected to continue, with both tubes slated to reopen to full use by mid-2026. For the New Elbe Tunnel, overnight closures are planned from 26 January 2026 to 29 January 2026, each from 22:00 to 05:00, due to steel construction works involving suspended loads. Drivers are advised to check for detours, such as using the A1 and A21 routes. The A7 expansion to eight lanes, including noise barriers, is ongoing and due for completion by 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elbe Tunnel open to cars?
No, the Old Elbe Tunnel has been closed to motor vehicles since October 2023 for renovations. The New Elbe Tunnel on the A7 is open to cars but subject to closures for maintenance.
Can pedestrians and cyclists use the tunnel?
Yes, the Old Elbe Tunnel is open 24 hours a day for pedestrians and cyclists free of charge. Elevators are available, and mutual consideration is encouraged, especially on weekends.
What are the alternatives during closures?
During closures of the New Elbe Tunnel, drivers can use detours via the A1 towards Lübeck, then A21 to Kiel, and B205 back to the A7. For the Old Tunnel, no direct alternative exists, but nearby bridges like the Norderelbbrücke may be affected.