Hamburg, the second-biggest city in Germany, has long been the location of one of the busiest ports in Europe. In addition to learning about its extensive maritime past, there are many intriguing cultural institutions and architectural landmarks to see. It is also well known for its exciting nightlife, where the Reeperbahn’s revelry is the stuff of legends.
Hamburg, which is connected to the North Sea by the Elbe River, was a prosperous independent city-state and Hanseatic League member for centuries. Its thriving warehouse district coexists with several beautiful historic churches that have withstood heavy bombing during World War II. More canals, streams, and bridges than Amsterdam, London, and Venice put together crisscross the city’s heart.
It is a significant media hub in addition to being a hub for trade and transportation, home to some of the largest newspapers in Germany. Other activities in Hamburg include touring its world-class museums and attending concert
24. BallinStadt Emigration Museum
Over five million people passed through Hamburg’s emigration halls between the 1850s and the 1930s, making it one of the biggest ports in Europe for a long time. You may discover more about their travels and the new life they began in the Americas at the fantastic Ballin-Stadt Museum.
Situated in the Veddel district on the eponymous island, the museum is housed in the 1901 Swiss chalet-style living quarters used by the emigrants as they awaited their departure. Exquisitely crafted, its captivating displays follow their journey to the city and the motivations behind their emigration.
You can learn about people’s pasts and aspirations for the future through engrossing books, films, images, and antiques. The majority of the museum’s exhibits center on the experiences of Germans and other Eastern European immigrants to the United States. Make sure you download the app for explanations of everything in English, or pick up an audio tour or booklet at the gate.
23. Altona Fischmarkt
Stumbling to the Altona Fischmarkt after a night on the Reeperbahn is one of the most iconic, yet taxing, things to do in Hamburg. Open only on Sundays from 5am, it features a plethora of fresh fruit, vegetable, and fish stands for browsing while bands and DJs spin more tunes.
Fishermen have been peddling their catch in this area of the Altona district since 1703, making it the oldest open-air market in the city. Along with food trucks, coffee shops, gift shops, and flower sellers, there is a large waterfront area.
Inside its 19th-century Fischauktionshalle, early risers and partygoers alike take over the dance floor as the celebration carries on. Sadly, we were unable to attend since we had tapped out a few hours early the previous evening (or morning?!)
22. Historic Boats at Landungsbrücken
Along the waterfront, the charming Landungsbrücken, often called St. Pauli Piers, is only a short stroll away. Its historic brick architecture and sailing boats are worth seeing, if you still have energy.
The piers at this greatest landing location in the Port of Hamburg were built for steamships back in 1839. Currently moored alongside them are several interesting historic vessels to visit and take pictures of, including the MS Cap San Diego and the Rickmer Rickmers. The latter is a squat cargo ship from the 1960s, whilst the former is a tall three-masted ship built in 1896. Now, both are available for public viewing as museum ships.
The green-roofed domes and towers of the 205-meter-long terminal of the pier are equally remarkable. These days, this is home to some amazing eateries, cafes, and gift shops. From here, you can proceed to the must-see Elbphilharmonie, board ferries over the river, or travel via the Elbe Tunnel to the opposite side of the port.
21. Chilehaus
One of the most stunning structures in Hamburg is the focal point of the recently designated Kontorhaus District by Unesco. The strikingly curving walls that meet in the shape of a ship’s bow and the staggered balconies that resemble decks give the brown-brick 1924 Chilehaus its ocean liner-like shape. Architect Fritz Höger created it for a businessman who made his fortune via dealing with Chile. You come here to see the exterior; casual tourists are not really welcome inside.
The striking Chilehaus (Chile House) is located in the heart of Hamburg’s Kontorhaus neighborhood. It is a symbol of German Brick Expressionism, which was very popular in northern Germany throughout the 1920s. Constructed between 1922 and 1924, the office building was one of Hamburg’s earliest high-rise structures, designed by architect Fritz Höger.
20. Europa Passage
The vast Europa Passage with all of its eateries and retail establishments is located in the Old Town, just off the Binnenalster. You may explore its five floors and take in the amazing futuristic architecture that surrounds you.
Its dazzling glass structure, which was only revealed to the public in 2006, is focused on a large atrium that is illuminated from above by enormous skylights. There are currently over 150 stores and restaurants spread across the charmingly built shopping center.
We were really grateful to find the enormous mall in time to escape one of the seemingly frequent downpours that seem to blanket the city. Even though Europa Passage offers a great deal of dining and retail alternatives, we were most struck by its stunning architecture.
19. St. Nicholas Church
The towering St. Nicholas Church provides a very striking glimpse into the past in juxtaposition to the contemporary mall. Its mostly demolished shell, which now serves as a memorial to the dead of World War II and a reminder of the horrors of battle, was left after air strikes over Hamburg in 1943.
For a brief period during World War II, the enormous Gothic Revival cathedral stood as the tallest structure in the world. However, it suffered significant damage from intense firebombing of the city. Its massive nave was eventually destroyed, and its weighty roof collapsed, yet its burned spire still rises to a height of 147 meters.
A observation platform with historical images and displays about its past can be reached by elevator, which has been taking people halfway up to the top since 2005. There is a tiny but excellent museum at its base that puts everything you see at the monument in context. Among the nicest things we saw in Hamburg were the memorial, its museum, sculptures, and views—all of which make it an absolute must-visit.
18. Tierpark Hagenbeck
Seeing contented animals run around Tierpark Hagenbeck is a refreshing change of pace after the eerie memorial. Situated on the northwest periphery of the city, the ancient zoo boasts an aquarium, as well as various playgrounds and picnic spots.
The old zoo, which dates back to 1863, is renowned for being the first to put its animals in open enclosures around by moats. Approximately 1,400 mammals, birds, and reptiles from all over the world call its expansive outdoor exhibits home today.
You can view walruses, penguins, and polar bears in addition to elephants and giraffes. Its aquaria transport you from the Arctic to the tropics, and feeding performances are often held in addition to exploring its realistic enclosures.
17. Reeperbahn
At the center of Hamburg’s wild entertainment and nightlife scene is the Reeperbahn, which is flanked by hundreds of bars, nightclubs, strip clubs, and brothels. Located in St. Pauli, it is well-known for having The Beatles’ birthplace in addition to its red light district.
Known as “the most sinful mile,” or die sundigste meile in German, the street has a centuries-old reputation for being rowdy and unruly. It began life as a location where sailors could weave ropes and arrange them into lengthy strands. Around where they worked, a ton of seedy clubs and other venues gained notoriety over time.
The Beatles honed their act and repertoire here in the 1960s, performing hundreds of shows in its numerous live music venues. There are still many of locations where you may see plays, musicals, cabarets, and concerts by bands.
The Reeperbahn is an extremely special (and eye-opening!) destination you won’t soon forget, despite being mostly seedy and dilapidated. Many even persevere until dawn, eating breakfast at the fish market while taking in more live music.
s at the Elbphilharmonie, one of the city’s most iconic buildings.
16. U-Bootmuseum
Explore an amazing Cold War submarine at the U-Bootmuseum, which is a ton of fun. It was launched by the Soviets in 1976 and is currently permanently anchored near to the city’s well-known fish market along the Norderelbe.
The covert Tango class U-boat, one of the biggest non-nuclear submarines in the world, was primarily utilized for extended patrols and espionage operations. It is ninety meters long and has bow and stern entrances and exits. It was decommissioned in 2001. You will view not only the crew’s small sleeping quarters but also the engine and torpedo rooms as you stroll around.
The museum is worth seeing even though it is cramped because it is not often that you get to go inside a submarine. It was fascinating to look at all of its old equipment, walk through its extremely small halls, and learn about its time while serving in the Soviet Navy.
15. Kunsthalle Hamburg
One of the largest and best art museums in the nation, the massive Kunsthalle, is located not far from Hamburg’s Hauptbahnhof. Impressively spanning over eight centuries of art history, this vast collection is full with amazing paintings, photographs, and sculptures.
Its “art hall,” which is situated in the Altstadt close to the two Alster Lakes, was founded in 1850. Since then, it has accumulated an incredible collection of works of art by well-known artists including Monet, Degas, Rubens, and de Goya. Each piece of art comes with a thorough explanation, and the museum app offers even more comprehensive details.
Its small galleries, which are now housed in three buildings, feature everything from classical modernism and modern items to Old Masters and nineteenth-century artwork. The museum’s tasteful architecture and well-planned exhibition galleries are equally striking.
14. Schmidt Theater
If you’re more interested in a captivating performance than in historic buildings, art, or U-boats, the Schmidt Theater is among Hamburg’s most unforgettable destinations. Situated near the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli, it offers an extensive program of incredibly captivating musicals, comedy shows, and cabaret performances.
The colorfully lighted outside of the venue makes it instantly recognized, and since its 1988 opening, theatergoers have embraced this lively space. Numerous tables and chairs are strewn all over the small stage area in front of it, and balconies overlook the performances as well. This close closeness to the performers (as well as the alcohol provided during the performances!) contributes to the euphoric environment.
Remarkably entertaining (particularly if you know German!), the lighthearted theater’s eccentric shows have become legendary. Here you may also have delectable dinners and cocktails while watching their flagship show, the Schmidt Midnight Show.
13. Chocoversum
Instead, those with a sweet craving should go to the Chocoversum, which is located south of the city center. During their 90-minute tours, you may create your own chocolate bar to take home in addition to learning about the history of chocolate and sampling several varieties!
The chocolate museum is housed in a historic brick building in front of the famous Chile House, and its eager and amiable staff will take you around. While traveling, you’ll get to witness the process of harvesting cocoa, sample the bitter beans, and look over the machinery used to make chocolate.
The tours are both educational and entertaining, allowing you to fully appreciate the texture, flavor, and aroma of cacao as well as the many stages involved in creating each delicious bar. Their interactive tours are offered in both German and English and have received very positive reviews from visitors. Take a look at this bar you can make to-go before heading to the museum store.
12. Museum of Art and Design
After your amazing night out, you should definitely visit the Museum of Art and Design. It is located just to the south of the Hauptbahnhof and features an incredible collection of beautiful furniture, musical instruments, and ornamental art objects.
Founded in 1874, it was modeled after the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and is currently housed in a large Neo-Renaissance palace on Steintorplatz. There are areas dedicated to ceramics, rugs, and sculptures, as well as others that feature Far Eastern and Expressionist pieces. These are from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East and collectively span an astounding 4,000 years of art history.
Its amazing antique keyboards and its amazing Art Nouveau-decorated rooms from the 1900 Paris Exposition are two particularly striking attractions. The museum features a cafe where you are welcome to visit and occasionally hosts fantastic temporary exhibitions.
11. International Maritime Museum
Given Hamburg’s historical and cultural significance in relation to the surrounding waters, a visit to the International Maritime Museum is highly recommended. It is located in the world’s largest warehouse district, Speicherstadt, which is adjacent to the river and has thousands of model ships, nautical art, and nautical gadgets.
Located in a massive Neo-Gothic warehouse built in 1879, the impressive museum reopened its doors in 2008. Its assets, which are mostly drawn from Peter Tamm’s private collection, are astonishingly large, with over 40,000 artifacts and a million photos.
In addition to discussing the past, present, and future of shipping, it examines Hamburg’s significance as a port and its marine culture. In addition to intricate paintings and large boat models, there are displays of robots that can dive and explorers. Aside from seeing its entertaining ship simulator, we thoroughly enjoyed witnessing its 3,000-year-old dugout canoe that was found in the Elbe. The museum can easily take up to half a day, with nine “decks” to tour and a plethora of things to investigate.
10. Hamburger Dom
One of the most well-liked fairs in the nation is the enormous Hamburger Dom, which is held three times a year in the spring, summer, and winter. Every month, the Heiligengeistfeld fairground is packed with hundreds of thrilling rides, rollercoasters, and mouthwatering food vendors.
The vivid Volksfest has a long history extending back several centuries, with the earliest mention of the fair being made in 1329. Fairs in April (Fruhlingsdom) and August (Sommerdom) were added later, after initially only being held around Christmas (Winterdom).
In addition to traditional carousels and carnival games, there are a ton of rides and rollercoasters to experience these days. Additionally, a row of stands offers classic German fare including funnel cakes, schmalzkuchen, and currywurst. Not only is the fair a must-see while in town, but it also features some amazing fireworks displays.
09. Planten un Blomen
The charming Planten un Blomen is one among Hamburg’s top tourist destinations if you wish to go back to nature. Its themed gardens, lake, and fountains, which span a sizable portion of the inner city, are delightful to explore.
From a single Platanus tree planted in 1821, this park has developed into one of the greatest metropolitan areas in Europe. There are many of charming walkways and breathtaking green spots to explore, all centered around a sizable lake. In addition, there are several fantastic greenhouses to visit that feature a variety of flowers and plants, including eucalyptus, palms, and succulents.
It’s perfectly manicured Japanese garden and scented rose garden are particularly lovely areas. Notoriety also extends to its vibrant musical fountain and its open-air pavilion concerts.
08. St. Michael’s Church
St. Michael’s steeple, one of Hamburg’s most recognizable landmarks, rises sharply above the surrounding area. It honors the Archangel Michael and is renowned for its elaborate decor and organ. Above its main entrance is also a striking bronze figure depicting him vanquishing the devil.
Said to be among the best and most well-known Hanseatic Protestant churches, this one is really the third to occupy the same location. Constructed in 1762 in the exquisite Baroque style, its pristine interior showcases elaborately designed marble pulpits and altars.
In addition to taking in the stunning architecture and listening to an organ concert, you may climb to the summit of the tower. You can either walk or take the elevator up the equivalent of 10 flights of stairs to reach the viewing platform, which is 130 meters high! You are welcomed with 360-degree views of Hamburg as soon as you enter.
07. Elbphilharmonie
The gigantic Elbphilharmonie is unmissable and unquestionably one of the most odd buildings you will likely ever come across. The iconic music hall, which is the tallest in the city, has a view over the redeveloped waterfront region.
Its top twenty storeys, which were finally finished in 2017 after years of delays and millions over budget, resemble a glistening iceberg, wave, or, depending on your point of view, a ship’s sails. Standing atop a dilapidated red brick warehouse, its curved windows reach a height of 108 meters. Visitors can hang out in the cafe and observation deck located eight stories high.
The inside is as striking, with its massive main auditorium having the appearance of a light-filled coral cave. Its two smaller venues, as well as the remainder of its modern lobbies and staircases, are equally nicely built. They are stunning, yet their acoustics have always drawn criticism. Nevertheless, you simply must visit and take in the magnificent structure for yourself!
06. Miniatur Wunderland
One of the greatest things to visit in Hamburg is Miniatur Wunderland; there’s just no way to make it sound good. The world’s largest model train, it offers various themed chambers to explore, with some honoring the Alps and Austria and others the States and Scandinavia.
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Hamburg is their expansive railway system located in the Speicherstadt, which opened its doors back in 2000. With some 1,120 trains trundling along its 16,100 meters of track at any given moment, it’s simple to understand why. Its enormous sets, which are incredibly detailed, contain thousands of vehicles as well as tiny human figures. Every fifteen minutes, sparkling lights that mimic day and night illuminate all of this.
This incredible little globe transports you from Venice, Italy, to the lava-spewing Vesuvius in the USA, via Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. A tiny portion of Hamburg is also worth seeing, along with other well-known locations. We looked at its airport, alpine towns, and fairgrounds for hours on end since there are so many little nuances to take in. We are really happy to have recommended it!
05. Speicherstadt
Once you’ve managed to pull yourself away from its captivating models, be sure to take a leisurely stroll around the outside of Speicherstadt. With its enormous red brick buildings and shimmering canals, the world’s largest warehouse area makes for some amazing images. They are also wonderfully lighted up against the starry sky in the evening.
Built in what is today known as the HafenCity district between 1883 and 1927, it is a conspicuous feature of the busy Port of Hamburg. The entire region, which features some exquisite Gothic Revival buildings, is built around timber foundations that are stacked deep into the ground.
Its warehouses are delightful to roam around and now hold luxury lofts, clubs and restaurants, and of course the Elbphilharmonie. Combined, Hamburg’s historic structures, bridges, canals, and river views provide some of the city’s most recognizable pictures.
04. Take the Express Ferry to Heligoland
Despite its remote appearance in the North Sea, Heligoland is genuinely accessible from Hamburg in a single day excursion. Even though the Express Ferry takes four hours each way, you will still have four hours to spend exploring the tiny archipelago. You may take in breathtaking vistas of the Elbe and the open sea ahead of you during the leisurely journey.
The two isles, which are believed to signify “Holy Land,” are the most remote from the continent of all the nations. Initially possessed by the Danish and later the British, the German military made heavy use of it during World War II, while the Allies brutally attacked it.
These days, duty-free shopping, birdwatchers, and day trippers are drawn to the serene and picturesque surroundings. Many visitors visit its mouthwatering lobster shops or stroll along the top of its fiery red sandstone cliffs. There are also a few intriguing historical sites and bunkers strewn throughout.
If you spend the night, you may also visit the smaller Dune, which is nearby and is renowned for its immaculate beaches, waterways, and hundreds of seals.
03. Town Hall
Hamburg’s charming Neo-Renaissance Rathaus dominates the heart of the Altstadt and is one of the city’s most iconic structures. The state capitol, with all of its lavish chambers and arched passageways, is a great place to take tours.
Completed in 1897, the magnificent Town Hall and its magnificent central tower occupy a full side of Rathausmarkt square. There are an astounding 647 rooms under its green gabled roof, many of which are open for guided visits.
Highlights include the magnificently painted Kaisersaal ceiling, the significant Plenary Hall, and the aptly called Grand Hallway. Its courtyard is open for you to explore, where you can also see the numerous statues and symbols that line its walls. The tour guide’s explanation of the building’s history and the rise to prominence and prosperity of Hamburg made us extremely happy that we had taken a tour.
02. Jungfernstieg Promenade
The stunning Jungfernstieg Promenade is only a short stroll from the Rathaus. It’s a well-liked spot to decompress, enjoy the atmosphere, and stroll beside upscale stores, cafes, and art galleries on one side and the shimmering lake on the other.
Currently spanning 600 meters on the southwest coast of the Binnenalster, its beginnings are astonishingly traced back to 1665. During that time, a row of linden trees was planted beside the lake, and affluent families would parade their single girls around in the hopes of attracting a prospective husband. This custom is where its name originates: jungfern, which means maiden, and stieg, which means to walk.
Grand Neoclassical, Renaissance Revival, and Art Nouveau structures appeared one after another over time. Gleaming facades still overlook all its lakeside terraces and bars, though many have since been renovated. You can get a drink here, relax in the sun, or take a leisurely stroll while seeing the water jet shooting skyward.
01. Alter Elbtunnel
Wandering down the Alter Elbtunnel is rather atmospheric and cool, since it seems to go on forever into the distance. The historic tunnel beneath the Elbe provides a valuable route from St. Pauli to Steinwerder on the southern side, and not just for taking pictures.
The 426-meter-long underwater tunnel was an incredible feat of engineering and architecture when it was first opened in 1911. The twin tubes, which run 24 meters below the river’s surface, link central Hamburg to all the neighboring shipyards and docks. One is only for cars, while the other is for bikes and pedestrians.
We just went a little distance before turning around because there isn’t much for tourists to see on the opposite side. Along with sculptures of fish and other river wildlife adorning its sides, the antique elevators on the site also have a striking appearance. Also, you can capture some stunning images of the lights and glinting tiles that stretch out in front of you.
Map of Hamburg
Best Time to Visit Hamburg
Hamburg’s history and culture have always been shaped by the waters surrounding it, as the city is situated along the Elbe River and is traversed by several canals. The city experiences 13 to 17 days with at least some rainfall per month, making it a rather windy and damp place. Remember to bring a coat, even in the summer!
The best months to go are April through October, when temperatures range from 12 to 22°C (53 to 71°F), with August being the warmest month. It’s never too hot, but this is a great time to explore the city and go sailing on its rivers. All year long, prices are essentially the same, although summertime airfares are higher.
The majority of its major events take place during this time as well, beginning in May with the upbeat Cherry Blossom Festival. At the harbor, there are also large celebrations and a ship parade in honor of Hafengeburtstag around that time. The Hamburger DOM, the biggest funfair in Northern Germany, illuminates the city three times a year in the spring, summer, and winter.
With the exception of December, when crowds swarm to take in the quaint Christmas market, the rest of the year is quite quiet (and cold!). Even though the temperature drops to 4°C (39°F), the decorations and lights make up for the gloomy days.
