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Things to Do in Hamburg

Miniatur Wunderland

One of the top places to visit in Hamburg, the Miniatur Wunderland houses some of the top attractions in the world in miniature versions. Look at attractions like the grand canyon and the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg among many others and admire their beauty.

St. Michael's Church

One of the most beautiful Hamburg tourist attractions, St. Michael's Church is an important church in the city with stunning Baroque architecture built in the 17th century. The church has been renovated three times from 1647 to 1912 and is still considered the most impressive building in the city. With a height of 106 meters, you can enjoy the most stunning views of the city here.

Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

One of the top places to visit in Hamburg, Elbphilharmonie Hamburg is one of the largest concert halls in the world and is a center of social and cultural activities in the city. The building has an impressive architecture which accommodates a philharmonic hall, a chamber music hall, restaurants, cafes, and also a beautiful terrace with panoramic views of the city.

Townhall

The beautiful town hall in Hamburg was constructed between 1886 to 1897, is located in the heart of the city. The municipal senate and parliament are currently housed in this majestic structure with a distinguished architectural style. You can see the stunning exterior of the building, which contains 20 statues of the emperor, as well as the lovely neo-renaissance architecture.

Hamburger Kunsthalle

Visit one of the largest museums in Germany for art lovers to witness seven centuries of European art from the middle ages to the present. Built in 1869, the museum has expanded twice and is currently one of the largest museums in Germany. Visit this museum if you love looking at paintings and art from the middle ages. The museum has paintings from the 17th century belonging to legendary artists.

Tierpark Hagenbeck

One of the best tourist places in Hamburg to visit with your family, Tierpark Hagenbeck stands among the most popular zoos in Germany, opened in 1907. The zoo has over 210 species of animals which are bought from all over the world. When the zoo was inaugurated, one of the most interesting parts was the natural habitat where the animals resided without any fences or cages.

International Maritime Museum
Located in the HafenCity quarter of the city, the International Maritime Museum is a private museum that has a personal marine collection of Peter Tamm. Witness artifacts related to the marine world such as paintings, artwork, and other instruments. Peter Tamm started his collection at a very young age and would always ask his family and relatives to give him gifts related to the marine world.
Alter Elbtunnel

Also known as Old Elbe Tunnel, Alter Elbtunnel is one of the most popular Hamburg tourist attractions. It runs under the River Elbe which connects St. Pauli jetties on the north side of the river to the Steinwerder in the Port of Hamburg. The tunnel was built to help the dockworkers with an easy and reliable way to cross the river.

Rickmer Rickmers

One of the top tourist places in Hamburg, Rickmer Rickmers is a massive ship located at the Hamburg Harbor. The ship has sailed for 90 years throughout the seven seas and is currently turned into a museum. You can visit this massive ship to explore the decks, crew's office, officers' quarters, gallery, and also the engine room.

Chilehaus

One of the most impressive buildings in the city, the Chilehaus is a ten-story office building in Hamburg. The building was completed in 1924 and has been a center of international maritime trade since then. The building was commissioned by Henry B Sloman who was the richest man in the city during those times and wanted to invest more towards the development of the city.

Speicherstadt

Speicherstadt is the largest warehouse complex in the world with a massive area of 260,000 square meters. Built between 1883 to 1920s, the warehouse is located on the Elbe river and surrounded by over thousands of oak trees in Hamburg's port. Witness the beautiful neo-gothic brick architecture which stands out against the teel-and-glass constructions of the neighborhood.

St. Nikolai Memorial

At 147 meters, the St. Nikolai Memorial church is the tallest church tower in the city which is dedicated to the victims of World War 2. The beautiful church was destroyed in the great fire of Hamburg in the year 1842 and was again rebuilt with neo-gothic architecture. The church's tower was again destroyed during the allied bombing raids on Hamburg which was called Operation Gomorrah in July 1943.

Chocoversum By Hachez

If you have a sweet tooth and love chocolates, one of the top things to do in the city is to visit the Chocoversum which is a chocolate museum in the city. You can go on a 90-minute tour of the museum where you can learn more about the chocolates, and how they are made. Get a chance to enjoy a chocolate tasting from all around the world.

Alster Lakes
One of the top tourist places in Hamburg, Alster Lakes consists of both inner lake and outer lakes also called Binnenalster and Aussenalster. These lakes are one of the most beautiful scenic parts of the city which were created during the 12th century when the Alster river was dammed. The lakes are lined with the stunning Elbe river with the help of canals and waterfront promenades.
Reeperbahn

If you are looking to enjoy great nightlife, head over to the most popular street in the city in the heart of St. Pauli which offers everything for everyone to love. Located along the Elbe river, the iconic street is one of the most popular destinations for partying and exploring the art and culture of the city. It is also said that some of the most popular people in pop culture such as the Beatles, the Jets, and also the Hurricanes rose to fame after starting their work on the Reeperbahn.

Ohlsdorf Cemetery

Ohlsdorf Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Europe and is spread across 400 hectares. The largest green space in the city, the Ohlsdorf Cemetery serves as a burial place, a cultural monument, and a nature area. You can witness over 450 species of deciduous trees and conifers along with many ponds and brooks.

Stadtpark

Visit the third largest park in the city which is spread across 1.5 million sq meters. You can visit the recreational area which becomes an open-air pool in the summers where you can indulge in a lot of activities such as cycling, picnicking and rowing boats.

U-Boat Museum Hamburg

One of the top tourist places in Hamburg, U-434 Submarine is a fully operational submarine located in Hamburg's Harbour. This soviet built submarine is from the 1970s and has undergone many stealthy underwater missions. The submarine is currently serving as a museum that is dedicated to the wars and the life of its people.

Museum For Hamburg History

Opened in 1922, the Museum For Hamburg History is one of the most fascinating places where you can discover 1200 years of history. The museum was constructed on the location of the Henricus Bastion, part of the fortifications which was erected by Dutchman Jan van Valckenborgh between 1616 and 1625.

Hamburg Dungeon

One of the top tourist places in Hamburg, the Hamburg Dungeon is a museum that depicts the dark side of the city over the last 600 years. Go on a 90-minute tour to experience many periods of the city's life such as the great fire, floods, and the torture methods for the Jews at this interesting museum.

More Hamburg Activities

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Hamburg Things To Do FAQs

What are the best things to do in Hamburg?

  1. Take a trip to Miniatur Wunderland: Visit Miniatur Wunderland and experience a mini world in itself. You can hop on a model train and explore miniature versions of different regions of the world here. The most fascinating place you can explore here is the fully functional airport, where you can take off and land in miniature aeroplanes. You could easily spend half a day here exploring everything this place has to offer.

    Location:  Kehrwieder 2/Block D, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 15 € - 22 €
    Timings: 9.30 AM to 6 PM

  2. Admire the Elbphilharmonie: Admire the Elbphilharmonie's grandeur while witnessing one of its larger-than-life musical performances. You can enjoy the magnificent views of the docks and Hamburg City through this glass building, which is surrounded by water on three sides. Come here with your loved ones and witness some world-class artists on display, or just ride an escalator that takes you around in an icy white tunnel.

    Location: Platz d. Deutschen Einheit 4, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 15 € - 30 €
    Timings: 9 AM to 11.30 PM

  3. Explore the Alter ElbTunnel on foot: Exploring the Alter ElbTunnel is one of the must-do Hamburg activities. You can take a long walk and explore a really well-lit tube under the Elbe River. It's a free tunnel where you can get to the bottom by taking one of six large lifts on either side. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city by climbing up on one of the river tunnel's viewing decks.

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

  4. Visit Hauptkirche St. Michaelis: You should definitely visit St. Michael's Church for its famous piece of architecture and to learn about one of the most important Gothic churches in northern Germany. Don’t miss the stunning 360-degree view of Hamburg from the tower of this church. It is bright and well-kept, and a great place where you can relax with a drink in the late afternoon.

    Location: Engl. Planke 1, 20459 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 5 € - 8 €
    Timing: 10 Am to 5.30 PM

  5. Discover stunning works of Art Hamburger Kunsthalle: On your list of things to do in Hamburg, come discover the Art Hamburger Kunsthalle for its splendid beauty. You can experience the stunning gallery here, packed with art pieces of legends like Edouard Manet and Hanz Makart that will make your eyes drool. Take a stroll while appreciating the geometrical patterns on the ceiling that give it the look of a cube. When you're tired, stop by the Cafe Liebermann for a coffee with a view of the lake.

    Location: Glockengießerwall 5, 20095 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 8 € - 15 €
    Timing: 10 AM to 6 PM

  6. Visit the Town Hall: Among the top of your what to do in Hamburg list, add this beautiful architecture called Town Hall. Wander down the lakefront street to the hall and a large square in front, with some street vendors, churches, and other retail areas nearby. You’ll be mesmerised by the striking centrepiece of the courtyard that draws your attention as soon as you step inside. It’s a very pleasant spot to hang around, especially at night when it shines in its full glory.

    Location: Rathausmarkt 1, 20095 Hamburg, Germany
    Timings: 8 AM to 8 PM

  7. Experience the majestic wildlife of Tierpark Hagenbeck: The top things to do in Hamburg include visiting Tierpark Hagenbeck, one of the best zoos in the world. The artificial landscapes are so well done that you won’t think the animals aren’t in their natural habitat. You will be amazed by the aquarium, which has crocodiles, exotic fish, and a large number of unique species that you won't find in many other zoos. Come down here with your kids and be a part of this magical experience.

    Location: Lokstedter Grenzstraße 2, 22527 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 17 € - 22 €
    Timing: 9 AM to 4.30 PM

  8. Trip to Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe: Visiting the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe is a trip worth taking, where you can appreciate the incredible collections of furniture and musical instruments. The entire space is so beautiful and calming that you'll feel at ease and at peace during your whole tour. Have lunch at some classic cafes nearby, or just sit on the stairwell and watch the world go by.

    Location: Steintorpl., 20099 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 8 € - 12 €
    Timing: 10 AM to 6 PM

  9. Pay respect at St Nikolai Memorial: Paying respect at St. Nikolai is one of the most popular things to do in Hamburg. You’ll be stunned to see the building, as it has been left exactly as it was destroyed during World War II. Once inside the church, you can take a glass elevator up to the viewing platform and enjoy the magnificent views of the Altstadt lake and Hamburg’s city centre.

    Location: Willy-Brandt-Straße 60, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 5 € - 15 €
    Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM

  10. Sail through Alster Lake: In the centre of Hamburg, take a sail on Alster Lake and enjoy the scenery from Alstadt and the rest of the city. You can rent boats or go on a cruise and ride around the tranquil waters with your loved ones. If desired, you can also take a walk around the lake with great views and spend quality time at the bars and restaurants on the deck itself.

    Location: Hamburg, Germany

  11. Discover the U-Boot Museum: Well, talking about Hamburg activities, you can discover this intriguing U-Boot Museum, which is actually a Russian submarine from the 1970s. Once you enter this museum, you will be able to operate and experience all the parts of the submarine that are still functional, including the control room. You have to bend down and stroll the narrow sides to fully experience this epic landmark of Hamburg city.

    Location: St. Pauli Fischmarkt 10, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 6 € - 9 €
    Timing: 9 AM to 8 PM

  12. Make a trip to the Hamburg History Museum: Making a trip to the Hamburg History Museum is one of the most fascinating Hamburg activities that you can experience. It takes you on a journey through the city's history and culture. The most lovely thing about this place is that you can have an immersive experience that transports you back in time with life-size set-ups of old pubs, shops, and other rooms. The audio guide also adds a lot to your experience because it tells you a lot of interesting things about that time.

    Location: Holstenwall 24, 20355 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 9 € - 15 €
    Timing: 10 Am to 6 PM

  13. Indulge in Adult-Only Tour Through St. Pauli: You can let yourself go wild and free while exploring St. Pauli’s exotic nightlife experiences. Wander off in the red light district or visit the theatres and bars with live music and cosy vibes—a happening evening is guaranteed. Get together with your pals and have a blast at one of the many sports bars in the area as you watch the game and chug some cold beer. Cheers!

    Location: Reeperbahn, Hamburg, Germany

  14. Take a Boat Cruise around the Port of Hamburg: The harbour cruises from Port of Hamburg are unmissable; you can have the taste of magnificent architecture of the docks and mesmerising views of Elbphilharmonie. You can ride on different sizes of boats depending on the number of people. The hour-long cruise will feel like it should have lasted a lifetime. Choose a fine evening, bring your kids, and admire the city of Hamburg in all its beauty.

    Location: Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 12 € - 15 €
    Timing: 7 AM to 9 PM

  15. Discover Panik City: Fun things to do in Hamburg should definitely include discovering Panik City. You can have a one-of-a-kind multimedia experience that tells the story of Udo Lindenberg, one of the most prolific performers in Germany. It’s more of a show than a museum, where you can get lost in the trance and ecstasy of Udo’s work. Get to learn so much about recent German history through this highly interactive 90-minute virtual tour while playing music.

    Location: Spielbudenplatz 21-22 im Klubhaus, Spielbudenpl. 21-22, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
    Price: 20 € -30 €
    Timing: 12 PM to 3 PM

What are the best romantic things to do in Hamburg?

  1. Cease your love at the Love Lock Bridge: Of the many romantic things to do in Hamburg, you can't miss this. Along with your partner, put a lock on the bridge and throw the key in the Elbe River, praying for everlasting love.

  2. Get some drinks at Skyline Bar 20up: Call ahead and book a table up against the glass walls of the Skyline Bar. You can also enjoy the jazz nights on the weekend with your significant other.

  3. Take a stroll in Planten un Blomen park: Escape the busy streets of Hamburg and take an evening walk with the love of your life here. The huge array of flowers and a well-manicured Japanese garden will make you feel alive.

  4. Enjoy an exotic dip in Holthusenbad: Keep your love eternal with a swim with your partner at this beautiful swimming pool. A well-candle-lit sauna will also add to your romantic treat.

What are the famous things to do in Hamburg with the kids?

  1. Tasting the chocolates at Chocoversum: Your kids will love this yummy chocolate tasting tour. This 1.5-hour "sugar high" journey will keep them engrossed as well as educate them about the whole chocolate making process.

  2. Having a fun time at Park Fiction: It is one of the most fun Hamburg activities your little ones will enjoy, while you can finally relax after a long, tiring day. Kids will love the swing and the fake palm trees.

  3. Cruising the escalators of Elbphilharmonie: Your kids will be amazed while riding Europe's longest escalator, which seems to go on forever. The astonishing views from the gallery above will only add to their excitement.

  4. Playing on the Elbstrand Beach: The 200-metre stretch of sand will keep your kids engrossed in playing along the beach line. You can also sit on the shore and admire the beautiful sunset, as the big waves hit the coast line.

What are the best things to do in Hamburg at night?

  1. Taking a walking tour of Red Light District and Reeperbahn: Catching a guided tour around the Red Light District is a great way to learn about the area's colourful past. Take in the sights and sounds of the Reeperbahn district, where you can drink, and party.

  2. Listening to interesting stories with local beers: While enjoying local beers and plenty of laughs, you can discuss everything from what to do in Hamburg to what you should do in different pubs and sports bars in Hamburg. On your night walks on the streets of Reeperbahn, you can hang out with the locals and listen to various crazy tales of drunken parties and tourist interactions.

  3. Having an extraordinary meal at Herzblut: Kick off the evening in style as you enjoy the best features of this high-end eatery, bar, and nightclub. You can satisfy your craving for ethnic cuisine like Konigsberger klopse and Doner kebab while marvelling at the spotless decor designed by Jordan Mozer.

What is Hamburg famous for?

Hamburg is known not only for its many bridges and canals, but also for its notorious nightlife experiences and phenomenal architecture. When in doubt about what to do in Hamburg, visit its world-famous seafood markets, its beautiful buildings, its soothing cruise rides, and especially the famous Elb Philharmonic.

What is the best time to visit Hamburg?

The time between May and September is the best to go to Hamburg since the climate is more agreeable. Also, it’s less crowded this time around, allowing you to easily roam around this beautiful city. It is highly suggested that you spend at least three to four days taking in the sights and sounds of Hamburg.

How to reach Hamburg?

  • By Bus: Every 30 minutes, a bus leaves Berlin. The Hauptbahnhof (Hamburg's Main Train Station) is close to the Zentraler Busbahnhof (ZOB), the city's primary bus terminal (Hauptbahnhof). There are a number of buses that leave from the Wandsbek bus station, providing transportation between Lubeck and Hamburg's sights.

  • By Train: From the nearby airport, you can take a quick rail ride into the centre of Hamburg. The airport's train station is near the terminals and easy to get to by walking or taking an elevator. The trip to the heart of the city takes around 25 minutes, and trains depart every 10 minutes.

  • By Plane: It's easy to get to Hamburg by plane because the airport has so many routes (over 120, including long-haul options to Dubai, Newark, and Tehran). Terminal 2 is utilised by Lufthansa and other Star Alliance partners, whereas Terminal 1 is used by other airlines, including but not limited to Oneworld and SkyTeam alliance member airlines. The airport also serves as a hub for Germanwings, Condor, and easyJet. There is also the Lubeck airport in the neighbouring town of Lubeck, that provides air access to Hamburg.

Is two days in Hamburg enough?

Yes, two days in Hamburg are enough. Day one can be spent relaxing on a boat, partying in St. Pauli, checking out Elbphilharmonie, or taking a harbour cruise on Elbe Lake. Stroll through Oldn Elbe Tunnel and visit St. Michael's Church on your final day. Once you've finished at the Miniatur Wunderland, head to the Kunsthalle.

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