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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Hamburg: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Hamburg
- Hamburg, after Berlin, is Germany's second-largest city, situated at the mouth of the Elbe's long funnel-shaped estuary.
- The Port of Hamburg, the city's most famous harbour area, is the city's most well-known feature.
- Hamburg has grown into a major cultural and commercial centre in Europe and a popular tourist destination and transportation hub.
- The narrow, curving Deichstrasse, the only part of old Hamburg to survive centuries of fires and wars, gives a sense of the city's past.
- The street provides a glimpse into the city's Hansa past, built long before the 19th-century warehouses and 21st-century harborside complexes.
- The Hanseatic League was a mediaeval association of independent port cities and merchants along the Baltic and North Atlantic.
- Its unique architecture can be found all over Baltic Germany.
- Deichstrasse leads directly to a bridge that spans one of the city's many canals.
- Massive brick warehouses, built after the Hansa's power faded a few centuries ago, form a canyon along the canal's sides.
- A second footbridge leads into Hafencity, the city's hottest new neighbourhood, where old and new collide in a striking mix of 19th-century neo-Hansa brick and contemporary steel-and-glass apartments with balconies jutting out over inviting cafés and vintage sailing vessels.
- This port area contains many of Hamburg's most exciting attractions.
- International Airport: Hamburg Airport (HAM)
- Population: 1,681,000
- Currency: the euro
- Time: UTC/GMT +1 hour
- Driving side: Right
- Main Electricity: 230 V
- Official Language: German
- Religion: Christian
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Hamburg
- Hamburg's Miniatur Wunderland is more than just a toy train layout, despite being billed as the world's largest model railway.
- Hamburg's revitalised port crown jewel is the imposing Elbphilharmonie (Elbe Philharmonic Hall), affectionately referred to as "Elphi" by locals.
- Hamburger Kunsthalle – literally translated as "Hamburg Art Hall" is one of Germany's top art galleries, occupying three separate but interconnected buildings on the Glockengießerwall.
- The Rathaus, or City Hall, is located in the heart of Hamburg's Rathausmarkt.
- St. Michael's (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis) is the most famous of Hamburg's many churches, built in the Baroque style between 1750 and 1762. It is one of the city's most important landmarks.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Hamburg
- Hamburg is most pleasant between May and September when temperatures reach 70 degrees.
- Although hotel prices can be a little higher and there might be more people around, the lovely weather makes up for the increased costs.
- A continental climate with high annual rainfall probabilities characterises Hamburg.
- Summers are warm and rainy, and winters are chilly and snowy.
- The hottest month is July, while January is the coldest.
- It is advised to visit Hamburg in the late spring or early fall when the weather is nicer and friendlier.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Hamburg
The Port of Hamburg & Speicherstadt
- The Hamburger Hafen, also known as "HafenCity," is the gateway to Germany, encompassing 100 square kilometres of the tidal harbour.
- Many of the city's most popular tourist attractions are located here, and it's also bustling with locals on summer evenings and weekends.
- This neighbourhood is all about leafy streets, graffiti murals, and hip cafes, away from the more radical left of der Schanze, as it's known locally.
- It was built between 1883 and 1927 and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
- The Köhlbrandbrücke, a 3.9-kilometre bridge that spans the harbour, is another landmark of the Hamburg Port.
- The peninsula is bordered by the Traditionsschiffhafen/Sandtorhafen harbour, a great place to see vintage tall ships at their docks.
- If you have the time, a boat tour of the Hamburg Port departs from Landungsbrücken.
The International Maritime Museum
- The International Maritime Museum is a fantastic place to learn about Hamburg's rich maritime history and everything related to the sea.
- The fascinating exhibits at the museum span over 3,000 years of human interaction with water. In the HafenCity area, they are located in the city's oldest warehouse, a massive red-brick heritage building.
- The oldest artefact on display is a dugout boat recovered from the Elbe, which was hollowed out of a tree trunk thousands of years ago.
- Models depict the evolution of shipping from Phoenician galleys to Viking longships to the Golden Age of Discovery caravels.
- The latest in marine research is featured on an entire floor (ten in total), with films taken by diving robots and recordings of underwater sounds.
- Maritime art can be found in another gallery.
- A fantastic ship simulator, which allows you to try your hand at steering a container ship, is the newest addition.
- There are several tours and workshops to choose from and a fantastic little restaurant called "Catch of the Day."
The Alster Lakes
- The Inner Alster and Outer Alster, two artificial lakes connected to the rivers Alster and Elbe, are the focal points of Hamburg's inner-city area.
- Hamburg's most picturesque city squares and its famous pedestrian area the passages can all be found here.
- Two of the best routes are the elegant Jungfernstieg, cafés and landing stages for tour boats, and the Ballindamm, which has the city's largest shopping centre.
- In addition to sailing and kayaking in the summer and ice skating in the winter, the lakes are surrounded by many beautiful parks and gardens.
- Cycling is also popular in the area.
- The Pöseldorf district is also popular, with its galleries, boutiques, cafés, and the "fleetes," or canals, which connect the lakes to the Elbe.
- If you visit in the late summer, don't miss the annual Alstervergnügen, a street fair with great entertainment, including numerous concerts, held around the lakes.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Hamburg Off the Beaten Track
Altona
- Altona's smaller eponymous quarters, Altona-Altstadt and Altona Nord are all about the history and green spaces bordering St Pauli to the west.
- Once a separate town, Altona is now a part of Hamburg and is located just outside the city centre.
- There's so much to see here that you can get a sense of what Hamburg offers.
St Pauli
- The bustling quarter of St Pauli is nestled between Altona and Hamburg-central Neustadt's district.
- The Reeperbahn, Europe's longest stretch of bars, clubs, and nightlife venues, is located in this area of Hamburg.
- St Pauli is also home to many cultural events, parks, and museums.
- Hamburg is the best place to stay if you don't want to be in the city centre.
Sternschanze
- This small section of Hamburg, also known as the Schanzenviertel, packs a powerful punch.
- The Rote Flora, which was occupied by squatters in 1989, is part of this alternative and quirky area, full of vibrant culture.
- This neighbourhood is all about leafy streets, graffiti murals, and hip cafes, away from the more radical left of der Schanze, as it's known locally.
- Accommodation is reasonably priced, making it another excellent choice for budget travellers.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Hamburg Culture and Traditions
- Hamburg, a port city in northern Germany, has a distinct personality apart from other German cities.
- Set aside your preconceived notions about Germany and Germans and learn more about the habits and quirks that only those who have lived in Hamburg can genuinely appreciate.
- German culture is distinguished by its people, language, and traditions.
- Germania is the Latin name, l'Allemagne is the French name, and Almanya is the Turkish name.
- Germany's capital is Berlin, but Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne are also important cities.
- The people, language, and traditions of Germany define the culture.
- The people, language, and traditions of Germany distinguish the culture.
- Germany's capital is Berlin, but Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne are also important cities.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Hamburg: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Fischbrötchen
#Food
- The humble fish roll is a simple snack that appeals to many people.
- Along with onions, pickles, and remoulade sauce, pickled herring or soused herring are commonly used in the sandwich.
- Options include fried fish or fish patties, North Sea shrimp, or crabmeat.
- It's best to eat fischbrötchen with the wind in your face, whether from the Elbe or the North Sea.
Finkenwerder Scholle
#Food
- This traditional fish dish comes from a Hamburg neighbourhood that was once a fishing village.
- North Sea plaice is baked or pan-fried with bacon, onions, and shrimp.
- Plaice is a popular fish in Northern Germany, and it used to be the main ingredient in fish and chips.
- Plaice has become scarce on several seas in recent years, but a stroll through Finkenwerder's streets reveals many restaurants that expertly prepare this delectable fish dish.
Labskaus
#Food
- Look no further than labskaus to sample traditional sailor and seamen fare.
- Corned beef, mashed potatoes, and onions are the main ingredients, with pickled beets, pickled gherkin, herring, and a fried egg as side dishes.
- This dish is served throughout Scandinavia and Liverpool, England, known as 'scouse.'
- The labskaus isn't the most photogenic dish, but give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you.
Alster Arcades
#Fashion
- The Alster Arcades, which run parallel to the city's numerous canals and bridges, are the best shopping street in Hamburg, with the exception that it does not feature streetwear but rather high-end and exquisite stores.
- You can browse the latest fashion items or swanky jewellery while walking under the stars and inhaling the aroma of delicious food from across the street.
- Small cafes and a few musicians line one side of the street, adding a Mediterranean flavour to one's shopping experience.
Neuer Wall
#Fashion
- Neuer Wall, a kilometre-long boulevard, is the most abundant place to spend your money.
- This European luxury shopping street has it all, from haute couture and fine jewellery to customised footwear and designer bags to catch your eye and win your heart.
- Armani, Jil Sander, Mulberry, Michael Kors, Prada, and Louis Vuitton are among the many brands found here.
- If you're looking for unique souvenirs, Brahmfeld & Gutruf, located in Neuer Wall, has some of the most stunning jewellery.
- Oh, and don't forget to stop by Café Engelchen across the street for a mid-morning caffeine fix.
Europa Passage
#Fashion
- Are you a shoe lover or someone who enjoys collecting the most acceptable jewellery from around the globe? Regardless of whether you are either, the Europe Passage is one of Hamburg's finest shopping malls and one that you must visit!
- This mall, located near the Binnen Lake in the Altstadt quarter between the Jungfernstieg and Mönckebergstraße streets, boasts the best Italian shoes and Spanish jewellery.
- It is an all-inclusive entertainment hub for travellers, with more than 100 stores under its roof.
- You can go to the top floor and relax while taking in the stunning views of the lake's fountains and small boats.
Europa Park
#Fun
- Europa Park is Germany's and Europe's largest park, located in Rust, north of Freiburg in the Black Forest.
- On the 200-acre grounds, twelve European countries are represented, with everything from architecture and culture to plants, trees, and flowers being faithfully replicated.
- Its "Eurosat" virtual journey takes you past meteor showers and falling stars.
Phantasialand
#Fun
- Phantasialand, located in Brühl, near Cologne, is Germany's second most visited theme park.
- Its "Space Center" will take you to the moon, while its "Temple of the Nighthawk" will take you on a virtual hawk ride through the night.
- Mexico, Old Berlin, and Chinatown are among the theme villages.
Legoland Deutschland
#Fun
- Legoland Deutschland is Germany's own Lego amusement park, located in Günzburg near Ulm.
- It is the fourth Legoland in the world to be built by a well-known Danish toy building block manufacturer.
- Neuschwanstein Castle, the Frankfurt skyline, and the Hamburg harbour, among other things, have been meticulously recreated using Legos.
- Kids inspired by them can use Legos to construct their skyscrapers, palace, etc.
- Unlike the other parks, even the jungles, fairytale kingdoms, and pirate coves are constructed entirely of Legos.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Hamburg: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- The Serengeti Park in Hodenhagen allows visitors to get close and personal with nature.
- Elephants, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, lions, tigers, and bears can roam freely in the park's 17 outdoor enclosures.
- Visitors can even make a vacation out of it by staying in one of the mobile lodges on the grounds.
- Serengeti Park has over 40 attractions and shows in addition to its animals.
- The park is about 50 kilometres north of Hanover, just off the A7 Autobahn.
- With over 4,000 birds representing 675 species, including the world record holders for smallest bird species, most robust bird of prey, and most dangerous bird species, this bird park promises "an experience that inspires."
- The park's shows, including Europe's largest avian show, which features up to 70 birds flying above visitors' heads, are not to be missed.
- The Weltvogelpark Walsrode celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2012, cementing its reputation as a long-time favourite in northern Germany.
- Tierpark Arche Warder is Europe's largest preserve for rare and endangered livestock breeds, so don't be fooled into thinking it's just another zoo.
- On the 40-hectare grounds, endangered and heritage livestock breeds are kept, which visitors can see in person in various park areas.
- Here, north of Neumünster, 1,200 animals representing 82 breeds of cattle, horses, donkeys, sheep, goats, pigs, and poultry can be seen almost directly on the A7 Autobahn.
- Thanks to its large enclosures and open spaces, this zoo feels more like a walk through the countryside than a typical zoo.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Hamburg Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- This well-known classical music festival, which features renowned local and international orchestras, performers, and conductors, takes place throughout the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein during the summer months.
- This summer festival highlights the ballet season, usually featuring a world premiere by the John Neumeier Ballet and a guest company.
- The opera house, Hamburgische Staatsoper, hosts the performances.
- In May, a festival brings jazz concerts to unique locations on and around the harbour, the docklands, and the Hafen-City.
- The shows are accessible by public ferry, and visitors can meet performers and orchestras.
- Stars and newcomers, local and international bands, perform world-class jazz at the festival.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Hamburg Holiday
Places similar to Hamburg to visit
Places similar to Hamburg to visit
Places similar to Hamburg to visit