Open Hotel Days

Hamburg, 26th January 2026

Hotel Hafen Hamburg and Empire Riverside Hotel Invite Guests Behind the Scenes

Join in and indulge, or simply take a glimpse into the daily life of legendary hotels – both are possible during the Open Hotel Days from 6 to 8 February in Hamburg. The Hotel Hafen Hamburg and the Empire Riverside Hotel are opening their doors to offer exciting insights and culinary experiences in their kitchens and bars. All activities are free of charge.

Whether it’s the everyday rhythm of hotel life, small events, hands-on activities, or simply a good conversation at the bar – the Open Hotel Days, an initiative by Hamburg Tourism, invite interested locals and the hotel talents of tomorrow to take a look behind the scenes of hotel operations. As strong partners of the city of Hamburg, Hotel Hafen Hamburg and Empire Riverside Hotel are taking part with their restaurants and bars, offering a programme ranging from mixing, baking and cooking classes to guided tours through hotel areas usually reserved for professionals.

Visitors who simply want to explore the hotels and get a feel for them are also very welcome. A look inside a typical guest room is guaranteed: each hotel will open one room as an Instagram photo spot – including a small prize draw.

Open Hotel Days: Programme at Hotel Hafen Hamburg

One of the city’s most traditional establishments – and still a treasure trove of Hanseatic seafaring history. All activities are free of charge; registration is required.

A Journey Through Time at Hotel Hafen Hamburg
Discover the eventful history of the legendary hotel at the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, from sailors’ home to hotel.
7 and 8 February, at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm. Duration approx. 45 minutes.

Cocktails with a View
Enjoy classic cocktails in the Tower Bar, high above the River Elbe with a unique view of the Landungsbrücken.
7 and 8 February, at 2 pm and 4 pm. Duration approx. 60 minutes.

Fish Craft at Restaurant Port
From whole fish to the perfect dish: a workshop on filleting and preparation – authentically hosted in Restaurant Port with views of the Elbe.
7 and 8 February, at 2 pm. Duration approx. 120 minutes.

Pizza and Panorama: Cooking Above the Elbe
Bake your own pizza in the hotel’s Elbkuppel using a large pizza oven – a spectacular cooking experience with a view over the Elbe.
8 February, at 11 am and 3 pm. Duration approx. 120 minutes.

Open Hotel Days: Programme at Empire Riverside Hotel
International flair, timeless elegance, and Hanseatic understatement: welcome to the Empire Riverside Hotel high above the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken. All activities are free of charge; registration is required.

Behind the Scenes at Empire Riverside Hotel
A back-of-house tour offering exclusive insights into technology, logistics, and other areas that ensure smooth hotel operations.
7 and 8 February, at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Duration approx. 90 minutes.

Kiez and Corks – Wine Tasting
A mix of gritty charm and fine wines: selected vintages in a relaxed atmosphere.
7 February, at 2 pm and 5 pm. Duration approx. 90 minutes.

Skyline Sips – Mixing with a View
Learn how to mix excellent cocktails from experienced professionals – high above the city in the 20up Skyline Bar.
7 and 8 February, at 2:30 pm. Duration approx. 90 minutes.

Pasta Lab – Handmade and Delicious
Roll, shape, prepare, and enjoy your own pasta – or take it home!
7 February, at 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Duration approx. 45 minutes.

Sweet Craft – Experience Patisserie Live
Workshop: create creams, egg liqueur, and vanilla sauce in a relaxed setting with plenty of engaging anecdotes.
7 February, at 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Duration approx. 45 minutes.

Shake, Taste and Take – Dressing Workshop
Create delicious dressings yourself – small flavour explosions you can take home in little bottles.
7 February, at 12 pm, 2 pm, and 4 pm. Duration approx. 45 minutes.

Open Hotel Days: Career Day on 6 February – Empire Riverside Takes Part

As part of the Open Hotel Days, the Empire Riverside Hotel invites guests to a special behind-the-scenes look on Career Day, Friday 6 February. With the information event Inside Hospitality – Empire Riverside Edition, the design hotel presents itself as an employer, offering authentic insights into daily work, job opportunities, and career prospects.
6 February, 9 am to 3 pm. Registration via email: cdoebber@hotel-hamburg.de

Press Contact:
Katja Derow | redroses communications GmbH | k.derow@redroses-pr.com | +49 162 43 11 376