Hamburg Travel Guide
Visiting Hamburg and don't know where to begin? From its maritime history to its most stunning sights, and romantic experiences to where to eat, this guide has you covered.
You'll see the Elbphilharmonie, the city's architectural masterpiece, and cruise through the Spiecherstadt, where red-brick warehouses echo with the ghosts of merchants past. This UNESCO gem is a testament to Hamburg's seafaring legacy.
Fuel your adventures with local delicacies — from succulent Fischbrötchen to heavenly Labskaus. Wash it down with a crisp beer, and you'll have tasted Hamburg's heart.
Dive into history at the city's Maritime Museum and marvel at the Kunstmeile, a corridor of art that weaves through the city. There are plenty of tours that unveil hidden gems and local lore too.
Spending a few days of summer in Hamburg? Parks bloom, canals glisten, and festivals ignite the streets. As the sun sets, the Reeperbahn awakens, casting neon hues over the city's nightlife. This bohemian boulevard is the spirited soul of Hamburg.
Let this guide lead you to all of Hamburg's highlights.
Best places to visit in Hamburg: top attractions you don't want to miss
Journey through history in Hamburg, and discover one-of-a-kind famous landmarks and sights to explore. As a founding member of the Medieval Hanseatic League that evolved into an industrial trade powerhouse, Hamburg offers plenty of unique historical attractions for you to explore. Recall the splendor of the Renaissance at Old Town Hall. Trek through the past with a walking tour at Hamburg Port, or see the 18th-century come to life at Volksdorf, then delve into the darkside at the Hamburg Dungeon.
Insider guides
Explore off the beaten path with Hamburg's best hidden gems
Hamburg teems with secret places and hidden gems that run as deep as its history. Once you’ve explored the famous landmarks and museum ships, hop aboard a streetkart or a catamaran-bike and launch a journey through the city on a fun ride with a fresh view.
Hamburg’s unmissable landmarks and historical sights
Hamburg landmarks are a must for history buffs. Don't miss out on the iconic museum ships, especially if you're looking for fun things to do with kids. Panoramic photo ops are everywhere from St. Michael’s Church, to the famous Chilehaus and the industrial marvel of the Speicherstadt.
What to eat in Hamburg: 12 must-try local delights
With a prized position at the southern tip of Jutland and access to the North Sea, Hamburg's harbor pulls in daily catches of plaice and cod. Taste your way through these seafood staples as you get to know the local culture with a sailing and boat tour.
Hamburg for couples: the most romantic things to do
Whether you’re looking for anniversary ideas or chill couples activities, there are plenty of romantic things to do in Hamburg. You can snuggle up on a cruise with an amazing view of the city's famous landmarks, or enjoy food and drink aboard an iconic ship with chandeliers.
Epic things to do in Hamburg at night
After sundown, picturesque Hamburg comes to life with light shows, concerts, and bustling bars for your perfect romantic or summer evening. Whether you're going headlong into the drag scene in St. Pauli or catching a cabaret at Pulverfass, there's plenty of party to pack in.
10 Fun family-friendly activities in Hamburg
With its storied medieval and maritime past, Hamburg will inspire your kids’ imagination. Budding buccaneers can explore the port or the museums and famous landmarks. Experience what life was like on the open seas on the docked Cap San Diego museum ship or at the International Maritime Museum.
Insider Tips - Hamburg
What's are 4 best tips for a person traveling to Hamburg?
- As Germany’s second-largest city, the attractions are spread out. My first tip is to get a Hamburg Card and familiarize yourself with the excellent public transport.
- The history of Hamburg is related to its position on an important river, the Elbe. One of the best ways to experience the city is by taking a cruise. There are many to choose from.
- Hamburg has over 30 different Christmas markets during the Advent season, making it an excellent destination for a winter city break.
- Hamburg can be cloudy and wet. Be prepared for bad weather whenever you visit so it doesn't spoil your trip.
What should I do on my first trip to Hamburg?
Hamburg's harbor is the German city's main attraction, so a harbor cruise is essential for anyone planning their first visit. There's no better way to get a feel for the city and its history, which you'll learn about as you see landmarks like the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse district in the world, to the striking 20th-century Elbphilharmonie concert hall.