Hamburg, Germany
View of the lighted St. Pauli Landungsbrücken after sunset in west direction.
About Hamburg:
Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany and a major port city located in the northern part of the country. Known for its rich history and culture, Hamburg offers visitors a diverse array of attractions to explore.
One popular attraction is the historic Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest warehouse district in the world. Visitors can take a boat tour through the canals to see the brick buildings and learn about the city’s maritime history.
Another must-see attraction is the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, which offers stunning views of the city and the river. The concert hall is also home to the Hamburg Symphony Orchestra and hosts a variety of performances throughout the year.
For those interested in art and culture, the Museum of Arts and Crafts and the International Maritime Museum are not to be missed. The St. Michaelis Church is also a popular destination, known for its impressive baroque architecture and beautiful organ.
For a taste of Hamburg’s nightlife, visitors can explore the Reeperbahn, a lively entertainment district with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
For nature lovers, Planten un Blomen park and Alster lake are great options. The park features a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a lake with boats for rent.
Hamburg is also known for its delicious local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as Labskaus, a hearty stew made with corned beef, and Fischbrötchen, a fish sandwich typically made with rollmops.
Things to do in Hamburg:
1. Take a tour of the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district
The Speicherstadt is a historic warehouse district located in the port of Hamburg, Germany. It is the largest warehouse district in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The district is made up of a network of canals and brick buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Speicherstadt was built between 1885 and 1927 to serve as a storage area for goods being traded through the port of Hamburg. The warehouses, which are made of red brick and have gabled roofs, were designed to be fireproof and to protect the goods from the damp harbor air. They were also built on oak piles to protect them from floods.
Visitors can take a boat tour through the canals to see the warehouses and learn about the district’s history and architecture. Many of the warehouses have been converted into museums, such as the Miniatur Wunderland, a model railway exhibit, and the Hamburg Dungeon, an interactive attraction that tells the history of Hamburg.
The Speicherstadt is also home to a number of shops and restaurants, as well as the historic St. Katharinen church. There is also a small park, the Brooktorkai, on the southern end of the district, which is a great spot to take a break and enjoy the view of the harbor.
The Speicherstadt is a unique and fascinating part of Hamburg, and is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a different perspective on the city.
2. Visit the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and take in the views from the rooftop plaza
The Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall located in Hamburg, Germany. It is considered one of the most acoustically advanced concert halls in the world and is known for its impressive architecture. The building is situated on the banks of the Elbe river, and features a unique design that incorporates a historic brick warehouse with a contemporary glass structure on top.
The concert hall has two main venues, the “Grand Hall” and the “Small Hall”. The Grand Hall is a concert hall with 2,100 seats and offers a unique acoustic experience with its wave-shaped ceiling. The Small Hall is a more intimate concert hall with 550 seats, and is used for chamber music and smaller-scale events.
The Elbphilharmonie also houses a hotel, several apartments, and a public plaza on the top of the building, which offers panoramic views of the city and the river. The plaza is also a popular spot for visitors to take in the view and enjoy the architecture of the building.
The Elbphilharmonie is home to the Hamburg Symphony Orchestra and hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including classical music, jazz, pop, and world music. It is also a popular venue for visiting orchestras and soloists.
The Elbphilharmonie’s construction was widely controversial due to the delays and the cost overruns, yet it is considered a major cultural and architectural landmark of Hamburg, and a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
3. Explore the Museum of Arts and Crafts and the International Maritime Museum
The Museum of Arts and Crafts (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe) is located in Hamburg, Germany and is one of the most important museums of its kind in Europe. The museum’s collection spans from ancient to contemporary times and includes a wide variety of art forms such as ceramics, glass, metalwork, textiles, furniture, and graphic design. The museum also has a collection of scientific instruments and tools. The museum’s main focus is on decorative arts and design, which allows visitors to understand how design can shape the everyday objects of our lives.
The International Maritime Museum (Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg) is located in Hamburg and is dedicated to the history of seafaring and naval history. The museum’s collection includes a wide range of artifacts related to maritime history, such as ship models, navigational instruments, and weapons. The museum also has a collection of paintings and sculptures that depict maritime themes. The museum’s main exhibit is the replica of the 18th century ship, the Gorch Fock, which visitors can explore and learn about the life of a sailor in the past.
Both museums are great options for visitors interested in art, design, and history, particularly in relation to maritime and naval history. The museums offer a rich and diverse collection that will appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.
4. See the impressive architecture of St. Michaelis Church
St. Michaelis Church, also known as St. Michaelis or the Michel, is a Baroque church located in Hamburg, Germany. It is one of the most famous churches in the city and is known for its impressive architecture and beautiful organ.
The church was built in the late 17th century and was designed by the architect Johann Leonhard Prey. The church’s architecture is an example of the German Baroque style, with its towering steeple, ornate decoration, and grandiose interior. The church’s most notable feature is its impressive dome, which is one of the largest in northern Europe and offers stunning views of the city from the top.
Inside the church, visitors will find a number of beautiful works of art, including frescoes, sculptures, and an impressive Baroque altar. The church’s organ is also a notable attraction, with its 4,765 pipes and intricate decoration. The church is also home to a number of tombs and monuments, including the tomb of the composer George Frideric Handel.
The St. Michaelis Church is also an active place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. It is also a popular spot for visitors to take in the impressive architecture and art of the church and climb the steeple to enjoy the views.
It is considered a symbol of the city and a must-see for anyone visiting Hamburg.
5. Experience Hamburg’s nightlife on the Reeperbahn
The Reeperbahn is a famous street and entertainment district located in the St. Pauli neighborhood of Hamburg, Germany. It is known for its lively nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and music venues, as well as its red-light district.
The Reeperbahn is one of the most famous streets in Hamburg and attracts a large number of tourists every year. It offers a wide range of entertainment options, from traditional German pubs and bars to trendy clubs and live music venues. Many famous bands and musicians such as The Beatles, Udo Lindenberg, and Marius Müller-Westernhagen have played on the street.
The Reeperbahn is also home to a number of cabarets and burlesque shows, as well as the famous Operettenhaus, a theater that features large-scale musical productions.
In addition to its nightlife, the Reeperbahn is also home to a number of shops, restaurants and cafes, as well as the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken, a popular spot for a stroll along the Elbe river and harbor.
It’s important to note that the Reeperbahn is also home to Hamburg’s red-light district, and visitors should be aware that the area is known for prostitution and adult entertainment.
The Reeperbahn is a unique and vibrant part of Hamburg, and offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a wild night out or just want to experience the city’s famous entertainment district.
6. Enjoy a boat tour of the city’s canals
A boat tour of Hamburg’s canals, also known as “Fleetfahrt” in German, is a popular way to see the city from a different perspective and experience its unique architecture and history.
Boat tours typically depart from the Landungsbrücken, a popular spot on the Elbe river, and take visitors on a leisurely journey through the city’s canals and waterways. During the tour, visitors will be able to see a variety of sights, including the historic warehouse district of Speicherstadt, the impressive Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and the iconic St. Michaelis Church.
Many boat tours also offer audio guides in multiple languages and provide visitors with information about the history, architecture, and culture of the city. Some boat tours also offer snacks and drinks on board, making it a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Boat tours are a great way to see the city’s landmarks and get a sense of the city’s history and culture, as well as to enjoy the views of the city’s architecture and the Elbe river. They are suitable for all ages and can be a great option for visitors who want to experience the city in a unique and leisurely way.
7. Visit the Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway
Miniatur Wunderland is a model railway exhibit located in Hamburg, Germany. It is the largest model railway in the world and features a wide variety of miniature landscapes and scenes, including replicas of cities, towns, and countryside from around the world.
The exhibit is divided into several sections, each representing different regions and countries, such as Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the United States, Scandinavia, and Italy, among others. The replicas are incredibly detailed and realistic, and visitors can see everything from bustling cities to picturesque countryside landscapes.
The exhibit also features a number of interactive elements, such as moving trains, cars, and boats, as well as lighting and sound effects that bring the scenes to life. Visitors can also see the behind-the-scenes of the exhibit, as the model builders work on new additions and repairs to the displays.
Miniatur Wunderland is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages, and is a great option for families and anyone interested in model railways, engineering and architecture. It is a unique and fascinating way to experience different parts of the world in a miniature form.
8. Take a stroll through Planten un Blomen park, including the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden and lake
Planten un Blomen is a large park located in the center of Hamburg, Germany. It is known for its diverse range of gardens and green spaces, making it a popular spot for visitors and locals alike.
The park features a number of different gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, and a lake with boats for rent. The Japanese garden is a tranquil space with a pond, a tea house, and a Zen garden. The rose garden is a beautiful display of different types of roses, while the lake is a great spot for a picnic or a stroll along the water.
The park also has several playgrounds and a large playground for children, as well as a number of sculptures and works of art. In the summer, the park also hosts a number of events and activities such as concerts, theater performances, and light shows.
Planten un Blomen is a great option for visitors looking for a peaceful and green space in the city. It is also a good spot for families with children, as there are many activities that kids will enjoy. The park is also popular among joggers and fitness enthusiasts, as there are a number of paths and trails throughout the park.
9. Visit the St. Nikolai Memorial, a former church turned museum and memorial
The St. Nikolai Memorial is a former church turned museum and memorial located in Hamburg, Germany. The building was originally built in the late 19th century as the St. Nikolai Church, but was heavily damaged during World War II and was not rebuilt. Instead, it was converted into a memorial and museum to commemorate the victims of the war and the bombing of Hamburg.
The memorial is divided into two parts, the ruins of the church and the underground museum. The ruins of the church have been preserved as a reminder of the destruction of the war and the impact it had on the city. Visitors can see the remaining walls and roof of the church, as well as the damaged bell tower.
The underground museum tells the story of the bombing of Hamburg during World War II and the impact it had on the city and its residents. The museum features a wide range of artifacts and exhibits, including photographs, documents, and personal stories of those who lived through the bombing.
The St. Nikolai Memorial is a powerful and moving experience and it is an important reminder of the devastation of war and the importance of peace. It is an important stop for visitors looking to learn more about the history of Hamburg and the impact of World War II on the city.
10. Visit the Tierpark Hagenbeck, a zoo that is one of the oldest in Germany
Tierpark Hagenbeck is a zoo located in Hamburg, Germany. It is one of the oldest zoos in Germany, having been founded in 1907 by Carl Hagenbeck, a pioneering animal collector and zoological entrepreneur, who was known for his innovative animal enclosures, such as the first zoo without cages.
The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world, including elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, monkeys, and many more. One of the most popular attractions of the zoo is the elephant park, which allows visitors to get up close to the elephants and learn about their behavior and habitat.
The zoo also has a number of interactive exhibits, such as the “Tropical House” where visitors can see exotic birds, reptiles, and insects, or the “Aquarium” where visitors can see a wide variety of fish and marine animals.
The zoo is also home to the Hagenbeck Tropical Aquarium, which has a large collection of exotic fish, reptiles, and other marine animals. It is considered one of the largest aquariums in Europe.
The zoo also offers a wide range of activities and events throughout the year, including animal feedings, guided tours, and educational programs. It is a great option for visitors of all ages who are interested in learning more about animals and their natural habitats.
11. Visit the Alster lake and rent a boat or kayak
The Alster Lake is a large artificial lake located in Hamburg, Germany. The lake is formed by the Alster River and is a popular spot for a wide range of activities, including boating, sailing, and kayaking.
One of the most popular activities on the Alster Lake is renting a boat or kayak and exploring the lake at your own pace. Visitors can rent a variety of boats, such as rowboats, canoes, and electric boats, and explore the lake’s many canals and waterways. The lake is surrounded by a number of parks and gardens, such as the Planten un Blomen park, which offers great views and a chance to see the city from the water.
The lake is also a popular spot for sailing and windsurfing, and there are a number of sailing schools and clubs located around the lake that offer lessons and rentals. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour of the lake, which will take them past some of the city’s most famous landmarks and provide information about the history and culture of Hamburg.
The Alster lake is a beautiful and peaceful spot in the middle of the city and is a great option for visitors looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It’s a great spot for a picnic, a walk, or a boat ride, and it’s a perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a little while.
12. Visit the Chilehaus, a beautiful example of Expressionist architecture
The Chilehaus is a landmark building located in Hamburg, Germany. It was built in the 1920s and is considered one of the city’s most important examples of Expressionist architecture. It is known for its unique shape, which resembles a ship’s prow and for its striking use of brick as a building material.
The Chilehaus was designed by the architect Fritz Höger and was built for a wealthy businessman, who made his fortune trading in Chile. The building was intended to be a symbol of his success, and the unique shape of the building is meant to evoke the prow of a ship, symbolizing the connection between Hamburg and Chile.
The building features a number of different architectural elements, such as the use of pointed arches and a stepped gable, which are typical of Expressionist architecture. The building’s facade is made of red brick and is decorated with a number of sculptures and reliefs.
The Chilehaus is now home to a number of businesses and offices and it is open to visitors during the weekdays. Visitors can take a tour of the building, which provides an insight into its history, architecture, and restoration efforts. The building also has a rooftop terrace, which offers views of the city and the harbor.
The Chilehaus is considered a masterpiece of Expressionist architecture and a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and history, and it is a great example of Hamburg’s rich architectural heritage.
13. Visit the Deichstrasse, a street with a great variety of restaurants and shops
Deichstrasse is a street located in the district of Altona in Hamburg, Germany. The street is known for its picturesque houses and its charming atmosphere. It is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, as it offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars.
Deichstrasse is a street with a mix of architecture, from the traditional Hamburg-style townhouses to the more modern buildings. The street is lined with a variety of shops, including designer boutiques, vintage stores, and specialty shops selling a wide range of products. Visitors can also find a number of art galleries, bookstores, and music shops.
The street is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars, many of which are housed in charming, historic buildings. Visitors can find a wide range of cuisines and atmospheres, from traditional German pubs to trendy cafes and bars.
Deichstrasse is also known for its cultural and artistic scene, with many events and exhibitions taking place throughout the year, such as music and theater performances, art exhibitions, and festivals.
Deichstrasse is a great option for visitors looking for a charming, picturesque street with a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural activities. It offers a unique experience of Hamburg’s local culture and a chance to explore one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
14. Visit the St. Petri Kirche, a beautiful medieval church
St. Petri Kirche is a Gothic-style church located in the heart of Hamburg, Germany. It is one of the city’s oldest and most important churches, having been built in the 14th century. The church is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and rich history.
The church’s architecture is a fine example of Gothic style, with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and spire. The church’s most notable feature is its impressive tower, which is one of the tallest in Hamburg, and offers great views of the city. The church’s interior is also noteworthy, with its beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and impressive altarpiece.
St. Petri Kirche has a rich history and has been an important spiritual and cultural center in Hamburg for centuries. It has served as a symbol of the city’s religious and cultural heritage, and it has been a witness to many of the city’s historical events.
The church is still an active place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. It also offers guided tours, which provide information about the church’s history and architecture. Visitors can also climb the tower for a great view of the city.
St. Petri Kirche is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or spirituality and it is a great option for visitors looking to experience the cultural and historical heritage of Hamburg.
15. Visit the Hamburg Dungeon, an interactive attraction that tells the history of Hamburg with live actors and special effects
The Hamburg Dungeon is an interactive attraction located in Hamburg, Germany. It is a live-action show that takes visitors on a journey through the dark history of the city, from the Middle Ages to the present day. The attraction is designed to be an immersive and educational experience, with live actors, special effects, and interactive exhibits that transport visitors back in time.
The attraction is divided into several different sections, each of which tells a different story and highlights a different aspect of Hamburg’s history. Visitors will learn about the Great Fire of 1842, the Black Death, the Hanseatic League, and the city’s role in World War II, among other topics.
Throughout the attraction, visitors will encounter a variety of live actors who will take them on a journey through the city’s dark past, and they will be able to experience what it was like to live during different periods of Hamburg’s history. The attraction also features a number of special effects, such as water, smoke, and realistic sound effects, which help to create an immersive and realistic experience.
The Hamburg Dungeon is an attraction that is suitable for visitors of all ages, but it is not recommended for young children or for people with heart conditions or other medical issues. It is a great option for visitors looking for an interactive and educational experience that provides an in-depth look at the history of the city.
16. Visit the Heinrich-Hertz-Turm, a telecommunications tower with an observation deck
The Heinrich-Hertz-Turm is a telecommunications tower located in Hamburg, Germany. It is named after the German physicist Heinrich Hertz, who was the first to prove the existence of electromagnetic waves. The tower is known for its striking architecture and for the observation deck at its top, which offers panoramic views of the city.
The tower was built in the 1980s and is a prominent feature of Hamburg’s skyline. It is a concrete tower with a height of 279 meters (915 feet) and it has an observation deck at a height of 147 meters (482 feet) which offers great views of the city and its surroundings. The observation deck is accessible by elevator and it is open to the public.
The tower also serves as a telecommunications tower, and it has a variety of antennas and other equipment used for radio and television broadcasting, as well as for mobile and wireless communication.
The Heinrich-Hertz-Turm is a popular spot for visitors looking for panoramic views of the city. The observation deck is open during the day and offers a great spot to take in the views, and it’s also a popular spot for taking pictures. The tower is a good option for visitors looking to experience the city from a different perspective and take in the views of Hamburg.
17. Visit the Stadtpark, a large park in the center of Hamburg
Stadtpark, also known as City Park, is a large park located in the heart of Hamburg, Germany. It is a popular spot for both tourists and locals, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
The park features a number of different gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a lake with boats for rent. The rose garden is a beautiful display of different types of roses, while the lake is a great spot for a picnic or a stroll along the water. The Japanese garden is a tranquil space with a pond, a tea house, and a Zen garden.
The park also has several playgrounds and a large playground for children, as well as a number of sculptures and works of art. In the summer, the park also hosts a number of events and activities such as concerts, theater performances, and light shows.
For sports enthusiasts, the park offers a wide range of activities, including jogging paths, a swimming lake, and a number of sports fields and courts. Visitors can also take a leisurely bike ride around the park, or rent a boat and explore the lake.
Stadtpark is a great option for visitors looking for a peaceful and green space in the city. It is also a good spot for families with children, as there are many activities that kids will enjoy. The park is also popular among joggers and fitness enthusiasts, as there are a number of paths and trails throughout the park.
18. Visit the St. Pauli Piers, for a great view of the Elbe river and the Harbor
The St. Pauli Piers, also known as Landungsbrücken, are a series of piers located in the St. Pauli neighborhood of Hamburg, Germany. They are situated along the Elbe River and are a popular spot for visitors and locals alike, offering great views of the river and the city’s harbor.
The piers are a hub of activity, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a number of boats and ships that offer tours of the harbor and the river. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the city from the water, or take a leisurely stroll along the piers and enjoy the views.
The piers are also a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can rent a rod and reel and try their hand at catching a variety of fish, such as cod, flounder, and eel. Visitors can also take a ferry to nearby cities such as Blankenese, Finkenwerder, or to the other side of the river to the city of Wilhelmsburg.
The St. Pauli Piers are a great option for visitors looking for a unique perspective on the city and a chance to experience Hamburg’s maritime heritage. It is also a popular spot for locals to enjoy the harbor views and have a drink or a meal.
19. Visit the St. Katharinen, a beautiful gothic church
St. Katharinen is a Gothic-style church located in Hamburg, Germany. It is one of the oldest and most important churches in the city, having been built in the 14th century. The church is known for its impressive architecture and its rich history.
The church’s architecture is a fine example of Gothic style, with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and a tall spire. The church’s most notable feature is its impressive tower, which is the tallest in Hamburg, and offers great views of the city. The church’s interior is also noteworthy, with beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate carvings.
St. Katharinen has a rich history and has been an important spiritual and cultural center in Hamburg for centuries. It has served as a symbol of the city’s religious heritage, and it has been a witness to many of the city’s historical events. The church has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, and the current building is from the 19th century after a fire in the previous one.
The church is still an active place of worship and visitors are welcome to attend services. It also offers guided tours, which provide information about the church’s history and architecture. Visitors can also climb the tower for a great view of the city.
St. Katharinen is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or spirituality and it is a great option for visitors looking to experience the cultural and historical heritage of Hamburg.
20. Visit the Harburg Castle, a medieval fortress on the southern bank of the Elbe river
The Harburg Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Harburg, near Hamburg, Germany. The castle dates back to the 12th century and it is one of the oldest and most well-preserved castles in the region. The castle is known for its impressive architecture, rich history, and beautiful surroundings.
The castle was built in the 12th century by the Counts of Harburg and it served as a fortress, a residence and a place for administration. It was expanded and renovated over the centuries and today it serves as a museum and a cultural center.
The castle is open to visitors and it offers tours that showcase the castle’s history and architecture. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and see the artifacts, paintings and furniture that are on display. There are also special exhibitions and events that take place throughout the year.
The castle’s surroundings are also a popular spot for visitors. The castle is set in a beautiful park that offers great views of the Elbe River and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can also take a walk through the park and see the castle’s gardens and ponds.
The Harburg Castle is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. It is a great option for visitors looking to explore one of the region’s most significant landmarks and learn about the history of the town of Harburg and the surrounding area.