Note: this guide to what to do in Hamburg contains affiliate links. Thank you for the support!
Spending a weekend in Germany’s maritime metropolis, I couldn’t believe the variety of things to do in Hamburg. Grand museums, fascinating history, a buzzing nightlife scene and a harbour that never seems to stop moving — this city is alive in every season.
Come rain or sunshine (and I had both extremes during my stay), there’s no shortage of attractions to see. Add in the East-meets-West restaurant scene, colourful Old Town corners and a mix of stylish hotels, and you’ve got everything you need for a memorable Hamburg city break.
Table of Contents
How to get to Hamburg
Hamburg is well connected, whether you’re planning a longer Germany itinerary or flying in for a quick weekend.
-
From Berlin: A direct Deutsche Bahn train takes just under 2 hours.
-
From Munich: Expect a 5.5–6 hour train ride, or a 1 hour 20 minute flight.
-
From Amsterdam: Around 6 hours by train, or a quick 1.5 hour flight.
-
Flying in: Hamburg Airport (HAM) is only 20 minutes from the city centre by S-Bahn (€3.50). Taxis are also available but pricier.
When’s the best time to visit Hamburg?
Hamburg has something to offer in every season. Spring and summer (April to September) bring long daylight hours, outdoor dining and harbour festivals. Autumn is cooler but perfect for cosy cafés and leafy strolls through Planten un Blomen.
Come winter, the city transforms with twinkling lights and some of Germany’s best Christmas markets. If you’re after a magical festive city break, late November to December is the time to go.
Where to stay in Hamburg
Louis C. Jacob (Luxury)
For a five-star stay with timeless elegance, Louis C. Jacob is hard to beat. Set along the Elbe River, its terrace is made for warm summer evenings. It’s the kind of hotel that makes you want to linger, with classic interiors and impeccable service.
Best Western Premier Alsterkrug Hotel (Close to the airport)
If you’re flying in late or leaving early, the Best Western Premier Alsterkrug Hotel in Alsterdorf is ideal. I stayed here on my first night and loved the spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and reliable service — exactly what you need after a late evening flight.
25hours Hotels (Unique)
The fun, young 25hours Hotel brand has three properties in Hamburg with two located in the city centre starting at less than £100 a night. The HafenCity and smaller Altes Hafenamt both take inspiration from the seafaring soul of Hamburg, combined with tongue in cheek humour and inspiring décor. I stayed at 25hours HafenCity — read my full review here.
Appartello smarttime living hotel (Self-catering)
If you’re travelling in a group or staying longer, Appartello offers stylish apartments with kitchens and living rooms. They sometimes run summer offers that include extras like a harbour tour, making it great value for a flexible stay.
Where to eat in Hamburg
Seafood by the water
As Germany’s gateway to the sea, Hamburg is flooded with fresh fish every morning, making it a top city for seafood.
- A beloved favourite is Alt Helgoländer Fischerstube, located on the waterfront with stunning river views.
- An authentic local is BistrOcean, with a chalkboard daily menu and fantastic service.
- For a light seafood bite, the hidden Fischmarket Bistro is a great place for a fish burger, delivered directly through the back door from the fish market.
A quick bite
It would be a crime not to have a hamburger, what with Hamburg being the origin and all. Make sure to put the Better Burger Company on your map, perfect for a quick bite mid-shop or on route to the Kunsthalle Gallery. Each burger is served like a Subway sandwich, with a selection of toppings and sides.
Germany also does Asian food extremely well, with everything from sushi to poke. A great spot for lunch is Ban Canteen, serving delicious Vietnamese food in a cosy, casual spot near St Pauli.
Fine dining
For a casual fine dining experience, head to Heldenplatz which offers a contemporary seasonal menu from Chef Markus Haamp. The restaurant is open until 2am, perfect for late night diners and post-theatre meals.
Vlet is a trio of top restaurants located in the Gänsemarkt square, Alster and Speicherstadt. Gourmet German meals and a European menu get a five star review from almost every diner.
Sweet treats & cocktails
For something sweet, head to Flane Patisserie and Chocolate Shop where you’ll find pink walls stacked of irresistible looking treats. A small café outside is a lovely spot for a hot chocolate with a mountain of marshmallows or hot bite to eat.
The skyline bar of the Empire Riverside Hotel is a beloved favourite for locals and visitors looking to enjoy a view at a relaxed pace. Open from 6pm until late, the bar is perfect for a sunset dinner or couple of cocktails as the Hamburg slowly darkens.
For a slice of the creative cocktail scene that we all know and love, head to the fairy lit forest of Clockers. An early drink is best accompanied with one of the bar’s library books before the bar becomes busier.
Things to do in Hamburg
Explore the harbour
On a mild or sunny day, a walk along Hamburg’s harbour is a perfect way to see the core spirit of the city. Lined with tours, bars and restaurants there is much to do by the river Elbe.
For the best views of the harbour, join one of the many tours from the river where you’ll sail around the port with a guide. I joined the Barkassen Meyer 60 minute tour for €18 which leaves every hour. Make sure to download the app in advance on Wi-Fi as the guide will only speak in German! You can also book this tour in English for 1-2 hours.
Relax in Planten un Blomen
For a walk in the park or picnic in the sunshine, head to Planten un Blomen that houses the largest Japanese garden in Europe as well as botanical nature and a tropical greenhouse.
Visit Kunsthalle Gallery
Hamburg is actually a beautiful place when it rains, the grey skies contrasting against the rich red brick buildings. But when it pours, a selection of museums and galleries make a wonderful place to keep dry.
My favourite was the Kunsthalle Gallery which showcases a variety of bizarre modern art and more classic works in one of the largest museums in Germany.
Go to Minatur Wunderland
Perhaps the most unique museum in Hamburg is the famous Minatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model railway. Make sure to book tickets for this busy attraction, perfect for all ages.
Catch a musical
Hamburg is the second biggest home to musical theatre after London, with many famous ongoing productions. The Theater am Hafen has been host to The Lion King for over 15 years, with its own transfer boat to ferry guests across the river.
See the city from St Michael’s Church tower
For panoramic views over Hamburg, head up the 106 tower of St Michael’s Church to the outdoor observation deck. The church itself is also worth a look around, playing atmospheric organ melodies with a crypt down below.
Ride an open top bus
To see the whole city whilst among its streets, a classic open top bus tour is the answer! There are a variety of buses running through Hamburg, many with both German and English guides. Day bus tours starting from €15. Book tickets here or combine with a harbour cruise.
Admire the architecture
The Elbphilharmonie is one of the most striking buildings in the city, located on the river Elbe. Inside are some of the most acoustically advanced concert halls in the world but you don’t have to book a show to see the fascinating structure. Discover guided tours.
The Hamburg Rathaus is a beautiful 19th century Town Hall, overtly opposite to the many modern buildings of the city. A quick wander through the courtyard will often see events, weddings and fairs with tours available of the historic interiors. Guests must register for a guided tour here.
Fischmarkt
The early hours of a Sunday morning are when Hamburg is truly alive, when sellers of all trade flock to the Fischmarket to flog to early risers and those still partying from the night before. Everything from crockery to carrots is sold here, with live jazz and a feisty atmosphere. The market opens at 5am in summer or 7am in winter until 9.30am.
Journey through the Elb Tunnel
Since 1911, pedestrians and cars have used the Elb Tunnel to access the other side of the river and it is just as fascinating today as it was 100 years ago. Take a journey down the steps to 24 metres below sea level and cross to see the city from another angle.
The Hamburg Card
To save money on sightseeing, a Hamburg Card offers free travel and discounts on a variety of attractions, theatres and tours from €9.90 for one day. Additionally is the Kunstmeile pass which allows you to visit the 5 of the city’s best galleries in one year for €36.
Hamburg FAQs
How do you get around Hamburg?
The Hamburg Metro is extremely easy to use, with stations dotted around the city. It’s best to grab yourself a map and make sure to get a ticket before boarding. Bus services are additionally very regular in addition to taxis.
Is Hamburg safe?
Yes — Hamburg is generally safe for travellers. As with any European city, keep an eye on your belongings and stay aware in nightlife areas like the Reeperbahn.
Does Hamburg have Christmas markets?
Definitely. Hamburg is famous for its Christmas markets, which usually open in late November and run until Christmas Eve. The biggest is in Rathausmarkt, with smaller festive stalls dotted across the city.
Hamburg is one of those must-do European city breaks that manages to balance big-city attractions with a relaxed maritime vibe. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or adding it into a bigger Germany itinerary, this Hamburg guide has you covered.
For more information and inspiration regarding Hamburg, check out my post all about the soul of the city.
2 Responses
Fantastic – thorough and insightful Eppie. I’ve visited Hamburg numerous times but want to go again now with your excellent reviews and advice as my guide!! xx
Looks like a nice city for a day or two 🙂
x