places to visit hamburg germany

19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hamburg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Hamburg, the largest city in Germany after the capital of Berlin , lies at the head of the long funnel-shaped estuary of the River Elbe. Its location makes it an important link between the sea and Germany's network of inland waterways and numerous islands.

The city is best known for its famous harbor area, the Port of Hamburg. In addition to being a major transportation hub, Hamburg has become one of Europe's most important cultural and commercial centers, as well as a major tourist destination.

The only part of old Hamburg to survive centuries of fires and wars, the narrow, curving Deichstrasse gives a sense of the city's past. Built long before the 19th-century warehouses and 21st-century harborside complexes, the street offers a glimpse into the city's Hansa past. The Hanseatic League was a medieval association of independent port cities and merchants along the Baltic and north Atlantic from the 11th to the 18th centuries, and even into the 19th century. Its distinct architecture is found throughout Baltic Germany.

Deichstrasse takes you straight onto a bridge over one of the city's many canals. Massive brick warehouses, built a couple of centuries after the Hansa's power faded, form a canyon along the canal's sides.

A second footbridge leads into the hottest new neighborhood, Hafencity, where old and new mix in a striking blend of 19th-century, neo-Hansa brick, with contemporary steel-and-glass apartments, their balconies jutting out over attractive cafés, eye-to-eye with vintage sailing vessels. Many of the most interesting things to do in Hamburg are in this port area.

To help you find the best places to visit in this important German port city, be sure to refer to our list of the top attractions and things to do in Hamburg.

See also: Where to Stay in Hamburg

1. Take the Pedestrian Trail to the Port of Hamburg & Speicherstadt

2. miniatur wunderland, 3. see a concert at elbphilharmonie, 4. get your art fix at hamburger kunsthalle, 5. visit the hamburger rathaus (city hall) and mönckebergstraße, 6. st. michael's church, 7. board the historic tallships: rickmer rickmers and cap san diego, 8. explore ships of the past at the international maritime museum, 9. explore the alster lakes, 10. museum of art and design, 11. see one of the world's largest burial grounds: ohlsdorf cemetery, 12. take a walk in a park: planten un blomen and wallringpark, 13. hear the historic organ at st. james' church, 14. museum am rothenbaum & prototyp museum, 15. altona & the altonaer museum, 16. see the old ships at museumshafen oevelgonne (museum harbor), 17. jenisch house, 18. visit the zoo: tierpark hagenbeck, 19. drive to schloss ahrensburg, where to stay in hamburg for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in hamburg, hamburg, germany - climate chart.

The Port of Hamburg, the Hamburger Hafen – also known as "HafenCity" – encompasses 100 square kilometers of tidal harbor and is known as the Gateway to Germany. It's also where you'll find many of the city's most-visited tourist attractions, and on summer evenings and weekends, it's full of local residents relaxing.

A lovely pedestrian trail takes in the old 19th-century Warehouse District , the Speicherstadt , with its continuous lines of tall brick buildings once used to store tobacco, coffee, dried fruit, and spices. Built up from 1883 to 1927, it's reputedly the world's largest such warehouse district and was in 2015 designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Another landmark of the Port of Hamburg is the Köhlbrandbrücke , a 3.9-kilometer bridge that spans the harbor. The newest and most spectacular addition to the waterfront area, though, is the Elbphilharmonie , the city's most important cultural venue (see more on this attraction in #3 below).

The adjacent Traditionsschiffhafen/Sandtorhafen harbor lines the peninsula and is a great place to see vintage tall ships at their docks. If you've got time, a good way to explore the Port of Hamburg is by boat, with numerous tours departing from Landungsbrücken.

Although billed as the world's largest model railway, Hamburg's Miniatur Wunderland is really much more than simply a toy train layout. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the city's historic Speicherstadt warehouse district. It's the world's largest model railway, boasting more than 15,400 meters of track and 1,040 trains (so expect to spend plenty of time here, especially if you're traveling with kids).

Built on a truly massive scale, the attraction covers an impressive 2,300 square meters. Highlights include areas dedicated to the USA, Scandinavia, and Germany, as well as an airport with planes that actually take off, plus some 100,000 vehicles that actually move, all of it illuminated by more than 500,000 lights and containing some 400,000 tiny (and unique) human figures.

As this is one of the most visited attractions in Germany, you can avoid a long wait by reserving your ticket online. Fun, behind-the-scenes guided tours are available and are highly recommended. Dining and snacks are available on-site, including a restaurant for the kids.

Address: Kehrwieder 2-4/Block D, 20457 Hamburg

Official site: www.miniatur-wunderland.com

Known locally as "Elphi," the imposing Elbphilharmonie (Elbe Philharmonic Hall) is the crown jewel of the revitalized Port of Hamburg. Located at the point of the Grasbrook peninsula, this new building has become the city's major landmark, and is considered one of the largest - and most acoustically pleasing - concert halls in the world.

Opened to great fanfare in 2017, its base consists of a 1960s-era, six-story-tall former cocoa, tea, and tobacco warehouse built of red brick. Above this rises an additional 20 stories of curved, shining glass.

The largest of its three concert halls seats 2,150 and features 10,000 plates specially designed to tune sound waves. The building is also home to a major hotel, residential apartments, restaurants, and other features, including parking. A publicly accessible observation platform, the Elbphilharmonie Plaza provides splendid views of the harbor and the city.

Classical music fans should also plan on an evening at the Hamburg State Opera (Staatsoper Hamburg). This state-of-the-art facility is much admired for its rich program of opera and its excellent acoustics.

Address: Platz der Deutschen Einheit 1, 20457, Hamburg

Official site: www.elbphilharmonie.de/en/

Occupying three separate but connected buildings on the Glockengießerwall, Hamburger Kunsthalle – literally translated as the "Hamburg Art Hall" – is one of Germany's top art galleries. Highlights include numerous altarpieces, works by local artists of the 14th century, and Dutch masters of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Also of note are its fine collections of 19th-century German and French paintings, plus substantial modern and contemporary art collections. Tours and fun programs for children are available.

Another notable art collection is housed at the Deichtorhallen , one of the largest galleries of contemporary art and photography in Europe.

Address: Glockengießerwall 1, D-20095 Hamburg

Official site: www.hamburger-kunsthalle.de

In the center of Hamburg's Rathausmarkt stands the majestic City Hall, or Rathaus. This large, elaborately decorated Neo-Renaissance building adjacent to the Stock Exchange (Börse) was completed in 1897 and consists of 647 rooms, many opened to the public for the city's annual Long Night of Museums event.

Notable features include the spectacular painted ceiling in the Kaisersaal, which depicts the importance of German merchant shipping. Guided tours are available, as are opportunities to observe the local government in action.

From the Rathaus, the wide Mönckebergstraße, Hamburg's principal shopping and business district, leads past 14th-century St. Peter's Church , a cathedral and fine example of brick Hansa architecture notable for its 133-meter bell tower.

A column in the south part of the church bears a painting called Christmas 1813 , commemorating citizens who were locked in the church that year for refusal to provide food to Napoleon's troops. Continue on Mönckebergstraße all the way to the Central Station and the Schauspielhaus theater.

Address: Rathausmarkt 1, 20095 Hamburg

The most famous of Hamburg's many churches, St. Michael's (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis) was built in the Baroque style between 1750 and 1762 and is one of the city's most important landmarks.

One of the top things to do when visiting this catholic church is to ascend its 132-meter-high tower, known locally as "Michel." Accessible by stairs and an elevator, the tower's viewing platforms offer excellent panoramic views over the city and port, a particular treat during their regular extended evening openings.

Also, be sure to look out for the stunning bronze statue of Archangel Michael killing the devil, a fascinating piece of artwork that can be seen over the entrance. Also of note is the church's crypt, the final resting place of some 2,425 people, and one of the city's most interesting concert venues.

In a courtyard to the east of the church are the Krameramtswohnungen . These dwellings were originally built to house the widows of members of the local Shopkeepers' Guild. There's also a good museum here.

Address: Englische Planke 1, 20459 Hamburg

Official site: www.st-michaelis.de/en/

Berthed along the river at Landungsbrücken, Rickmer Rickmers is a three-masted tall ship with a long and colorful history. Built in 1896, the ship returned to Hamburg in 1983 and, after four years of restoration, is now a museum focused on the role of the merchant marine in the 19th and early 20th centuries (there's even a restaurant onboard).

The MS Cap San Diego , a 1960s cargo ship, is another merchant marine ship museum with visitor access to the entire vessel, from the bridge to the engine rooms (fun overnight stays are also available).

A different view of the Cold War is available in the former Soviet submarine , B-515 , now open as a museum and docked at St. Pauli Fischmarkt 10. For those interested in maritime-themed art, a visit to the Altonaer Museum is well worthwhile, and features numerous important paintings, sculptures, and cultural artifacts related to shipping.

Address: Bei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken 1a, 20359 Hamburg

The International Maritime Museum (Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg, or IMMH) is a great place to discover more about Hamburg's rich maritime history and all things sea-related.

Housed in the city's oldest warehouse, a massive red-brick heritage building in the HafenCity area, the museum's fascinating exhibits cover more than 3,000 years of human connection to water. The oldest artifact displayed is a dugout boat, hollowed out of a tree trunk thousands of years ago, that was recovered from the Elbe.

Models show how shipping has progressed, from Phoenician galleys to Viking long ships to the caravels of the Golden Age of Discovery. An entire floor (there are 10 all told) is devoted to the latest in marine research, with films taken by diving robots and recordings of undersea sounds. Another gallery is filled with maritime art.

The newest addition is a superb ship simulator, which allows you to try your hand steering a container ship. A variety of tours and workshops are available, and there is a great little bistro here called, aptly, "Catch of the Day."

Address: Koreastraße 1, 20457 Hamburg

Official site: www.imm-hamburg.de/international/en/

The focal points of Hamburg's inner city area are the Inner Alster (Binnenalster) and Outer Alster (Aussenalster), two artificial lakes connected to the rivers Alster and the Elbe. It's here you'll find Hamburg's most picturesque city squares and historic avenues, as well as its famous pedestrian areas, the passagens . The best routes take in the elegant Jungfernstieg with its cafés and landing stages used by tour boats, and the Ballindamm , with the city's largest shopping center.

The lakes are also popular for sailing and kayaking in summer and skating in winter, and are lined by many beautiful parks and gardens. The area is also popular among cyclists.

Also popular is the Pöseldorf area, with its galleries, boutiques, and cafés, along with the canals, or "fleetes," which link the lakes with the Elbe. If you're visiting in late summer, be sure to attend the annual Alstervergnügen , a street fair held around the lakes with great entertainment, including numerous concerts.

Hamburg's Museum of Art and Design (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg, or locally as "MKG"), located handily near the train station, ranks alongside the Bavarian National Museum in Munich as one of the country's most comprehensive displays of German, European, and Asian applied art.

Founded in 1874 and modeled after London's Victoria and Albert Museum, it's particularly well known for its displays of china, furniture, and silver from northern Germany. Other collections include applied art from East Asia, and a collection of works by Oskar Kokoschka. Also of interest is a large collection of keyboard instruments, as well as a fine display of porcelain. English-language guided tours are available, and a restaurant and bookshop are located on the premises.

The Hamburg Museum (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte) will also be of interest to museum goers. Dating back to the 1830s, the museum is home to a large collection of artifacts that, together with their accompanying displays and information, offer a detailed look at life in the city over the centuries.

Address: Steintorplatz 1, D-20099 Hamburg

Official site: www.mkg-hamburg.de/en/home.html

Not only is Ohlsdorf Cemetery (Ohlsdorfer Friedhof) the world's largest rural cemetery, it's one of the most important. Covering 961 acres and boasting 12 chapels, more than 1.5 million burials have taken place here in some 280,000 burial sites.

The cemetery is also where you'll find the Hamburg Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery , where more than 400 allied prisoners-of-war are buried, along with many who died in battles on German soil. Other notable memorials include those dedicated to victims of Nazi persecution, the Hamburg Firestorm of WWII, and members of the city's anti-Nazi resistance.

Don't be put off by the fact that the site is a cemetery. More than two million people each year visit its memorials, monuments, and museum while strolling through the pleasant gardens along its 17 kilometers of streets and paths. Another important Hamburg memorial is the Bismarck Monument , the best known of Germany's many towers commemorating the country's most revered politician. Fascinating English language guided tours are available, and are highly recommended.

Address: Fuhlsbüttler Straße 756, 22337 Hamburg

Official site: www.friedhof-hamburg.de/en/

At the St. Pauli landing stages in Hamburg is the Wallringpark, a large recreational area that includes some of the city's most popular open spaces, such as the Old Botanic Garden and the Kleine and Grosse Wallanlagen , the gardens laid out on the line of the old fortifications.

The best of these excellent parks is Planten un Blomen - quite literally translated as "Plants and Flowers". The lovely 116-acre park was established in 1821 with the planting of a Platanus tree that can still be seen here. It's a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a picnic, or if visiting at night, take in the famous water-light concerts or a musical performance.

From Wallringpark, you're just minutes away from the 272-meter-high Heinrich Hertz Telecommunications Tower , popularly known as 'Tele-Michel"; though now closed to the public, it remains a striking sight.

Address: Marseiller Str., 20355 Hamburg

A few minutes' walk east of Hamburg city center will take you to the attractive St. James's Church, also known as St. Jacob's (Hauptkirche St. Jacobi). It's one of the most important religious sites in the city after St. Michael's. A church has existed on this site since 1255, at which time it was outside the city walls.

The splendid 14th-century building you see today houses a variety of important artifacts and architectural highlights, including its medieval altars. Perhaps its most important feature, though, is its Arp Schnitger organ. Built in 1693, this magnificent instrument is one of the oldest and best preserved still in use today and boasts no less than 60 registers and over 4,000 pipes.

Visitors can get to hear this masterpiece during regularly scheduled concerts and recitals, often with the church's choir. Interesting tours of the church, including some that focus specifically on music and its organs, are available and come highly recommended.

Address: Jakobikirchhof 22, 20095 Hamburg

Official site: https://jacobus.de/en/

Museum am Rothenbaum: Kulturen und Künste der Welt (or simply MARKK) – formerly the Hamburg Museum of Ethnology – was founded in 1879 and is one of the largest such museums in Europe.

With a focus on "Cultures and Arts of the World," this fascinating museum boasts more than 350,000 artifacts and documents. Highlights include a binder used to cover a Torah, dating from 1711; an African exhibition with traditional cultural and religious items; and fun hands-on exhibits such as foosball, xylophones, and cameras.

Also interesting is the PROTOTYP Museum , a car museum that focuses exclusively (as its name suggests) on prototype vehicles. Most of the 45 vehicles on display are racing and motorsport related and are accompanied with exhibits relating to their history and drivers. Porsche fans will also want to try their hand at the driving simulator. A café is also located on-site.

Address: Rothenbaumchausee 64, 20148 Hamburg

Official site: https://markk-hamburg.de/english/

Above the high bank of the Elbe is Hamburg's vibrant, ritzy Altona district. It's popular for sightseeing due to its many attractive Neoclassical houses, many of them protected as historical monuments.

Here, you'll also find Museumstrasse, which runs north from the end of the Palmaille, and the Altonaer Museum with exhibits relating to the geology, landscape, settlement, and economy of Schleswig-Holstein and the Lower Elbe region. Other highlights include displays of marine artifacts, including old models and preserved ship figureheads.

Afterwards, be sure to explore the area around Altona, including the Altonaer Balkon . You'll be rewarded with fine views of the river and the port, as well as the fishing harbor and fish market.

Address: Museumstrasse 23, 22765 Hamburg

Hamburg's popular Oevelgonne district contains the New Elbe Tunnel , a 3.5-kilometer-long tunnel running under the River Elbe. Here, near the Neumühlen ferry station on the Elbe main shipping channel, you'll find the Museumshafen (Museum Harbor), home to about 20 historic vessels from the period 1880 to 1960, each carefully restored by a private organization.

This impressive collection of important old vessels includes traditional German and Dutch flat bottom ships as well as barges, fishing boats, and steam tugs, some of them open to the public. One of the larger vessels is the SS Stettin , a former icebreaker built in 1933 that's now used for pleasure trips.

Also of interest are the numerous pilots' houses on the Elbuferweg and the Oevelgonner Seekiste , a small museum with a variety of displays and maritime artifacts.

Address: Baron-Voght-Straße 50, D-22609 Hamburg

Not far from the New Elbe Tunnel , in the Klein Flottbek district of Hamburg, lies the beautiful 110-acre Jenischpark , one of the city's largest and most attractive open spaces.

Here, you'll find the superb Neoclassical 19th-century Jenisch House ((Jenisch-Haus) with its rooms reflecting the taste of the prosperous middle classes in styles ranging from Louis XVI to Art Nouveau, all preserved in the on-site museum, a branch of the Altona Museum .

The park is also home to the Ernst Barlach Haus , with its collections of sculptures, drawings, and printed graphic art.

Address: 50 Baron-Voght-Straße, Hamburg 22609

Official site: https://shmh.de/en

Tucked away in Hamburg's northwestern suburb of Stellingen, Tierpark Hagenbeck, the city's zoo, was established in 1907 to house a collection of exotic animals owned by a local fishmonger-turned-exotic animal trader by the name of Carl Hagenbeck. The zoo is still run by his descendants.

This excellent facility was the first in the world to use open enclosures surrounded by ditches as opposed to cages, increasing the free-range area of the animals. It was also the first zoo to group animals by species, ideas that inspired the owners of other zoo parks to adopt.

Other family attractions worthy of a visit is Planetarium Hamburg , located in an old water tower, and the CHOCOVERSUM Chocolate Museum , a fun interactive museum with displays focusing on chocolate making. And yes, you can make your very own chocolate bars!

Address: Lokstedter Grenzstraße 2, 22527 Hamburg

About 23 kilometers northeast of Hamburg is the town of Ahrensburg, famous for its old mansion, Schloss Ahrensburg (Ahrensburg Palace).

Now a museum, the castle was built in 1595, and many of its original interiors and furnishings remain intact, providing a fascinating insight into the life of country nobility. The mansion also makes a great backdrop to the regular concerts and events held in its attractive grounds.

Address: Lübecker Straße 1, D-22926 Ahrensburg

Official site: www.schloss-ahrensburg.de/das-schloss/english-information/

For easy access to Hamburg's top attractions, the best place to stay is in the central Hamburg-Mitte district. An easy walk to Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway, as well as the city's always-bustling port, this district is also home to great shopping, dining, and art galleries. The following highly rated hotels are perfect for exploring:

Luxury Hotels:

• Overlooking Inner Alster Lake, the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten offers huge suites, spa services, and high tea in the plush Grand Hall with its fireplace and fine art.
• Just minutes from Hamburg's main railway station, the Park Hyatt Hamburg boasts spacious rooms with balconies and heated bathroom floors, as well as an indoor pool and spa.
• For a more contemporary feel, try The Madison Hamburg with its spacious rooms (some including kitchenettes), large indoor pool, and on-site dining.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Small and close to Hamburg's harbor, Hotel St. Annen offers spacious rooms, the best of which overlook the inner courtyard.
• If it's funky and fun you're after, try Prizeotel Hamburg-City featuring large rooms with rainforest showers and heated tiles.
• Also worth considering is Hotel Wedina . Overlooking Outer Alster Lake, it's a popular place to relax with a book thanks to its well-stocked library and pleasant courtyard garden.

Budget Hotels:

• At the higher end of the budget scale, the Art Deco-styled Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Georg offers funky, colorful (and quiet) rooms large enough to sleep a family.
• Other good affordable options close to attractions and entertainment in Hamburg-Mitte are Motel One Hamburg Alster with its modern décor and furniture, and Ibis Hamburg St. Pauli Messe , as popular for its harbor location as it is for its comfortable, modern rooms.

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Nature Calls : Germany's magnificent Black Forest region should be on every travelers' itinerary, as famous for its incredible scenery as it is for its thermal springs, many of them located around the spa town of Baden Baden . Equally as attractive is the lovely Lake Constance area , famous for its pleasant climate, rolling countryside, and many small lakeside towns and villages. Those seeking even more dramatic scenery should head for the hills of Garmisch-Partenkirchen , a mountainous area that's home to great skiing and the Zugspitze, the country's tallest mountain peak.

Medieval Times : The old merchant town of Augsburg is home to many important examples of medieval architecture, including its lovely 14th-century cathedral and the charming Fuggerei, an enclave of old townhomes built to house the poor in the 1520s. Historic Bamberg is where you'll find Klein-Venedig, or "Little Venice" with its well-preserved medieval fishermen's houses, as well as the Old Town Hall perched atop a bridge. Perhaps the most immersive medieval experience, though, is to be had in the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber , famous for its fairy-tale-like old homes of the Plönlein and its still intact fortifications and walls.

Germany Vacation Ideas : The German capital city of Berlin needs at least a few days to explore, and is where you'll find some of the country's best known tourist attractions, from the infamous Berlin Wall to the famous Museum Island with its vast array of important museums and art galleries. The historic river port of Frankfurt is also popular for its museums, as well as for its large and picture-perfect central square, the Römerberg. Munich is the capital of Bavaria, as well as one of Europe's most-visited cities, famous for its magnificent cathedral and its many parks, particularly the huge English Garden (Englischer Garten).

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Things to do in Hamburg: 15 beautiful places you must see [with map]

Hello from Hamburg . Come with us to the port city and discover the most beautiful sights and cool places that you simply must have seen. We have already spent a few nights on the Reeperbahn and early mornings with the "market screamers" at the fish market. We have fallen in love with the city on the Elbe with its beautiful corners. Besides the Elbphilharmonie we present you the most beautiful places to visit and attractions in Hamburg. Whether during the day or in the evening: Hamburg is full of beautiful things to see. Here you can find the perfect sight for everyone. We know our stuff - secret places and musical secret tips can't be missing! Did you know that Hamburg also has many parks and a botanical garden? Of course, the Hanseatic city also made it onto our list of the most beautiful travel destinations in Germany.

Hi! Ich bin Nathalie

Als Co-Bloggerin bei den Phototravellers berichte ich über die schönsten Orte der Welt. Werbehinweis: Alle mit einem * markierten Links sind Werbelinks.

Our top 10 sights in Hamburg

Here I reveal to you my personal top places to go in Hamburg . There are countless beautiful places and interesting places here that you simply must see. Many travel guides recommend at least three days to visit the main sights of Hamburg.

However, to be able to look at everything in peace and have no stress, I would rather plan five days . You can spend a whole day in Miniatur Wunderland alone.

• Port of Hamburg and Landungsbrücken
• Speicherstadt
• Miniatur Wunderland
• Fish market
• St. Pauli, Reeperbahn & Great Freedom
• Elbphilharmonie
• Main church Sankt Michaelis (Michel)
• Planten un Blomen
• Heinrich Hertz Tower
• Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel

By the way, Hamburg ranks high in our ranking of the most beautiful cities in Germany .

You can also find our top sights to see on our interactive map right below.

Map with our top sights at a glance

On this interactive map, you can find all our favorite places and sights in Hamburg.

[mapsmarker map=”260″]

1. Port of Hamburg and Landungsbrücken

The port of Hamburg is the largest seaport in Germany. To get an overview of the area, for example, a harbor tour is ideal. We did the harbor tour with the provider Rainer Abicht (25 euros for adults) and can highly recommend it. You learn a lot of interesting facts about Hamburg and the port.

In addition to the Speicherstadt, which is located in the HafenCity district , which was only founded in 2008, the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken is also part of the port area. This is one of the most famous sights and a popular photo motif in Hamburg.

From there you have an excellent view of the Elbe and the Elbphilharmonie – more about that later. Various historic ships are moored at the Landungsbrücken, including the three-master Rickmer Rickmers, which was saved from being scrapped and now serves as a museum ship.

Two towers with striking green domes mark the 205-meter-long terminal building at the Landungsbrücken, which has been a listed building since 2003. One of the towers provides information not only about the time but also about the water level of the Norderelbe.

Also worthwhile is a visit to the submarine museum very close to the St. Pauli fish market , my next top sight. When will you ever have the chance to board a real submarine?

Tip : If you’re exploring the port city with your kids, check out our article Hamburg with kids: 15 excursion tips for families.

2. Speicherstadt

Another favorite in Hamburg is the Speicherstadt , the largest historic warehouse complex in the world . The area has been a listed monument since 1991 and on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2015, along with the neighboring Kontorhaus district . The latter is characterized by large buildings in the style of brick expressionism, for example, the Chilehaus .

The name Speicherstadt comes from the warehouses in neo-Gothic brick architecture, which stand on thousands of oak piles and are connected on one side to the water and on the other side to the street. General goods and especially coffee , tea , and spices were stored there.

Tip : The typical photo of the Wasserschlösschen (“water castle”) can be taken from the Poggenmühlenbrücke (“Poggen Mill Bridge”) ( Google Maps ).

3. Miniatur Wunderland

In addition, one of the most famous activities in Germany is located in Hamburg’s Speicherstadt: the Miniatur Wunderland (miniature wonderland), with over 1500 square meters the largest model railway in the world . Not only children love it here. It’s simply fun to stroll through the huge layout and discover the miniature world.

You can expect numerous cities and regions from all over the world – and a good dose of humor. Did you know that Lyon also has a miniature world, modeled on Hamburg?

Tip : The Hamburg Dungeon is also a frequently visited attraction and a very fun thing to do in the Speicherstadt. There, you’ll embark on a journey through over 600 years of spooky Hamburg history. Actors and rides will really make you scream and take you to dungeons, torture chambers, labyrinths, and plague hospitals as well as a pirate ship.

During your visit to Speicherstadt, be sure to check out the Speicherstadt Coffee Roastery ( Google Maps ), right next to the Dungeon and Miniatur Wunderland. There you can watch live how the coffee is ground. There is also a delicious breakfast here.

4. St. Pauli Fish Market

Also part of the Port of Hamburg is the famous fish market , which deserves its own paragraph. It’s located west of the Landungsbrücken in the rival district of Altona-Altstadt . Since 1703, mainly fish but also fruit, vegetables, and plants have been sold here on Sunday mornings. It’s a very unusual thing to do!

The traditional fish market takes place every Sunday from 5 to 9:30 am (in the period from November 1 to March 31 only from 7 am). The stalls are located in the open air on the eastern end of the Große Elbstraße. There is also a large fish auction hall there, where, in addition to the sale of fish, events are often held and music is played.

The fish market has become one of the most popular attractions in the Hanseatic city, mainly thanks to the “market shouters” . The well-known sellers make fun of themselves, yell over to the other stand, and sometimes criticize the display of the other. Always with a wink of the eye, of course. It’s worth getting up early!

By the way, the time comes from the fact that the fishmongers had to be ready with their work in time for the church service on Sunday.

My tip: If you’re asking what to do in Hamburg in the evening, I’ll give you the answer! Whenever we were out in the evening in Hamburg, we went directly from the Reeperbahn to the fish market . That’s practically a cult in Hamburg. And believe me: the fish roll tastes three times as delicious at five in the morning. In addition, bands play in the Fischhalle. So you can continue partying right away.

⭐ A great guide for your trip to Hamburg

I can highly recommend this travel guide for your city trip to Hamburg. Have a look at Lonely Planet Pocket Hamburg ( get it here* ). You should also have a glimpse into Fodor’s Essential Germany (Full-color Travel Guide) ( buy it here* ).

5. St. Pauli, Reeperbahn & Große Freiheit

North of the Landungsbrücken, just a stone’s throw away and also in the St. Pauli district, is the infamous Reeperbahn . As dusk falls, this street, which is rather quiet during the day, becomes the most wicked entertainment mile in the party and red-light district . It’s clear that the Reeperbahn is high on my list of top sights.

At the eastern entrance to the Reeperbahn are the Dancing Towers , two high-rise buildings with “bent” facades. In it, among other things, there is a rooftop bar called clouds , from which you have a breathtaking view over Hamburg and can sip delicious cocktails.

However, the parallel Herbertstraße is considered a brothel street or, to put it less nicely, a “whore alley”. As a woman, you are not welcome here, which is why you should rather stay away from Herbertstraße directly. But there are signs there anyway that “forbid” the entry of young people under 18 and women. Even as a man, however, you should be careful – the ladies are often difficult to get rid of.

Safer is the Große Freiheit , a side street to the Reeperbahn. The two streets meet at Beatles-Platz (Beatles Square). It’s called that because this is where the Beatles made their first appearances in the 1960s, including in the still-existing pubs Club Indra and Kaiserkeller.

The Große Freiheit is notorious for its nightlife. Among others, three establishments of the drag queen Olivia Jones are located there: the Olivia Jones Bar, Olivia’s Show Club, and Olivia’s Wild Boys.

As you can see, the area around the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli is definitely one of the coolest places to see in Hamburg.

Tip : Be sure to check out the Panoptikum . This is the oldest wax museum in Germany . It is very worthwhile. What is to see in the Panoptikum? There you can see wax figures dating back to 1942. In addition to well-known personalities, you will also encounter many scurrilities there in the basement. We found it very exciting.

6. Elbphilharmonie

We return to HafenCity , as it is home to another of Hamburg’s most famous landmarks and a top thing to do here! The Elbphilharmonie was only completed in 2016 and is intended to be a new landmark for the city and a “ cultural monument for all “.

The building consists of the listed base of a former quayside pier and a modern superstructure with a glass facade , which is intended to evoke maritime motifs such as sails, water waves, or icebergs. Between the brick base and the glass superstructure, at a height of 37 meters, there is a publicly accessible square with a viewing terrace . To enter, you need a time-limited ticket but it is free on-site. The square serves as access and foyer of the concert halls , where you can experience an extensive musical program. They represent the heart of the Elbphilharmonie.

Tip : From the Landungsbrücken you can also easily reach the “ Elphie ” on a short walk. While doing so, you can enjoy the view of the harbor and the ever-growing Elbphilharmonie – fantastic.

You can also reach a four-star-plus hotel via the public plaza. The Westin Hamburg ( check rates here* ) has 244 rooms, ranging from the sixth to the twentieth floor. Otherwise, some of the city’s most expensive condominiums are still located in the Elbphilharmonie, as are various dining options and a parking garage.

7. Main church Sankt Michaelis (Michel)

Now we finally move away from the harbor and continue towards the city center . There you will find the Protestant church of Sankt Michaelis , usually just called Michel . The building is considered the Hamburg landmark and the most important baroque church in northern Germany. It’s a top thing to do in Hamburg!

The church burned down in 1906 but was completely rebuilt in 1912 and has been under quasi-continuous renovation ever since. The interior of Sankt Michaelis is exceptionally bright and flooded with light thanks to the transparent windows. The nave has no less than five organs , one of which is in the crypt in the vaulted cellar .

The Michel also scores with its church tower . It is 132 meters high, with a viewing platform at 82 meters. The visitor reaches this after 452 steps and has as a reward a wonderful view of Hamburg. On many evenings, you can even climb the tower until 11 p.m., with a reservation if necessary – this is then called “Nachtmichel.”

At a height of 106 meters, there is once again a platform from which the Michel trumpeter, known as the Türmer , trumpets a chorale in all four directions. On weekdays, this popular attraction takes place at 10 a.m. and 9 p.m., and on Sundays and church holidays at noon. This is based on a 300-year-old custom: until 1861, the trumpet was used to signal the opening and closing of the city gates.

8. Planten un Blomen

Now I have the right tips for all those who need a little time out in the green between sightseeing tours. Hamburg has some great options.

First, there is the Stadtpark , a 148-hectare public park in the north of Hamburg. It’s open throughout and freely accessible. A characteristic feature of the Stadtpark is the planetarium , which was created from a former water tower. On the 8th floor, there is a viewing platform with a great panoramic view – a must-do in Hamburg!

There is the well-known park Planten un Blomen in the city center. The first tree in this former botanical garden was planted back in 1821. The old show greenhouses are also still preserved – they are located together with a tropical house complex in the middle of the park. The name, by the way, is Low German and means “plants and flowers.” It’s a fun thing to do in Hamburg!

The Altonaer Balkon is also a popular place to visit, mainly thanks to the excellent view. This green space is one of a series of Elbe parks located above the river on a slope about 27 meters high. You’ll also find a number of sculptures there, for example, some large anchors or the “Fishermen” by Gerhard Brandes. Here you can stroll relaxed on foot and enjoy the park feeling.

Last but not least I can recommend the Sternschanzenpark , which is a bit smaller and less crowded. A special element of the partly public park is the Schanzenturm, formerly the largest water tower in Europe. Today it houses the Mövenpick Hotel, which opened in 2007 under protest from residents of the Schanzenviertel.

9. Heinrich Hertz Tower

The Heinrich Hertz Tower (also called “ Hamburg Tele-Michel “) is another exciting thing to do which you definitely shouldn’t miss. Visible from afar, the TV tower is the tallest building in the city at 279.2 meters and one of the most famous landmarks.

According to current plans, visitors will be able to enter the viewing platform and the revolving restaurant again in 2023. By then at the latest, the TV tower should once again be a magnet for visitors. Children love the view over the entire city and can hardly stop marveling.

10. Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel

After the rest in the green, it goes now reenergized back into the hustle and bustle, namely in the just mentioned Schanzenviertel (also Schanze). The Sternschanze, which gave the area its name, was a star-shaped defensive fortification that stood on the site of today’s Sternschanzenpark from 1682 to 1816. Today, the Schanze is a popular trendy neighborhood and thus one of the most famous sights in Hamburg. Here you can find a great bar and restaurant tips.

Tip : By the way, TV chef Tim Mälzer has a restaurant called “ Bullerei ” directly at the Sternschanze S-Bahn station. There you will also find the coffee roaster Elbgold , where you can get delicious Franzbrötchen.

The adjacent Karolinenviertel , or Karoviertel for short, is also a trendy neighborhood in Hamburg. What to see in Karoviertel? While it used to be a rather poor neighborhood, there are now numerous cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and stores there, similar to the Schanzenviertel. This is where the stylish hippsters are hanging out.

Between Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel and the park Planten un Blomen is also the event area Heiligengeistfeld . The Hamburger Dom folk festival takes place here three times a year- it’s a cool thing to do here! In addition, there is the Millerntor Stadium of FC St. Pauli and a high bunker.

11. Lake Alster and Jungfernstieg

The Alster is a tributary of the Elbe River, which forms the Alster Lake consisting of the Inner and Outer Alster in the city area- a great place to see. The Außenalster is the larger northern part and the Binnenalster the smaller southern part. The two are separated today by the Lombardsbrücke, a road, and a rail bridge. The Alstersee is a well-known landmark and is perfect for jogging and walking.

Especially popular for strolling is the Jungfernstieg , a street on the southern bank of the Binnenalster. The Jungfernstieg was created as early as 1235 as a dam for the Alster. One of the oak piles of the original dam has been made into a sculpture that can be seen on the platform of the U1 train, commemorating the victims of a water inrush during the construction of this station in the 1930s. Jungfernstieg is a great thing to do in Hamburg!

By the way, the name of the street comes in principle from a kind of “bridal show”. In the past, the unmarried ladies of the city – the maidens – used to walk there with their families on Sundays.

12. City Hall

Quasi opposite the Jungfernstieg is the Rathausmarkt . There is another section of the Alster, the Kleine Alster (“Little Alster”) with the Alster arcades. On the adjoining square, you will then find the town hall itself. It is the seat of the Senate and the state parliament of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg because Hamburg as a city-state also represents its own federal state.

The magnificent neo-Renaissance style city hall is dominated by a central tower that is as tall as the whole building is wide – 112 meters. The inner courtyard, which is open to the public, is also one of the most architecturally exciting places in the whole city.

Together, the Rathausmarkt, the town hall, and the Kleine Alster form an urban ensemble inspired by St. Mark’s Square in Venice and is generally considered to be particularly successful. What’s to do near the city hall?  In the Alsterarkaden and generally around the Rathausmarkt there are numerous restaurants, cafés, and stores. Mönckebergstraße, a popular shopping street in Hamburg, is also just a stone’s throw away.

Tip : If you are looking for the best Franzbrötchen in Hamburg, we can recommend the store Mutterland ( Google Maps ). Here the Franzbrötchen look like cinnamon buns but taste really delicious. Also brilliant Franzbrötchen – for us on the number two best Franzbrötchen in Hamburg – is the bakery Elbgold ( Google Maps ).

13. Memorial St. Nikolai

The next sight in Hamburg that you should definitely have seen is a structure that perhaps not everyone knows about. It is the St. Nikolai Memorial , the central place of remembrance for the victims of war and tyranny of the years 1933-1945.

The former main church of St. Nikolai was in fact destroyed during the air raids on Hamburg in 1943. Only the tower, part of the southern outer wall, and the walls of the choir have been preserved – they form today’s memorial.

At 147 meters, the tower is the tallest church tower in the city , even ahead of the Michel. You can take a panoramic lift to a viewing platform 76 meters above the ground and look out over the whole city, for example at the impressive City Hall building. Access to the tower is included in the entrance fee for the museum now located in St. Nikolai.

There is a very similar sight in Berlin – the Memorial Church. Here you can find the most important sights in Berlin .

14. Old Elbe Tunnel

If you have a little time left, you should definitely take a look at the Alter Elbtunnel . It was opened in 1911 in St. Pauli and has been a listed building since 2003.

Just the ride with the ancient elevators underground is a terrific experience and an extraordinary sight. You should definitely have done it. The long Elbe tunnel is also impressive and an amazing thing to do in Hamburg!

On the other end, you can take a walk with a view of the city.

15. Deichstraße

When I turn into Deichstraße (dike street), I am immediately fascinated. Small, cute houses are suddenly in front of me. Old pulleys still hang from the tops of the roofs. This street is the last preserved ensemble of old Hamburg burgher houses and one of the few small, secret places in Hamburg.

The Deichstraße is located in the district Altstadt directly at the Nikolaifleet. You can get there directly from Willy-Brandt-Straße to the Kajen.

More tips and sights

A beautiful sight on the Elbe is the Elbe beach west of the fish market. Here you can go swimming in the summer or just relax. The sand is beautifully white and invites you to swim. Many Hamburgers have their own boats and go to secluded places on Sundays.

The Hagenbeck Zoo is also one of the most popular attractions in Hamburg. A completely different sight is the Ohlsdorf Cemetery , the largest park cemetery in the world and also Hamburg’s largest green space.

Art lovers should stop by either the Hamburger Kunsthalle with its important art collections or the Deichtorhallen with contemporary art and photography. Chocolate lovers, however, are well catered for at the Chocoversum by Hachez.

Finally, I can recommend the Blankenese district. This is an affluent residential area on the Elbe, which grew out of a former fishing village. Among others, Rolf Zuckowski and Otto Waalkes live here today. The former village center has become today’s Treppenviertel (staircase district) ( Google Maps ), which can be explored virtually only on foot on more than 5000 steps. A walk on foot is worth it!

Musical secret tips in Hamburg

The Lion King is not a secret tip in the musical city but should still be mentioned at least once as Hamburg’s most famous production. A very special highlight: a shuttle ship takes you from the Landungsbrücken to the Stage Theater in Hamburg Harbor .

Right next to it is the musical building The Ice Queen . The Disney play is also performed at the Theater an der Elbe. Experience how Princess Elsa saves the kingdom of Arendelle from disappearing into the eternal ice. Here, too, you can expect enchanting costumes and great songs.

But the play Harry Potter and the Enchanted Child should not be missing from the list of the best experiences for children in Hamburg. It takes place in Mehr! Theater am Großmarkt in Hamburg. The play has already been successfully performed in London, New York, and Melbourne . Extra tip: You’ll also find the Wizarding World Shop by Thalia in the Thalia bookstore right next to the main train station.

Other well-known plays currently being performed in Hamburg include Pretty Woman , Wicked , and Mamma Mia !

A real insider tip, however, is the musical Heiße Ecke at Schmidts Tivoli in St. Pauli. It’s about a snack bar on the Reeperbahn – so it’s a real Hamburg production!

Where to stay in Hamburg – the best hotel tips

Some exclusive hotel tips were already hidden in this article, like The Westin Hamburg ( check prices here* ) in the Elbphilharmonie or the Mövenpick Hotel in the Schanzenturm ( check prices here* ). The Hotel Atlantic Kempinski ( check prices here* ), where Udo Lindenberg has been staying since the mid-90s, is also extremely stylish.

The 4-star Hotel Boston HH ( check prices here* ) in Altona-Nord is also a great choice and even has a small wellness area. Also scoring 4 stars is The Suites Rainvilleterrasse ( check prices here* ), which is made up of six accommodations, each with its own balcony.

In the Speicherstadt and Hafencity is the modern and extremely stylish PierDrei Hotel ( check prices here* ). The Hotel Volksschule ( check prices here* ) offers a truly unusual concept, as it is actually housed in the brick building of a former school.

Hamburg’s traditional hotel Louis C. Jacob ( check prices here* ) is our very special hotel tip.

The Studio Feuerfest ( check prices here* ) near the Stadtpark is an excellent guesthouse with a terrace, communal kitchen, and lounge. The private room All you need – Room ( check prices here* ) also convinces with excellent reviews.

Facts and figures

• Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany with a population of about 1.8 million.
• Thus, the Hanseatic city is also the largest city in the European Union, which is not a capital city
• Many theories assume that the hamburger really comes from Hamburg – however, today it is no longer possible to trace whether the popular fast food dish actually originated in Germany
• Hamburg is considered one of the cities with the highest quality of life in the world
• Hamburg was mentioned in documents as early as the 7th century
• All the varieties of Low German spoken in Hamburg are grouped together under the term “Hamburger Platt” – there is even a dictionary for it
• Two of Hamburg’s twin cities are Prague (click here for sights in Prague ) and Chicago (and click here for sights in Chicago )
• If you are addressed with “Hummel, Hummel” in Hamburg , you should not flee in panic from a supposed insect but answer with “Mors, Mors”. The greeting probably goes back to a water carrier nicknamed Hummel, who could not defend himself because of the heavy load and, when called and mocked, responded with “Mors, Mors.” It is said that this is the short form of “Klei mi an’n Mors” which means “Lick my …”.

Ich bin Nathalie, Übersetzerin und Co-Bloggerin bei den Phototravellers. Ich studiere Translation mit dem Schwerpunkt Spanisch, Englisch und Italienisch, spreche aber auch etwas Schwedisch und Japanisch. Sehr gerne reise ich nach Schweden oder Spanien, um dort die Sonne und die wunderschönen Strände und Landschaften zu genießen.

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Must-see attractions in Hamburg

Mahnmal St-Nikolai

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Hamburger Kunsthalle

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St Michaelis Kirche

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The 15 Best Things to do in Hamburg, Germany

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Hamburg is one of Germany ’s most underrated vacation destinations. Germany ’s second-largest urban area has never tried to shake off its industrial image. Instead, Hamburg has embraced its trading and mercantile past to become one of the country’s most unique cities!

Hamburg was once a commercial powerhouse of the medieval Hanseatic League. The city’s location on the banks of the River Elbe – just a short boat ride away from the North Sea – ensured that Hamburg became one of Europe’s most important trading hubs. 

Today, you’ll find this history still makes up an incredibly important part of the city’s current image. You can visit the International Maritime Museum, for example, explore Hamburg’s revitalized harbors and dockyards, and cruise along the River Elbe and float out into the North Sea. 

Hamburg might be industrial, but it’s also chic. You’ll quickly fall for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed red brick architecture of Speicherstadt (“Warehouse City”), as well as the stunning modern look of the Elbphilharmonie concert hall. With a vast network of canals, alongside the beautiful Alster Lake, we’d go as far as to say that Hamburg is the Venice of Germany! 

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Hamburg for you. Stick to these fun and unique Hamburg bucket list experiences, and there’s no doubt that you’re going to have an exceptional time exploring this amazing German city!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Hamburg, Germany

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun Things to do in Hamburg

1. take a walking tour of hamburg-altstadt.

Hamburg has a long history that really begins in the 8th century AD when a castle (or “burg”) was founded by the River Elbe. That early settlement grew over the centuries into Hamburg, with the city becoming a prominent member of the medieval Hanseatic League and one of the wealthiest harbors in Europe. 

You can learn all about the city’s humble roots and explosive expansion on a walking tour of Hamburg-Alstadt (the Old Town), where you’ll find living history in the squares, churches, architecture, and canals. 

This is historic Hamburg at its best, and you can join a guided tour or embark on a self-guided walk of the Old Town. Hamburg’s tourism office publishes lovely self-guided walking itineraries . Either way, you need to start by the Rathaus, Hamburg’s impressive City Hall.

You’ll discover that the idea of a German nation is a very recent phenomenon because for many centuries, Hamburg was an independent city-state, and it was all governed from this building in the Old Town. 

Next, you can move on to the St. Nikolai Church, which is actually a war memorial. The Gothic church was destroyed during World War II, but the burnt-out spire and shell of this medieval church have been left as a lasting reminder of the conflict. 

Stroll through plazas, over bridges, and along historic streets, and you’ll soon find yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kontorhausviertel district, which is highly regarded for its notable red-brick architecture.

2. Explore HafenCity and Speicherstadt 

Forget Venice – Hamburg’s canals are just as unique! Plus, you’ll find there are just a fraction of the tourists in this European city. Hamburg’s historic port and harbor areas are extensive, and this dense network of waterways and canals has been massively regenerated in recent years.

You can find out more by visiting HafenCity , Hamburg’s exciting modernization project that’s completely turned the city’s image around. Rather than knocking down old warehouses or filling in redundant canals, Hamburg has embraced its maritime past and created Europe’s largest urban regeneration zone.

Visit HafenCity, and you’ll love how heritage mixes beautifully with modernity. The highlight of the area is the Elbphilharmonie building, an old red brick warehouse that’s been transformed into a concert hall and stands proud as a sublime work of modern architecture. 

You’ll also love Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed district that’s found in the HafenCity area. Speicherstadt means “Warehouse City,” and here, you can see how Hamburg’s industrial port area looked in the 19th century. Speicherstadt is famed for red brick and timber-framed buildings, which rise magnificently alongside canals and waterways. 

You’ll find some great museums in HafenCity, including the International Maritime Museum , as well as some of Hamburg’s quirkiest boutique hotels and an excellent array of cafes, bars, and restaurants. HafenCity is located on the River Elbe’s islands, just to the south of Hamburg-Altstadt. 

3. Catch a Concert at the Elbphilharmonie

One of the most impressive things to see in Hamburg is the magnificent Elbphilharmonie , a modern work of beautiful architecture that seamlessly blends history with the contemporary. You’ll find the Elbphilharmonie overlooking the River Elbe, and it forms the centerpiece of the city’s HafenCity regeneration project. 

The Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall and events venue, and you’ll love how the bottom half of the building is built in Hamburg’s classic red brick design, while the top half is a glass superstructure that’s styled like a wave. 

The building is a symbol of Hamburg’s past and future, but the project struck different chords with the locals when it went massively over budget and took many more years to complete than planned. It’s very much open for business now, and you can find a packed events schedule featuring everything from classical music concerts to modern art exhibitions.

4. Explore Nautical History at the International Maritime Museum

If you’d love to learn more about the city’s nautical history, then a visit to the International Maritime Museum is one of the top things to do in Hamburg. This is a city that’s literally built on the water, and the museum immerses you in the history of seafaring, maritime trade, and all things sailing as you explore the impressive array of exhibits on display.  

There are thousands of exhibits to peruse – everything from ancient navigational devices to miniature ships in glass bottles – and given the vast number of items held by the museum, you’ll be surprised to discover that it’s mostly the work of one man. The museum’s collection was started by Peter Tamm (who passed away in 2016), who spent his entire life amassing an enormous nautically-themed collection. 

You’ll find the International Maritime Museum is appropriately located in Speicherstadt, in Hamburg’s historic port and harbor area. The museum has taken over one of the city’s oldest buildings, and you’ll love how it’s spread out over multiple floors within one of Hamburg’s distinctive red-brick warehouses. 

5. Shrink Down in Size at Miniatur Wunderland

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Hamburg, you’ll find more than enough fun at Miniatur Wunderland . Perhaps surprisingly, this tiny museum is often voted as one of Germany’s top tourist attractions, and the largest miniature model railway in the world always draws in the crowds!

Miniatur Wunderland is home to tens of thousands of feet of model railway tracks, thousands of model trains, buildings, and miniature figurines, all of which have been painstakingly built by hand. 

This is one grand work of art, and to put the scale of effort (and money) into consideration, the exhibition’s most famous addition – Knuffingen Airport – cost over €6 million and took six years to build. 

Miniatur Wunderland holds the Guinness World Record for the largest miniature model railway in the world. Even if you’re not a fan of model railways, you’re going to be amazed by the scale of it all. Stroll through the exhibition, and you’ll walk past miniature depictions of the Austrian Alps, Las Vegas, Venice, and of course, Hamburg as you journey through a miniature world of wonder!

Get your entry ticket

6. Admire Centuries of Art History at Hamburger Kunsthalle

If you’re an art lover, one of the best Hamburg attractions to visit is the Hamburger Kunsthalle . This is one of Germany’s most impressive art galleries, and there are hundreds of years worth of art history to explore.

The Hamburger Kunsthalle is located next to Alster Lake, and the exhibitions are found within three separate buildings, the oldest of which dates back to the mid-19th century and the latest of which opened in 1997.

Within the three buildings, you’ll find over 700 permanent exhibits to browse. As you might expect, the primary focus of the Hamburger Kunsthalle is to showcase North German art. Explore the museum, and you’ll find works by famous painters such as Master Bertram, Edvard Munch, and Max Liebermann.

The art on display dates back to the medieval period, and many of the paintings are historic masterpieces that hold an important place in European art history. You’ll also find modern art at the Hamburger Kunsthalle, too, as well as ever-changing temporary exhibitions that showcase the work of artists from around the world. 

7. Stroll around the Picturesque Alster Lakes

The Alster Lakes is one of the best sights in Hamburg, and if you’re looking for an active day out, you can walk all the way around this artificial water feature.

The Alster Lakes is located on the edge of the Altstadt, and you’ll love how this beautiful sight merges seamlessly with the urban setting. There are two lakes – an inner and an outer – and they are fed by the waters of the Alster River.

The lakes were first formed many centuries ago, and for hundreds of years, they’ve been a popular place of escape for the city’s residents. You can start in the Altstadt and stroll first around the inner lake and then the outer lake, a distance of some 5 miles or so in total. 

You can find lots of public parks and green spaces along the water’s edge, while the lake itself is a popular water sports venue. In the summer, many of the parks are taken over by festivals and events. But Alster Lakes is the perfect place for a stroll any time of the year!

8. Delve into North Germany’s History at the Altonaer Museum

History fans won’t want to miss out on a trip to the Altonaer Museum , which is one of the best things to do in Hamburg. This is one of the city’s largest and most comprehensive museums. Although, you’ll quickly find that the focus isn’t simply on Hamburg but on North Germany as a whole.

The Altonaer Museum was founded in 1863, and it’s located in the Altona suburb of Hamburg, which back then was actually part of Denmark rather than Germany. The museum started life as a botanical collection, but now it’s grown into a vast collection that encompasses everything from plants to art, culture, folklore, and history. 

Inside the museum, you’ll learn more about Germany’s North Sea coastline and history, with exhibits focusing on the region’s seafaring and maritime history, alongside rural and countryside life in the region. The latest exhibitions link Hamburg’s position in the world with its history, and you’ll love seeing how the region’s past has shaped the city’s present. 

9. Go Shopping at Hamburg’s Famous Fish Market

As a maritime trading hub, there’s no doubt that Hamburg has had a long association with fish and fishing. Head along the River Elbe, and in the Altonaer district of Hamburg, you’ll find the famous Fischmarkt, where fish have been bought and sold since 1703!

Thousands of tons of fish are sold here daily, and you can buy up fresh fish of the day in bulk if you so desire. If you’re on holiday, you might prefer to visit the food hall, though, where you’ll find fresh fish being fried up and turned into local delicacies that you’re going to love.

This is a busy, bustling place to visit, and we recommend trying the fish sandwiches after taking a stroll through the marketplace. Over the years, the marketplace has expanded its reach, and you’ll also find that the Fish Market is a fantastic place to shop for a few souvenirs from your stay in Hamburg.

While the morning trading finishes early, the Fish Market stays open all day and into the night. This is a very unique venue, and come evening time, you’ll find the market plays hosts to live music, and Hamburg party-goers descend on the bars for beers and snacks late into the night! 

10. Escape the City at Planten un Blomen

It’s easy to escape the built environment when you’re exploring Hamburg, and one of the best places to reconnect with nature is at Planten un Blomen . This large public park is one of the best outdoor Hamburg attractions, and you’ll love how accessible it is from the city center.

Planten un Blomen (which means “Plants and Flowers”) is located just north of the Altstadt, and it dates back to 1821, when the first plants were planted. The park quickly became a focus for horticulture, and there are now 47 hectares of landscaped gardens and green space for you to explore.

The gardens are spread out around a central lake, which is often the scene of extravagant water and light shows. In the summer, you’ll find that Planten un Blomen hosts concerts and festivals, while all through the year, you can visit the dedicated greenhouses that make up the Botanical Garden section of the park. 

11. Visit the Sailing Ships at Hafenmuseum Hamburg

You can’t escape nautical history when you’re in Hamburg, so why not embrace the city’s seafaring past with a visit to the Hafenmuseum Hamburg ?

The Hafenmuseum (Harbor Museum) is one of the best sights in Hamburg because this old harbor and living museum is home to a collection of unique sailing and steamships. Take a step back in time as you explore the docks, learning about the history and heritage of Hamburg’s port and the development of ocean-going vessels and trade through the centuries.

You can visit restored sheds and moorings, walk along the historic quays, and even eat and drink in a traditional sailors’ canteen once you’ve worked up an appetite. The centerpiece of the museum is the Peking , a four-masted sailing ship that’s been painstakingly restored to its former glory and is now berthed in the docks outside the Hafenmuseum.

12. Cycle (or Bike) along the River Elbe

If you love an outdoor adventure, we highly recommend cycling (or hiking) along the River Elbe. 

Hamburg wouldn’t be much without its river, and the city’s prime position on the banks and islands of the Elbe ensured prosperity through the centuries. You can explore more of this iconic natural feature by following the Elbe Cycle Route, which passes through Hamburg on its way to the North Sea.

The Elbe Cycle Route passes through much more than Hamburg, and if you’re up for a serious, long-distance escapade, you’ll find that it starts far to the south, in Czechia. This is an international cycling route, and it follows the River Elbe from its source in the mountains, all the way north to Cuxhaven, where it empties into the sea. 

The total distance of the Elbe Cycle Route is around 750 miles. Although, the distance from Hamburg to Cuxhaven, on the coast, is much more doable if you’re short on time! 

The route to Cuxhaven is well signposted and makes for a beautiful excursion when you’re visiting Hamburg. You can cycle all the way to the North Sea (a distance of just under 100 miles), or you can just enjoy the pleasant sections of riverside walkways in the city itself. 

13. Take the High-Speed Ferry to Heligoland

Taking the high-speed ferry to Heligoland is one of the coolest things to do in Hamburg. The city has long been a major port, and if you follow the River Elbe to the north coast, you’ll emerge among the windswept waves of the North Sea.

Keep going, and out in the North Sea, you’ll find Heligoland, a rugged archipelago that was the inspiration for Germany’s national anthem. From Hamburg, you can embark on a catamaran voyage to Heligoland, a journey that takes around 3 hours but offers spectacular scenery on the way there and back.

Once you reach Heligoland, you’ll be able to hike around the main island’s rocky but beautiful coastal path, where you’ll see fascinating rock formations, encounter colonies of seals, and spy flocks of North Sea birds. It’s a fantastic day trip, and in our opinion, one of the best things to do in Hamburg!

If you’d prefer to stay on the island longer, though, that can also be arranged! Heligoland is home to a unique spa and resort, and you can take the time to escape the rest of the world, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the splendid isolation of the North Sea. 

14. Embrace the Festivities at Hamburg’s Christmas Markets

If you’re visiting the city in December, a visit to the Christmas markets is one of the must-do things in Hamburg. Like any German city, Hamburg hosts extravagant festivities in the run-up to Christmas, and the markets here are some of the best to be found anywhere in Europe!

If you’re in the Altstadt, then you’ll find that one of Hamburg’s most popular Christmas markets takes over the square outside of City Hall. You’ll love browsing for Christmas presents and souvenirs among the traditional market stalls. Plus, you can warm up with some mulled wine while enjoying the carol singers and hymns. 

But almost every square and district in Hamburg also hosts a Christmas market, and there are upwards of 30 official markets across the city. Santa Pauli is home to one of the best markets in the city, for example, while there’s even a dedicated Christmas market for dogs!

15. Enjoy the Fun Festivities at Dom Festival

A day out at Dom Festival is always one of the best Hamburg activities. The Dom Festival is one of Germany’s most famous festivals, and it comes to the city three times a year. This huge festival sets up shop in the massive Heiligengeistfeld fairground, and it’s held in the spring, summer, and winter.

The Dom Festival has entertained crowds since the first recorded event was held in 1329, outside the city’s cathedral (where the name Dom, or cathedral, comes from). The festival has expanded year after year, and it’s a unique mix of food, culture, fun, and beer!

You’ll find family-friendly rides and carnival-style games, alongside large German beer tents, food stands serving up bratwurst and currywurst, and much, much more at the Dom Festival. 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Hamburg. What’s your favorite thing to do in Hamburg?

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Hamburg, you’ll find more than enough fun at Miniatur Wunderland. Perhaps surprisingly, this tiny museum is often voted as one of Germany’s top tourist attractions, and the largest miniature model railway in the world always draws in the crowds! Miniatur Wunderland is home to tens of thousands of feet of model railway tracks, thousands of model trains, buildings, and miniature figurines, all of which have been painstakingly built by hand.

If you’re an art lover, one of the best Hamburg attractions to visit is the Hamburger Kunsthalle. This is one of Germany’s most impressive art galleries, and there are hundreds of years worth of art history to explore. The art on display dates back to the medieval period, and many of the paintings are historic masterpieces that hold an important place in European art history.

History fans won’t want to miss out on a trip to the Altonaer Museum, which is one of the best things to do in Hamburg. This is one of the city’s largest and most comprehensive museums. Although, you’ll quickly find that the focus isn’t simply on Hamburg but on North Germany as a whole.

Taking the high-speed ferry to Heligoland is one of the coolest things to do in Hamburg. The city has long been a major port, and if you follow the River Elbe to the north coast, you’ll emerge among the windswept waves of the North Sea. Once you reach Heligoland, you’ll be able to hike around the main island’s rocky but beautiful coastal path, where you’ll see fascinating rock formations, encounter colonies of seals, and spy flocks of North Sea birds. It’s a fantastic day trip, and in our opinion, one of the best things to do in Hamburg!

A day out at Dom Festival is always one of the best Hamburg activities. The Dom Festival is one of Germany’s most famous festivals, and it comes to the city three times a year. This huge festival sets up shop in the massive Heiligengeistfeld fairground, and it’s held in the spring, summer, and winter. The festival has expanded year after year, and it’s a unique mix of food, culture, fun, and beer!

As a maritime trading hub, there’s no doubt that Hamburg has had a long association with fish and fishing. Head along the River Elbe, and in the Altonaer district of Hamburg, you’ll find the famous Fischmarkt, where fish have been bought and sold since 1703! This is a busy, bustling place to visit, and we recommend trying the fish sandwiches after taking a stroll through the marketplace. Over the years, the marketplace has expanded its reach, and you’ll also find that the Fish Market is a fantastic place to shop for a few souvenirs from your stay in Hamburg.

About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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Sights Must Sees

City Hall, Speicherstadt, Fischmarkt, Landungsbrücken, Elbphilharmonie and Michel. Find all of the city's sightseeing highlights here!

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Sights Fish Market

Every Sunday morning, the Hamburg Fish Market by the Elbe attracts thousands of visitors, night owls and early birds alike!​​​​​​​

Visitors Elbphilharmonie

Towering above the Elbe and HafenCity is the city's newest landmark — the impressive concert venue Elbphilharmonie Hamburg.

Explore Reeperbahn Nightlife District

The famous street in the heart of St. Pauli offers everything from theatres and galleries to trendy nightclubs and smoky sailor bars.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Sights St. Michael's Church

The 'Michel' is Hamburg's largest church and one of the city's must-see sights. Its bell tower offers a stunning view over the city.​​​​​​​

Sights Speicherstadt UNESCO Site

The world’s largest warehouse complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see on every trip to Hamburg.​​​​​​​

Sights Landungsbrücken Piers

Spectacular views, historic waterfront buildings and a public transport hub? Look no further than St. Pauli's Landungsbrücken.​

Sights City Hall

The impressive Rathaus (City Hall) is Hamburg’s seat of government. Hamburg's parliament and senate assemble here. 

Sights Planetarium

Standing proudly in the centre of the Stadtpark, the planetarium has been shining new light since its grand reopening in 2016!

Sights Old Elbe Tunnel

Always free to pedestrians, the St. Pauli Elbtunnel (or Alter Elbtunnel ) connects the Landungsbrücken piers with the port. 

Neighbourhoods Schanzenviertel

Schanzenviertel hosts boutiques, bars, restaurants and cafés, all with a quirky vibe by day and a cool alternative atmosphere by night.

Hamburg's highest building Heinrich Hertz TV Tower

You can see the TV tower from almost anywhere in Hamburg. Come 2023, you will also be able to see Hamburg from up there again.

Copyright owners of the images

• Visitors : © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Andreas Vallbracht
• Must Sees: © imago stock&people / Westend61
• Fishmarket Markets: © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Christian Spahrbier
• Elbphilharmonie Venue: © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Thies Raetzke
• Reeperbahn: © imago stock & people / Lars Berg
• St. Michael's Church: © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Michael Zapf
• Speicherstadt: © imago stock&people / Christian Ohde
• Landungsbruecken: © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Jörg Modrow
• City Hall: © Jessica Mintelowsky
• Planetarium Hamburg: © Michael Björnson
• Old Elbe Tunnel: © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Christian Spahrbier
• Schanzenviertel District: © Jessica Mintelowsky
• TV Tower Hamburg: © imago images / imagebroker

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The best attractions in Hamburg

Navigate your way through the canal-dotted city for a strong dose of culture, history and no-holds-barred nightlife

At various points in its history, Hamburg’s been known as many things. A harbour city, media capital, millionaire’s metropolis and anarchist hub – and occasionally all at once. Germany’s second-largest city offers an intoxicating mix of blustery North Sea winds, rollicking nightlife , rich Hanseatic history and radical politics.

Hamburg’s got more bridges than Venice and basks in a crisp northern light. It’s a city defined by its proximity to water, from its Sunday morning Fischmarkt and the picturesque Strandperle beach through to the Schanzenviertel, the traditional – if now much gentrified – heart of Hamburg counter-culture.

It’s a city of contrasts: of the red light thrill of the Reeperbahn and world-class cultural institutions like the Elbphilharmonie and the Hamburger Kunsthalle. As you can no doubt already guess, Hamburg is a pretty darn difficult place to sum-up in a couple of paragraphs. So read on for our top 10 best attractions in this gloriously diverse, multifaceted, un-pin-downable city.

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1.  Hamburg Rathaus

• Parliament and civic buildings

The handsome sandstone marvel that is Hamburg’s Town Hall has been the centrepiece of Altstadt since 1897. Dominating its surroundings thanks to its towering spire and vast platz, the Rathaus is a functioning government building and houses the city’s government. It also contains heaps of history in its exhibitions – members of the public can visit daily, either through guided tours or on their own.

2.  Strandperle

• Bars and pubs

Just because you're in the city, doesn't mean you can't visit the beach. Strandperle is a stalwart in Hamburg's sandy stretch along the Elbe river, which is dotted with sunbathers and swimmers in the warmer months. With a large deck of tables, chairs and umbrellas, a bar, kitchen and the harbor in the backdrop, Strandperle is favourite place to hang out for locals and tourists alike. Open all day Friday to Sunday, you can enjoy beer and a burger here on a visit, catch-up with cocktails and friends, or hire out the 'upper deck' for an intimate dinner party.

3.  Elbphilharmonie

You can spot this magnificent modernist masterpiece from miles around. Even if you don’t get much further than staring at the glass waves and red brick plinths of the outside of the Elbphilharmonie, you’ll come away feeling like you’ve seen something truly special. If you do manage to venture inside, you’ll find some of Hamburg’s most exciting cultural and entertainment events. There are three concert halls in the Elbphilharmonie, as well as several restaurants, bars and even a hotel. Our tip? Try and get up to the Plaza viewing platform. There are very few better views of the harbour, Elbe and the Hamburg skyline.

4.  Jenischpark

• Parks and gardens

There’s a distinct English country flair to Jenischpark, with its rolling green acres, woodland paths and stately Jenisch House. The oldest landscaped park in Hamburg, it’s a particularly popular spot for summer picnics, but a beautiful place throughout the year, not least of all at autumn or winter twilight, when the sturdy oak trees turn to silhouettes against the fading sun. Originally the country seat of a wealthy Hamburg merchant, Jenisch House is now a museum specializing in Northern German art and culture, especially of the 19th century, with a ground floor of original Empire and Biedermeier furnishings. For those more inclined towards the 20th century, the low-rise Ernst Barlach Museum down the slope is a serene modernist enclave showcasing the work of sculptor Ernst Barlach, best known for his expressionist, anti-war works. The museum café, with ground to ceiling windows looking out onto the park, is a lovely spot for a reflective coffee.

5.  Schanzenviertel

The traditional beating heart of Hamburg counter-culture and center of the much-publicized violent protests during the G20 summit, the neighbourhood of Schanzenviertel holds on hard to its alternative credentials. In reality, despite the smashed-up stores of summer 2017, the neighbourhood is more characterized by third-wave coffee shops and vintage lamp stores than hubs of anarchic dissent. High-consuming hipsters and media professionals have long moved into the “Schanze” and, as the story always goes, priced out the anarchists and students that originally gave the district its interest and edge. Only the run-down Rote Flora, a former neighbourhood theatre (now long-contested squat and cultural space), remains a real center of activism and protest. Nevertheless, Schanzenviertel remains a lively and charismatic district, with a thriving bar scene, several good and reasonably priced eateries, and many independent retailers, as well as the Saturday Flohschanze flea market.

6.  Fischmarkt

• Markets and fairs
• price 2 of 4

Depending on how late last night was, or whether you went to bed at all, an early morning visit to the Sunday Fischmarkt is a legendary Hamburg experience. It’s been doing brisk, fishy business since 1703, with raucous criers promising all the bargains and bawdy banter you could wish for. Of course, there’s fish in abundance—smoked, fresh, pickled—alongside plenty of flowers, fruit, vegetables, second-hand fare and even livestock. For the unwearied Reeperbahn reveller, the neighbouring Fischauktionshalle promises to keep the party flowing with beer and live rock bands. For those looking for a more restorative breakfast, there are plenty of nearby cafés. The Fischmarkt is open from 5am in summer, 7am in winter, and closes at 9:30am throughout the year.

7.  Hamburger Kunsthalle

• Art and design

8.  Speicherstadt

The remarkable red-brick Speicherstadt is the largest warehouse district in the world. Built between 1883 and 1927, it spans some 26 hectares in a grid of canals, bridges and multi-story buildings providing both land and water access. Tons of coffee, tea, cocoa, tobacco, spices and textiles all passed along these channels, and though today the Speicherstadt is less bustling hub of global trade than UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s still infinitely evocative of Hamburg’s trading repute—and of a time when far-flung fabrics and flavors were still a thing of luxurious thrill. The area’s architecture does a whole lot more than portside pragmatism, with a stylish run of Neo-Gothic gables, towers, alcoves and glazed terracotta elements, all particularly atmospheric when illuminated at night.

9.  Reeperbahn

Hamburg is a harbour city, and has all the nightlife provisions to prove it. The Reeperbahn is its most renowned party–and prostitution–thoroughfare, where motley hordes of punks, pimps, bachelorette parties and posh law students looking to let their hair down roam along the fluorescent strip of fast food chains, late night pharmacies, sex shops and sweat-steamed clubs where everyone’s woozily dancing to Stevie Wonder. This is Hamburg in rough, ready and garish glory—and a must-see for a complete impression of the city. You’d do well to keep an eye on your valuables, but the vibe is far more upfront than uneasy seedy, with more people leering towards you for a drunken sing-along than anything malicious. True kneipe classics in the area include Alt Hamburger and Zum Silbersack, while the Beatles famously played in various clubs along the Große Freiheit.

10.  Ferry 62

It’s well worth seeing Hamburg from the water to get a sense of the vast harbour infrastructure (the third-largest in Europe) and the aquatic network that runs throughout the city. Unless you really want running (mostly German) commentary, the regular public ferry 62 is just as good—and much cheaper—than the official harbour tours. A round trip will start and end at Landungsbrücken, and takes in stops including Altona, the Fischmarkt , Fischereihafen and Neumühlen, where you’ll find the famous Strandperle . Other highlights en route include the Dockland office building, a prow-like beauty of a structure, and the Oevelgönne Museum Harbour, where some 20 vintage boats are anchored. The ferry is yours to ride with a standard HVV (Hamburg public transport) ticket, and you’re free to hop on and off anywhere along the route.

Looking for more things to do?

The best things to do in Hamburg

Only in Hamburg can you take a stroll down the infamous Reeperbahn Red Light district, glimpse a miniature world on a gigantic scale and drink a gin basil smash at the bar that claims to have invented it. 

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Home » Europe » Germany » Hamburg

10 BEST Places to Visit in Hamburg (2024)

Known locally as the Gateway to Germany, Hamburg is the 2 nd  biggest city by population and there’s a lot here to keep both locals and tourists entertained. The former city-state is built up on around the River Elbe, and as well as being a progressive and modern German city, it’s known for being just… well, cool. It has a vibrant music and nightlife scene, and there is a range of festivals throughout the year. It also has a rich cultural heritage, and the maritime spirit of the city is hard to miss. You can visit a number of museums and galleries while you’re in town, before indulging in the city’s food culture!

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit in Hamburg, hopefully helping you to make the most of your trip to the city, and just get an idea of how to visit Hamburg for a short break. Hamburg really does have it all!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Hamburg:

These are the best places to stay in hamburg, faq on the best places to visit in hamburg.

Bordering St Pauli to the west, Altona’s smaller eponymous quarters – Altona-Altstadt and Altona Nord – are all about history and green spaces.

• Marvel at the Lutheran church of Haupt-Kirchengemeinde St. Trinitatis Altona
• Get your modern history on at the riverside U-Boat Museum
• Pay your respects to steel statues of the Beatles at the vinyl-shaped Beatles-Platz

Hamburg is RIFE with absolutely amazing accommodation options. Knowing what to do in this city without having a base to check in to first is only half the equation. Be sure to check out where to stay in Hamburg and get set up in your favourite Airbnb first!

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#1 – Speicherstadt – One of the more unique places to visit in Hamburg

• A protected UNESCO World Heritage site
• The largest warehouse district in the entire world
• One of the most fascinating points of interest in Hamburg

Why it’s awesome: This Hamburg must-see is usually near the top of tourist itineraries to the city. Built in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries, the Speicherstadt became the largest collection of warehouses in the world, and its colourful red bricks and Neo-Gothic architecture give these incredible huge buildings lots of character. These buildings were a key part of the German economy, storing coffee, tobacco, and spices. Nowadays, Speicherstadt is home to lots of cool leisure activities – some which will pop up in this list! It’s also a great place to walk around, thanks to a number of paths and bridges.

What to do there: Walking is a lovely way to see the Speicherstadt, but if you fancy seeing it in a different light, take a boat trip! There is lots to keep you entertained in the district too. Later in our list, we’ll take about the Maritime Museum and Miniatur Wonderland as they deserve a spot on their own. Other notable places include the Automuseum Prototyp, which is packed with rare historical concept cars, and the Hamburg Dungeon – a great place to learn about the city’s history with a grisly twist. Take a moment to relax at the Kaffeerösterei. The former coffee warehouse offers tastings of some of the world’s finest beans!

With a Hamburg City Pass , you can experience the best of Hamburg at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#2 – Elbphilharmonie – A great place to see in Hamburg if you love architecture

• The tallest inhabited building in Hamburg
• Get fantastic views of the city from the observation deck
• Enjoy a concert in one of the most acoustically advanced venues in the world

Why it’s awesome: The most recent addition to Hamburg’s skyline has only been around since 2017. At over 100 metres tall, the Elbphilarmonie incorporates Hamburg’s maritime history into its design, with people comparing the building to both waves and the sails of a ship. The building has some impressive numbers other than just its height. There are 100 curved windows and space for 2,100 spectators in the concert hall itself. The modern design and architecture have made it one of the most acoustically advanced venues in the entire world!

What to do there: You don’t have to be a music lover to but the Elbphilharmonie on your Hamburg itinerary. Seeing an Elbphilharmonie Orchestra concert here is an unforgettable experience and will definitely be a high point in your trip. However, if you don’t have the time or budget to see a concert, you can still enjoy the building itself. Heading up to the top floor observation deck will get you some great shots of the skyline (and maybe even some new followers on Insta), while the café is a great place to stop and enjoy a rest. For cool Hamburg vacation ideas, look no further than the Elbphilharmonie!

#3 – St. Pauli – A great place to visit in Hamburg at night!

• One of the coolest neighbourhoods in Hamburg
• See the bar where Paul McCartney ran up a massive bar tab (and still hasn’t paid)
• A mixture of seedy nightclubs and top restaurants has to be seen to be believed!

Why it’s awesome: St. Pauli is one of the best places in Hamburg . Period. Known outside of the city for having one of the most liberal football teams in the world, closer to home it’s known for being the city’s most creative district. Oh, and the Reeperbahn too. If you’ve never heard of the Reeperbahn, it’s the most famous of all the hotspots in Hamburg for nightlife. However, that’s not telling the full story! It’s also the red light district and is known locally as die sündgiste Meile (the most sinful mile!)

What to do there: You may have been put off by Red Light District, and although prostitution does still happen here, it’s not like it was in the days when sailors regularly frequented the area! Nowadays, there is excellent nightlife and food around the Reeperbahn too. In fact, you’ll find some of the best places to eat in Hamburg here! Unless you’re travelling with kids, you really do need to head out and enjoy the hedonistic lifestyle of the Reeperbahn! If you’re a Beatles fan, there are self-guided tours where you can see the spots and clubs that the Fab 4 played before they were famous!

#4 – International Maritime Museum

• Located inside the Speicherstadt’s oldest building
• Learn about Hamburg’s maritime past
• One of the most interesting attractions in Hamburg

Why it’s awesome: The international Maritime Museum doesn’t just cover the city’s seafaring past. Oh no, in fact, this place delves into more than 3,000 years of history of the human relationship with the sea! The oldest artefact comes from the River Elbe itself – a dugout boat made from a tree trunk. There are a number of models throughout the museum too, from Phoenician vessels from before the times of Christ, Viking longboats, and the galleons used to discover the New World. You can also learn about Maritime research and admire art themed around the sea. Don’t miss one of the best places in Hamburg to learn and educate yourself!

What to do there: If you’re not sure where to find the Maritime Museum, there are a couple of giveaways. First of all is the massive propeller outside. If you manage to miss that, then you just need to search for the oldest building in the Speicherstadt District! You can easily spend a few hours at this Budapest must-see, with model ships, naval memorabilia, and artwork placed around the 11 floors of the building.

#5 – Miniatur Wunderland – Awesome place to visit in Hamburg with kids!

• A miniature world which takes up a whole Speicherstadt warehouse
• One of the best places in Hamburg for a family day out
• See 1:87 models of Hamburg, Italy, and even the United States!

Why it’s awesome: Even though we’ve already had Speicherstadt as one of the best places to visit in Hamburg, Miniatur Wunderland deserves an entry all to itself. It all started with a model railway and some models of Central Germany and Austria at the beginning of this century, and since then has expanded and will continue to in the 2020s! A day only lasts for 15 minutes in Miniatur Wunderland, as a computer controls all the lights. It also controls the 15km of railway track that wind their way through the warehouse!

What to do there: It’s not just a computer that controls the exhibits at Miniatur Wunderland. Some of the displays are interactive, and you can flick over 200 switches which will allow you to control helicopters, windmills, and even a space shuttle. This place is a Hamburg must-do if you’re on holiday with little ones! Miniatur Wunderland is quite a popular attraction and it can get busy. However, if you want to skip the queues then you can get a ticket that allows you to do that!

#6 – Planten un Blomen

• Considered one of the best urban parks in Europe
• A great place to enjoy a picnic
• Get views of the garden from the Heinrich Hertz telecommunications tower

Why it’s awesome: Visiting Hamburg is a lot of fun, but it is a huge 24-hour city. So, sometimes you might feel like you need a break from the hustle and bustle. If that’s the case, then Planten un Blomen is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg to relax and disconnect for a while. Just inside the city walls, the park has been here since 1821 and has been one of the most favourite attractions in Hamburg for locals and tourists alike.

What to do there: There are a lot of things to do to keep you entertained in Planten un Blomen. If you’re especially interested in plants, then head for the Old Botanical Garden. It’s home to five inter-connected greenhouses which contain plants from around the globe. If it’s a bit warm, you can always stay in the great outdoors and enjoy the Rose Garden. Even if you’re not that bothered about flowers and plants, still give this place a visit. It’s the perfect place to relax with a picnic and perhaps a book. The colourful musical fountain shouldn’t be missed if you’re here at night, especially if there’s a concert on!

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#7 – Kunsthalle

• One of the largest and most important museums in Hamburg
• See masterpieces from both classical and contemporary great artists
• One of the most recognisable landmarks in Hamburg

Why it’s awesome: Art lovers simply can’t miss this Hamburg must-see. Not only is it one of the best museums in Hamburg, but the whole of Germany. Whatever period of art you’re interested in, you’ll be able to find something relating to it here. 16 th and 17 th century Dutch masters, old masters such as Goya and Rembrandt, and even contemporary galleries with priceless works from Picasso and Andy Warhol are all on show here. The Kunsthalle is made up of 3 buildings, the most recent being added in 1997.

What to do there : If you want to learn more about the artists and their works on show here, take a tour of the Kunsthalle. Travelling with kids? You’ll be pleased to know that there are cool educational workshops that they can take part in too! That may even give you the peace and quiet you need to enjoy your tour and take in all the fascinating information offered. Don’t miss out on one of the best places to visit in Hamburg!

#8 – Övelgönne – A very cool place to go in Hamburg for the day

• Walk or bike the Elbe Tunnel under the river
• Get some sun, sea, and sand at Elbe Beach
• Visit the historic ships Övelgönne Museum Harbour

Why it’s awesome: There are 3 really cool attractions in Övelgönne, and it didn’t seem fair to pick one and miss the other two out! The Övelgönne Museum Harbour is a fascinating place to visit, as you can see ships from the 19 th and 20 th centuries here. At the small museum next to it, there are also some cool artifacts on display. You can also visit the engineering marvel of the Elbe Tunnel. This transformed the lives or harbour workers but is now also a quick and safe way for tourists to get around!

What to do there : Visiting both of the attractions above are a great way to spend your day in Övelgönne, but there’s one more thing. Although Hamburg is a port city, it’s quite far down the River Elbe. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the beach though! Elbe Beach is one of the summer hotspots in Hamburg, with cool bars, volleyball matches, and pleasure cruises. Of course, if you want to just lay down your towel and take an afternoon snooze that’s fine too. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

#9 – Lake Alster – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Hamburg

• City centre lake where you can swim, sail, and row
• Keep an eye out for the lake’s graceful swans
• The perfect spot for ice skating during the winter

Why it’s awesome: Hamburg’s city centre has two artificial lakes – the Binnenalster (Inner Alster) and the Aussenalster (Outer Alster). They connect the Elbe and Alster rivers but more importantly, are home to some of the prettiest squares and walking areas of Hamburg. You’ll definitely want to spend some time here whether it’s to sample some of the best places to eat in Hamburg, or to do a spot of shopping so consider finding one of Frankfurts best hostels nearby! If you’re visiting in September, enjoy the Alstervergnügen, a street fair held around the lakes.

What to do there: You should definitely spend some time walking around the passagens . These are the famous pedestrian areas of Hamburg’s picturesque city centre. The canals which link the lakes with the River Elbe are pretty too. The centre of the Inner and Outer Alster Lakes it the waterfront promenade – Jungfernstieg. Admire the classicist and neoclassical architecture, or just head into one of the department stores for some retail therapy. However, it can be just as nice to sit and people watch with a coffee at one of the most famous places in Hamburg!

#10 – Fischmarkt (Fish Market)

• This is one for Sunday morning early risers
• One of the best places to eat in Hamburg. Try Fischbrötchen!
• Afterparty spot from a Saturday night on the Reeperbahn

Why it’s awesome: It may seem strange to go to a fish market after a night on the town… your stomach certainly might not agree with fresh fish after a night of pints and shots, but in Hamburg it’s a tradition! From 5am on a Sunday morning during the summer, this fresh food market is open for fish and other foods. However, it also has energetic dance music playing, so it’s the perfect spot to carry on the party.

What to do there: If an afterparty doesn’t sound like your thing, or you didn’t go out in the first place, don’t worry. The Fischmarkt is a great place to do some shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables (for a picnic in Planten un Blomen), clothes, or even flowers. What you have to do here is try the local Hamburg street food: fischbrötchen . Freshly caught North Sea salmon, mackerel, shrimp, or pollock are stuffed into a roll. It’s a great way to soak up the alcohol after a night on the Reeperbahn! Also, if you come at the right time of year, it’s a great place to watch the sunrise over the Elbe!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Hamburg

What should you not miss in Hamburg?

If there’s only one site you see in Hamburg, it had better be Speicherstadt.

Is Hamburg worth visiting?

Hamburg is very unique to other cities in Germany. It has a lot of history and cool sites to see, so I would consider it worth a visit.

What is Hamburg best known for?

Hamburg is famous for being a progressive and modern city on the River Elbe.

What is the best place to visit in Hamburg for shopping?

If you’ve come to shop in Hamburg, you’ll find many cool shops around Lake Alster.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Hamburg. Hopefully, you’ll have found it useful and informative and you’ll be plotting the points on a map! We think we’ve probably shown you enough places to visit in Hamburg in 3 days, and also given some handy tips on the best places to stay in Hamburg.

Hamburg isn’t all about the Reeperbahn, and although you should definitely visit that, the other spots on this list are definitely worth a few hours of your time too. Whether it’s art and culture, great nightlife, or the city’s culinary prowess you’re interested in, you certainly won’t be bored on your trip!

All that’s left is for us to wish you a fabulous time and a safe journey as you head off to explore the best places to visit in Hamburg!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Hamburg   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Westend61 | Getty Images

Why Go To Hamburg

For travelers interested in a German vacation, Hamburg might not be an obvious choice – after all, the country also contains capital city  Berlin  and Munich – host of the annual Oktoberfest celebration. But as many visitors have already discovered, this thriving harbor city is almost sure to surprise and please you. What's more, Hamburg is also Germany's largest cruise port and the fact that passengers can walk to the city center from their ships is a big bonus.

Hamburg's bubbly energy is displayed in everything from HafenCity – a reinvigorated riverfront district – to its cutting-edge fashion design industry to its humming nightlife to its evolving dining scene. This northern city is also a watery one, crisscrossed by canals, sidling the River Elbe and wrapping around a lake. In fact, it has more bridges than Amsterdam and Venice, Italy, combined. You'll undoubtedly enjoy its beauty, but this cosmopolitan city also prizes its musicals, nightclubs, shopping and unparalleled  Fish Market .

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• # 15 in Best Places to Visit in Germany

Best of Hamburg

Best hotels in hamburg.

• # 1 in SIDE Design Hotel Hamburg
• # 2 in The Fontenay Hamburg
• # 3 in Hotel Louis C. Jacob

Best Things to Do in Hamburg

• # 1 in Elbphilharmonie
• # 2 in Alter Elbtunnel
• # 3 in Planten un Blomen

Popular Tours

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Hamburg Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Hamburg is the months between May and September when 70-degree temps sweep through the city. Room rates might be a bit higher and you may have more tourists to contend with, but the pleasant weather makes up for the elevated prices. For fewer crowds and  potentially  lower hotel prices (room rates remain pretty steady year-round), visit in the fall. The weather will be brisk with temperatures in the 50s and 60s, but the benefits might be worth the chill.

Weather in Hamburg

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Pack a swimsuit In the summertime, the banks along the River Elbe are filled with swimsuit-clad locals sipping cocktails and consuming the sweet sunshine.
• Go the distance If you want a unique German experience, daytrip out to cities like Lubeck (think castles and marzipan) or Helgoland (Germany's sole offshore island). These are accessible by train, and in the case of Helgoland, both train and ferry.
• Sprechen Sie Englisch? Many locals speak English confidently, but knowing a few pleasantries in German can't hurt: "hello" is  guten tag , "please" is  bitte and "thank you" is  danke schön . Locals greet each other with moin, another way to say hello.

How to Save Money in Hamburg

• Take a weekend trip  Spending just a few days in Hamburg is enough time to see many of the top things to do, so book your trip over a weekend when business travelers have returned home and some hotels offer lowered rates.
• Purchase a Hamburg CARD  This card offers unlimited travel on public transportation and discounted admission to a handful of museums. Cards can be purchased for one- to five-day intervals.
• Look, but don't buy  Window-shop in the upscale malls on the Jungfernstieg waterfront, and you won't leave Hamburg with buyer's remorse.

Culture & Customs

Although German is the official language, many Hamburg residents speak English as well. But brushing up on a few German phrases is a good idea. Saying guten tag  or  hallo  for "hello,"  bitte  for "please" and  danke  for "thank you" is a good way to show respect to locals.

Punctuality and order are two characteristics highly prized by German culture, so be on time to any business meeting or formal engagement. When in a restaurant, do not leave your money on the table after receiving the check. Hand the money to the waiter and ask for your change. Tips are already included in your bill, but if the service was exceptional, it's customary to tip an extra 10 to 15%. For taxi rides, rounding up to the nearest euro is a sufficient tip.

Germany's official currency is the euro (EUR). Since the euro to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates often,  check  what the current exchange rate  is  before you go. Major credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops.

What to Eat

Although Hamburg is probably not among the top culinary destinations of the world, the city's proximity to the sea gives its chefs lots of fresh fish to cook with ( Fischereihafen Restaurant is one of the city's most popular seafood eateries). And as Hamburg's a very green city, restaurants serve up a lot of seasonal and organic dishes, such as asparagus soup in the spring and cauliflower dishes in the summer.

Still, Hamburg holds to its roots, too, and traditional restaurants offer grilled or pickled herring, bratwurst, hamburger steak and eel soup. Hamburg's most traditional dish is the labskaus, which is described as sailors' food made of mashed cabbage, potatoes and beets, covered with a fried egg, pickled herring and pickled cucumbers on the side. Don't miss the delicious franzbroetchen , which is like a cross between a cinnamon roll and a croissant, and only found in Hamburg.

Beer is a big part of German culture; the legal drinking age for fermented beverages is 16 (or 18 for distilled alcohol). Germany also takes the quality of its suds seriously. There are a number of regulations, known as  Reinheitsgebot  (literally translated to "purity order"), that limit the number of ingredients used in the brewing process to only malt, hops, yeast and water. You'll find plenty of craft brews to sample around town; Braugasthaus Altes Mädchen is a particularly popular spot.

Be leery of pickpockets, especially in and around the Reeperbahn area. Women traveling alone should also take particular care when touring this area after dark. If you're planning to swim in the Elbe River, travelers warn of strong undercurrents and large waves (from passing ships) that can pull you under. You can also take a dip in the Outer Alster Lake, but keep in mind its relatively shallow depth (six feet in some areas to 16 feet in others). The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to exercise an increased level of caution when visiting Germany due to threats of terrorism. To receive alerts regarding security threats, sign up for the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .

Getting Around Hamburg

The best way to get around in Hamburg is by foot and the city's extensive and competent public transportation system. A suburban train (S-Bahn), a subway (U-Bahn) or a bus can take you everywhere your own two feet cannot. In fact, the system can take you from Hamburg Airport (HAM) into the city center with relative ease and for only a few euro. Taxis and MOIA, a ride-share service that operates similar to Uber, are available. Rental cars, though an option, are not recommended. 

Entry & Exit Requirements

United States citizens who are visiting Germany will need a passport to enter and exit the country; it should be valid for up to three months from the date of departure from Germany. As party to the Schengen Agreement, U.S. citizens are able to visit Germany for up to 90 days without a visa. For more information on entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's  website .

Did you know that Hamburg has more canals than Amsterdam and Venice , Italy, combined?

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Top 10 Things to Do in Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg's Best Attractions and Sights

Hamburg , Germany's second-largest city, also holds the distinction of having the world's third-largest port, a bustling 300-year-old fish market, and one of the most impressive collections of European art in all of Germany. If you thought Hamburg was boring compared its cousins Frankfurt and Berlin, think again. Take to the water and check out the 10 best things this port city has to offer.

Get Grungy on the Reeperbahn

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The city's most famous street is the Reeperbahn , Hamburg's Red Light District , one of Europe's most prominent. Located within the district of St. Pauli , this area is all neon, erotic theaters, and strip clubs, but don't be scared off. The area is mostly safe, and everyone is welcome from Kinder to Oma .

The eclectic mix of bars and restaurants along with strip clubs and erotic museums brought the Beatles here, who started their international career in Hamburg in the 1960s. Fans of the Fab Four should visit the Indra Club and the Kaiserkeller as well as the newly built Beatles Square at the street corner of Reeperbahn and Große Freiheit.

Wake Up Early for the Hamburg Fish Market

Fresh seafood, exotic fruits and nuts, and teas from all over the world—the Hamburg Fischmarkt is a must for every foodie or collector. Everything is for sale, from fine porcelain to live animals to spices from around the world. 

The 300-year-old open-air market, right next to the historic fish auction hall, is open on Sundays between 5 and 9 a.m., so get up early to get the best buys just off the boat, or forget going to sleep. Plenty of visitors are still on their night out. The hours aren't a turn-off, as more than 70,000 visitors walk the many stands along the Elbe every day.

Climb into a Russian Submarine at Hamburg Harbor

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Hamburg is a harbor city, and its port is the third largest in the world, after London and New York City , so unsurprisingly, there are many ways to enjoy this city's 800-year-old harbor still. Take a boat tour, stroll along the waterfront, and have an excellent seafood dinner at restaurant Rive , which offers commanding views of the port. Want an even closer look at the harbor? Climb into a real Russian submarine and experience history below the surface.

Learn About Your Family's History at Ballinstadt

Between 1850 and 1939, more than five million people from all over Europe emigrated from Hamburg to the New World. The museum complex "Ballinstadt" recreates this life-changing journey on historical grounds. You can see the original emigration halls, and can even trace back the route of your own family by studying the original passenger lists and the most extensive genealogical database in the world.

Explore the Historic Warehouse District

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Adjacent to the harbor, you find Hamburg's historic warehouse district, the largest warehouse complex in the word. Narrow cobblestone streets and small waterways are lined by 100-year old warehouses, which store cocoa, silk, and oriental carpets. Light projections in the evening create a magical atmosphere on buildings, bridges, and canals.

Get Educated on European Art at Hamburger Kunsthalle

This trio of architectural gems houses one of the most impressive art collections in all of Germany. More than 700 years of European art history are represented at the Hamburger Kunsthalle, from medieval altars to modern paintings. Highlights here include masterpieces by Rembrandt, Caspar David Friedrich, and Edvard Munch.

Climb the Spiraled Staircase at Church St. Michaelis

The baroque church of St. Michaelis is the signature landmark of Hamburg. "Michel," as locals like to call the church, was built between in the mid-17th-century and is the most famous church in the North of Germany. Its white and golden interior seats an impressive 3,000 people. Climb the spiraled top to enjoy sweeping views of the Hamburg cityscape and harbor.

Shop Along Alsterarkaden

Hamburg is famous for exclusive shopping, and the elegant Alsterarkaden is one of the most picturesque places for your retail therapy. The historic arcades, inspired by Venetian architecture and lit by wrought iron lamps at night, lead you along the canals to Hamburg's main square and its richly decorated city hall.

Go to Hafencity, the Hamburg of the Future

Visit Hamburg's future in "Hafencity," the largest urban building project in Europe of the 21st century. At 155 hectares, this harbor city within a city is expected to double the population of downtown Hamburg with thousands of new waterfront apartments, gleaming high-rises, stores, restaurants, and a new symphony. The ambitious project will be finished in 2025, but you can already enjoy some of Europe's most visionary architecture here.

Take a Deep Breath at Planten un Blomen

You can relax at Hamburg's green scene, the park "Planten un Blomen." It features a botanical garden and the largest Japanese garden in Europe. Throughout the summer months, visitors can enjoy free water-light concerts, theater performances, and festivals in the park.

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Famous Sightseeing Places to Visit and Things to Do in Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city in Germany. It is officially known as the Free and Hanseatic city of Hamburg. The city is connected to the North Sea through the Elbe river. Even today, some of the best things to do in Hamburg can be found along the banks of this river. Historically, this city was part of the Hanseatic League and one of the free imperial cities of the Holy Roman Empire. You will see memories of city’s associations with various empires in the best places to visit in Hamburg .

Owing to its strategic trade location, the city progressed rapidly in terms of economics as well as culture. Exploring art and culture are integral part of Hamburg sightseeing . The city has some of the finest art galleries, museums and cultural centers of Germany. The city also has opera houses, theaters, performance centers and many such places to explore. It also numerous cultural events concerning food, music, drama, films, fine arts and more.

On the trade and commerce side, the city’s port has had great impact on Germany as well as Europe. Many of the top things to see in Hamburg are concerning its port, maritime history and trade history. There is a submarine, a trade ship, a fire ship, shipwreck and more such interesting Hamburg attractions to explore. There are also 2 areas, namely Speicherstadt and Kontorhausvietel, have been included among UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city has also faced several tragedies during its history. You will see scars of these tragedies like Great Fire of 1842, North Sea Flood of 1962 and Second World War bombings on many Hamburg tourist attractions .

As for fun things to do in Hamburg, you can go exploring nature around the city, go sailing in the lakes, take a cruise in the river, make your own chocolate, enjoy the nightlife and so on. It is one of the liveliest cities to explore in Germany.

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Table of Contents

Top 22 Tourist Places to Visit in Hamburg, Germany in 3 Days (Trip Itinerary)

1. planten un blomen.

This Japanese style garden is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg for some leisure time. The garden also has a quaint little tea house to enjoy. You can easily spend an hour or so at this garden.

2. The Alster Lakes (Außenalster)

These lakes are hot-spot for some of the best things to do in Hamburg Germany. People come here for several outdoor activities like hiking, boating, picnic, sailing and more. You would need about half an hour to see these lakes.

3. Hamburger Kunsthalle

This art museum is dedicated to several masterpieces created by renowned European artists such as Caspar Friedrich, Rebeccas Horn, Gerard Richter, Georg Baselitz and so on. You would need about 2 hours to explore these museum.

4. Museum of Arts and Design (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe)

This museum is dedicated to ancient and medieval works of art. The museum also exhibits several historical artifacts as well. For art admirers, it is one of the top things to see in Hamburg. You would need about an hour to explore this museum.

5. Church of Saint Peter (Hauptkirche St. Petri)

This church has a history going back to 1189 A.D. It is one of the most dominant building in the city. It is one of the top Hamburg tourist attractions. You would need about 30 to 45 minutes for this church.

6. City Hall (Hamburger Rathaus)

The city hall is an excellent example of 19th century Neo-classical architecture. It is one of the most beautiful Hamburg attractions. The city hall exhibits several artifacts concerning the history of the city. You would need 30 to 45 minutes for this place.

7. St. Nicholas’ Church (St.-Nikolai-Kirche)

This gothic church lies in shambles today owing to bombings on the city during the second world war. It is one of the most fascinating buildings to explore during Hamburg sightseeing. You would need 30 to 45 minutes for this church.

8. St. Michael’s Church (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis)

This is the largest protestant church in the city. It features wonderful baroque design elements. It is known for its wonderful interiors as well as beautiful architecture. You would need about half an hour from Hamburg travel for this church.

1. Fischmarkt

This fishmarket is open  only on Sunday and is situated by the river. You can also get seafood based street food items at this market. You would need about 30 minutes for this place when you visit Hamburg.

2. U-434 (U-Boot Museum)

This soviet submarine is among the most fascinating places to see in Hamburg. It serves as a museum of maritime history of the nation as well as port of the city. You would need about an hour for this submarine.

3. Reeperbahn

This street is known for several top things to do in Hamburg including shopping, dining, nightlife and entertainment. You would need about an hour for this street.

4. Museum for Hamburg History (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte)

This museum delves in the history of the city exhibiting several artifacts and stories of the city. The museum focuses on trade, port, politics and art of the city’s history. You would need about an hour for this museum.

5. Old Elbe Tunnel (Alter Elbtunnel)

Also known as St. Pauli Elbe tunnel, is considered an engineering marvel. This pedestrian and vehicle tunnel stretches for 426 meters and is situated 24 meters beneath the surface. You would need about an hour or so for this tunnel.

6. Rickmer Rickmers

This museum is housed in a ship which used to be a sailing firefighting ship. The museum primarily focuses on the 90 years history of this ship as it served several countries including Britain and Portugal. It one of must see in Hamburg. You would need about an hour for this ship.

7. Miniature Wonderland (Miniatur Wunderland)

This park is one of the finest Hamburg sights and consists several miniature recreations. It is also known for having the largest miniature model railway system in the entire world. You would need about 2 hours for this place.

8. Warehouse District (Speicherstadt)

This district is included among UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will see several Neo-Gothic red-bricked warehouses in the district. It is one of the most historically significant places to go in Hamburg. You would need about an hour to explore this area.

1. BallinStadt – Emigrant Museum

This museum is dedicated to Europeans who left for the Americas from the Hamburg port. It gives a great glimpse of the city’s past. You would need about an hour for this museum.

2. HafenCity

This futuristic neighbourhood has some interesting activities in Hamburg along with impressive architecture to behold. You would need at least an hour to explore this area.

3. International Maritime Museum

This museum is dedicated to the naval and port history of the city as well as the evolution of naval trade, exploration and warfare. It is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg for those interested in history. You would need about 2 hours for this museum.

4. Deichtorhallen

This iconic building is home to the museum of contemporary art and photography. It is well known among things to see in Hamburg for exhibiting works of renowned artists such as Rupprecht Mattheis, Richard Serra, Georg Baselitz, Marilyn Minter and more. You would need about an hour for this place.

5. Chocoversum by Hachez

This is a museum of chocolates, which is deeply intertwined with the history of the city. One of the most fun things to do in Hamburg is designing your own chocolate bar at this museum. You would about 2 hours for this experience.

6. Chilehaus

This 10 story building is a popular spot during Hamburg sightseeing for being an impressive example of Brick Expressionism architecture along with Gothic elements. You would need about half an hour for tour of this building.

If you are looking for more activities in Hamburg, check out the sections below. We have complied lists of places and things to do in and around the city.

Things to do in hamburg, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in hamburg.

• Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall
• Hamburger Kunsthalle
• St. Michael’s Church
• International Maritime Museum
• Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe
• Deichtorhallen Museum of Contemporary Art
• St. Nikolai Memorial
• Museum of Hamburg History
• Bucerius Kunst Forum
• Chocoversum by Hachez
• Museum of Ethnology
• Hamburg Planetarium
• BallinStadt Emigration Museum
• Altonaer Museum
• Rickmer Rickmers
• U Boot Museum
• Museum of Work
• Panoptikum Wax Museum
• Ohlsdorf Cemetery
• Jenisch House
• Hamburg Archeological Museum
• Ahrensburg Palace
• Zoological Museum
• Sammlung Falckenberg
• Freilicht Museum am Kiekeberg
• Automuseum Prototype
• Ernst Barlach Haus
• Bismark Monument
• Speicherstadt Museum
• Memorial del Campo de Concentracion de Neuengamme
• Spicy’s Gerwurz Museum
• Deutsches Hafen Museum
• St. James Church
• Museum fur Bergedorf und die Vierlande
• Hamburg State Opera
• St. Catherine Church
• Hafen Oevelgonne Museum
• Galerie der Gegenwart
• Deutsches Zoll Museum
• FC St. Pauli Museum
• Museum der Illusion
• Deichtohallen Hamburg
• Schloss Reinbek
• Pinneberg Museum
• Bismark Museum in Friedrichsruh

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Hamburg

• Alster Lakes
• Wildpark Schwarze Berge
• Europaischer Fernwanderweg
• Fischberker Heide
• NSG Duvenstedter Brook
• Boberger Niederung Nature Reserve
• Boberger Dunen
• Pulvermuhlentiech Lake
• See im Gorssen Moor

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Hamburg

• Miniatur Wunderland
• Tierpark Hagenbeck
• Planten un Blomen
• Hamburg Dungeon
• Jungfernsteig Boulevard
• Cap San Diego
• Heide Park Resort
• Binnenalster
• Dialogue House
• Tropen Aquarium Hagenback
• Jenisch Park
• Ojendorfer See
• Park Fiction
• Heinrich Hertz Tower
• Old Botanical Garden
• Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical
• Altonaer Volkspark
• Stintfang Vineyard
• Millerntowache Park
• Arriba Waterpark
• Polizeikkommissariat 15
• Water Art Elbinsel Kaltehofe

Shopping in Hamburg

• Rathausmarket
• Spitalerstrasse
• Colonnaden Street
• Europa Passage
• Alsterarkaden
• Monckeberg Strasse
• Jungfernsteig

Beaches in Hamburg

• Elbstrand Beach
• Boberger See Beach

Offbeat Places & Adventure Activities to Do in Hamburg

• Boat Cruise

Sightseeing in Hamburg

• Alter Elbtunnel
• Alster Canal
• Treppenviertel Blankenese
• Deichstrasse
• Beatles Platz
• Pont de Kohlbrand

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Hamburg

• Fischereihafen
• Henssler & Henssler
• Heldenplatz
• La Plat du Jor
• Frau Moller
• Balz und Balz
• Erika’s Eck

Where to Stay in Hamburg?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Hamburg. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Hamburg.

Luxurious Hotels

• Grand Elysee Hotel Hamburg
• AMERON Hamburg Hotel Speicherstadt
• Scandic Hamburg Emporio
• Lindner Hotel Am Michel
• Adina Apartment Hotel Hamburg Speicherstadt
• Hotel Hafen Hamburg
• 25hours Hotel Hamburg HafenCity
• Le Meridien Hamburg
• Hotel Europaeischer Hof
• Movenpick Hotel Hamburg
• Hamburg Marriott Hotel
• Empire Riverside Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

• Premier Inn Hamburg City Zentrum Hotel
• prizeotel Hamburg-City
• Holiday Inn Hamburg – City Nord, an IHG Hotel
• Premier Inn Hamburg St. Pauli hotel
• MEININGER Hotel Hamburg City Center
• Mercure Hotel Hamburg City
• Courtyard Hamburg City
• Novotel Hamburg City Alster
• IntercityHotel Hamburg-Barmbek
• Ibis Hamburg St Pauli Messe
• Novotel Suites Hamburg City hotel
• NH Hamburg Horner Rennbahn

Budget Hotels

• Best Western Hotel Hamburg International
• Leonardo Hotel Hamburg-Stillhorn
• a&o Hamburg City
• B&B Hotel Hamburg City-Ost
• B&B Hotel Hamburg-Harburg
• Premier Inn Hamburg City Hammerbrook hotel
• Novum Hotel Holstenwall Hamburg Neustadt
• Alt Lohbrugger Hof
• ibis Hamburg Airport Hotel
• Select Hotel Hamburg Nord
• ibis budget Hamburg St. Pauli Messe

Custom Tours Package in Hamburg

How to reach hamburg.

The most convenient option for Hamburg travel is by air. The largest one is the Hamburg-Fuhlsbuttel Airport. You can get direct flights from Athens , Dublin , Moscow , Riga , Paris , Vienna , Istanbul , Bucharest , Brussels , London , La Palma, Rhodes, Edinburgh , Salzburg , Manchester , Dubai , Amsterdam , Barcelona , Beirut, Budapest , Munich , Nice , Zurich , Naples , Prague , Reykjavik , Venice , Helsinki , Lisbon and many more. You can get buses and cabs to get around the city from the airport.

You can get direct trains to visit Hamburg from several European cities like Berlin , Dusseldorf , Frankfurt , Munich, Zurich, Cologne , Copenhagen , Budapest, Prague, Vienna and many more. The bus routes can get you to Hamburg from several cities and towns in Germany. You can also reach the city by bus from cities of neighbouring countries. If you are planning to reach Hamburg by road, you should head for routes A1, A7, A23 or A24.

There are several places connected to Hamburg by water routes including port cities of Finland, Denmark, Lithuania, Sweden and Russia. There are also transatlantic boats connecting Hamburg with New York City in the USA.

Image Reference

• Planten un Blomen – hl_1001 / Flickr
• The Alster Lakes (Außenalster) – txmx 2 / Flickr
• Hamburger Kunsthalle – Jorge Franganillo / Flickr
• Museum of Arts and Design (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe) – Nightflyer / Wikimedia Commons
• Church of Saint Peter (Hauptkirche St. Petri) – Carandoom / Flickr
• City Hall (Hamburger Rathaus) – SofieLayla Thal / PixaBay
• St. Nicholas’ Church (St.-Nikolai-Kirche) – Mark Michaelis / Flickr
• St. Michael’s Church (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis) – starrs / PixaBay
• Fischmarkt – Fred Romero / Flickr
• U-434 (U-Boot Museum) – Kevin Hackert / Flickr
• Reeperbahn – Jorge Franganillo / Flickr
• Museum for Hamburg History (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte) – Can Pac Swire / Flickr
• Old Elbe Tunnel (Alter Elbtunnel) – Chris Frenzel / PixaBay
• Rickmer Rickmers – Michael Hagn / PixaBay
• Miniature Wonderland (Miniatur Wunderland) – Viola ‘ / PixaBay
• Warehouse District (Speicherstadt) – Karsten Bergmann / PixaBay
• BallinStadt – Emigrant Museum – Holger.Ellgaard / Wikimedia Commons
• HafenCity – liggraphy / PixaBay
• International Maritime Museum – Karsten Bergmann / PixaBay
• Deichtorhallen – Wolfgang Staudt / Flickr
• Chocoversum by Hachez – Michael / Flickr
• Chilehaus – Phil Beard / Flickr
• Beautiful Tourist Places to Visit and Things to do in Hamilton, New Zealand
• 25 Must See Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Innsbruck in 4 Days

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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• 15 Best Places To Visit In Hamburg In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Rightly referred to as the ‘Gateway to the World’, Hamburg is the most gorgeous city in Germany. Be it its maritime charm or the mesmerizing lifestyle, the city has all the magic to sweep one off his or her feet. But if you really think that these are just words floating on the net, we’ve got proof. These top places to visit in Hamburg are a piece of evidence good enough to make you believe that Hamburg has all it takes to deserve a place on your bucket list!

15 Places To Visit In Hamburg

Here’s a list of the 15 best places to visit in Hamburg that’ll compel you to plan a trip to Germany or add it to your itinerary immediately. Scroll through!

1. The Port Of Hamburg

Image Source

The Port of Hamburg, which is amongst the top places to see in the city is what is Hamburg famous for. It is this very attraction which gave the city its famous title of Gateway to Germany. Many popular attractions can be spotted here while you walk along the pedestrian trail. This is among the best Hamburg tourist places .

Location: River Elbe, Hamburg, Germany

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2. St. Michael’s Church

Of all the places to visit in Hamburg in one day,the most famous one is the St. Michael’s Church which was built in the 1750’s in the Baroque style. Its viewing platforms in the 132-meter high tower offer an impeccable view of the city and the port which is nothing less than a treat on a normal day out.

Location: Englische Planke 1, 20459 Hamburg, Germany

3. Rickmer Rickmers

Berther right on the river’s corner at Landungsbrücken, the Rickmer Rickmers is a three-masted ship that stands tall with a colorful history. It was built in 1896 and brought back to Hamburg in the 80’s, years later, it was turned into a museum highlighting the role of merchant marine in those centuries.

Location: Bei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken 1a, 20359 Hamburg, Germany

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4. Ohlsdorf Cemetery

The world’s largest rural cemetery and also one of the most important, this place to visit in Hamburg boasts 12 chapels while being a ground to 1.5 million burials. Unlike the other cemeteries, this one pulls tourists in a huge number to see its monuments, memorials, and the museum. Do include this cemetery on your list of Hamburg tour.

Location: Fuhlsbüttler Str. 756, 22337 Hamburg, Germany

Also read: Best Tourist places in India

5. Tierpark Hagenbeck

Located in the northwestern suburb of Stellingen, Tierpark Hagenbeck is amongst the top places to visit in Hamburg. This famous zoo is home to many exotic animals who were owned by a local fishmonger, Carl Hagenbeck. Being the first zoo to divide animals as per their specie, this place still attracts innumerable people. This is one of the best places to visit in Germany .

Location: Lokstedter Grenzstraße 2, 22527 Hamburg, Germany

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6. The Reeperbahn

Also known as Kiez, this place is the city’s number one entertainment district. It is home to various dance bars, a theatre, nightclubs and student clubs, all of which are lined up within 950 meters. People of all age groups visit this place at night when it actually comes to life since this is one of the best places to go in Hamburg after dark.

Location: St. Pauli District, Hamburg, Germany

7. Miniatur Wunderland

There’s definitely more than what meets the eye at this place. Rightly labelled as the world’s largest model railway, this place has a track of 15,400 meters with over 1000 trains. And not just this, but you also actually see planes here that take off for real. Just make sure that before you visit this place, you reserve your tickets in advance.

Location: Kehrwieder 2-4/Block D, 20457 Hamburg, Germany

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8. Kunsthalle Hamburg

Set up in three different yet connected buildings on the Glockengießerwall, this is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg and a top-notch art gallery. It boasts altarpieces, paintings, and contemporary art collections by artists of the 16th and 17th centuries. You just cannot afford to miss this place! So, do not forget to put it on your list of places to visit in Hamburg.

Location: Glockengießerwall, 20095 Hamburg, Germany

9. Mönckebergstraße

Locally referred to as Mö, this is the best place in Hamburg to get your retail therapy fix. Some of the major brands such as H&M, Saturn, and Zara flaunt their high-end collections here. Not just that, but you can also spot some departmental stores here for shopping your heart out with Germany’s top products.

Location: Hamburg-Altstadt, Germany

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10. International Maritime Museum

If you’re an explorer at heart and wish to dig into Hamburg’s rich maritime history, this is the place to be. Located in a red brick building, this place exhibits more than 3,000 years of human connection to water. You can always stop by here for making your experience more illuminating and enlightening.

Location: Koreastraße 1, 20457 Hamburg, Germany

11. Hamburg Rathaus

This is the Hamburg City Hall and the seat of the local government in Hamburg. The city hall is situated in the heart of the city in the Altstadt quarter. It is close to the Binnenalster lake and one can explore the two places together on their Hamburg tour. One can see the neo-renaissance form of architecture in the building here. Enjoy the aesthetic beauty of the place, as there is so much to explore here. The courtyard has the beautiful Hygieia fountain, and the lobby which is open to the public is used concerts and exhibitions.

Location: Rathausmarkt 1, 20095 Hamburg

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12. Cap San Diego

Cap San Diego is a fascinating museum ship in Germany. Cap San Diego is a cargo ship that was a part of a six series ships famous by the name ‘white swans of the South Atlantic’. Built in 1961, this was also the last of these ships. The ship is mostly secured at the port of Hamburg and one can enjoy the sights of this beauty. Watch the ship from the engine to the bridge while touring Hamburg. The ship also participates in the Long Night of Museums which is a famous cultural event that takes place in Hamburg.

Location: Überseebrücke, 20459 Hamburg

13. Planten Un Blomen

Planten un Blomen is a lush green urban park space in Hamburg. Situated in the inner city of Hamburg, the park is known for the water light concerts. It is a great place to spend some quality time with your partner. Relax in the tranquil setting of the park during your visit to Hamburg. There are other theatre performances too that take place here and a few music concerts that one can watch. The entry to the park is free, and it is open throughout the year. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Hamburg, Germany .

Location: Marseiller Str., 20355 Hamburg

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Altona became a part of Hamburg quite recently in 1937 until which it was an independent city. It is an urban borough located in Hamburg towards the western part of the city. It was once founded as the village of the fisherman and is located on the banks of the river Elbe. reaching Altona is easy as it has an important railway station Hamburg-Altona. Head to Altona during your trip to Hamburg and enjoy the quaint sights of this borough. There are quite a few neoclassical houses here, which today have been protected as historical monuments. One can enjoy pretty views of the harbor and the sea here.

Location: Hamburg

15. Jenisch Haus

Jenisch House is a 19th-century museum of Hamburg. This country house portrays the neoclassical form of architecture and is a classic example of Hanseatic lifestyle. Built in the shape of a cube by Franz Forsmann and Karl Schinkel, it is situated in the Othmarschen quarter. The place today is used for exhibitions and functions. Do include it in your places to visit in Hamburg on your Germany trip.

Location: Baron-Voght-Straße 50, 22609 Hamburg

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So, now that you are convinced, make sure you add these places and the other best places to visit near Hamburg in your Germany trip itinerary. Needless to say, you’d come back home with a zillion memories and a heartwarming experience. Don’t think much now and just plan your trip to Germany right away!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Hamburg

What food is Hamburg famous for?

Plaice, the traditional fish dish is quite famous in Hamburg. SuRolls, Erdapfel, Stadtsalat, Dal Fabbro, etc. are the must try food items in Hamburg.

What is the population of Hamburg?

The population of Hamburg is around 18.1 lakhs.

Is it safe to visit Hamburg during Covid?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Avoid crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces. Maintain social distancing and remain masked in public places.

Are 2 days enough in Hamburg?

Yes, 2 days are enough to visit Hamburg. This gives you a chance to explore the sights of tourist attractions and capture an introduction to the best things to do and other experiences.

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What Is the Best City in Germany to Visit? 7 Must-See Places

E urope is home to stunning landscapes, picturesque castles, and vibrant towns, and one of the best countries to visit on your tour of Europe is Germany. It’s one of the top tourist destinations in the world, with over 12 million tourists in 2021 alone. Part of the joy of planning a Germany vacation is deciding which cities to explore.

Finding the best city in Germany is challenging, as there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful country. Knowing your interests and researching is the best path toward a memorable vacation for you and your family.

The good news is that you’ve discovered the best German tour guide to help you explore Hamburg, Bavaria, and everything in between. Continue reading to find the best places to visit in Germany today!

Hamburg is an impressive German city located on the Jutland Peninsula. It’s an excellent spot to add to your list of German cities to visit during your time in Deutschland. It’s also home to some of the best coffee shops in Germany, making it perfect to pick up your coffee and explore the city’s sights and attractions.

It’s also home to a significant number of street fairs and festivals. The Hamburg Christmas Markets are among the best in Europe, making Hamburg a top destination if you want to visit Europe for the holidays. It’s a city you’ll want to return to in the future for a sophisticated and urban experience.

Berlin is the capital of Germany and one of those constantly changing cities. You’ll find many impressive sights to explore and see in Berlin. The Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, and the East Side Gallery are the top tourist attractions.

It’s also a city known for its food scene. You’ll love your time in Berlin if you’re a foodie, and there are fantastic food options for all diets and food restrictions. Berlin is famous for its burger options, with tasty burger restaurants dotting the entire city.

No trip to Germany is complete without exploring the capital for a day or two. It’s a cultural hub for Germany with an extensive history. Work to master German before your trip to meet exciting people, make friends, and enjoy unique experiences with the locals.

Cologne is most famous for its impressive Gothic cathedral that towers over the rest of the city. The city’s origins started as a Roman outpost during their battles with the Germanic tribes, and it has blossomed into a stunning cultural city. It’s the cultural hub of the Rhineland region.

The Cologne Cathedral is the first stop to make during your visit to this stunning German city. The climb is challenging, but the views at the top are worth the effort (and possibly swear words) on the journey.

The Belgian Quarter is worth experiencing if you enjoy the bar scene while traveling. It’s home to countless bars and restaurants, making finding what suits your personality easy. Visit the famous museums in this part of town to complete your Cologne experience.

4. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is filled with history, picturesque architecture, and colorful streets to explore while enjoying your holiday in Germany. It’s also famous for its gingerbread, so prepare your stomach in advance to chow down on traditional German sweets before putting your exploring shoes on.

History buffs should visit the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds to learn more about Germany’s history before and during World War Two. Art lovers will also be happy in Nuremberg with a visit to the Neues Museum Nuremberg. It’s home to some of the most impressive art exhibits in Europe.

Take time to explore local restaurants to taste authentic German cuisine. Nuremberg has a wonderful restaurant scene, providing an excellent way to refuel and wind down after a long day of exploring. Remember to enjoy a stein of cold German beer before turning in for the night.

6. Heidelberg

Heidelberg is one of the smaller German cities on this list, but visiting this stunning city on your German vacation is worth your time. Heidelberg Castle is the prime tourist destination in this town, so make sure to check it out during your first day in the city.

The Philosopher’s Walk is another experience you won’t want to miss when your travels bring you to Heidelberg. View the Neckar River during your walk before looking for the top restaurants in the city to fill your stomach with tasty German cuisine.

The architecture combined with the rolling hills makes Heidelburg a fantastic stop if you want a small city filled with culture. It’s one of the best places to visit in Germany for a different experience than in larger cities like Cologne, Berlin, and Hamburg.

7. Freiberg

Freiberg is another smaller city to add to your list of the best cities in Germany. It’s a small town located on the edge of the Black Forest, with close proximity to France and Switzerland. It’s one of the most stunning cities in Germany to explore and experience.

It’s a vibrant area to visit when checking out cities in Germany. The city is home to a laidback and impressive university and is loaded with history. It’s also one of the warmest and sunniest cities in Germany, making it the perfect destination for planning a German vacation.

The Art Museum should be one of your first stops after arriving in Freiberg. The historic center is also worth checking out if you want to try quaint coffee shops and refuel on food. You’ll enjoy an authentic German experience during your visit to Freiberg.

Find the Best City in Germany Today

Planning a visit to the best city in Germany is an excellent way to see more of the world and learn about a vibrant culture. Large cities like Berlin and Hamburg provide a cool vibe with many restaurants and bars to check out, while Nuremberg offers more history and architecture. Visit Freiberg for a quaint, small-town vibe steeped in art and history.

Traveling is a fantastic way to learn about the world and different cultures. Use our Travel guides and articles to plan your next vacation today!

This article is published by NYTech in collaboration with Syndication Cloud.