Best things to do in Hamburg
Find out more about those top places in Hamburg
Hamburg: Germany's Rebellious Millionaire with a Soft Spot for the Beatles (and Seriously Cool Water Views!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide!
Ah, Hamburg! Germany's second-biggest city, and a place that's delightfully two-faced (in the best way possible!). For many tourists, Hamburg conjures up images of a radical, anything-goes metropolis, fueled by anarchist squats that probably have better Wi-Fi than your apartment, avant-garde art that might make you tilt your head and ponder the meaning of life (or just shrug), and a red-light district so sleazy it's almost retro-chic: the infamous Reeperbahn. Think neon lights, questionable establishments, and a whole lot of late-night energy.
But hold on a minute! For Germans, Hamburg is also the land of serious business, a major economic hub boasting the highest concentration of millionaires per capita in the entire country. So, picture sleek department stores where the price tags might induce a mild panic attack and upscale restaurants where the waiters probably know more about wine than you know about your own family.
The hilarious truth? Hamburg is both of these things, and that's precisely what makes it so utterly captivating! One minute you're strolling past the sleek department stores and fancy restaurants of the lakeside Aussenalster district, the next you're immersed in the distinctive redbrick Hanseatic architecture of the historic port-side Altstadt (Old Town), which looks like it's been lifted straight from a history book (a very handsome history book, mind you).
Then you've got the politically charged, bohemian neighborhoods of St. Pauli and Sternschanze, where the street art is as opinionated as the locals, seamlessly melting into the former Jewish district of Altona, which has its own cool, laid-back vibe. And let's not forget the chic waterside regeneration project, HafenCity, dominated by the futuristic Elbphilharmonie concert hall (which looks like a giant glass wave crashed onto a brick building in the most stylish way possible), now practically bumping shoulders with the neon-drenched Reeperbahn, the very place that nurtured a little band called The Beatles back in their early days.
In short, Hamburg is an exhilarating city that's constantly on the move, a place where high culture rubs elbows with underground cool, and where you're just as likely to spot a millionaire browsing avant-garde art as you are to hear a rousing sea shanty in a Reeperbahn bar.
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this dynamic German city. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring historic ports to soaking in edgy street art, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Hamburg a truly unique and unforgettable destination.
Top Attractions: From Grand Harbors to Gritty Nightlife (and Everything in Between!)
Hamburg offers a fantastic array of sights and experiences, catering to all tastes. Here are some of the top places to visit you absolutely shouldn't miss:
The Port of Hamburg (Hamburger Hafen): A Working Wonder with Amazing Views
This massive and bustling port is the heart and soul of Hamburg. Take a harbor cruise to witness the impressive container ships, historic vessels, and the sheer scale of maritime activity. The views of the city skyline from the water are also fantastic. It's a quintessential Hamburg sightseeing experience.
Speicherstadt and HafenCity: Redbrick Charm Meets Futuristic Flair
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt, a stunning district of redbrick warehouses connected by canals and bridges. Then, contrast it with the modern architecture of HafenCity, dominated by the breathtaking Elbphilharmonie concert hall. This juxtaposition of old and new is a key attraction of Hamburg.
The Reeperbahn: Hamburg's Infamous Entertainment District
Prepare for a sensory overload in the Reeperbahn, Hamburg's legendary red-light district. While it might not be for the faint of heart, it's a unique and undeniably lively part of the city's character, offering everything from bars and clubs to theaters and, yes, those other kinds of establishments. It's a place to visit for a taste of Hamburg's wilder side.
Miniatur Wunderland: A World in Miniature (Prepare to Be Amazed!)
This incredible model railway exhibition is a world unto itself. Explore meticulously detailed miniature landscapes from around the globe, complete with moving trains, cars, and even tiny people living their tiny lives. It's a top attraction that appeals to all ages and offers hours of fascinating sightseeing.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks: Art, Music, and Lakeside Relaxation!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Hamburg vibe:
- Stroll Around the Aussenalster Lake: Enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the Aussenalster lake, perfect for a walk, a picnic, or even a sail. The surrounding area is filled with upscale shops and restaurants.
- Explore the Art Scene in St. Pauli and Sternschanze: Discover the vibrant street art, independent galleries, and alternative cultural spaces in these bohemian neighborhoods.
- Catch a Show at the Elbphilharmonie: If you can snag tickets, experiencing a concert in the stunning Elbphilharmonie is a truly unforgettable cultural experience.
- Visit the St. Michael's Church ("Michel"): Climb the tower of this iconic church for panoramic views of the city and the harbor.
- Explore the Fish Market (Sonntagsmarkt): Wake up early on a Sunday morning (or stay up really late!) to experience Hamburg's lively fish market, a unique tradition with food stalls, live music, and a bustling atmosphere.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Germany that offer a thrilling mix of maritime history, edgy culture, surprising wealth, and a city that never stands still, Hamburg is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with unforgettable sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to embrace its contrasting halves and discover a city that's as captivating as it is complex! Willkommen in Hamburg!
-
The Reeperbahn
One of Europe’s most (in)famous streets, the Reeperbahn is illuminated in a hazy neon glow 24 hours a day. Equal parts seedy and über-cool, the street forms the heart of vibrant St Pauli where nightclubs that once played host to the Beatles still open their doors every night. For the best experience of this gloriously grungy neighborhood, hit the streets with a local guide who can take you on a Beatles tour and show you the best the neighborhood has to offer.
-
Elbphilharmonie
Towering over Hamburg’s mammoth port side regeneration project, known as HafenCity, the Elbphilharmonie is one of Europe’s most enthralling pieces of modern architecture. Designed by Herzog and de Meuron, the sleekly curving iceberg of a concert hall sits atop Wilhelmine warehouses and is open for daily tours and orchestra performances.
-
Mahnmal Saint Nikolai
With its thrilling contemporary art, buzzing nightlife and brand-new waterfront, it is easy to forget that Hamburg is one of Germany’s most historic cities. There is no better place to immerse yourself in the past than that Mahnmal Saint Nikolai. Once the world’s tallest building, the former church was bombed out in World War Two and today stands as a haunting memorial to the horrors of Nazism. For the best experience, make sure to climb to the top of the spire for breathtaking views over the city.
-
Fischmarkt
Straddling the banks of the Elbe and somewhat dwarfed by the massive container ships passing by, the Fischmarkt is an iconic Hamburg institution. Opening its doors in 1703, the market today is home to one of Europe’s most vibrant culinary spectacles with over 70 000 locals descending on the place per day to buy and sell fresh fish. To make the most of the experience, make sure to get there early in the morning.
-
Rathaus
One of Europe’s most grandiose townhalls, Hamburg’s Rathaus is testament to the city’s maritime wealth. Towering over much of the downtown area, the baroque building is the city’s most iconic with nearly 700 rooms, a gravity defying vaulted ceiling and an atmospheric inner courtyard. To get a glimpse inside, regular tours depart throughout the day.
-
Hamburger Kunsthalle
With a collection spanning from the Middle Ages to groundbreaking contemporary art movements, Hamburg’s Kunsthalle has something for everyone. Comprised of two spectacular buildings linked by an underground passageway, the gallery is one of Europe’s most renowned.
-
Chilehaus
For anyone interested in architecture, a tour of the Kontorhaus district and its star attraction, the ship-like Chilehaus, is a highlight of any trip to Hamburg. Comprised of six vast blocks that once housed Germany’s most powerful shipping companies, the district oozes history and interwar political intrigue and has recently made it onto the UNESCO World Heritage list for its avant-garde architecture.
-
Lübeck
Just a short hop on a train from Hamburg, the Hanseatic city of Lübeck gives you a taste of what Hamburg’s Altstadt would have looked like before World War Two. Boasting more than 1000 listed historic buildings, the city rose to prominence in the 12th century and has changed little since. To make the most of a day trip to this hidden gem take a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Altstadt with an expert local guide.
