The Hotel Louis C. Jacob stands on the Elbchaussee in the western suburb of Nienstedten, on the high bank above the Elbe, and it is one of Hamburg’s best-loved hotels. It is part of the Autograph Collection. The hotel is known for its garden terrace under old lime trees, from which you look down the slope to the river and watch container ships pass, and for a restaurant with a reputation that draws diners from across the city. It is a quieter, more romantic choice than the central hotels, a place for a weekend of walking on the riverside, long breakfasts and dinners that last an evening. Because it is some distance from the centre, it suits travellers who want atmosphere and a slower pace and are happy to use the S-Bahn and taxis to reach the sights.
Location and getting around
Nienstedten lies west of the city centre on the Elbchaussee, the long road along the north bank of the river lined with historic villas. The riverside path leads down to the Elbe beach at Övelgönne and on to Blankenese, so walks from the door are a highlight. The S-Bahn at Klein Flottbek or Othmarschen is the usual way into the city, and buses and taxis fill the gaps. Allow around half an hour to reach the Elbphilharmonie and the Landungsbrücken, so plan your sightseeing days in blocks rather than short hops.
The rooms and who it suits
Rooms are traditional and comfortable, with some looking onto the garden and others to the river. The hotel is a natural choice for couples, anniversaries and travellers who want an old-fashioned grand hotel experience in a leafy setting. It is less suited to travellers who want to be in the middle of the nightlife or who plan a short stay with many sights in a day. Families may find the setting calm rather than entertaining, although the riverside is a good place for children to see ships.
Good to know
The terrace and restaurant are popular with non-guests, so book tables ahead if dining is part of your plan. Check parking, breakfast and room details on the booking page, because they vary by category. Rates are high, and the best value tends to be on winter weekdays. In summer the terrace is at its best, and a late breakfast outside with a view of the river is hard to beat.
If you are combining a stay with a city visit, consider spending the first night here and then moving into the centre, or use the hotel as a peaceful base after busy days of sightseeing. The riverside walk to Övelgönne is a lovely way to spend a morning.
Why stay here
- ✓Garden terrace under lime trees
- ✓View over the Elbe
- ✓Well-known restaurant
- ✓Historic villa-lined setting
- ✓Riverside walks to Oevelgoenne
- ✓Garden-view and river-view rooms
- ✓Quiet residential location
- ✓S-Bahn link to the centre
Good questions
Where is Hotel Louis C. Jacob?+
On the Elbchaussee in Nienstedten, in the west of Hamburg, on the high bank above the Elbe.
Is it convenient for sightseeing?+
It is quieter and farther from the sights than central hotels, so plan on using the S-Bahn or taxis.
Is the restaurant open to non-guests?+
The terrace and restaurant are popular with visitors from the city, so book ahead if you want to dine.
