Maritime Charm: Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Vibrant Hamburg
Last updated March 14, 2024
The Elbphilharmonie is the most iconic building in Hamburg.
Hamburg is a big city in northern Germany, on the River Elbe. It's the second-largest city in Germany, after Berlin, with over 1.9 million people. Hamburg is famous for its maritime past and it has one of the biggest ports in Europe. The city is also well-known for its canals and bridges, which have given it the nickname "Venice of the North”.
From my experience, whenever I've talked about Hamburg, most Germans I've spoken with have said it's one of their favorite cities! And after many visits, I can see why. Hamburg offers big-city charm yet remains manageable with good quality of life and efficient public transportation system (German style!). And with plenty of green spaces like the expansive Stadtpark and the Alster lakes, as well as vibrant nightlife, Hamburg provides the perfect balance for relaxation and exploration.
For tourists, Hamburg has many great attractions scattered throughout the city, making it a perfect destination for discovery. From its rich maritime heritage to the world's largest model railway, Hamburg offers a variety of sites and activities that cater to all types of travelers, from couples to families. I have visited Hamburg many times to see my family, and along the way, I've learned a few good things about this city. So, I'd love to share some must-see spots for your upcoming trip to Hamburg. So, you too can have unforgettable experiences in this charming maritime city!
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The Speicherstadt
Miniatur Wunderland
Elbphilharmonie
Landungsbrücken
St. Michaelis Church
Hamburg Rathaus
Mönckebergstraße
Bleichenfleet
Planten un Blomen
Hamburg city centre with Inner Alster Lake is the city’s highlight and a great spot to relax.
Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Hamburg
1. The Speicherstadt
First things first, let's explore the maritime charm that the city has to offer. The Speicherstadt in Hamburg, the world's biggest warehouse district with buildings propped up on wooden piles, was constructed from 1883 to 1927. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, honored in 2015 for its historical significance in global maritime trade, showcases a blend of Neo-Gothic and modernist architecture. The tall, narrow buildings with pointed roofs and arched windows are connected by a network of canals and bridges.
The Speicherstadt was originally used to store a variety of goods, including coffee, tea, spices, and textiles. Today, it is home to a variety of businesses, including museums, restaurants, and shops. As such, The Speicherstadt has become a popular tourist destination, with over 5 million visitors each year. Within The Speicherstadt, there are many attractions inside such as the following.
Miniatur Wunderland: The world's largest model railway, with over 1,500 trains and 30,000 buildings.
Hamburg Dungeon: An interactive experience that tells the dark history of Hamburg.
Speicherstadtmuseum: A museum that tells the history of the Speicherstadt.
Zollmuseum: A museum that tells the history of customs in Hamburg.
Among the above, Miniatur Wunderland is my favorite. Keep reading to see why.
Note that Speicherstadt is located within the HafenCity quarter. HafenCity is a massive urban development project since 2008. This impressive harbor district was built around the Speicherstadt. The district has modern office buildings, residential areas, shops, and even the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists.
Start your exploration with Speicherstadt to delve into its many tourist attractions. Then, spend some time wandering HafenCity to experience the local vibe. Both areas also offer a variety of restaurants if you get hungry.
The Speicherstadt isn't built directly on land, but rather rests on a foundation of thousands of oak poles driven deep into the muddy riverbed.
2. Miniatur Wunderland
Miniatur Wunderland is the largest model railway in the world. Whether you have a kid in you or not, Miniatur Wunderland is for everyone. And I guarantee that you will have a blast!
Miniatur Wunderland holds the Guinness World Record for its vast model train layout. It spans over 15,000 meters of tracks weaving through meticulously crafted miniature settings. Beyond trains, this attraction showcases tiny replicas of real-world places such as Hamburg, the Alps, Scandinavia, and the USA. Visitors can also enjoy whimsical scenes and historical dioramas.
What sets Miniatur Wunderland apart is its interactive components. Guests can press buttons to animate mini skiers or control mini airport vehicles. The attention to detail is remarkable, with miniature figures and vehicles adding life to the landscapes. Moreover, the attraction keeps evolving with new sections regularly introduced, ensuring a fresh experience for repeat visitors.
The experience here is unreal! I recommend allocating at least 3 hours for your visit because the attraction is big with many sections and miniature cities. Afterward, relax and savor a cup of joe at the nearby Speicherstadt Coffee Roastery.
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3. Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie or known as Elphi by the locals is the most unique building in Hamburg. This stunning piece of architecture was designed by Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron. The architectures drew the inspiration from the maritime character of Hamburg, the overall silhouette, with its curved glass tower on top of the brick base, is reminiscent of a sailboat with billowing sails navigating the Elbe River.
This concert hall is made up of two parts: a base that looks like a brick warehouse and a glass tower that sits on top. This amazing building is a home to two concert halls:
The Großer Saal (Grand Hall) is one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world, and it hosts a wide range of classical, jazz, and world music concerts.
The Kleiner Saal (Small Hall) is more intimate and is used for smaller concerts and events.
The atmosphere inside the Großer Saal, (Grand Hall), during Dionne Warwick's concert.
The Elbphilharmonie is a place where people come to relax, enjoy the music, and take in the view which is one of the best viewpoints in Hamburg. To experience the best view, go to the Plaza which is open to the public. From there, you can see 360° view of the beautify city skyline, the port and the River Elbe. This spot attracts up 17,000 visitors daily so be sure to book ticket online in advance. It is open daily from 10:00 to 24:00 hrs.
Whether you're a music lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the Elbphilharmonie is a must-visit in Hamburg!
4. Landungsbrücken
Landungsbrücken is part of the Port of Hamburg, Germany's biggest seaport and one of Europe's largest. It's a great starting point for exploring the port, offering ferry rides to destinations like the island of Helgoland and scenic harbor cruises with views of container ships, historical landmarks, and the Hamburg skyline.
Landungsbrücken is a 700-meter-long pontoon facility located in the St. Pauli district of Hamburg, between the lower harbor area and the Fischmarkt (Fish Market), on the banks of the Elbe river. The Landungsbrücken today form a central transportation hub, with S-Bahn, U-Bahn and ferry stations. Many people come here to board cruises or ferries. For my sister and me, it was a perfect place to relax and enjoy some people-watching on a weekend.
The most famous attraction nearby is the Old Elbe Tunnel, where pedestrians and cyclists can explore the river and port from a unique perspective. Another nearby landmark is the Pegelturm (Water Level Tower), a great spot for photos as it displays both the time and the current water level of the River Elbe.
Tip: If you're feeling hungry while strolling through Landungsbrücken, try a local fast-casual seafood spot called Nordsee.
Nordsee is a German chain specializing in fresh seafood. They offer a variety of dishes, from fried fish to German-style fish sandwiches. With its quick and casual service, it's a perfect choice for a bite to eat here. Plus, Nordsee's prices are reasonable. It's a popular chain throughout Germany, boasting over 370 locations nationwide and in some other European countries.
If you want to truly experience the local fish market vibe, consider Fish Market (Fischmarkt). It is a short walk from St. Pauli Landungsbrücken. The market offers fresh seafood options, local produce, and a lively atmosphere on Sundays. It’s vibrant, fun and one of a kind!
A nice lunch at Nordsee before more adventure in the afternoon.
5. St. Michaelis Church
This beautiful baroque-style church is a well-known landmark that provides panoramic city views from its tower. St. Michaelis Church, one of the five Lutheran main churches in Hamburg. Destroyed by fire twice in the 17th century, fortunately the current iteration was completed in the early 20th century.
Standing at a height of 132 meters (433 ft), the church with its prominent clock tower dominates the Hamburg skyline and was once used as a navigational aid for ships on the Elbe River. Climb the 483 steps or take the elevator to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of Hamburg.
Note: Here is a list of all five Lutheran main churches in Hamburg.
St. Michaelis Church - This is the most famous church on the list and a prominent landmark in Hamburg.
St. Catherine's Church - Located near the harbor, this church has a rich history dating back to the 13th century.
St. Mary's Cathedral - The cathedral is the oldest of the five main churches, with parts dating back to the 13th century.
St. Trinity Church Altona - This Baroque church is located in the Altona district of Hamburg.
St. Jacobi Church - Located in the city center, this church is famous for its Arp Schnitger organ, the largest preserved Baroque organ in northern Europe.
6. Hamburg Rathaus
Hamburg Rathaus, a short walk from the Inner Alster Lake and Hamburg's shopping center, is a must-see landmark in the Altstadt district. Admired for its impressive architecture, it's one of the city's most iconic buildings.
This is the first site I visited during my trip. It was great because Hamburg Townhall has a stunning Neo-Renaissance exterior with intricate details, sculptures, and a towering clock tower, reflecting the architectural grandeur of the late 19th century. While entry isn't always guaranteed due to occasional official functions, guided tours offer a glimpse into the opulent interiors adorned with marble, frescoes, and chandeliers.
The Rathaus serves as the seat of the Hamburg government, housing both the Senate and the Parliament. Be sure to be respectful during your visit.
Don't forget to check out Alsterhaus, a short walk from Hamburg Rathaus. This upscale department store focuses on luxury and high-end brands.
7. Mönckebergstraße
While Europa Passage holds the title of Hamburg's largest shopping mall, for an immersive and enjoyable shopping experience, Mönckebergstraße is the place to be!
Why? Well it’s because Mönckebergstraße is a long pedestrianized street, an outdoor shopping area, lined with shops, department stores, cafes, and restaurants. This street stretches for about 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) in the city center, starting from Hamburg Rathaus and ending near Jungfernstieg. I love walking along this street, soaking up the vibe. You can also enjoy people-watching, hop from one shop to another.
Tip: If you get hungry here, I'd recommend stopping at the famous food stall Mö Grill and trying their currywurst.
If you're not familiar with it, currywurst is a German fast food dish featuring a sausage served with a delicious curried ketchup sauce. Known for its unique flavor profile, imagine curry powder blended with ketchup! The savory sausage surprisingly pairs well with the sweet and tangy curry ketchup. So, give it a try – this dish is an iconic German bite.
Currywurst and pork sausage at Mö Grill.
8. Bleichenfleet
For a combined experience of history and upscale shopping, visit Bleichenfleet. A historic waterfront district with a unique character, Bleichenfleet is actually a canal—a man-made waterway originally used for transporting goods. Today, this beautiful canal adds a charming touch to the area, offering picturesque water views.
Lining the canal are beautiful brick buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These structures were originally warehouses and workshops. There are many upscale shops selling high-end fashion, jewelry, and luxury goods.
This is a great spot to stroll or sit down for a nice afternoon pick-me-up coffee and snack.
How to get here
A pretty backdrop at Bleichenfleet
9. Planten un Blomen
As mentioned earlier, Hamburg has a generous amount of green space. My personal favorite is Planten un Blomen, a sprawling park right in the city center. Featuring stunning gardens, fountains, and a large lake, it's no wonder why locals flock here for a welcome escape from the urban buzz.
Established in 1930, this park spans over 47 hectares (116 acres), offering a great escape from the bustling city center. What makes this park special is also its diverse range of gardens such as The Rosengarten (Rose Garden), a fragrant delight with over 300 varieties of roses in bloom during summer and Old Botanical Garden, showcasing a variety of plant species from around the world.
The park also occasionally hosts open-air theater and music performances. If you're visiting in the evening, be sure to catch the stunning Waterlight concerts. From May to September, these free shows featuring colorful water displays synchronized with music happen nightly at 10 p.m. It's a fantastic addition to your Hamburg stay!
10. Reeperbahn
Last but not least, let's explore Hamburg's "naughty side", the Reeperbahn. This vibrant street is famous for its nightlife and adult entertainment. Located in the St. Pauli district, a hub for nighttime activities, the Reeperbahn is often referred to as "the most sinful mile." In the past, the street used to be a place where ropes were made. Today, you'll find a variety of establishments along Reeperbahn, including bars, nightclubs, strip clubs, brothels, and similar businesses. In my opinion, Reeperbahn has a different feel to Red Light District in Amsterdam. Here, it’s much more discreet.
While the area can be seedy at night, it's not always off-limits to families. During the day, it offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, with some interesting museums and harbor tours available. But at night, where possible, stick to the main streets and be aware of your surroundings and belonging.
Fun fact: Prostitution was officially legalized under the Prostitution Act of 2002. This means sex workers are protected by law and have access to health checks and social security benefits.Another fun fact, The Davidwache police station is one of the oldest and most famous in Germany, established in 1840! It's even been featured in many German crime films and television shows, further solidifying its association with the Reeperbahn.
How to get here
Schmidts Tivoli is one of the most beautiful theatre halls in Hamburg. A famous spot for theater fans, it's located right in the heart of the Reeperbahn.
Situated right in the heart of Hamburg's infamous red-light district, the Davidwache stands as a symbol of law and order amidst the area's vibrant nightlife.
Bonus Tip: Don’t miss eating these!
1. Schnitzel at the Schweinske
I’d like to recommend this affordable, delicious breakfast and schnitzel spot called the Schweinske. As a lover of deep-fried and crunchy food, I find this iconic German dish utterly irresistible. For those unfamiliar, Schnitzel is a thin, breaded, and fried cutlet of meat. In Germany, pork is the more common choice compared to veal.
And this place has been making this dish for 40 years. They have devoted to making delicious home-style food that brings joy. The menu includes a wide variety of dishes, from creative schnitzels to grilled options, tasty baked potatoes, colorful salads, juicy burgers, and more. I love that its schnitzels all come with french fries and a side of coleslaw or salad. This is a perfect for family in my opinion. So, if you don’t know where to try schnitzel in Hamburg, try this place. They have many locations throughout the city.
2. Eat Schweinshaxe (Pork knuckle ) in German Beer Garden for the experience
Schweinshaxe is a classic dish, particularly popular in the southern region of Bavaria. And you can find this dish at festive events like Oktoberfest. The ham hock is typically prepped by marinating it in a mixture of herbs and spices, which can include bay leaves, peppercorns, juniper berries, and sometimes even beer. The skin is often crisped up towards the end of cooking, resulting in a delightful contrast of textures. Schweinshaxe is usually served whole, so make sure you are not eating this alone!
If you don’t know where is the good place to get Schweinshaxe in Hamburg, i’d like to suggest Hofbräu Wirtshaus. Actually, Hofbräu Wirtshaus is a restaurant chain serving Bavarian-style food and beer. originated in Munich. The original Hofbräuhaus is a popular beer hall among tourists in Munich given its lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian music, and of course beer!
The Berlin location is the largest, with seating for up to 4,000 guests. The restaurant expanded the locations to Hamburg (Speersort and Esplanade) I think Hofbräu Wirtshaus is a great place to experience Bavarian culture without having to travel to Munich! And its Schweinshaxe is delicious! So don’t forget to try.
Fun fact: Did you know Germans enjoy raw pork dishes like mett?
If you're open to trying new things, then mett could be a unique culinary experience! Northern Germany, including cities like Hamburg, has a stronger tradition of consuming raw pork dishes like mett. Here, it's a more common breakfast or snack option.
Mett is seasoned ground pork with salt and pepper. Sometimes, additional spices like caraway seeds or paprika may be included. It's typically served cold on halved bread rolls, like an open-faced sandwich.Popular toppings for mett include onions, either raw or fried. Some people might add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
It's important to note that regulations and inspections in Germany are highly regulated, making consuming raw pork generally safer than in most countries. So, if you're feeling adventurous, give mett a try!
Hamburg is a city filled with exciting discoveries from family fun activities to naughty nightlife. Hamburg offers a great balance of city life and a chill vibe with various shops and restaurants. And learning about the city's maritime history is undeniably interesting. Overall, the city is great and I think you’ll love it!
I hope you find my blog about Hamburg to be useful. If you want to explore beyond Hamburg, don’t forget to read my blog about small towns near Hamburg here.
My travel motto is: you can't experience everything on just one trip. So, prioritize what interests you most and don't feel pressured to do it all. The most important thing is to have fun with your journey and treasure every experience.
Until we meet again, wishing you a great day and stay tuned for more blogs to come.
