Empire Riverside Hotel

Empire Riverside Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to the Empire Riverside Hotel, you immediately notice how it stands out against Hamburg’s skyline — this sleek, modern tower feels almost like a ship itself, which makes perfect sense given its waterfront location in St. Pauli. The four-star property has this confident, upscale vibe without being intimidating, and honestly, the views from the lobby alone give you a hint of what’s coming. You can tell right away this isn’t your typical business hotel; there’s something more dynamic about the whole atmosphere.

Location & Neighborhood

St. Pauli is where Hamburg gets interesting, and the Empire Riverside Hotel sits right in the thick of it on Bernhard-Nocht-Straße. You’re literally walking distance from the infamous Reeperbahn (Hamburg’s entertainment district), but also close enough to the harbor to catch those massive container ships coming and going. What I love about this spot is how it balances the edgy nightlife energy with genuine maritime charm — you can grab coffee and watch the Elbe River traffic, then head out for dinner in one of the neighborhood’s excellent restaurants. Couples especially seem to get this location (they rate it 9.6), and I mean, when you can stroll along the water at sunset then catch some live music later, it’s pretty hard to beat.

The Rooms

The rooms here actually deliver on those harbor views you’re hoping for — well, if you book the right category. Floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the riverside setting, and on clear days you can see ships navigating the Elbe while you’re having your morning coffee. The design is clean and contemporary without feeling cold, sort of that modern German aesthetic done right. What surprised me was how quiet everything stays despite being in such a lively area; the soundproofing really works, which matters when St. Pauli gets going at night.

Breakfast & Dining

Breakfast here is honestly one of the better hotel spreads I’ve encountered in Hamburg. They’ve clearly put thought into accommodating different dietary needs — vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are actually good, not just afterthoughts thrown on the buffet. The variety keeps things interesting even if you’re staying multiple nights, and eating with those river views makes even a simple morning meal feel special. You know what’s smart? They’ve positioned the breakfast area to maximize those water views, so you’re not just grabbing food and rushing off.

Why Guests Love It

There’s something about the Empire Riverside Hotel that keeps people coming back — they actually have more repeat guests than most properties, which tells you something. I think it’s the combination of being right where the action is without sacrificing comfort or quality. The fact that parking is available on-site is huge for a city location like this, and the overall experience feels distinctly Hamburg rather than generically international. Whether you’re here for the nightlife, the maritime atmosphere, or just a solid base for exploring the city, this place manages to hit the right notes without trying too hard.

Visitors often choose Hamburg apartments over traditional hotels because they provide more space, kitchen facilities, and the opportunity to live like a local in this magnificent Hanseatic city.

Empire Riverside Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Empire Riverside Hotel

• Gerhard from Austria – 3 May 2025 (9/10)

  Alles

• Alois from Saudi Arabia – 22 April 2025 (9/10)

  not my first time because the location is simply exceptional

• Tang from Germany – 15 April 2025 (9/10)

  Location is incredible, the view above the city and harbour is stunning! Love the full window view!
  
  What could be improved: – There is no phone in the room. Only one in the hallway. Very concerning, considering emergencies and also for general questions.
  – Bath room has a very bad smell. Only left after using the shower.
  – Room service is only until 9:30pm…also on weekends. This doesn’t make sense.

• Henrik from Denmark – 11 April 2025 (9/10)

  My favorite hotel in Hamburg

• Kevin from United Kingdom – 14 January 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful property. Public areas really nice. Rooms a bit on the basic side.
  
  What could be improved: Sky bar.
  Quick check in.
  Location
  Ambience.
  Staff.

• Marina from United Kingdom – 25 December 2024 (8/10)

  Great location, fabulous hotel and facilities, excellent breakfast and the bar is superb! Friendly and helpful staff!
  
  What could be improved: The room lacked basic amenities like complimentary water and tea/coffee-making facilities. The cleaning service was invasive and disruptive. Having to pay 28€ for breakfast, the service was unacceptably slow, and the absence of coffee machines was inconvenient. For a 4-star hotel, this was far below expectations—you can do much better!

• Andrew from United Kingdom – 21 December 2024 (7/10)

  High floor suites
  
  What could be improved: A coffee machine for a morning coffee in the lobby would be good and a kettle in the rooms.suites

• Frank from United Kingdom – 19 December 2024 (7/10)

  The view was nice, the room the comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: The bar staff were inattentive, service was reluctant, the bar was dark, I tried to work there but couldn't read my notes. I was offered a room upgrade, I was then charged for the "upgrade"

• Howard from United Kingdom – 17 December 2024 (8/10)

  Nice interior very modern, fast elevators and rooms have great views on upper floors
  
  What could be improved: 24 Euros for breakfast was a bit much

• Kai from Germany – 18 November 2024 (8/10)

  Restaurant, location
  
  What could be improved: No free water or coffee making equipment in the room

Surroundings

Facilities