GOLDEN HOUR GUIDE

hotel Prague The Cloud One roof terrace with sun and view over the city rooftops

What is meant by ‘golden hour’?

The ‘golden hour’ is the period of time shortly before sunset. In photography, it is known for its soft, warm, golden light, which casts long shadows and creates a special atmosphere.We have compiled a list of particularly beautiful locations around our The Cloud One hotels for the perfect sundowner drink, a photo shoot or simply a relaxed, romantic moment.

HAMBURG

  • Sonnenuntergang über einem Industriehafen mit Kränen und Windrädern, die am Ufer stehen, reflektiert goldenes Licht auf dem ruhigen Wasser.

    Fischmarkt

    The traditional fish market right on the Elbe offers an unobstructed view of the river, passing ships and the sky above the harbour.

    Tip: Perfect for the golden hour when the light is reflected on the water. It's best to position yourself slightly above the harbour edge or on the steps by the Old Elbe Tunnel to have a clear view to the west. Then watch the lights come on.
  • Blick auf einen modernen, terrassenförmigen Platz an einem Flussufer mit Bäumen, Spaziergängern und einer Anlegestelle, ideal für entspannte Pausen und Ausblicke aufs Wasser.

    Elbphilharmonie Plaza

    The Elbphilharmonie platform offers spectacular panoramic views of the harbour, the Elbe and the sunset over Hamburg.

    Tip: Ideal for the golden hour with views of the city and the water. Online registration may be required – check in advance.
  • Blick auf einen ruhigen See mit grüner Ufervegetation, im Hintergrund sind mehrere markante Kirchtürme einer Stadt zu sehen, unter warmem, weichem Licht eines späten Nachmittags.

    Außenalster

    Surrounded by trees, sailing boats and elegant villas, this expansive stretch of water in the middle of the city is a relaxing place to spend the golden hour. At sunset, the warm light bathes the Alster in golden tones and is gently reflected on the water's surface.

    Tip: Particularly beautiful from the banks of the Alster near the Kennedy Bridge or from Alsterpark. Ideal for enjoying the sunset with a view of the skyline and the reflecting evening light.
  • Dachterrasse mit bequemen Sitzgelegenheiten, Blick auf markanten Turm mit Uhr und städtische Gebäude, ruhige Atmosphäre im Abendlicht.

    Rooftop Bar The Cloud One Hamburg

    Hotel guests have a phenomenally short journey, but our rooftop bar is also open to everyone else: from the 10th floor, you have a view of Hamburg – even in bad weather!

    Tip: You can also take a little trip around the world without leaving the country – fancy a Cinnamon Daiquiri or a Med Martini?

DUSSELDORF

  • Blick auf die beleuchtete Rheinuferpromenade bei Dämmerung mit Blick auf die Schwebefähre und historische Kirchen im Hintergrund, atmosphärisch und einladend für Abendspaziergänge und kulturelle Erlebnisse.

    Rhine terraces & promenade

    Of course, the Rhine is the place to be when the day slowly draws to a close in fine weather. The Rhine promenade in Dusseldorf offers one of the most beautiful views of the river and the city. According to local guides, it is one of the ‘perfect sundowner locations’.

    Tip: Ideal for the golden hour along the riverside promenade between Tonhallenufer and Oberkasseler Brücke. A spot on one of the steps or at the balustrade offers an unobstructed view to the west – perfect for photos and sundowner vibes.
  • Ausblick auf eine Großstadt bei Sonnenaufgang, mit Fernseh- oder Aussichtsturm am Horizont und grünen Baumkronen im Vordergrund, die eine ruhige Verbindung zwischen Natur und urbaner Landschaft schaffen.

    Grafenberger Forest

    Those who prefer a more natural and slightly more athletic experience should visit the aptly named ‘Schöne Aussicht’ (beautiful view) viewing platform in Grafenberg Forest.

    Tip: Take a torch with you! Otherwise, it's not exactly easy to find your way around the forest in the dark. ‘Schöne Aussicht’ is marked as a viewpoint on Google Maps.
  • Zwei Personen genießen den Sonnenuntergang gemeinsam auf einer Hotelterrasse mit großem Sonnenschirm und Blick über die Stadt.

    Rooftop Bar The Cloud One Dusseldorf-KöBogen

    Head up high and relax with a sundowner, looking down directly onto the shops of the Kö, where you may have just treated yourself to something special.

    Tip: Our signature drinks are just as exclusive as the shopping on offer – treat yourself here too!
  • Menschen sitzen an einem Flussufer bei Sonnenuntergang, mit Blick auf historische Gebäude und einen Wasserturm, die eine entspannte, lebendige Atmosphäre am Wasser schaffen.

    Burgplatz

    If you prefer to look down from above, Burgplatz on the Rhine with its castle tower is the place for you. Although it is only 33 metres high, it offers a 360-degree view from its arched windows and also serves food and drink in the Café Laterne.

    Tip: When the sun disappears behind the Oberkasseler Bridge, the sky turns golden – ideal for photos or a relaxing end to the day.

GDANSK

  • Historische Giebelhäuser und der berühmte Krantor am Ufer der Motława in Danzig bei Sonnenuntergang, mit ruhigem Wasser und schönem Himmel.

    Mottlawa

    The Kładka Świętego Grzegorza footbridge connects the Granary Island (Wyspa Spichrzów) with the Old Town and offers a magnificent view over the Motława River and the historic facades along the waterfront.

    Tip: Ideal for the golden hour on the bridge itself or at the western end with a view towards the Old Town and Crane Gate – basically the signature picture you have to take in Gdańsk.
  • Beleuchtete Hügelburg mit Grasdächern bei Nacht, umgeben von Bäumen, im Hintergrund eine erleuchtete Stadtlandschaft.

    Góra Gradowa or Grodzisko

    In addition to a rare view over the whole of Gdańsk, the "hill fort" offers the remains of said fort, which is essentially a natural viewing platform with sweeping views over the city and surrounding area.

    Tip: Perfect for the golden hour from the upper plateau. It's worth bringing a blanket and arriving a little earlier – especially if you want to enjoy the golden light over the skyline.
  • Sonnenuntergang über einem ruhigen Strand mit sanften Wellen, im Hintergrund Industriekräne und Gebäude, die eine harmonische Verbindung von Natur und urbanem Hafen zeigen.

    Stogi Beach

    Wide, sandy and accessible by tram, Gdańsk's city beach is worth a visit not only in summer.

    Tip: It's best to position yourself slightly west of the main beach area to avoid the crowds. On a clear day, the golden hour is particularly special here, when the sunlight glitters on the water and the sky turns shades of orange and pink.
  • Elegante Hotelbar mit gedämpfter Beleuchtung, glänzenden goldfarbenen Deckenlichtern und einer gut bestückten Spirituosenauswahl hinter einer marmornen Bar. Gemütliche Barhocker laden zum Verweilen ein.

    The Bar in The Cloud One Danzig

    Because the light here is golden every evening – rain or shine. The lights are modelled on golden amber from the Baltic Sea, breathing romance and well-being into even the dreariest of weather.

    Tip: With our signature drink, ‘Baltic Sea’, you can taste the sea here too.