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The 11 Best Day Trips From Hamburg, Germany (by Train!)

Created On: July 23, 2023   |   Updated: July 12, 2023   |   1 Comment

Looking to escape Hamburg for the day? Here are the best day trips from Hamburg by train. All are easy to reach and make for an awesome day out! 

Hamburg is one of the gems of northern Germany. And although you can live in Hamburg for years and still not see all that this beautiful port city has to offer, sometimes it’s nice to escape the hustle and bustle and see another area in the region.  

There are so many wonderful day trips out of Hamburg, and many of the best ones can be reached by train! I don’t own a car, so I’ve limited this list of Hamburg day trips to ones that are easily accessed with public transportation. 

And because you’re my favorite readers on the Internet, I’ve ordered this list of day trip ideas by travel time — you’re welcome! 

I’ve visited every Hamburg day trip destination shared in this post, so I can vouch for each and every one of them being awesome. Be sure to read my ultra detailed city guides linked within each section to make planning your day trip even easier! 

Table of Contents 

Click “show” to see the full table of contents for this post. You can jump around the post as desired by clicking on the individual sections listed below. 

Day Trips From Hamburg by Train

The maximum travel time for these Hamburg day trips is 2.5 hours. Any train trip longer than that makes for too exhausting of a day trip for me! 

I’ve listed the approximate travel time between Hamburg Central Station and the central train station of each day trip destination. The ICE and IC high-speed trains will always be the fastest options, but the RE regional trains are typically more budget-friendly. Choose whichever travel option is best for you. 

Travel time: 45 min (RE)

Handmade marzipan, a beautiful Old Town, great museums — and did I mention the marzipan? 

Lübeck is a history lover’s dream day trip destination. Believe it or not, this small city in northern Germany played a BIG role in shaping the politics and trade routes of the region. 

During the reign of King Frederick II, Lübeck became a free imperial city, created its own system of laws, and was self-governed. The “Laws of Lübeck” that the city used were adopted by over 100 cities in the area!

Some of the best things to do during your day trip from Hamburg to Lübeck include: 

• Visiting the St. Annen Museum (housed in a former priory)
• Touring the Behnhaus Drägerhaus Museum
• Window shopping in the Old Town

For even more recommendations, be sure to read my complete guide on what to do in Lübeck . 

Ludwigslust

Travel time: 50 mins (ICE) / 1 hr 30 mins (RE) 

Ludwigslust is a sleepy castle town southwest of Hamburg. There’s not a lot to do here, but if the weather is nice you can fill an entire day visiting the baroque castle, wandering around the castle park, and visiting the main church.

Note that Ludwigslust is famous for its papier-mâché decorations, called Ludwigslust Board. This special material was created as a substitute for stucco or wood. Ludwigslust Board can be found throughout the castle, and the cathedral also has a massive altar made out of this unique material! 

Travel time: 55 min (ICE or IC) / 1 hr 25 min (RE) 

Castle lovers have to visit Schwerin! Schwerin Castle is the crowning jewel of the city. It’s perched on an island within Lake Schwerin, and the views of the water from the castle gardens are spectacular. 

The top things to do in Schwerin in one day are: 

• Tour Schwerin Castle 
• Explore the castle gardens and park 
• Window shop in the Old Town
• Visit the Cathedral 

Personally, I think this is the best day trip from Hamburg , both because Schwerin has lots to offer in terms of history, architecture, and charm, and also because it’s less than an hour away if you take the ICE train! 

Travel time: 56 min (ICE) / 1 hr 9 min (RE) 

Bremen is yet another maritime city in northern Germany with a beautifully restored Old Town, Gothic cathedral, and more! Once upon a time, Bremen was one of the most important trading centers in Germany, and its port is still active to this day. 

Avid readers might recognize Bremen from the Brothers Gimm fairytale, “The Town Musicians of Bremen.” There’s actually a statue dedicated to the fairytale by the Town Hall and is a must-see site in the city! 

Other favorite things to do in Bremen include: 

• Exploring historic Böttcherstraße
• Touring the Renaissance Roselius House
• Visiting the Bremen Christmas markets (a favorite of mine in Germany!)  

Travel time: 1 hr 20 mins (RE)

The perfect beach day trip destination near Hamburg is Travemünde. It’s a popular seaside resort that’s just 40 minutes further from Lübeck. 

The white sand beach has always been clean on my visits, and the water chilly but refreshing (it is the Baltic Sea, after all!). 

Travemünde’s Old Town has lots of shops and restaurants, as well as a sweet little port that makes for a great photo. It’s easy to see why Germans have loved this Baltic Sea getaway since 1802! 

Tip: You must pay a small fee to use the beach at Travemünde. There are machines along the boardwalk that spit out a ticket after you’ve paid the fee. People actually do come around to check your ticket, so don’t forget to buy one! 

Travel time: 1 hr 20 mins (ICE) 

Hannover is a university city in northern Germany that goes largely unnoticed by tourists. The Old Town area is lovely, although the farther you are from the city center, the more industrial it gets. 

During your day trip to Hannover, I recommend the following activities: 

• Touring Herrenhausen Palace and its gardens
• Visiting the Marktkirche (the city’s main church) 
• Climbing the tower of the New Town Hall
• Walking along the banks of the Machsee 

For more recommendations, here are the top things to do in Hannover.  

Travel time: 1 hr 50 mins (ICE) 

A day trip from Hamburg to Berlin is definitely doable, but it will be a long day. Berlin is Germany’s capital city, and there’s lots to do and see here. It’s definitely the most ambitious day trip from Hamburg you can take! 

You can only see a fraction of what Berlin has to offer in a single day, but here are the absolute top attractions to visit: 

• Alexanderplatz 
• Museum Island 
• Berlin Cathedral OR Humboldt Forum 
• Unter den Linden 
• Brandenburg Gate 
• Holocaust Memorial 

I have a detailed 3-day Berlin itinerary that you’re welcome to reference for even more activities, areas to explore, and general recommendations. I’ve called Berlin home since 2019, so I know a thing or two about what to do here! 

Travel time: 1 hr 55 mins (combination of ICE and RE) 

Another quaint city along the coast of the Baltic Sea that’s worth visiting is Wismar. The town truly looks like it came from a postcard! 

This is one of the best Hamburg day trips, as it’s easy to see all of Wismar’s main attractions in a single day (and on foot, no less!). Be sure to visit the following sites: 

• Church of the Holy Spirit
• Market square
• Karstadt (This well-known department store chain was founded in Wismar!)

Here are even more things to do in Wismar during your day trip. 

Travel time: 2 hr 15 mins (ICE) 

Rostock has always been a bustling maritime city, and it most recently served as the largest port in East Germany. 

It’s easy to see most of Rostock’s city center in a single day. I highly recommend visiting St. Mary’s Church to see its 14th century astronomical clock — it still plays every day at noon and is hand wound twice per day! 

Other attractions in Rostock worth visiting include the old city gates, the Neuer Markt, and the main shopping streets. 

Oranienburg 

Travel time: 2 hr 27 min (ICE) 

One of the more sobering day trips from Hamburg is the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, now an open-air museum and memorial. 

The site of the former concentration camp is located within a northern suburb of Berlin, called Oranienburg. Between 1936 and 1945, it’s estimated that more than 200,000 people were imprisoned at Sachsenhausen. 

Entrance to Sachsenhausen is free. The exhibits detail the history of the camp and the personal histories of the prisoners who lived and died there. The historic prison building has been almost wholly preserved and is open to visitors.

Tip: There’s also a former concentration camp-turned memorial much closer to Hamburg, called Neuengamme . It’s much closer to Hamburg (approx. 1 hour away). However, I’ve never personally visited so I didn’t include it on this post. I thought I’d mention it though, should you want an alternative to Sachsenhausen that’s easier to reach.

Travel time: 2 hr 32 min (ICE) 

Kassel holds a special place in my heart, as I lived here for a month during an exchange program in high school. Oh, the memories! 

This typical German suburban city might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of day trips from Hamburg, but it’s absolutely worth visiting. 

Kassel’s city center doesn’t offer much to write home about, but the nearby Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is incredible. Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe is a hillside park with a massive Hercules monument at the top of a man-made water cascade. In the summer, the park puts on an impressive water show. I wish I had photos from it, it was unlike anything I’d ever seen! 

Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe also contains two castles: the Löwenburg and Wilhelmshöhe Palace . As such, I recommend spending the majority of your day trip to Kassel exploring Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe! 

More Hamburg Day Trip Ideas! 

There are many more Hamburg day trips you can take, but I only ever recommend destinations I’ve visited personally. However, a few more day trips that are on my bucket list include: 

• Lüneburg 
• Stade 

Enjoy Your Hamburg Day Trip! 

These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit near Hamburg by train. Feel free to leave me a question or comment below, and let me know if there are any other day trips you recommend! 

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram to keep up with my daily adventures in Berlin and beyond!

Even More Cities to Visit in Germany:

• 15 Fun Things to Do in Nuremberg’s Old Town
• What to Do in Weimar (Home of Goethe and Schiller!)
• The Top Things to Do in Bonn
• Favorite Things to See & Do in Heidelberg
• All of my Germany recommendations!

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February 1, 2024

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21 Best Day Trips from Hamburg, Germany

Updated on  January 20, 2024  

Looking to escape the city hustle? Discover the best day trips from Hamburg that offer a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you're into historic towns, scenic landscapes, or coastal retreats, this guide has you covered with straightforward recommendations for a memorable day away from Hamburg.

21 Best Day Trips from Hamburg

Lübeck is a sweet spot for anyone wanting to step out of Hamburg for the day. Known as the "marzipan city," this place treats your eyes with its famed City of Seven Spires skyline.

You might find yourself walking through the Old Town , where each turn uncovers something new. Picture tall red-brick buildings that tell tales from centuries ago when Lübeck was a big deal in the Hanseatic League.

You can make your own adventure here, choosing spots that catch your fancy. Maybe you'll peek inside historic churches or unwind at a cozy café with marzipan treats—a sugary nod to the city's reputation.

This charming town wraps up history and culture into one neat package, making it an ideal getaway from Hamburg any time you like.

Ludwigslust

If you love grand buildings, Ludwigslust is a must-see. This town has a big baroque castle that people call the "Versailles of the North." You can walk around its huge gardens and see how beautiful they are.

Inside the castle, there's a lot to learn about old times.

Ludwigslust is not crowded and noisy like Hamburg. It's quiet and pretty. You have lots of space to walk around and enjoy nature. On a sunny day, you could spend hours here just looking at all the neat things in the castle and taking it easy in the gardens.

It's a great place to take it slow and enjoy some history without rushing.

Schwerin is a must-see on your day trip list from Hamburg. Just an hour and a half away by train, it's easy to get to and perfect for a quick getaway.

Picture this: the grand Schwerin Palace stands tall, nestled between sparkling lakes, with vast gardens stretching around it.

Here, you can spend time wandering through these stunning landscapes or touring the castle itself.

Visiting Schwerin gives you a taste of fairy-tale magic without having to go far. You might walk in the lush castle park one moment and gaze at the impressive architecture of the palace next.

And don't worry about running out of things to see; cities like Luebeck and Rostock are close by for even more exploration.

When visiting Hamburg, plan a day trip to Bremen for a unique historical experience. Known for its association with the famous German fairy tale "The Bremen Town Musicians," this city offers an engaging and relatively untouched glimpse into history.

Unlike many other cities in Germany, Bremen has remained unscathed during various events, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic and preserved historical setting.

Sharing the title of "Free and Hanseatic city" with Hamburg, Bremen presents similarities that make it a must-visit location while exploring the surrounding areas from Hamburg.

Travemünde, a popular seaside resort close to Lübeck, is known for its clean and friendly atmosphere.

Situated alongside the Baltic Sea, it offers stunning coastal views and a relaxing ambiance.

The town's picturesque architecture adds to its charm.

Only about 1 hour away from Hamburg, Travemünde is easily accessible and boasts a beautiful beach, making it a sought-after destination for visitors of all ages.

Hannover is a gem worth exploring with its array of activities and sights. Hannover, boasting diverse activities, promises a memorable getaway.

Discover the charm of Herrenhausen Garden, a picturesque gem in the city. Take in historic sites or savor local cuisine, ensuring there's something for every taste.

With just a day, plan strategically to make the most of your visit. Consider a private guide for an insightful exploration of Herrenhausen Garden, adding depth to your journey.

Whether strolling through greenery or immersing in local culture, a day trip to Hannover offers a refreshing escape from the bustling streets of Hamburg.

Consider a day trip to Berlin from Hamburg for a taste of Germany's vibrant capital city. Berlin, a city rich in history and vibrant culture, welcomes you with iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall. Explore the dynamic atmosphere of Alexanderplatz and savor local cuisine at bustling food markets .

Delve into the city's past at the Berlin Wall Memorial or the DDR Museum. Efficient train connections make it feasible to absorb Berlin's essence in a day.

Uncover the juxtaposition of historic charm and modern energy, ensuring a memorable excursion that reveals the heart of Germany's capital city in just a day.

Wismar, a popular day trip from Hamburg, offers sandy calm bays for relaxation and enjoyment. The town is easy to navigate, making it convenient for a day trip. Visitors can explore attractions such as Nikolaikirche, Welt-Erbe-Haus, and Tierpark Wismar.

Known for its gorgeous architecture and historic ties to the Hanseatic League, Wismar is an ideal destination from Hamburg.

Visitors can also enjoy activities like sailing, surfing, and diving at the beaches near Wismar. Its deep historical significance makes it a must-visit spot for those interested in history and culture.

Rostock, just a two-hour journey from Hamburg, is a coastal gem worth exploring. The region boasts charming medieval towns, captivating castles , and unique landscapes – all within an hour or two away.

Easily accessible by train, Rostock serves as an ideal starting point for day trips from Hamburg.

Visitors can explore attractions like Schwerin Castle and other popular destinations nearby, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking history and natural beauty on their day excursion.

Oranienburg

Oranienburg, known for the Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp, serves as an open-air museum and memorial. It's a great addition to your day trips from Hamburg.

The city offers historical significance and gives you the chance to pay your respects while learning about an important part of Germany's past.

This spot provides a somber yet educational experience that adds depth to your exploration of the region.

Plus, it complements other nearby attractions, making it a meaningful stop on your journey through northern Germany.

Kassel, nestled in the heart of Germany, boasts a rich cultural tapestry and historical allure. Delve into the city's charm by exploring iconic landmarks like the Hercules Monument and the Wilhelmshöhe Palace.

Immerse yourself in the art world at the renowned Documenta exhibitions, showcasing contemporary masterpieces. Indulge in local flavors at traditional eateries, savoring regional delicacies.

With its seamless blend of history, art, and gastronomy, a day in Kassel promises a fulfilling excursion. Optimize your visit by planning efficiently, ensuring a memorable journey from Hamburg.

Stade, a small city with Hanseatic history, is an ideal day trip from Hamburg. Nestled along the Elbe River, it boasts a blend of history, art, culture, and nature that caters to diverse tastes and budgets.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of this Hanseatic pearl while surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Stade provides an authentic glimpse into the region's rich past and offers a delightful escape beyond the bustling streets of Hamburg.

Surrounded by the lovely Elbe River and filled with historical significance from its Hanseatic roots, Stade is a versatile day trip for those seeking a break from urban life.

Whether it's exploring historical sites or enjoying leisurely walks through beautiful scenery, Stade has something to offer every kind of traveler looking to experience an enriching day outside Hamburg.

Lüneburg is a charming town with a rich history dating back to the Neanderthals, known for its salt production and well-preserved Hanseatic buildings.

Visitors can enjoy strolling through the picturesque streets, exploring the German Salt Museum, visiting churches and abbeys, and indulging in the ornate architecture and local pastries.

It is an easily accessible and worthwhile day trip destination from Hamburg.

Heligoland, an island in the North Sea, is a fantastic day trip option from Hamburg. It's just a 3-hour high-speed ferry ride away. The island has diverse attractions including Wadden Sea mud, luxury resorts, countryside hamlets, and beaches .

Also, its WWII history is captivating with bunker tours showcasing its historical significance.

Moreover, Heligoland is appealing all year round – each season offering different charms making it versatile for day trips from Hamburg. You will find something unique to explore no matter when you visit!

Cuxhaven, a charming maritime town at the mouth of the Elbe River, beckons with its picturesque beaches and coastal vistas. Divided into Duhnen, Dose, and Sahlenburg, Cuxhaven features kilometers of beautiful sandy beaches in Duhnen.

Here, you can feast your eyes on large container ships sailing by and embark on mesmerizing mudflat hikes. As the gateway to Wadden Sea National Park, Cuxhaven offers an array of activities for nature enthusiasts as well as numerous dining spots to relish local flavors.

Situated along the North Sea, Cuxhaven draws visitors with its scenic coastal landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. It's home to approximately 52,000 residents and is an ideal day trip destination from Hamburg. [ 1 ]

Buxtehude, a historical former Hansa city near Hamburg, is perfect for a half-day trip. With its population of around 40,000 inhabitants, it offers charming and peaceful surroundings.

The town's picturesque landscapes have earned it the reputation of being a "village of fairy tales". Easily accessible from Hamburg with a half-hourly train connection, Buxtehude provides a leisurely escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The town's proximity to Hamburg makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a break. Its tranquil ambiance and captivating scenery offer visitors an opportunity to unwind amidst idyllic surroundings.

Altes Land, with its lush meadows and fruit orchards, offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside setting, strolling through blooming apple trees or taking a leisurely bike ride along scenic paths.

The region is also known for its charming half-timbered houses that add to the quaint atmosphere. Additionally, you can visit traditional farms and taste delicious local produce while learning about traditional farming practices.

While in Altes Land, don't miss out on the opportunity to admire the stunning Elbe River flowing gracefully through this idyllic landscape. Whether you're seeking a serene day trip or an immersive cultural experience, Altes Land provides a delightful retreat just a short distance from Hamburg.

Glücksburg Castle

Glücksburg Castle is a picturesque destination near Flensburg, offering a rich historical and cultural experience. The castle houses fascinating treasures and artifacts, providing insight into its storied past.

Visitors can embark on guided tours to learn about the castle's history and the distinguished dukes who once lived there. Within the castle, visitors can explore rooms like the Red Hall and chapel, gaining a deeper understanding of its significance.

Surrounding the castle is its own enchanting lake, enhancing its already captivating appeal as a day trip from Hamburg.

The Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its mudflats and islands. [ 2 ] The Hamburg Wadden Sea National Park encircles a small cluster of islands located in the Elbe estuary near Cuxhaven.

Along the coast, you can enjoy activities such as sunbathing, biking, walking, and hunting for amber.

Numerous exquisite day trips from Hamburg offer opportunities to explore different cities and natural wonders like Lübeck, Ludwigslust, Schwerin, Bremen and much more. For nature enthusiasts or those seeking a day filled with adventure and relaxation, the Wadden Sea presents an ideal destination.

Schaalsee, located east of Hamburg, is part of the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. It offers a peaceful and natural escape with picturesque landscapes for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Known for its tranquil atmosphere, it's an ideal spot for a relaxing city break . The lake's proximity to Hamburg makes it easily accessible for both tourists and locals alike.

Surrounded by serene beauty, Schaalsee provides an opportunity to unwind in nature while also exploring other nearby attractions like castles and medieval villages. With its location near Hamburg, it's no wonder why Schaalsee has become a favorite day trip destination.

Fehmarn Island

Fehmarn Island, also known as the Sunshine Isle, is a top choice for sun-seekers. It's Germany's third largest island and a hotspot for windsurfing. The 963m-long bridge connects it to the mainland and serves as a gateway to Denmark.

This island offers unique food, history, and landscapes for visitors to explore. With 78km of broad beaches, it's one of Germany's sunniest spots.

Boasting a separation from the German peninsula of Wagria in Holsatia by the Fehmarn Sound and from Denmark's Lolland by the Fehmarn Belt, this locale provides an opportunity for both relaxation and exploration.

Conclusion: Day Trips from Hamburg

For an unforgettable day out, explore the enticing day trip options from Hamburg. Beyond the vibrant activities in Hamburg , discover destinations that cater to every interest. 

Whether you're seeking a wholesome day with the family or a romantic escape , these day trips offer a perfect balance. 

From charming villages to scenic landscapes, each excursion promises a memorable experience that complements the dynamic offerings of Hamburg itself. Enjoy the best of both worlds – the lively urban atmosphere and the tranquility of nearby destinations.

Key Takeaways

• Hamburg is near many cool places like Lübeck, Ludwigslust, and Schwerin which are great for quick trips.
• There are lots of things to see close to Hamburg, such as castles, old towns, beaches, and even a zoo.
• Places like Berlin and Heligoland take longer to get to but they're worth it because there's so much to do there.
• You don't need a lot of time for some spots. Buxtehude is just 30 minutes away by train!
• The Wadden Sea is a special spot where you can play in the mudflats and it's not far from Hamburg.

References:

1: About: Cuxhaven, retrieved from https://dbpedia.org/page/Cuxhaven 2: Wadden Sea - UNESCO World Heritage Centre, retrived from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1314/

About the Author

Stephan Drescher

Stephan Drescher, founder of germanytravel.blog, is a German travel expert and insider, providing trusted tips and advice for a perfect trip to Germany. Born & bred German.

• The Best Day Trips From...

The Best Day Trips From Hamburg

Hamburg may be a diverse and exciting destination to visit but there’s no reason to limit yourself to one city when there are so many exciting places nearby to explore. These Hamburg day trips will let you discover charming historical towns, magnificent castles and breathtaking natural landscapes. Most are just an hour away and all are accessible by public transport.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Lüneburg – the salt town

The 1,000-year history of Lüneburg is closely tied with the production of white gold (salt) that brought wealth and prosperity to the town. Having survived World War II virtually unscathed, Lüneburg boasts a medieval charm few can rival. Stroll through the beautiful Old Town and browse the speciality shops, cafes, and restaurants housed in gabled buildings. You will also find lovely green areas, saltwater thermal baths and, thanks to the town’s student population, one of the highest concentrations of pubs in Europe.

Distance: 40 minutes by regional train. Price: €17.40 (£15) per person, round-trip with Hamburg public transport

Lübeck – Queen of the Hansa

On the coast of the Baltic Sea lies Lübeck, the former capital of the mighty Hanseatic League. The Old Town is best explored on foot, its historic buildings and narrow lanes a mix of architectural styles from 13th century onwards. Visit the Town Hall and the magnificent Gothic Church of St Mary and don’t leave without trying the marzipan – it’s a speciality. Lübeck is known as the marzipan city.

Distance: 45 minutes by regional train. Price: €28 (£24) per person, round-trip; €40 (£35) for a group of five with a regional day ticket.

Bremen – the fairy tale town

Medieval Bremen is home to the Bremen Town Musicians (bronze statue) featured in the Brothers Grimm fairy tales. Admire the Renaissance Town Hall, stroll through Schnoor, a maze of small streets lined with charming 15th- and 16th-century houses, and relax in the sun on the Schlachte riverside promenade. Visit a museum or take a tour of the Beck’s beer factory. Whatever you do, don’t leave before rubbing the donkey’s legs on the Bremen Town Musicians sculpture to secure some good luck.

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Distance: One hour 10 minutes by regional train; Price: €23 (£20) per person, round-trip; €39 (£34) for a group of five with a regional day ticket.

Schwerin – the city of seven lakes

The city of Schwerin is a picture-perfect combination of natural and architectural beauty. Its most famous landmark is the majestic Schwerin Palace, situated between two lakes and surrounded by luscious gardens. The nearby market square and cobbled streets are filled with historic buildings housing shops and cafes. Schwerin has a number of excellent museums and hosts a variety of arts and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Distance: One hour 25 minutes by regional train. Price: €23 (£20) per person, round-trip; €39 (£34) for a group of five with a regional day ticket.

Altes Land – largest fruit growing area

Elbe marshlands downstream from Hamburg are home to Altes Land. This fertile land, regained from the river between the 11th and 15th centuries and protected by dykes, is Germany’s largest fruit growing area. In between the large orchards you’ll find villages with half-timbered farm buildings. The best way to enjoy the scenery is to cycle along the bicycle paths. Admire apple blossom in spring, pick fruit in the fall and enjoy delicious cake from the local produce all year round.

Distance: One hour by Hamburg public transport (metro and bus to Jork, or ferry to Cranz). Price: €10 (£8.70) per person, round-trip.

The Wadden Sea

The Wadden Sea ( Wattenmeer) coastal area, which stretches from the Netherlands to Denmark, is the largest unbroken system of intertidal sand and mud flats in the world. The ecosystem of dunes, tidal channels, sandbars, mudflats, seagrass meadows and salt marshes is undisturbed nature at its best. Don’t miss the opportunity to go mudflat hiking ( wattwandern) during low tide, when you’ll be able to walk from the mainland to nearby islands.

Distance: 1h 45 min to either Cuxhaven or Büsum. Price: €28 (£24.37) per person, round-trip; €40 (£35) for a group of five with a regional day ticket.

Heligoland – the island of breathtaking cliffs

Heligoland is a little further away but is a wonderful day trip destination. The speedy journey across the North Sea is an adventure in itself. The island may be small but it has something for everyone. Nature lovers will enjoy the fresh air, the breathtaking red sandstone cliffs and getting up close with seals. Bird watching enthusiasts will love spotting rare seabirds. Gourmands will enjoy the island’s great restaurants and fresh seafood, while bargain hunters will make the most of its duty- and VAT-free status.

Distance: 3.5 hours by catamaran Halunder Jet from Hamburg. Price: €71 (£62) per person, round-trip.

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Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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What are the 15 BEST DAY TRIPS from Hamburg?

The port city of Hamburg has a lot to see. With its riverside location, historic buildings, definitive party areas, hipster hangouts and even a nearby lake, this German city is filled to the brim with culture.

But even more culture can be found within the surrounding area. The area of the Hanseatic League is dotted with impossibly charming towns and natural beauty that’s just waiting to be explored.

So with our guide to the best day trips from Hamburg, we want to help you get out of the city and into the surrounding region of North Germany.

Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or if you’re on a budget, there’ll be something for you.

Editor’s note – Check out our 15 best hostels in Hamburg and find an epic place to stay!

Quick Answer: Best Day Trips from Hamburg

• Day Trips from Hamburg by Train –  Berlin
• Romantic Day Trips from Hamburg for Couples –  Hamburg: guidance on the river island Wilhelmsburg
• Best Day Trips from Hamburg with Kids –  Hamburg: Elbe Riverside Tour
• Best Cheap Day Trips from Hamburg –  Altes Land

Best Places to Stay in Hamburg

Staying in Hamburg is all about its areas. Get crazy on the lively Reeperbahn, stay in cool St Pauli, or opt for the more suburban feel of Altona. Either way, the transport system will be able to connect with the main hubs and out into the surrounding area for some awesome day trips!

• Best Hostel in Hamburg •

Pyjama park schanzenviertel.

• Near to cool nightlife

Located in the trendy Sternschanze district, this cool hostel in Hamburg is surrounded by trendy bars and restaurants, vintage shops and cafes. Inside the hotel is pretty chic too: think monochrome dorm rooms, beds with privacy curtains and tiled bathrooms. The dorms only sleep 8 people so you should be able to get a good night’s sleep.

Price anxiety? We get it too, so we made an article for the best budget hostels in Hamburg!

• Best Budget Hotel in Hamburg •

• Spacious private rooms

Big spacious rooms and colourful modern decor make this place a no-brainer if you’re looking for a budget hotel in Hamburg. There’s a range of rooms to fit different budgets – from shared bathroom to family rooms with en suites. Staff here are really welcoming and will help you with your travel plans too.

• Best Luxury Hotel in Hamburg •

Grand elysee hamburg.

• Close to public transport

This rather gorgeous luxury hotel in Hamburg is located a few minutes walk from Hamburg Dammtor S-Bahn station. Rooms at this hotel are super plush rooms so expect marble bathrooms and huge beds. There’s even suites on offer with living rooms. In the evening treat yourself to dinner at the fine-dining restaurant and cocktail bar – of course!

Looking for the Party? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best party hostels in Hamburg !

#1 Best Day Trip from Bamburg – Berlin

Day trips from hamburg by train.

• Visit the German capital
• See some sights
• Explore its cool districts

Yes, you can easily explore Germany’s capital on a day trip from Hamburg to Berlin by train – it takes under two hours to get there, which makes it easily doable in a day. Great if you fancy seeing a different side to a big German city.

Grab the train from Hamburg’s Central Station and travel all the way to its Berlin equivalent and then prepare yourself for a day of hitting up the sights.

For one thing, there’s the Berlin Wall Memorial to check out, where sections of the wall that divided East and West Berlin still stand. Daubed in graffiti, they make for a sombre experience that’s also worth at least a dozen photos.

Or you could visit Berlin’s hipster paradises, for which it is well known. There’s the area of Kreuzberg, where you can hang out in one of its many cool coffee shops with Instagram worthy interiors.

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#2 – Lüneburger Heide

• Ride a classic train
• Picturesque scenery

The town of Lüneburg might be famous itself, thanks to its collection of beautiful old houses, narrow streets and traditional food; but nearby is a breath of fresh air from all the chocolate box towns and the city of Hamburg itself: Lüneburger Heide.

This little gem of a natural wonderland – full name Naturschutzpark Lüneburger Heide – is a great place to spend some time walking the well-marked hiking trails of this heather soaked heathland (‘heide’ is German for heath).

But this is one of the best day trips from Hamburg by train since you get to ride the Heide Express – a collective name for several old-timey 1950s trains that run from Lüneburg to the park itself, which is pretty much a must for any train enthusiast.

The trains come complete with buffet cars where you can order meals and drink beer – all with the beautiful natural scenery rushing by.

#3 – Schwerin

• Quick train ride
• Incredible castle to explore
• Lots of culture to soak up

One of the easiest day trips from Hamburg by train you could make (it takes just 50 minutes from Hamburg Central Station), visiting Schwerin is something a cultural whirlwind. There’s a lot to see here, but the star of the show is its castle.

Sometimes referred to as the “Neuschwanstein of the North”, Schwerin Schloss is located in the middle of the lake. Already a fairytale looking castle, the reflects of its curves and spires in the glassy lake give it an even more magical feel. Elsewhere there’s the very tall brick built Schwerin Cathedral.

When you’ve had enough of looking up head to the Staatliches Museum Schwerin where you can look at some art instead. This art gallery hosts 17th-century paintings by Flemish and Dutch painters, and features work by such artists as the famous Rubens.

#4 – Lübeck

• Historic old town
• Impressive landmarks
• Birthplace of marzipan (maybe)!

When people refer to towns being ‘Hanseatic’, it means they were part of a defensive (and economic) collective of towns and cities in northeastern Europe. Lübeck was at the forefront of the League and the reminders of its rich past are rife in the city.

Like many Hanseatic towns and cities, Lübeck is steeped in history and comes complete with a set of beautiful old buildings and a charming old town to amble around. Its star attraction, though, is the imposing Holstentor. This old medieval gate, part of the city’s old fortifications, was built in 1464 and is a masterpiece of Brick Gothic style.

So for history fans, the simple day trip from Hamburg to Lübeck by train makes perfect sense. But for foodies, there’s another claim to fame.

The city is also (allegedly) the inventor of marzipan. You’ll find a museum dedicated to it on the second floor of Café Niederegger.

Staying Safe in Hamburg

While Hamburg is super safe, no matter where you are traveling, you NEED to have great travel insurance . We have personally tested TONS of travel insurance companies, and World Nomads is our favorite (and most affordable!).

Fill out the form below to get a quote so you can have a stress-free time traveling around Germany!

#5 – Wilhelmsburg

Romantic day trips from hamburg for couples.

• Not far from the city centre
• Cycle around interesting areas
• Ecological projects

For an easy day trip for couples from Hamburg, travelling to the island of Wilhelmsburg – just out of the city centre in the Port of Hamburg area – couldn’t be easier.

This Hamburg day trip is something that’s going to suit you if you and your partner are interested in all things ecological, sustainable and social-minded. And that’s not just because Wilhelmsburg is home to a veritable house of tomorrow, in the form of a ‘Seaweed House’ – a house that’s powered entirely by algae.

There’s also a high rise apartment building which has been entirely crafted from wood.

You can cycle around the island, taking in the multicultural atmosphere as well as the bleak romance of this industrial area.

On this romantic day trip from Hamburg, you’ll be learning all about how a formerly run-down district is turning into an area with a focus on an social and environmental consciousness.

#6 – Heligoland

For those truly wanting to get away from the city for a day, making the trip to Heligoland is well worth your time. This North Sea island is car-free, making it a quite literal breath of fresh air.

If that’s what you and your partner are looking for, then you should definitely consider going on a day trip from Hamburg to Heligoland. It’s also blessed with a mild climate and beaches, making it a fantastic place to visit in summer.

The dramatic shape of Heligoland is cool too: the side you approach is all steep red cliffs, which all slopes down into lovely fields and inviting beaches. For all you outdoorsy types out there, this couples day trip from Hamburg is also a good option: the island is crisscrossed with hiking paths, making it easy to explore the island.

The ferry there and back directly from Hamburg makes it super easy, too.

#7 – Harbor light tour

• World’s largest warehouse complex
• Illuminated city skyline
• Chilled boat ride

A world away from the city itself, jumping on a boat and seeing what the city looks like when it lights up is bound to make for a romantic day trip from Hamburg.

But one of the coolest things about this evening excursion is cruising through the Speicherstadt – the world’s largest complex of warehouses.

But these aren’t just any old warehouses: the 19th-century brick buildings are beautiful, and stand on wood foundations, helping it to earn the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The captain of the boat you’re on will tell you more about the background of this cool area.

When it comes to the illuminated city itself, all you and your partner need to do is relax with a drink, soaking up the ambience. And you’ll be in back in Hamburg ready for a delicious dinner.

#8 – Blankenese

• Stately homes
• Charming location
• Great views

Tranquil hilltop location – check. Beautiful riverside views – check. Charming town to walk around – check. All of these things, and more make the day trip from Hamburg to Blankenese a pretty romantic day out.

Set along the banks of the Elbe River, Blankenese is an affluent neighbourhood and this is evidenced in the mansions and houses of the well to do overlooking the river itself.

You and your partner will be particularly charmed by the Treppenviertel – literally ‘stairs quarter’ – which, with its mini-mansions and lovely looping lanes is as picturesque and postcard perfect as you’re going to get on a romantic day trip from Hamburg.

There’s even a beach you can discover here, on the shore of the Elbe, which is especially refreshing to paddle in when it’s summer.

And to round it all up, stroll to the top of the Süllberg hill and laze around with views of Hamburg in the distance before making your return.

#9 – Riverside Elbe Tour

Day trips from hamburg with kids.

• Double-decker bus ride
• See sights along the river
• Learn about fruit

When you feel like you’ve had enough of the city, and you’ve seen the old town and all its attractions, you might want to head out of the city on an easy family day trip from Hamburg, right?

Of course. And so you can make this one completely stress-free, you don’t have to worry about train times, or renting a car and navigating the roads. Nothing like that. All you need to do is hop aboard a red double-decker bus (just like the ones in London) and you’ll be driven along the Elbe River and out of Hamburg.

It’s a great day trip from Hamburg with kids – especially young children because what child doesn’t like sitting on the top deck of double-decker, pointing out all the sights you whizz by. You’ll go all the way to Altes Land (North Europe’s largest fruit producing region) where they can have fun learning about all the different fruit that’s grown here.

#10 – Bremen

• Amazing old buildings
• Streets right out of a fairytale
• Easy to reach

Many Hanseatic towns feature typically beautiful buildings that make for a wonderful atmosphere (and great for photo opportunities), but none can quite captivate young minds as the fairytale-esque Bremen.

And located just an hour away by train, it’s a great family day trip from Hamburg.

Once you’re here you’ll have a lot to explore, but you can take it at your own pace, of course. Historic architecture abounds – mainly in the grand Market Square: there’s the 600-year-old City Hall, which now features a high-end restaurant and the absolutely towering Romanesque giant that is the Bremen Cathedral for your children to gawp at in wonder.

But nothing quite satisfies active imaginations as the rambling area known Schnoor. This extra historic part of town has held onto its medieval character and, complete with leaning buildings and narrow cobbled lanes, it’ll have kids thinking they’ve jumped right into a bedtime story!

#11 – Sailing on Alster Lake

• Learn about Hamburg’s history
• Have fun as a family
• Go sailing!

Alster Lake might technically be in the city itself, and seeing it from the shore is all well and good, but getting onto the lake and trying out a bit of sailing for yourself makes it feel like a proper day trip from Hamburg.

With a surface area of 164 hectares, there’s a lot of lakes to explore as you and your family embark on a sailing voyage to the lake. How about that for a Hamburg family day trip!

You’ll get to sail with a knowledgeable skipper. Not only will they guide you in steering the boat yourselves (don’t worry: it’s specially equipped to be very hard to capsize!) but the skipper is also full of information about the maritime history of Hamburg.

So for a lot of fun, even if you’ve never been sailing in your lives, this is a great option for a day trip from Hamburg with kids in tow.

#12 – Heide Park

• Close to the city
• Exciting rides
• Fun day out!

Nothing says a family day out quite like a trip to a theme park, so for the quintessential day trip from Hamburg with kids you need to get yourselves to Heide Park.

Naturally, there’s something for everyone at this park, which is handily located less than an hour’s drive south of the city.

You’ll find thrill rides like roller coasters – like the huge Big Loop 360 – and vertical drops, as well as much less thrilling (but still fun) attractions for smaller children, like Peppa Pig Land. All of it spread across themed zones, like the Pirate Zone and one based on Transylvania. There’s even a village here that’s built to look like the houses you’d encounter at Lüneburger Heide!

They even boast an incredible wooden rollercoaster, the Colossos, which is being renovated at a cost of 12 million Euros and will be open for the 2019 summer season.

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#13 – Altes Land

Best cheap day trips from hamburg.

• Natural scenery
• Charming villages

Getting to Altes Land is simple and affordable. Just west of the city, it’s one of the best cheap day trips from Hamburg you could possibly make.

We previously mentioned that Altes Land is the largest fruit producing region in North Europe. This is great fun in the summer months, of course, when all that fruit is coming to… fruition. But what really makes this an almost supernaturally picturesque place to visit is the blossom in springtime.

Particularly the cherry blossom, as well as the apple blossom, season give this already tranquil area an extra floral boost.

The beautiful blossom combined with the natural surroundings, as well as the quaint houses in the charming villages along the way – like Steinkirchen, for example – makes this one of the most photogenic places to visit near Hamburg.

#14 – Stade

• Quaint town
• Historic buildings
• Charming atmosphere

Another Hanseatic town on the popular ‘German Timber-Frame Road’ – named for the numerous towns featuring historic timber-frame buildings, of course – Stade is around an hour away from Hamburg by train, making it a pretty simple journey.

Like all historic Hanseatic towns, Stade is a complete wonderland of historic buildings and artefacts. So if historic architecture is your game, or you love to soak up the charming atmosphere of an old town – and you also happen to be on a budget – this cheap day trip from Hamburg will suit you very well indeed.

Buildings aside (there’s the Old Town Hall, the charming Insel Museum, St. Willehadus Church and the Swedish Warehouses) one church in particular, St Cosmae, is home to an incredible piece of music history: an ornate, centuries-old Schnitger organ.

But the order for the day here is finding a peaceful cafe and feeling glad no bombs ever fell here.

#15 – Ahrensburg Castle

• Close to Hamburg
• Learn about history
• Great for design lovers

For a glimpse into an amazing slice of history, head to Ahrensburg Castle on an easy (and cheap) day trip from Hamburg. All it is to get there is a short train ride, a bus ride, and the price of a tour around this sumptuous former home.

Whilst it’s actually a Herrenhaus – or mansion – the beautiful building at Ahrensburg is referred to as a castle because, well, it sort of looks like one: its Renaissance-style gives it an ornate exterior, complete with four towers.

But the best thing about this cool Hamburg day trip is that you get to explore inside this wonderful mansion, too. It’s so lovely inside that you have to take your shoes off and wear only your socks.

And it makes sense: the parquet floors in here are polished to perfection. The decor, needless to say, is incredible – from the delicately painted wood panels to the immense plasterwork and decorative vases, it’s pretty much a dream home.

Bonus Trip! – Lüneburg

• Canalside charm
• Old buildings to admire
• Quaint atmosphere

We’ve learnt about the beautiful Lüneburger Heide, which is just a stone’s throw from Lüneburg, but what about his Hanseatic city itself? Well, it’s as picturesque as you can imagine – and with it being such an easy train journey, it’s one of the best cheap day trips from Hamburg.

Complete with a large selection of houses lining a number of quaint streets for you to amble through, Lüneburg boasts beautiful slices of canalside houses that make it easy to see what this place would have been like a few hundred years ago.

For history lovers and fans of architecture, Lüneburg is a veritable dream come true. Soak up the ambience at the old river harbour, take hundreds of photos from the Brausebrücke bridge, or sit in a pretty cafe with some tasty pastries admiring the views.

For grander samples of architecture, head to the Baroque style Lüneburg Town Hall.

Conclusion to the Best Day Trips from Hamburg

So there you have it. From visits to nearby Hanseatic towns dripping with charm and oozing history to surprising natural beauty spots like North Sea islands and dramatic heathlands, we hope you’ll find a day trip from Hamburg to suit you.

Couples might want to consider a trip to the unique Heligoland (try the lobster!), whilst families will almost definitely want to have fun at the theme park of Heide Land or get lost in storybook Bremen…

There’s just so much to choose from in this fascinating area of Germany.

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Around Hamburg

Hamburg is the true capital of northern Germany. A great financial, industrial and cultural hub that acts as the driver for the entire region. The legacy of the Hanseatic League is very much in evidence in this part of the country, with several cities having a rich historic and cultural heritage well worth our attention. A visit to the area around Hamburg is the perfect complement to a trip to northern Germany. Here is a summary of the most important points of interest around Hamburg.

The stamp of the Hanseatic League is clearly visible across this part of Germany. So almost any city we visit near Hamburg is going to reflect this particular style. Great mansions, river ports, industrial architecture, imposing churches…

The explanation for all this is the prosperity achieved by the League during the Middle Ages, a legacy that today can be seen in virtually every town and city in the north of the country. In addition to the federal state of Hamburg itself, the neighbouring states of Schleswig-Holstein to the north, and Lower Saxony and Bremen to the south, contain a series of cities that perfectly reflect those times.

That is why any trip to Hamburg would not be complete without going on to visit one of the not-to-be-missed cities described below.

• Stade: a rival to Hamburg in its advancement as a powerful port in the Middle Ages, the small city of Stade has preserved its charming historic quarter and its old port on the canal that crosses the city. Stade is barely an hour’s car drive to the west of Hamburg.
• Lübeck: Lübeck is another essential northern German city that you won’t want to miss. It was one of the most important cities in the Hanseatic League, and is now a World Heritage Site, due in no small measure to its 1,000 or more historic buildings. Lübeck is an hour’s car drive to the north-east of Hamburg.
• Bremen: also just over an hour’s drive from Hamburg, but towards the south-west. This is the city of the four animal musicians in the story by the brothers Grimm — and there is of course a statue of them here. Bremen is also a World Heritage Site, thanks to its flawless historic quarter, one of the most beautiful in Germany.
• Luneburgo: another of Germany’s prettiest cities. Lüneburg has an undiluted Hanseatic heritage, with its river port, its hoist, and its old warehouses right in the centre of the city. It is only 45 minutes from Hamburg.
• Buxtehude: the small town of Buxtehude is perfect for a half-day excursion from Hamburg. Buxtehude forms part of the Fairy Tale Route, and its enchanting historic quarter is flanked by the canals that cross the town.

Barely an hour away therefore, you have five lovely cities that you can visit from Hamburg. All are elegant and immaculately preserved, truly reflecting the power they enjoyed centuries ago. A visit to the area around Hamburg is an excellent way to best appreciate the powerful business dynamic that united so many cities in northern Europe; they could even be considered as a forerunner of the European Union.

Related plans

Bremen, a fairytale city.

Bremen, the city of musicians, is an ideal trip from Hamburg, offering a day full of charm and fun experiences.

Lüneburg: a pearl of northern Germany

The town of Lüneburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. Its Hanseatic past survived the Second World War, escaping like few German cities from the bombings, and reaching our days in a beautiful state of plenitude.

Buxtehude, the Village of Fairy Tales

Muy cerca de Hamburgo se encuentra Buxtehude, una pequeña y encantadora ciudad histórica de la época hanseática que merece la pena visitar.

Cities Near Hamburg to Visit

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

If you’re planning a trip to Hamburg, Germany, you’ll be delighted to know that there are several charming cities nearby that are worth exploring. From historic architecture to picturesque landscapes, each of these cities has something unique to offer. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top cities near Hamburg that you should consider adding to your itinerary.

Lübeck, also known as the “City of Seven Spires”, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located just 66 kilometers northeast of Hamburg. It’s renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history as a prominent member of the Hanseatic League.

One of the highlights of Lübeck is the Holstentor, a grand medieval gate that serves as an iconic symbol of the city. Stroll along the charming streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) and discover the impressive Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings, including the Lübeck Cathedral and Buddenbrook House, which is now a museum dedicated to the famous author Thomas Mann.

2. Schwerin

Situated around 100 kilometers west of Hamburg, Schwerin is the capital of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and home to the enchanting Schwerin Castle. This fairy-tale-like castle is perched on an island in Lake Schwerin, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Take a guided tour through the castle’s opulent halls and admire the stunning views of the lake from the observation deck. Afterward, explore the picturesque old town, with its narrow streets and historic buildings. Don’t miss a visit to the State Museum, which showcases the cultural history of the region.

About 120 kilometers northwest of Hamburg lies the vibrant city of Bremen. Known for its iconic Town Musicians of Bremen statue and the UNESCO-listed Bremen Roland, Bremen offers a mix of medieval charm and modern attractions.

Wander through the historic Schnoor quarter with its narrow winding streets and charming half-timbered houses. Pay a visit to the Bremen Cathedral and explore the impressive collections of art and historical artifacts at the Kunsthalle Bremen. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the River Weser to see the city from a different perspective.

4. Lüneburg

Lüneburg, located approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Hamburg, is a picturesque city with a well-preserved medieval old town. The city is famous for its impressive brick Gothic architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and the stunning St. Nicholas’ Church.

Explore the historic salt warehouses at the lively market square, visit the beautiful Lüneburg Town Hall, and indulge in some retail therapy at the unique shops selling traditional salt products. Don’t forget to try the local Lüneburg specialty, the “Lüneburger Torte,” a delicious cake made from marzipan.

Located just 47 kilometers northwest of Hamburg, Stade is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its well-preserved half-timbered houses, historic buildings, and charming harbor, Stade is a photographer’s paradise.

Visit the impressive Stade Cathedral, stroll along the picturesque waterfront, and explore the interesting exhibits at the Schwedenspeicher Museum. If you’re a nature lover, take a boat tour along the nearby Alte Schwinge river, or wander through the beautiful Stade Deer Park.

These cities near Hamburg provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. From the medieval charm of Lübeck to the fairy-tale-like castle in Schwerin, each city offers a unique experience. Plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime!

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19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hamburg

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Hamburg, the largest city in Germany after the capital of Berlin , lies at the head of the long funnel-shaped estuary of the River Elbe. Its location makes it an important link between the sea and Germany's network of inland waterways and numerous islands.

The city is best known for its famous harbor area, the Port of Hamburg. In addition to being a major transportation hub, Hamburg has become one of Europe's most important cultural and commercial centers, as well as a major tourist destination.

The only part of old Hamburg to survive centuries of fires and wars, the narrow, curving Deichstrasse gives a sense of the city's past. Built long before the 19th-century warehouses and 21st-century harborside complexes, the street offers a glimpse into the city's Hansa past. The Hanseatic League was a medieval association of independent port cities and merchants along the Baltic and north Atlantic from the 11th to the 18th centuries, and even into the 19th century. Its distinct architecture is found throughout Baltic Germany.

Deichstrasse takes you straight onto a bridge over one of the city's many canals. Massive brick warehouses, built a couple of centuries after the Hansa's power faded, form a canyon along the canal's sides.

A second footbridge leads into the hottest new neighborhood, Hafencity, where old and new mix in a striking blend of 19th-century, neo-Hansa brick, with contemporary steel-and-glass apartments, their balconies jutting out over attractive cafés, eye-to-eye with vintage sailing vessels. Many of the most interesting things to do in Hamburg are in this port area.

To help you find the best places to visit in this important German port city, be sure to refer to our list of the top attractions and things to do in Hamburg.

See also: Where to Stay in Hamburg

1. Take the Pedestrian Trail to the Port of Hamburg & Speicherstadt

2. miniatur wunderland, 3. see a concert at elbphilharmonie, 4. get your art fix at hamburger kunsthalle, 5. visit the hamburger rathaus (city hall) and mönckebergstraße, 6. st. michael's church, 7. board the historic tallships: rickmer rickmers and cap san diego, 8. explore ships of the past at the international maritime museum, 9. explore the alster lakes, 10. museum of art and design, 11. see one of the world's largest burial grounds: ohlsdorf cemetery, 12. take a walk in a park: planten un blomen and wallringpark, 13. hear the historic organ at st. james' church, 14. museum am rothenbaum & prototyp museum, 15. altona & the altonaer museum, 16. see the old ships at museumshafen oevelgonne (museum harbor), 17. jenisch house, 18. visit the zoo: tierpark hagenbeck, 19. drive to schloss ahrensburg, where to stay in hamburg for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in hamburg, hamburg, germany - climate chart.

The Port of Hamburg, the Hamburger Hafen – also known as "HafenCity" – encompasses 100 square kilometers of tidal harbor and is known as the Gateway to Germany. It's also where you'll find many of the city's most-visited tourist attractions, and on summer evenings and weekends, it's full of local residents relaxing.

A lovely pedestrian trail takes in the old 19th-century Warehouse District , the Speicherstadt , with its continuous lines of tall brick buildings once used to store tobacco, coffee, dried fruit, and spices. Built up from 1883 to 1927, it's reputedly the world's largest such warehouse district and was in 2015 designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Another landmark of the Port of Hamburg is the Köhlbrandbrücke , a 3.9-kilometer bridge that spans the harbor. The newest and most spectacular addition to the waterfront area, though, is the Elbphilharmonie , the city's most important cultural venue (see more on this attraction in #3 below).

The adjacent Traditionsschiffhafen/Sandtorhafen harbor lines the peninsula and is a great place to see vintage tall ships at their docks. If you've got time, a good way to explore the Port of Hamburg is by boat, with numerous tours departing from Landungsbrücken.

Although billed as the world's largest model railway, Hamburg's Miniatur Wunderland is really much more than simply a toy train layout. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in the city's historic Speicherstadt warehouse district. It's the world's largest model railway, boasting more than 15,400 meters of track and 1,040 trains (so expect to spend plenty of time here, especially if you're traveling with kids).

Built on a truly massive scale, the attraction covers an impressive 2,300 square meters. Highlights include areas dedicated to the USA, Scandinavia, and Germany, as well as an airport with planes that actually take off, plus some 100,000 vehicles that actually move, all of it illuminated by more than 500,000 lights and containing some 400,000 tiny (and unique) human figures.

As this is one of the most visited attractions in Germany, you can avoid a long wait by reserving your ticket online. Fun, behind-the-scenes guided tours are available and are highly recommended. Dining and snacks are available on-site, including a restaurant for the kids.

Address: Kehrwieder 2-4/Block D, 20457 Hamburg

Official site: www.miniatur-wunderland.com

Known locally as "Elphi," the imposing Elbphilharmonie (Elbe Philharmonic Hall) is the crown jewel of the revitalized Port of Hamburg. Located at the point of the Grasbrook peninsula, this new building has become the city's major landmark, and is considered one of the largest - and most acoustically pleasing - concert halls in the world.

Opened to great fanfare in 2017, its base consists of a 1960s-era, six-story-tall former cocoa, tea, and tobacco warehouse built of red brick. Above this rises an additional 20 stories of curved, shining glass.

The largest of its three concert halls seats 2,150 and features 10,000 plates specially designed to tune sound waves. The building is also home to a major hotel, residential apartments, restaurants, and other features, including parking. A publicly accessible observation platform, the Elbphilharmonie Plaza provides splendid views of the harbor and the city.

Classical music fans should also plan on an evening at the Hamburg State Opera (Staatsoper Hamburg). This state-of-the-art facility is much admired for its rich program of opera and its excellent acoustics.

Address: Platz der Deutschen Einheit 1, 20457, Hamburg

Official site: www.elbphilharmonie.de/en/

Occupying three separate but connected buildings on the Glockengießerwall, Hamburger Kunsthalle – literally translated as the "Hamburg Art Hall" – is one of Germany's top art galleries. Highlights include numerous altarpieces, works by local artists of the 14th century, and Dutch masters of the 16th and 17th centuries.

Also of note are its fine collections of 19th-century German and French paintings, plus substantial modern and contemporary art collections. Tours and fun programs for children are available.

Another notable art collection is housed at the Deichtorhallen , one of the largest galleries of contemporary art and photography in Europe.

Address: Glockengießerwall 1, D-20095 Hamburg

Official site: www.hamburger-kunsthalle.de

In the center of Hamburg's Rathausmarkt stands the majestic City Hall, or Rathaus. This large, elaborately decorated Neo-Renaissance building adjacent to the Stock Exchange (Börse) was completed in 1897 and consists of 647 rooms, many opened to the public for the city's annual Long Night of Museums event.

Notable features include the spectacular painted ceiling in the Kaisersaal, which depicts the importance of German merchant shipping. Guided tours are available, as are opportunities to observe the local government in action.

From the Rathaus, the wide Mönckebergstraße, Hamburg's principal shopping and business district, leads past 14th-century St. Peter's Church , a cathedral and fine example of brick Hansa architecture notable for its 133-meter bell tower.

A column in the south part of the church bears a painting called Christmas 1813 , commemorating citizens who were locked in the church that year for refusal to provide food to Napoleon's troops. Continue on Mönckebergstraße all the way to the Central Station and the Schauspielhaus theater.

Address: Rathausmarkt 1, 20095 Hamburg

The most famous of Hamburg's many churches, St. Michael's (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis) was built in the Baroque style between 1750 and 1762 and is one of the city's most important landmarks.

One of the top things to do when visiting this catholic church is to ascend its 132-meter-high tower, known locally as "Michel." Accessible by stairs and an elevator, the tower's viewing platforms offer excellent panoramic views over the city and port, a particular treat during their regular extended evening openings.

Also, be sure to look out for the stunning bronze statue of Archangel Michael killing the devil, a fascinating piece of artwork that can be seen over the entrance. Also of note is the church's crypt, the final resting place of some 2,425 people, and one of the city's most interesting concert venues.

In a courtyard to the east of the church are the Krameramtswohnungen . These dwellings were originally built to house the widows of members of the local Shopkeepers' Guild. There's also a good museum here.

Address: Englische Planke 1, 20459 Hamburg

Official site: www.st-michaelis.de/en/

Berthed along the river at Landungsbrücken, Rickmer Rickmers is a three-masted tall ship with a long and colorful history. Built in 1896, the ship returned to Hamburg in 1983 and, after four years of restoration, is now a museum focused on the role of the merchant marine in the 19th and early 20th centuries (there's even a restaurant onboard).

The MS Cap San Diego , a 1960s cargo ship, is another merchant marine ship museum with visitor access to the entire vessel, from the bridge to the engine rooms (fun overnight stays are also available).

A different view of the Cold War is available in the former Soviet submarine , B-515 , now open as a museum and docked at St. Pauli Fischmarkt 10. For those interested in maritime-themed art, a visit to the Altonaer Museum is well worthwhile, and features numerous important paintings, sculptures, and cultural artifacts related to shipping.

Address: Bei den St. Pauli-Landungsbrücken 1a, 20359 Hamburg

The International Maritime Museum (Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg, or IMMH) is a great place to discover more about Hamburg's rich maritime history and all things sea-related.

Housed in the city's oldest warehouse, a massive red-brick heritage building in the HafenCity area, the museum's fascinating exhibits cover more than 3,000 years of human connection to water. The oldest artifact displayed is a dugout boat, hollowed out of a tree trunk thousands of years ago, that was recovered from the Elbe.

Models show how shipping has progressed, from Phoenician galleys to Viking long ships to the caravels of the Golden Age of Discovery. An entire floor (there are 10 all told) is devoted to the latest in marine research, with films taken by diving robots and recordings of undersea sounds. Another gallery is filled with maritime art.

The newest addition is a superb ship simulator, which allows you to try your hand steering a container ship. A variety of tours and workshops are available, and there is a great little bistro here called, aptly, "Catch of the Day."

Address: Koreastraße 1, 20457 Hamburg

Official site: www.imm-hamburg.de/international/en/

The focal points of Hamburg's inner city area are the Inner Alster (Binnenalster) and Outer Alster (Aussenalster), two artificial lakes connected to the rivers Alster and the Elbe. It's here you'll find Hamburg's most picturesque city squares and historic avenues, as well as its famous pedestrian areas, the passagens . The best routes take in the elegant Jungfernstieg with its cafés and landing stages used by tour boats, and the Ballindamm , with the city's largest shopping center.

The lakes are also popular for sailing and kayaking in summer and skating in winter, and are lined by many beautiful parks and gardens. The area is also popular among cyclists.

Also popular is the Pöseldorf area, with its galleries, boutiques, and cafés, along with the canals, or "fleetes," which link the lakes with the Elbe. If you're visiting in late summer, be sure to attend the annual Alstervergnügen , a street fair held around the lakes with great entertainment, including numerous concerts.

Hamburg's Museum of Art and Design (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe Hamburg, or locally as "MKG"), located handily near the train station, ranks alongside the Bavarian National Museum in Munich as one of the country's most comprehensive displays of German, European, and Asian applied art.

Founded in 1874 and modeled after London's Victoria and Albert Museum, it's particularly well known for its displays of china, furniture, and silver from northern Germany. Other collections include applied art from East Asia, and a collection of works by Oskar Kokoschka. Also of interest is a large collection of keyboard instruments, as well as a fine display of porcelain. English-language guided tours are available, and a restaurant and bookshop are located on the premises.

The Hamburg Museum (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte) will also be of interest to museum goers. Dating back to the 1830s, the museum is home to a large collection of artifacts that, together with their accompanying displays and information, offer a detailed look at life in the city over the centuries.

Address: Steintorplatz 1, D-20099 Hamburg

Official site: www.mkg-hamburg.de/en/home.html

Not only is Ohlsdorf Cemetery (Ohlsdorfer Friedhof) the world's largest rural cemetery, it's one of the most important. Covering 961 acres and boasting 12 chapels, more than 1.5 million burials have taken place here in some 280,000 burial sites.

The cemetery is also where you'll find the Hamburg Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery , where more than 400 allied prisoners-of-war are buried, along with many who died in battles on German soil. Other notable memorials include those dedicated to victims of Nazi persecution, the Hamburg Firestorm of WWII, and members of the city's anti-Nazi resistance.

Don't be put off by the fact that the site is a cemetery. More than two million people each year visit its memorials, monuments, and museum while strolling through the pleasant gardens along its 17 kilometers of streets and paths. Another important Hamburg memorial is the Bismarck Monument , the best known of Germany's many towers commemorating the country's most revered politician. Fascinating English language guided tours are available, and are highly recommended.

Address: Fuhlsbüttler Straße 756, 22337 Hamburg

Official site: www.friedhof-hamburg.de/en/

At the St. Pauli landing stages in Hamburg is the Wallringpark, a large recreational area that includes some of the city's most popular open spaces, such as the Old Botanic Garden and the Kleine and Grosse Wallanlagen , the gardens laid out on the line of the old fortifications.

The best of these excellent parks is Planten un Blomen - quite literally translated as "Plants and Flowers". The lovely 116-acre park was established in 1821 with the planting of a Platanus tree that can still be seen here. It's a wonderful place to relax and enjoy a picnic, or if visiting at night, take in the famous water-light concerts or a musical performance.

From Wallringpark, you're just minutes away from the 272-meter-high Heinrich Hertz Telecommunications Tower , popularly known as 'Tele-Michel"; though now closed to the public, it remains a striking sight.

Address: Marseiller Str., 20355 Hamburg

A few minutes' walk east of Hamburg city center will take you to the attractive St. James's Church, also known as St. Jacob's (Hauptkirche St. Jacobi). It's one of the most important religious sites in the city after St. Michael's. A church has existed on this site since 1255, at which time it was outside the city walls.

The splendid 14th-century building you see today houses a variety of important artifacts and architectural highlights, including its medieval altars. Perhaps its most important feature, though, is its Arp Schnitger organ. Built in 1693, this magnificent instrument is one of the oldest and best preserved still in use today and boasts no less than 60 registers and over 4,000 pipes.

Visitors can get to hear this masterpiece during regularly scheduled concerts and recitals, often with the church's choir. Interesting tours of the church, including some that focus specifically on music and its organs, are available and come highly recommended.

Address: Jakobikirchhof 22, 20095 Hamburg

Official site: https://jacobus.de/en/

Museum am Rothenbaum: Kulturen und Künste der Welt (or simply MARKK) – formerly the Hamburg Museum of Ethnology – was founded in 1879 and is one of the largest such museums in Europe.

With a focus on "Cultures and Arts of the World," this fascinating museum boasts more than 350,000 artifacts and documents. Highlights include a binder used to cover a Torah, dating from 1711; an African exhibition with traditional cultural and religious items; and fun hands-on exhibits such as foosball, xylophones, and cameras.

Also interesting is the PROTOTYP Museum , a car museum that focuses exclusively (as its name suggests) on prototype vehicles. Most of the 45 vehicles on display are racing and motorsport related and are accompanied with exhibits relating to their history and drivers. Porsche fans will also want to try their hand at the driving simulator. A café is also located on-site.

Address: Rothenbaumchausee 64, 20148 Hamburg

Official site: https://markk-hamburg.de/english/

Above the high bank of the Elbe is Hamburg's vibrant, ritzy Altona district. It's popular for sightseeing due to its many attractive Neoclassical houses, many of them protected as historical monuments.

Here, you'll also find Museumstrasse, which runs north from the end of the Palmaille, and the Altonaer Museum with exhibits relating to the geology, landscape, settlement, and economy of Schleswig-Holstein and the Lower Elbe region. Other highlights include displays of marine artifacts, including old models and preserved ship figureheads.

Afterwards, be sure to explore the area around Altona, including the Altonaer Balkon . You'll be rewarded with fine views of the river and the port, as well as the fishing harbor and fish market.

Address: Museumstrasse 23, 22765 Hamburg

Hamburg's popular Oevelgonne district contains the New Elbe Tunnel , a 3.5-kilometer-long tunnel running under the River Elbe. Here, near the Neumühlen ferry station on the Elbe main shipping channel, you'll find the Museumshafen (Museum Harbor), home to about 20 historic vessels from the period 1880 to 1960, each carefully restored by a private organization.

This impressive collection of important old vessels includes traditional German and Dutch flat bottom ships as well as barges, fishing boats, and steam tugs, some of them open to the public. One of the larger vessels is the SS Stettin , a former icebreaker built in 1933 that's now used for pleasure trips.

Also of interest are the numerous pilots' houses on the Elbuferweg and the Oevelgonner Seekiste , a small museum with a variety of displays and maritime artifacts.

Address: Baron-Voght-Straße 50, D-22609 Hamburg

Not far from the New Elbe Tunnel , in the Klein Flottbek district of Hamburg, lies the beautiful 110-acre Jenischpark , one of the city's largest and most attractive open spaces.

Here, you'll find the superb Neoclassical 19th-century Jenisch House ((Jenisch-Haus) with its rooms reflecting the taste of the prosperous middle classes in styles ranging from Louis XVI to Art Nouveau, all preserved in the on-site museum, a branch of the Altona Museum .

The park is also home to the Ernst Barlach Haus , with its collections of sculptures, drawings, and printed graphic art.

Address: 50 Baron-Voght-Straße, Hamburg 22609

Official site: https://shmh.de/en

Tucked away in Hamburg's northwestern suburb of Stellingen, Tierpark Hagenbeck, the city's zoo, was established in 1907 to house a collection of exotic animals owned by a local fishmonger-turned-exotic animal trader by the name of Carl Hagenbeck. The zoo is still run by his descendants.

This excellent facility was the first in the world to use open enclosures surrounded by ditches as opposed to cages, increasing the free-range area of the animals. It was also the first zoo to group animals by species, ideas that inspired the owners of other zoo parks to adopt.

Other family attractions worthy of a visit is Planetarium Hamburg , located in an old water tower, and the CHOCOVERSUM Chocolate Museum , a fun interactive museum with displays focusing on chocolate making. And yes, you can make your very own chocolate bars!

Address: Lokstedter Grenzstraße 2, 22527 Hamburg

About 23 kilometers northeast of Hamburg is the town of Ahrensburg, famous for its old mansion, Schloss Ahrensburg (Ahrensburg Palace).

Now a museum, the castle was built in 1595, and many of its original interiors and furnishings remain intact, providing a fascinating insight into the life of country nobility. The mansion also makes a great backdrop to the regular concerts and events held in its attractive grounds.

Address: Lübecker Straße 1, D-22926 Ahrensburg

Official site: www.schloss-ahrensburg.de/das-schloss/english-information/

For easy access to Hamburg's top attractions, the best place to stay is in the central Hamburg-Mitte district. An easy walk to Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway, as well as the city's always-bustling port, this district is also home to great shopping, dining, and art galleries. The following highly rated hotels are perfect for exploring:

Luxury Hotels:

• Overlooking Inner Alster Lake, the Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten offers huge suites, spa services, and high tea in the plush Grand Hall with its fireplace and fine art.
• Just minutes from Hamburg's main railway station, the Park Hyatt Hamburg boasts spacious rooms with balconies and heated bathroom floors, as well as an indoor pool and spa.
• For a more contemporary feel, try The Madison Hamburg with its spacious rooms (some including kitchenettes), large indoor pool, and on-site dining.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Small and close to Hamburg's harbor, Hotel St. Annen offers spacious rooms, the best of which overlook the inner courtyard.
• If it's funky and fun you're after, try Prizeotel Hamburg-City featuring large rooms with rainforest showers and heated tiles.
• Also worth considering is Hotel Wedina . Overlooking Outer Alster Lake, it's a popular place to relax with a book thanks to its well-stocked library and pleasant courtyard garden.

Budget Hotels:

• At the higher end of the budget scale, the Art Deco-styled Superbude Hotel Hostel St. Georg offers funky, colorful (and quiet) rooms large enough to sleep a family.
• Other good affordable options close to attractions and entertainment in Hamburg-Mitte are Motel One Hamburg Alster with its modern décor and furniture, and Ibis Hamburg St. Pauli Messe , as popular for its harbor location as it is for its comfortable, modern rooms.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nature Calls : Germany's magnificent Black Forest region should be on every travelers' itinerary, as famous for its incredible scenery as it is for its thermal springs, many of them located around the spa town of Baden Baden . Equally as attractive is the lovely Lake Constance area , famous for its pleasant climate, rolling countryside, and many small lakeside towns and villages. Those seeking even more dramatic scenery should head for the hills of Garmisch-Partenkirchen , a mountainous area that's home to great skiing and the Zugspitze, the country's tallest mountain peak.

Medieval Times : The old merchant town of Augsburg is home to many important examples of medieval architecture, including its lovely 14th-century cathedral and the charming Fuggerei, an enclave of old townhomes built to house the poor in the 1520s. Historic Bamberg is where you'll find Klein-Venedig, or "Little Venice" with its well-preserved medieval fishermen's houses, as well as the Old Town Hall perched atop a bridge. Perhaps the most immersive medieval experience, though, is to be had in the town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber , famous for its fairy-tale-like old homes of the Plönlein and its still intact fortifications and walls.

Germany Vacation Ideas : The German capital city of Berlin needs at least a few days to explore, and is where you'll find some of the country's best known tourist attractions, from the infamous Berlin Wall to the famous Museum Island with its vast array of important museums and art galleries. The historic river port of Frankfurt is also popular for its museums, as well as for its large and picture-perfect central square, the Römerberg. Munich is the capital of Bavaria, as well as one of Europe's most-visited cities, famous for its magnificent cathedral and its many parks, particularly the huge English Garden (Englischer Garten).

More on Germany

Cities near Hamburg, Germany:

• Barsbuttel, Germany
• Glinde, Germany
• Schenefeld, Germany
• Halstenbek, Germany
• Neu Wulmstorf, Germany
• Rellingen, Germany
• Norderstedt, Germany
• Seevetal, Germany
• Reinbek, Germany
• Pinneberg, Germany
• Wedel, Germany
• Stelle, Germany
• Jork, Germany
• Quickborn, Germany
• Ahrensburg, Germany

The center of each city listed is within 22 km of Hamburg, Germany.

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Major cities near hamburg, germany.

This is a list of large cities closest to Hamburg, Germany. A big city usually has a population of at least 200,000 and you can often fly into a major airport. If you need to book a flight, search for the nearest airport to Hamburg, Germany . You can also look for cities 4 hours from Hamburg, Germany (or 3 hours or 2 hours or 1 hour ) or just search in general for all of the cities close to Hamburg, Germany .

• 58 km to Lubeck, Germany
• 88 km to Kiel, Germany
• 95 km to Bremen, Germany
• 132 km to Hanover, Germany
• 147 km to Brunswick, Germany
• 189 km to Magdeburg, Germany
• 195 km to Bielefeld, Germany
• 235 km to Munster, Germany
• 252 km to Berlin, Germany

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Hamburg   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Hamburg, Germany

Updated Feb. 11, 2021

Most of Hamburg's attractions, such as the  Hamburger Kunsthalle ,  Miniatur Wunderland  and the trendy HafenCity neighborhood, are clustered in the city center and Harbour districts. But you should explore Hamburg's other neighborhoods to experience

• All Things To Do

Elbphilharmonie Elbphilharmonie free

A stunning architectural marvel often compared to Sydney's opera house , the Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall and performance space designed by the Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron. As soon as it opened in 2016, it became an instant architectural icon thanks to its wave-like rooftop and glass façade. Luckily, you don't need tickets to a show to enjoy the striking space.

A public viewing platform is open to everyone and offers breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city and the harbor – a particular highlight for recent visitors. While admission to the viewing plaza is free, you do need a ticket to enter. Advance booking is available and recommended by recent visitors, though a booking fee of 2 euros (or about $2.25) applies. Reviewers also recommended taking a harbor cruise to admire the building from the water.

Alter Elbtunnel Alter Elbtunnel free

The  Alter Elbtunnel  (also called the Old Elbe Tunnel, St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel) is a pedestrian, bike and motorist tunnel (though cars are not permitted), which travels underneath the River Elbe. It connects central Hamburg to the southern side of the river. Opened in 1911, the tunnel was built to serve the port and shipyard workers as a connecting route between the Landungsbrücken and Steinwerder piers. It became a tourist attraction when the "new" Elbe tunnel opened in the 1970s. It has been undergoing renovation for the past several years.

While walking through the quarter-mile-long tunnel, take time to look at the tile reliefs that line the walls, which portray starfish, dolphins and other creatures. Past travelers enjoyed the experience of walking beneath the river and taking in the great view from the opposing side. Others said it provides an interesting photo opportunity, though there is little else to do.

Planten un Blomen Planten un Blomen free

Planten un Blomen , which translates as the very imaginative Plants and Flowers, spans over 100 acres and is a favorite among locals and travelers. Referred to as "Hamburg's green lung," it is home to various themed gardens, including a rose garden, Mediterranean terraces and one of the largest Japanese landscaped gardens in Europe. Planten un Blomen offers much more than the eponymous "plants and flowers." There are playgrounds, mini-golf, an ice rink in winter and a roller rink in summer, and even life-size chess games. There are also several cafes and food kiosks.

Many past visitors said the park is a relaxing place to unwind and highly recommend touring the Japanese garden. Others said the park is well-maintained and a worthy stop even in the offseason.

Popular Tours

Hamburg Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

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from $ 52.53

Guided Hamburg City Bike Tour

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from $ 39.40

Hamburg Shore Excursion: Private Berlin Day Trip

from $ 1750.04

Hamburg Boat Tours Hamburg Boat Tours

No visit to Hamburg is complete without getting out on the water. The easiest, not to mention one of the least expensive, ways to enjoy Hamburg by water is via a public ferry. Head to the Landungsbrücken piers and hop aboard one of Hamburg's many public transportation options.

One of the most popular ferry trips is aboard the No. 62 toward Finkenwerder island, which takes 30 minutes and allows you to see some of the city's most important waterfront sights. You can also hop on a guided tour, many of which also operate from the piers at Landungsbrücken. You'll enjoy an overview of the industrial docks, the historic Speicherstadt warehouses and modern architecture highlights such as HafenCity Hamburg and the  Elbphilharmonie . Rainer Abicht Elbreederei and Barkassen-Centrale Ehlers GmbH earn high marks from recent tour-goers. You can find more information about available harbor cruises on the city's tourism website .

Fish Auction Hall and Market Fish Auction Hall and Market free

All-night revelers finish up their partying at the Sunday morning St. Pauli  Fischmarkt  (Fish Auction Hall and Market) and early morning shoppers get a head start on the day. Not only are there stalls brimming with fresh fish and other goods, there's also steaming hot bratwursts, free-flowing beer and even an energetic band to keep the jovial atmosphere alive. It's also one of those uniquely Hamburg attractions, one which has been an institution since 1703. If you sleep in (or you're just getting to bed after bar hopping), you'll miss out on the Fischmarkt; it's open on early Sunday mornings only.

Recent visitors who knew what they were in for say the scene is fun and festive, while those looking for a traditional market were a bit disappointed. Reviewers described the scene as merry, with many comparing it to Oktoberfest.

Miniatur Wunderland Miniatur Wunderland

Self-described as the world's largest model railway, the more than 10,000-square-foot Miniatur Wunderland takes visitors around the world to admire models of miniature-sized countries and cities, including Southern Germany, Hamburg, USA, Scandinavia, Switzerland and Venice. Across nine different sections are more than 1,000 trains, 130,000 trees and nearly 250,000 figures.

Recent visitors offered rave reviews for Miniatur Wunderland, saying it was appealing to both kids and adults alike. Others were in awe of the attention to detail. However, a few warned that since this is a popular attraction, it can get very crowded. Miniatur Wunderland advises timing your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.

St. Michael's Church St. Michael's Church

St. Michael's, Hamburg's largest church, is actually the third church to be built in the same spot and was constructed in 1912. Visitors flock to the landmark church to see its five different organs, its 65-foot altar, its crypt and the amazing views from the nearly 350-foot-high observation deck. The church's 433-foot-tall tower, home to Germany's largest clock bell, is visible from all over the city. In the crypt far below, about 2,000 people have been laid to rest.

Views from the top are not to be missed, according to recent visitors. Others described the church's interior as "ethereal." What's more, travelers were pleased with the affordable admission fee.

Hamburg Zoo (Tierpark Hagenbeck) Hamburg Zoo (Tierpark Hagenbeck)

The Tierpark Hagenbeck (or Hamburg Zoo) is owned by the Hagenbeck family; Carl Hagenbeck, Jr. (who founded the zoo in 1907) was a wild animal trader and merchant. One of his innovations was to use moats instead of cages to enclose animals, a practice still used to this day. Today, visitors can encounter thousands of animals at the zoo, including one of the largest elephant herds in Europe. Of special note is the four-level Tropical Aquarium, an artificial habitat comprising more than 14,300 animals, including Nile crocodiles and around 13,000 fish. There are also several restaurants, playgrounds for kids, feeding demonstrations and a recreation park, among other attractions.

Recent visitors advised allowing plenty of time to check out all of the exhibits (some said they spent the whole day at the zoo) and said it's a great family-friendly activity. Reviewers were particularly fascinated by the walruses and polar bears. According to travelers, the zoo provides food to feed select animals (donations are encouraged).

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Emigration Museum BallinStadt Hamburg Emigration Museum BallinStadt Hamburg

Just as compelling and moving as Ellis Island, this museum and ancestral research center conveys the story of European emigration to the United States and elsewhere. The museum occupies the land originally used by the Hamburg-Amerikanische Packetfahrt-Aktien-Gesellschaft (HAPAG) shipping company for the city's Emigration Halls, which were built 120 years ago to accommodate people from all over Europe hoping to sail across the Atlantic. To lessen the likelihood of immigrants being sent back from the United States due to illness or other reasons (at the shipping company's cost), HAPAG offered medical examinations. Millions of people passed through the complex, which at one point included a hospital, a church, a music hall, housing and even hotels.

There are several halls that detail why people were emigrating, their journey across the ocean and what happened when they reached America, with interactive exhibits, displays, photos and artifacts. For an even more immersive experience, consider grabbing a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant Nach Amerika (or "To America"), which serves meals based on recipes used in the canteens of the former Emigration Halls. Visitors can also search complete passenger lists of all the ships that left the harbor in the family research area.

Hamburger Kunsthalle Hamburger Kunsthalle

One of Germany's great art museums (and one of its largest in terms of exhibition space), the Hamburger Kunsthalle boasts an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures – both old and new. The permanent collection encompasses art from eight centuries – with some pieces dating back to the Middle Ages. In the modern and contemporary sections, artists like Andy Warhol, Max Beckmann and Bruce Nauman are represented; in the older sections, you'll find works by Rembrandt and Anthony van Dyck, as well as a noted collection of works by German Romantic painters.

The museum is a highlight for many recent visitors, who rave about the excellent collection, especially the representation of German painters. Others were impressed by the building.

City Hall (Rathaus) City Hall (Rathaus)

The  Rathaus  (City Hall) is big – bigger than  London's immense  Buckingham Palace  – and according to travelers, it's one of the best sights in Hamburg. Resting on a square, inspired by  Venice's   Piazza San Marco , the neo-renaissance building's formidable exterior opens into a lavish interior, which is peopled by Hamburg's city council and state government officials. English-language tours take about 45 minutes and wind past the opulent state rooms, a mere fraction of the 647 rooms located on-site.

Recent visitors called the building "beautiful" and recommended taking the tour if you can.

International Maritime Museum International Maritime Museum

Located in a former warehouse, the International Maritime Museum offers a look at 3,000 years of maritime history across nine floors, with a stunning number of exhibits, artifacts and more, including thousands of model ships – a highlight for many recent visitors. Others were pleasantly surprised with the interesting and informative exhibits. One of its most treasured pieces is a copy of the "Atlantis Majoris" from 1657, the first nautical atlas printed in the Netherlands. Other exhibits include medals and uniforms from navies around the world, displays of commercial and passenger shipping and works by well-known maritime painters. One way to tackle the massive museum is by taking a 60- or 90-minute tour, which is offered in English, and costs 70 euros (about $77) and 80 euros (around $88), respectively. Audio guides are also available for a much smaller cost.

Recent visitors called the museum "fascinating" and said you should be prepared to do a lot of walking throughout its various levels and set aside several hours. However, some reviewers expressed disappointment that a few exhibits did not offer English translations. 

Speicherstadt Speicherstadt free

The red brick buildings of the  Speicherstadt  (Warehouse District) used to shelter the city's imports – coffee, spices, silks – which were carried fresh off the boats in the harbor. In 2015, Speicherstadt became Germany's 40th UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, this area full of neo-Gothic buildings, mostly constructed between 1883 and the late 1920s that are fun to see on foot. Though there are a few attractions within the area, including Miniatur Wunderland and the International Maritime Museum , it mostly attracts visitors in search of photo ops and a picturesque stroll. Popular photo spots include the Wasserschloss (or "water castle") at the end of Holländischer Birdge and Fleetschlösschen, a former customs booth.

Recent visitors call the area magical and recommend taking a canal tour if you can. A few reviewers said it's worth visiting at night when the area is beautifully illuminated.

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Reeperbahn Reeperbahn free

Hamburg's Reeperbahn once rivaled  Amsterdam's Red Light District for its sex trade, but times have changed (slightly). Located in St. Pauli, the Reeperbahn is a nightlife hub, still notorious for its corridor of sex shops, strip shows and brothels, though there are plenty of other non-X-rated activities and sights, from dive bars to the Beatles monument (the Beatles made their mark in Hamburg). St. Pauli is now almost better-known for its huge live-music scene, with clubs, bars, theaters and music venues. The annual Reeperbahn Festival in September brings in around 25,000 people to hear live music.

Recent Reeperbahn visitors found the area interesting to see, with plenty of music and pubs to check out. Others warned of potential pickpockets.

Hamburg Planetarium Hamburg Planetarium

Head to the Hamburg Planetarium to see everything from children's films to 3D trips through the solar system. The art deco building dates back to 1912 and is considered one of the world's oldest observatories. Visitors can also enjoy concerts and other musical shows in the enormous domed hall. The high-tech planetarium claims it's the most modern planetarium in the world. Previous shows include "Night Flight through the Galaxy," "Laser Zeppelin," and the "Green Planet 3D." After your show, head up to the rooftop terrace for unparalleled city views.

Recent visitors were impressed with the planetarium and highly recommend seeing a show there. Others suggested taking a stroll through the lovely Stadtpark City Park, where the planetarium is located, before or after a show.

Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe

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CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ

Schmidt Theater Schmidt Theater

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Things to do in Hamburg: 15 beautiful places you must see [with map]

Hello from Hamburg . Come with us to the port city and discover the most beautiful sights and cool places that you simply must have seen. We have already spent a few nights on the Reeperbahn and early mornings with the "market screamers" at the fish market. We have fallen in love with the city on the Elbe with its beautiful corners. Besides the Elbphilharmonie we present you the most beautiful places to visit and attractions in Hamburg. Whether during the day or in the evening: Hamburg is full of beautiful things to see. Here you can find the perfect sight for everyone. We know our stuff - secret places and musical secret tips can't be missing! Did you know that Hamburg also has many parks and a botanical garden? Of course, the Hanseatic city also made it onto our list of the most beautiful travel destinations in Germany.

Hi! Ich bin Nathalie

Als Co-Bloggerin bei den Phototravellers berichte ich über die schönsten Orte der Welt. Werbehinweis: Alle mit einem * markierten Links sind Werbelinks.

Our top 10 sights in Hamburg

Here I reveal to you my personal top places to go in Hamburg . There are countless beautiful places and interesting places here that you simply must see. Many travel guides recommend at least three days to visit the main sights of Hamburg.

However, to be able to look at everything in peace and have no stress, I would rather plan five days . You can spend a whole day in Miniatur Wunderland alone.

• Port of Hamburg and Landungsbrücken
• Speicherstadt
• Miniatur Wunderland
• Fish market
• St. Pauli, Reeperbahn & Great Freedom
• Elbphilharmonie
• Main church Sankt Michaelis (Michel)
• Planten un Blomen
• Heinrich Hertz Tower
• Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel

By the way, Hamburg ranks high in our ranking of the most beautiful cities in Germany .

You can also find our top sights to see on our interactive map right below.

Map with our top sights at a glance

On this interactive map, you can find all our favorite places and sights in Hamburg.

[mapsmarker map=”260″]

1. Port of Hamburg and Landungsbrücken

The port of Hamburg is the largest seaport in Germany. To get an overview of the area, for example, a harbor tour is ideal. We did the harbor tour with the provider Rainer Abicht (25 euros for adults) and can highly recommend it. You learn a lot of interesting facts about Hamburg and the port.

In addition to the Speicherstadt, which is located in the HafenCity district , which was only founded in 2008, the St. Pauli Landungsbrücken is also part of the port area. This is one of the most famous sights and a popular photo motif in Hamburg.

From there you have an excellent view of the Elbe and the Elbphilharmonie – more about that later. Various historic ships are moored at the Landungsbrücken, including the three-master Rickmer Rickmers, which was saved from being scrapped and now serves as a museum ship.

Two towers with striking green domes mark the 205-meter-long terminal building at the Landungsbrücken, which has been a listed building since 2003. One of the towers provides information not only about the time but also about the water level of the Norderelbe.

Also worthwhile is a visit to the submarine museum very close to the St. Pauli fish market , my next top sight. When will you ever have the chance to board a real submarine?

Tip : If you’re exploring the port city with your kids, check out our article Hamburg with kids: 15 excursion tips for families.

2. Speicherstadt

Another favorite in Hamburg is the Speicherstadt , the largest historic warehouse complex in the world . The area has been a listed monument since 1991 and on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 2015, along with the neighboring Kontorhaus district . The latter is characterized by large buildings in the style of brick expressionism, for example, the Chilehaus .

The name Speicherstadt comes from the warehouses in neo-Gothic brick architecture, which stand on thousands of oak piles and are connected on one side to the water and on the other side to the street. General goods and especially coffee , tea , and spices were stored there.

Tip : The typical photo of the Wasserschlösschen (“water castle”) can be taken from the Poggenmühlenbrücke (“Poggen Mill Bridge”) ( Google Maps ).

3. Miniatur Wunderland

In addition, one of the most famous activities in Germany is located in Hamburg’s Speicherstadt: the Miniatur Wunderland (miniature wonderland), with over 1500 square meters the largest model railway in the world . Not only children love it here. It’s simply fun to stroll through the huge layout and discover the miniature world.

You can expect numerous cities and regions from all over the world – and a good dose of humor. Did you know that Lyon also has a miniature world, modeled on Hamburg?

Tip : The Hamburg Dungeon is also a frequently visited attraction and a very fun thing to do in the Speicherstadt. There, you’ll embark on a journey through over 600 years of spooky Hamburg history. Actors and rides will really make you scream and take you to dungeons, torture chambers, labyrinths, and plague hospitals as well as a pirate ship.

During your visit to Speicherstadt, be sure to check out the Speicherstadt Coffee Roastery ( Google Maps ), right next to the Dungeon and Miniatur Wunderland. There you can watch live how the coffee is ground. There is also a delicious breakfast here.

4. St. Pauli Fish Market

Also part of the Port of Hamburg is the famous fish market , which deserves its own paragraph. It’s located west of the Landungsbrücken in the rival district of Altona-Altstadt . Since 1703, mainly fish but also fruit, vegetables, and plants have been sold here on Sunday mornings. It’s a very unusual thing to do!

The traditional fish market takes place every Sunday from 5 to 9:30 am (in the period from November 1 to March 31 only from 7 am). The stalls are located in the open air on the eastern end of the Große Elbstraße. There is also a large fish auction hall there, where, in addition to the sale of fish, events are often held and music is played.

The fish market has become one of the most popular attractions in the Hanseatic city, mainly thanks to the “market shouters” . The well-known sellers make fun of themselves, yell over to the other stand, and sometimes criticize the display of the other. Always with a wink of the eye, of course. It’s worth getting up early!

By the way, the time comes from the fact that the fishmongers had to be ready with their work in time for the church service on Sunday.

My tip: If you’re asking what to do in Hamburg in the evening, I’ll give you the answer! Whenever we were out in the evening in Hamburg, we went directly from the Reeperbahn to the fish market . That’s practically a cult in Hamburg. And believe me: the fish roll tastes three times as delicious at five in the morning. In addition, bands play in the Fischhalle. So you can continue partying right away.

⭐ A great guide for your trip to Hamburg

I can highly recommend this travel guide for your city trip to Hamburg. Have a look at Lonely Planet Pocket Hamburg ( get it here* ). You should also have a glimpse into Fodor’s Essential Germany (Full-color Travel Guide) ( buy it here* ).

5. St. Pauli, Reeperbahn & Große Freiheit

North of the Landungsbrücken, just a stone’s throw away and also in the St. Pauli district, is the infamous Reeperbahn . As dusk falls, this street, which is rather quiet during the day, becomes the most wicked entertainment mile in the party and red-light district . It’s clear that the Reeperbahn is high on my list of top sights.

At the eastern entrance to the Reeperbahn are the Dancing Towers , two high-rise buildings with “bent” facades. In it, among other things, there is a rooftop bar called clouds , from which you have a breathtaking view over Hamburg and can sip delicious cocktails.

However, the parallel Herbertstraße is considered a brothel street or, to put it less nicely, a “whore alley”. As a woman, you are not welcome here, which is why you should rather stay away from Herbertstraße directly. But there are signs there anyway that “forbid” the entry of young people under 18 and women. Even as a man, however, you should be careful – the ladies are often difficult to get rid of.

Safer is the Große Freiheit , a side street to the Reeperbahn. The two streets meet at Beatles-Platz (Beatles Square). It’s called that because this is where the Beatles made their first appearances in the 1960s, including in the still-existing pubs Club Indra and Kaiserkeller.

The Große Freiheit is notorious for its nightlife. Among others, three establishments of the drag queen Olivia Jones are located there: the Olivia Jones Bar, Olivia’s Show Club, and Olivia’s Wild Boys.

As you can see, the area around the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli is definitely one of the coolest places to see in Hamburg.

Tip : Be sure to check out the Panoptikum . This is the oldest wax museum in Germany . It is very worthwhile. What is to see in the Panoptikum? There you can see wax figures dating back to 1942. In addition to well-known personalities, you will also encounter many scurrilities there in the basement. We found it very exciting.

6. Elbphilharmonie

We return to HafenCity , as it is home to another of Hamburg’s most famous landmarks and a top thing to do here! The Elbphilharmonie was only completed in 2016 and is intended to be a new landmark for the city and a “ cultural monument for all “.

The building consists of the listed base of a former quayside pier and a modern superstructure with a glass facade , which is intended to evoke maritime motifs such as sails, water waves, or icebergs. Between the brick base and the glass superstructure, at a height of 37 meters, there is a publicly accessible square with a viewing terrace . To enter, you need a time-limited ticket but it is free on-site. The square serves as access and foyer of the concert halls , where you can experience an extensive musical program. They represent the heart of the Elbphilharmonie.

Tip : From the Landungsbrücken you can also easily reach the “ Elphie ” on a short walk. While doing so, you can enjoy the view of the harbor and the ever-growing Elbphilharmonie – fantastic.

You can also reach a four-star-plus hotel via the public plaza. The Westin Hamburg ( check rates here* ) has 244 rooms, ranging from the sixth to the twentieth floor. Otherwise, some of the city’s most expensive condominiums are still located in the Elbphilharmonie, as are various dining options and a parking garage.

7. Main church Sankt Michaelis (Michel)

Now we finally move away from the harbor and continue towards the city center . There you will find the Protestant church of Sankt Michaelis , usually just called Michel . The building is considered the Hamburg landmark and the most important baroque church in northern Germany. It’s a top thing to do in Hamburg!

The church burned down in 1906 but was completely rebuilt in 1912 and has been under quasi-continuous renovation ever since. The interior of Sankt Michaelis is exceptionally bright and flooded with light thanks to the transparent windows. The nave has no less than five organs , one of which is in the crypt in the vaulted cellar .

The Michel also scores with its church tower . It is 132 meters high, with a viewing platform at 82 meters. The visitor reaches this after 452 steps and has as a reward a wonderful view of Hamburg. On many evenings, you can even climb the tower until 11 p.m., with a reservation if necessary – this is then called “Nachtmichel.”

At a height of 106 meters, there is once again a platform from which the Michel trumpeter, known as the Türmer , trumpets a chorale in all four directions. On weekdays, this popular attraction takes place at 10 a.m. and 9 p.m., and on Sundays and church holidays at noon. This is based on a 300-year-old custom: until 1861, the trumpet was used to signal the opening and closing of the city gates.

8. Planten un Blomen

Now I have the right tips for all those who need a little time out in the green between sightseeing tours. Hamburg has some great options.

First, there is the Stadtpark , a 148-hectare public park in the north of Hamburg. It’s open throughout and freely accessible. A characteristic feature of the Stadtpark is the planetarium , which was created from a former water tower. On the 8th floor, there is a viewing platform with a great panoramic view – a must-do in Hamburg!

There is the well-known park Planten un Blomen in the city center. The first tree in this former botanical garden was planted back in 1821. The old show greenhouses are also still preserved – they are located together with a tropical house complex in the middle of the park. The name, by the way, is Low German and means “plants and flowers.” It’s a fun thing to do in Hamburg!

The Altonaer Balkon is also a popular place to visit, mainly thanks to the excellent view. This green space is one of a series of Elbe parks located above the river on a slope about 27 meters high. You’ll also find a number of sculptures there, for example, some large anchors or the “Fishermen” by Gerhard Brandes. Here you can stroll relaxed on foot and enjoy the park feeling.

Last but not least I can recommend the Sternschanzenpark , which is a bit smaller and less crowded. A special element of the partly public park is the Schanzenturm, formerly the largest water tower in Europe. Today it houses the Mövenpick Hotel, which opened in 2007 under protest from residents of the Schanzenviertel.

9. Heinrich Hertz Tower

The Heinrich Hertz Tower (also called “ Hamburg Tele-Michel “) is another exciting thing to do which you definitely shouldn’t miss. Visible from afar, the TV tower is the tallest building in the city at 279.2 meters and one of the most famous landmarks.

According to current plans, visitors will be able to enter the viewing platform and the revolving restaurant again in 2023. By then at the latest, the TV tower should once again be a magnet for visitors. Children love the view over the entire city and can hardly stop marveling.

10. Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel

After the rest in the green, it goes now reenergized back into the hustle and bustle, namely in the just mentioned Schanzenviertel (also Schanze). The Sternschanze, which gave the area its name, was a star-shaped defensive fortification that stood on the site of today’s Sternschanzenpark from 1682 to 1816. Today, the Schanze is a popular trendy neighborhood and thus one of the most famous sights in Hamburg. Here you can find a great bar and restaurant tips.

Tip : By the way, TV chef Tim Mälzer has a restaurant called “ Bullerei ” directly at the Sternschanze S-Bahn station. There you will also find the coffee roaster Elbgold , where you can get delicious Franzbrötchen.

The adjacent Karolinenviertel , or Karoviertel for short, is also a trendy neighborhood in Hamburg. What to see in Karoviertel? While it used to be a rather poor neighborhood, there are now numerous cafés, boutiques, restaurants, and stores there, similar to the Schanzenviertel. This is where the stylish hippsters are hanging out.

Between Schanzenviertel and Karolinenviertel and the park Planten un Blomen is also the event area Heiligengeistfeld . The Hamburger Dom folk festival takes place here three times a year- it’s a cool thing to do here! In addition, there is the Millerntor Stadium of FC St. Pauli and a high bunker.

11. Lake Alster and Jungfernstieg

The Alster is a tributary of the Elbe River, which forms the Alster Lake consisting of the Inner and Outer Alster in the city area- a great place to see. The Außenalster is the larger northern part and the Binnenalster the smaller southern part. The two are separated today by the Lombardsbrücke, a road, and a rail bridge. The Alstersee is a well-known landmark and is perfect for jogging and walking.

Especially popular for strolling is the Jungfernstieg , a street on the southern bank of the Binnenalster. The Jungfernstieg was created as early as 1235 as a dam for the Alster. One of the oak piles of the original dam has been made into a sculpture that can be seen on the platform of the U1 train, commemorating the victims of a water inrush during the construction of this station in the 1930s. Jungfernstieg is a great thing to do in Hamburg!

By the way, the name of the street comes in principle from a kind of “bridal show”. In the past, the unmarried ladies of the city – the maidens – used to walk there with their families on Sundays.

12. City Hall

Quasi opposite the Jungfernstieg is the Rathausmarkt . There is another section of the Alster, the Kleine Alster (“Little Alster”) with the Alster arcades. On the adjoining square, you will then find the town hall itself. It is the seat of the Senate and the state parliament of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg because Hamburg as a city-state also represents its own federal state.

The magnificent neo-Renaissance style city hall is dominated by a central tower that is as tall as the whole building is wide – 112 meters. The inner courtyard, which is open to the public, is also one of the most architecturally exciting places in the whole city.

Together, the Rathausmarkt, the town hall, and the Kleine Alster form an urban ensemble inspired by St. Mark’s Square in Venice and is generally considered to be particularly successful. What’s to do near the city hall?  In the Alsterarkaden and generally around the Rathausmarkt there are numerous restaurants, cafés, and stores. Mönckebergstraße, a popular shopping street in Hamburg, is also just a stone’s throw away.

Tip : If you are looking for the best Franzbrötchen in Hamburg, we can recommend the store Mutterland ( Google Maps ). Here the Franzbrötchen look like cinnamon buns but taste really delicious. Also brilliant Franzbrötchen – for us on the number two best Franzbrötchen in Hamburg – is the bakery Elbgold ( Google Maps ).

13. Memorial St. Nikolai

The next sight in Hamburg that you should definitely have seen is a structure that perhaps not everyone knows about. It is the St. Nikolai Memorial , the central place of remembrance for the victims of war and tyranny of the years 1933-1945.

The former main church of St. Nikolai was in fact destroyed during the air raids on Hamburg in 1943. Only the tower, part of the southern outer wall, and the walls of the choir have been preserved – they form today’s memorial.

At 147 meters, the tower is the tallest church tower in the city , even ahead of the Michel. You can take a panoramic lift to a viewing platform 76 meters above the ground and look out over the whole city, for example at the impressive City Hall building. Access to the tower is included in the entrance fee for the museum now located in St. Nikolai.

There is a very similar sight in Berlin – the Memorial Church. Here you can find the most important sights in Berlin .

14. Old Elbe Tunnel

If you have a little time left, you should definitely take a look at the Alter Elbtunnel . It was opened in 1911 in St. Pauli and has been a listed building since 2003.

Just the ride with the ancient elevators underground is a terrific experience and an extraordinary sight. You should definitely have done it. The long Elbe tunnel is also impressive and an amazing thing to do in Hamburg!

On the other end, you can take a walk with a view of the city.

15. Deichstraße

When I turn into Deichstraße (dike street), I am immediately fascinated. Small, cute houses are suddenly in front of me. Old pulleys still hang from the tops of the roofs. This street is the last preserved ensemble of old Hamburg burgher houses and one of the few small, secret places in Hamburg.

The Deichstraße is located in the district Altstadt directly at the Nikolaifleet. You can get there directly from Willy-Brandt-Straße to the Kajen.

More tips and sights

A beautiful sight on the Elbe is the Elbe beach west of the fish market. Here you can go swimming in the summer or just relax. The sand is beautifully white and invites you to swim. Many Hamburgers have their own boats and go to secluded places on Sundays.

The Hagenbeck Zoo is also one of the most popular attractions in Hamburg. A completely different sight is the Ohlsdorf Cemetery , the largest park cemetery in the world and also Hamburg’s largest green space.

Art lovers should stop by either the Hamburger Kunsthalle with its important art collections or the Deichtorhallen with contemporary art and photography. Chocolate lovers, however, are well catered for at the Chocoversum by Hachez.

Finally, I can recommend the Blankenese district. This is an affluent residential area on the Elbe, which grew out of a former fishing village. Among others, Rolf Zuckowski and Otto Waalkes live here today. The former village center has become today’s Treppenviertel (staircase district) ( Google Maps ), which can be explored virtually only on foot on more than 5000 steps. A walk on foot is worth it!

Musical secret tips in Hamburg

The Lion King is not a secret tip in the musical city but should still be mentioned at least once as Hamburg’s most famous production. A very special highlight: a shuttle ship takes you from the Landungsbrücken to the Stage Theater in Hamburg Harbor .

Right next to it is the musical building The Ice Queen . The Disney play is also performed at the Theater an der Elbe. Experience how Princess Elsa saves the kingdom of Arendelle from disappearing into the eternal ice. Here, too, you can expect enchanting costumes and great songs.

But the play Harry Potter and the Enchanted Child should not be missing from the list of the best experiences for children in Hamburg. It takes place in Mehr! Theater am Großmarkt in Hamburg. The play has already been successfully performed in London, New York, and Melbourne . Extra tip: You’ll also find the Wizarding World Shop by Thalia in the Thalia bookstore right next to the main train station.

Other well-known plays currently being performed in Hamburg include Pretty Woman , Wicked , and Mamma Mia !

A real insider tip, however, is the musical Heiße Ecke at Schmidts Tivoli in St. Pauli. It’s about a snack bar on the Reeperbahn – so it’s a real Hamburg production!

Where to stay in Hamburg – the best hotel tips

Some exclusive hotel tips were already hidden in this article, like The Westin Hamburg ( check prices here* ) in the Elbphilharmonie or the Mövenpick Hotel in the Schanzenturm ( check prices here* ). The Hotel Atlantic Kempinski ( check prices here* ), where Udo Lindenberg has been staying since the mid-90s, is also extremely stylish.

The 4-star Hotel Boston HH ( check prices here* ) in Altona-Nord is also a great choice and even has a small wellness area. Also scoring 4 stars is The Suites Rainvilleterrasse ( check prices here* ), which is made up of six accommodations, each with its own balcony.

In the Speicherstadt and Hafencity is the modern and extremely stylish PierDrei Hotel ( check prices here* ). The Hotel Volksschule ( check prices here* ) offers a truly unusual concept, as it is actually housed in the brick building of a former school.

Hamburg’s traditional hotel Louis C. Jacob ( check prices here* ) is our very special hotel tip.

The Studio Feuerfest ( check prices here* ) near the Stadtpark is an excellent guesthouse with a terrace, communal kitchen, and lounge. The private room All you need – Room ( check prices here* ) also convinces with excellent reviews.

Facts and figures

• Hamburg is the second largest city in Germany with a population of about 1.8 million.
• Thus, the Hanseatic city is also the largest city in the European Union, which is not a capital city
• Many theories assume that the hamburger really comes from Hamburg – however, today it is no longer possible to trace whether the popular fast food dish actually originated in Germany
• Hamburg is considered one of the cities with the highest quality of life in the world
• Hamburg was mentioned in documents as early as the 7th century
• All the varieties of Low German spoken in Hamburg are grouped together under the term “Hamburger Platt” – there is even a dictionary for it
• Two of Hamburg’s twin cities are Prague (click here for sights in Prague ) and Chicago (and click here for sights in Chicago )
• If you are addressed with “Hummel, Hummel” in Hamburg , you should not flee in panic from a supposed insect but answer with “Mors, Mors”. The greeting probably goes back to a water carrier nicknamed Hummel, who could not defend himself because of the heavy load and, when called and mocked, responded with “Mors, Mors.” It is said that this is the short form of “Klei mi an’n Mors” which means “Lick my …”.

Ich bin Nathalie, Übersetzerin und Co-Bloggerin bei den Phototravellers. Ich studiere Translation mit dem Schwerpunkt Spanisch, Englisch und Italienisch, spreche aber auch etwas Schwedisch und Japanisch. Sehr gerne reise ich nach Schweden oder Spanien, um dort die Sonne und die wunderschönen Strände und Landschaften zu genießen.

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Home » Europe » Germany » Hamburg

10 BEST Places to Visit in Hamburg (2024)

Known locally as the Gateway to Germany, Hamburg is the 2 nd  biggest city by population and there’s a lot here to keep both locals and tourists entertained. The former city-state is built up on around the River Elbe, and as well as being a progressive and modern German city, it’s known for being just… well, cool. It has a vibrant music and nightlife scene, and there is a range of festivals throughout the year. It also has a rich cultural heritage, and the maritime spirit of the city is hard to miss. You can visit a number of museums and galleries while you’re in town, before indulging in the city’s food culture!

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit in Hamburg, hopefully helping you to make the most of your trip to the city, and just get an idea of how to visit Hamburg for a short break. Hamburg really does have it all!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Hamburg:

These are the best places to stay in hamburg, faq on the best places to visit in hamburg.

Bordering St Pauli to the west, Altona’s smaller eponymous quarters – Altona-Altstadt and Altona Nord – are all about history and green spaces.

• Marvel at the Lutheran church of Haupt-Kirchengemeinde St. Trinitatis Altona
• Get your modern history on at the riverside U-Boat Museum
• Pay your respects to steel statues of the Beatles at the vinyl-shaped Beatles-Platz

Hamburg is RIFE with absolutely amazing accommodation options. Knowing what to do in this city without having a base to check in to first is only half the equation. Be sure to check out where to stay in Hamburg and get set up in your favourite Airbnb first!

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#1 – Speicherstadt – One of the more unique places to visit in Hamburg

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• A protected UNESCO World Heritage site
• The largest warehouse district in the entire world
• One of the most fascinating points of interest in Hamburg

Why it’s awesome: This Hamburg must-see is usually near the top of tourist itineraries to the city. Built in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries, the Speicherstadt became the largest collection of warehouses in the world, and its colourful red bricks and Neo-Gothic architecture give these incredible huge buildings lots of character. These buildings were a key part of the German economy, storing coffee, tobacco, and spices. Nowadays, Speicherstadt is home to lots of cool leisure activities – some which will pop up in this list! It’s also a great place to walk around, thanks to a number of paths and bridges.

What to do there: Walking is a lovely way to see the Speicherstadt, but if you fancy seeing it in a different light, take a boat trip! There is lots to keep you entertained in the district too. Later in our list, we’ll take about the Maritime Museum and Miniatur Wonderland as they deserve a spot on their own. Other notable places include the Automuseum Prototyp, which is packed with rare historical concept cars, and the Hamburg Dungeon – a great place to learn about the city’s history with a grisly twist. Take a moment to relax at the Kaffeerösterei. The former coffee warehouse offers tastings of some of the world’s finest beans!

With a Hamburg City Pass , you can experience the best of Hamburg at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#2 – Elbphilharmonie – A great place to see in Hamburg if you love architecture

• The tallest inhabited building in Hamburg
• Get fantastic views of the city from the observation deck
• Enjoy a concert in one of the most acoustically advanced venues in the world

Why it’s awesome: The most recent addition to Hamburg’s skyline has only been around since 2017. At over 100 metres tall, the Elbphilarmonie incorporates Hamburg’s maritime history into its design, with people comparing the building to both waves and the sails of a ship. The building has some impressive numbers other than just its height. There are 100 curved windows and space for 2,100 spectators in the concert hall itself. The modern design and architecture have made it one of the most acoustically advanced venues in the entire world!

What to do there: You don’t have to be a music lover to but the Elbphilharmonie on your Hamburg itinerary. Seeing an Elbphilharmonie Orchestra concert here is an unforgettable experience and will definitely be a high point in your trip. However, if you don’t have the time or budget to see a concert, you can still enjoy the building itself. Heading up to the top floor observation deck will get you some great shots of the skyline (and maybe even some new followers on Insta), while the café is a great place to stop and enjoy a rest. For cool Hamburg vacation ideas, look no further than the Elbphilharmonie!

#3 – St. Pauli – A great place to visit in Hamburg at night!

• One of the coolest neighbourhoods in Hamburg
• See the bar where Paul McCartney ran up a massive bar tab (and still hasn’t paid)
• A mixture of seedy nightclubs and top restaurants has to be seen to be believed!

Why it’s awesome: St. Pauli is one of the best places in Hamburg . Period. Known outside of the city for having one of the most liberal football teams in the world, closer to home it’s known for being the city’s most creative district. Oh, and the Reeperbahn too. If you’ve never heard of the Reeperbahn, it’s the most famous of all the hotspots in Hamburg for nightlife. However, that’s not telling the full story! It’s also the red light district and is known locally as die sündgiste Meile (the most sinful mile!)

What to do there: You may have been put off by Red Light District, and although prostitution does still happen here, it’s not like it was in the days when sailors regularly frequented the area! Nowadays, there is excellent nightlife and food around the Reeperbahn too. In fact, you’ll find some of the best places to eat in Hamburg here! Unless you’re travelling with kids, you really do need to head out and enjoy the hedonistic lifestyle of the Reeperbahn! If you’re a Beatles fan, there are self-guided tours where you can see the spots and clubs that the Fab 4 played before they were famous!

#4 – International Maritime Museum

• Located inside the Speicherstadt’s oldest building
• Learn about Hamburg’s maritime past
• One of the most interesting attractions in Hamburg

Why it’s awesome: The international Maritime Museum doesn’t just cover the city’s seafaring past. Oh no, in fact, this place delves into more than 3,000 years of history of the human relationship with the sea! The oldest artefact comes from the River Elbe itself – a dugout boat made from a tree trunk. There are a number of models throughout the museum too, from Phoenician vessels from before the times of Christ, Viking longboats, and the galleons used to discover the New World. You can also learn about Maritime research and admire art themed around the sea. Don’t miss one of the best places in Hamburg to learn and educate yourself!

What to do there: If you’re not sure where to find the Maritime Museum, there are a couple of giveaways. First of all is the massive propeller outside. If you manage to miss that, then you just need to search for the oldest building in the Speicherstadt District! You can easily spend a few hours at this Budapest must-see, with model ships, naval memorabilia, and artwork placed around the 11 floors of the building.

#5 – Miniatur Wunderland – Awesome place to visit in Hamburg with kids!

• A miniature world which takes up a whole Speicherstadt warehouse
• One of the best places in Hamburg for a family day out
• See 1:87 models of Hamburg, Italy, and even the United States!

Why it’s awesome: Even though we’ve already had Speicherstadt as one of the best places to visit in Hamburg, Miniatur Wunderland deserves an entry all to itself. It all started with a model railway and some models of Central Germany and Austria at the beginning of this century, and since then has expanded and will continue to in the 2020s! A day only lasts for 15 minutes in Miniatur Wunderland, as a computer controls all the lights. It also controls the 15km of railway track that wind their way through the warehouse!

What to do there: It’s not just a computer that controls the exhibits at Miniatur Wunderland. Some of the displays are interactive, and you can flick over 200 switches which will allow you to control helicopters, windmills, and even a space shuttle. This place is a Hamburg must-do if you’re on holiday with little ones! Miniatur Wunderland is quite a popular attraction and it can get busy. However, if you want to skip the queues then you can get a ticket that allows you to do that!

#6 – Planten un Blomen

• Considered one of the best urban parks in Europe
• A great place to enjoy a picnic
• Get views of the garden from the Heinrich Hertz telecommunications tower

Why it’s awesome: Visiting Hamburg is a lot of fun, but it is a huge 24-hour city. So, sometimes you might feel like you need a break from the hustle and bustle. If that’s the case, then Planten un Blomen is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg to relax and disconnect for a while. Just inside the city walls, the park has been here since 1821 and has been one of the most favourite attractions in Hamburg for locals and tourists alike.

What to do there: There are a lot of things to do to keep you entertained in Planten un Blomen. If you’re especially interested in plants, then head for the Old Botanical Garden. It’s home to five inter-connected greenhouses which contain plants from around the globe. If it’s a bit warm, you can always stay in the great outdoors and enjoy the Rose Garden. Even if you’re not that bothered about flowers and plants, still give this place a visit. It’s the perfect place to relax with a picnic and perhaps a book. The colourful musical fountain shouldn’t be missed if you’re here at night, especially if there’s a concert on!

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#7 – Kunsthalle

• One of the largest and most important museums in Hamburg
• See masterpieces from both classical and contemporary great artists
• One of the most recognisable landmarks in Hamburg

Why it’s awesome: Art lovers simply can’t miss this Hamburg must-see. Not only is it one of the best museums in Hamburg, but the whole of Germany. Whatever period of art you’re interested in, you’ll be able to find something relating to it here. 16 th and 17 th century Dutch masters, old masters such as Goya and Rembrandt, and even contemporary galleries with priceless works from Picasso and Andy Warhol are all on show here. The Kunsthalle is made up of 3 buildings, the most recent being added in 1997.

What to do there : If you want to learn more about the artists and their works on show here, take a tour of the Kunsthalle. Travelling with kids? You’ll be pleased to know that there are cool educational workshops that they can take part in too! That may even give you the peace and quiet you need to enjoy your tour and take in all the fascinating information offered. Don’t miss out on one of the best places to visit in Hamburg!

#8 – Övelgönne – A very cool place to go in Hamburg for the day

• Walk or bike the Elbe Tunnel under the river
• Get some sun, sea, and sand at Elbe Beach
• Visit the historic ships Övelgönne Museum Harbour

Why it’s awesome: There are 3 really cool attractions in Övelgönne, and it didn’t seem fair to pick one and miss the other two out! The Övelgönne Museum Harbour is a fascinating place to visit, as you can see ships from the 19 th and 20 th centuries here. At the small museum next to it, there are also some cool artifacts on display. You can also visit the engineering marvel of the Elbe Tunnel. This transformed the lives or harbour workers but is now also a quick and safe way for tourists to get around!

What to do there : Visiting both of the attractions above are a great way to spend your day in Övelgönne, but there’s one more thing. Although Hamburg is a port city, it’s quite far down the River Elbe. That doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the beach though! Elbe Beach is one of the summer hotspots in Hamburg, with cool bars, volleyball matches, and pleasure cruises. Of course, if you want to just lay down your towel and take an afternoon snooze that’s fine too. Just don’t forget your sunscreen!

#9 – Lake Alster – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Hamburg

• City centre lake where you can swim, sail, and row
• Keep an eye out for the lake’s graceful swans
• The perfect spot for ice skating during the winter

Why it’s awesome: Hamburg’s city centre has two artificial lakes – the Binnenalster (Inner Alster) and the Aussenalster (Outer Alster). They connect the Elbe and Alster rivers but more importantly, are home to some of the prettiest squares and walking areas of Hamburg. You’ll definitely want to spend some time here whether it’s to sample some of the best places to eat in Hamburg, or to do a spot of shopping so consider finding one of Frankfurts best hostels nearby! If you’re visiting in September, enjoy the Alstervergnügen, a street fair held around the lakes.

What to do there: You should definitely spend some time walking around the passagens . These are the famous pedestrian areas of Hamburg’s picturesque city centre. The canals which link the lakes with the River Elbe are pretty too. The centre of the Inner and Outer Alster Lakes it the waterfront promenade – Jungfernstieg. Admire the classicist and neoclassical architecture, or just head into one of the department stores for some retail therapy. However, it can be just as nice to sit and people watch with a coffee at one of the most famous places in Hamburg!

#10 – Fischmarkt (Fish Market)

• This is one for Sunday morning early risers
• One of the best places to eat in Hamburg. Try Fischbrötchen!
• Afterparty spot from a Saturday night on the Reeperbahn

Why it’s awesome: It may seem strange to go to a fish market after a night on the town… your stomach certainly might not agree with fresh fish after a night of pints and shots, but in Hamburg it’s a tradition! From 5am on a Sunday morning during the summer, this fresh food market is open for fish and other foods. However, it also has energetic dance music playing, so it’s the perfect spot to carry on the party.

What to do there: If an afterparty doesn’t sound like your thing, or you didn’t go out in the first place, don’t worry. The Fischmarkt is a great place to do some shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables (for a picnic in Planten un Blomen), clothes, or even flowers. What you have to do here is try the local Hamburg street food: fischbrötchen . Freshly caught North Sea salmon, mackerel, shrimp, or pollock are stuffed into a roll. It’s a great way to soak up the alcohol after a night on the Reeperbahn! Also, if you come at the right time of year, it’s a great place to watch the sunrise over the Elbe!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Hamburg

What should you not miss in Hamburg?

If there’s only one site you see in Hamburg, it had better be Speicherstadt.

Is Hamburg worth visiting?

Hamburg is very unique to other cities in Germany. It has a lot of history and cool sites to see, so I would consider it worth a visit.

What is Hamburg best known for?

Hamburg is famous for being a progressive and modern city on the River Elbe.

What is the best place to visit in Hamburg for shopping?

If you’ve come to shop in Hamburg, you’ll find many cool shops around Lake Alster.

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in Hamburg. Hopefully, you’ll have found it useful and informative and you’ll be plotting the points on a map! We think we’ve probably shown you enough places to visit in Hamburg in 3 days, and also given some handy tips on the best places to stay in Hamburg.

Hamburg isn’t all about the Reeperbahn, and although you should definitely visit that, the other spots on this list are definitely worth a few hours of your time too. Whether it’s art and culture, great nightlife, or the city’s culinary prowess you’re interested in, you certainly won’t be bored on your trip!

All that’s left is for us to wish you a fabulous time and a safe journey as you head off to explore the best places to visit in Hamburg!

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Thanks for including my photo (the one about wonderland). For a detailed review about our experience in Munich check out our blog post.

You can also see a video of a fake wonderland fire on youtube.

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The 10 best things to do in Hamburg right now

Ready to explore the Gateway to the World? From mini worlds to flea markets, these are the best things to do in Hamburg

Welcome to Germany’s second city, where the beer is flowin’ and the city is alive with culture. And it’s no surprise – Hamburg has long been a rock ‘n’ roll city; a ton of famous composers settled there over the years, and it was even home to some of The Beatles’ earliest and most notable concerts in the ‘60s. 

Now? It’s as cool as it ever was, and it’s seriously populated (1.9 million people live there, to be exact). And as the Gateway to the World, Hamburg is a place that has always evaded tradition, and its innovative food scene reflects this as much as its many, many museums, galleries and theatres. What is Hamburg? Well, it is Hamburg. It couldn’t be anything else. From gourmet cuisine to the sinful lights of the Reeperbahn, here are the best things to do in brilliant Hamburg. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍲 The best restaurants in Hamburg 🏛️ The best attractions in Hamburg 🏨 The best hotels in Hamburg

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Hamburg things to do

1.  St Pauli Fischmarkt

• Markets and fairs
• price 2 of 4

Don’t be put off by the name – ‘Fischmarkt’ is not just a market for fish. There is lots of fresh fish and seafood there, if you so desire, but you’ll also find long, bustling tables full of people drinking and snacking, tons of independent shops selling clothing and jewellery, flower stalls, bric-à-brac, fruit and veg – the list goes on. Fischmarkt is a central hub in Hamburg, around since 1703 and only open on Sunday mornings. It’s busy, but you’ll likely want to spend hours there taking it all in. In the auction hall next door you can get brunch, and sometimes watch live jazz bands. 

2.  Literaturhauscafé

• price 3 of 4

Literaturhauscafé is located in a beautiful old building that dates back to 1839, but it wasn’t always this way. It previously served as a dance school, a home for girls and was left to deteriorate for years. Thankfully, in 1985 an anonymous philanthropist funded its restoration, and now glittering chandeliers hang from intricately stuccoed ceilings above rows of gleaming white tablecloths. Literaturhauscafé may not be the cheapest meal, but it’s perfect for a special occasion or if you want to treat yourself. Their menu consists of fresh, seasonal, regional dishes. 

3.  Port of Hamburg tour

Don’t expect nature here; these boat tours are more about seeing what makes Germany’s largest port tick. With 9,000 ship calls per year, almost 300 berths and 27 miles of wharf for seagoing vessels, the Port of Hamburg is a bustling sea superhighway. On a barge tour such as the  Maritime Circle line , you’ll get closer to all the container ship action. Alternatively, you could flee the constraints of land with a floating techno party on the  Love Boat . If speed is your thing, try  RIB Piraten , the only speedboat operator allowed inside Hamburg Harbour. On the last stretch of this tour, you’ll reach top speeds on a rigid inflatable boat that skims the waves at 60 miles an hour.

4.  Entenwerder1

A place of pilgrimage for both creative types and the boating community, Entenwerder1 is a sun-splashed café that looks directly onto the Elbe River in the Rothenburgsort district. From picnic-style seating outside, you can watch the boats go by – or stop, as a docking point makes this an aquatic destination for hungry locals. Inside seating, communal-style, is in two buildings; a boldly coloured wall installation in one and the perforated steel façade on the other make both architecturally appealing. We recommend the fish cakes and the fresh, homemade baked goods. 

5.  Logo Club

This live music club, which proudly calls itself ‘Hamburg’s loudest sauna’, has been drawing a wide array of bands and musicians since 1974 – making it one of the city’s oldest and most beloved music institutions. The venue was built as a furniture store after Second World War and was later transformed into a student restaurant with cheap food and the occasional concert. Slowly, the concerts took over. The 40 years of Das Logo’s existence have not been easy; dire financial straits have led to near-closure several times over the years. However, the band plays on, with local and international talent continuing to deliver extraordinary nights out. The 450-capacity club often sells out – so book in advance.

6.  The Portuguese Quarter

Oddly enough – with the obvious exception of Portugal – Hamburg is one of few places in the world where you can really live as the Portuguese do. Spanish and Portuguese immigrants have settled in the area around Ditmar-Koel-Strasse in the Neustadt district since the ’60s and ’70s, and this scenic area is where the club kids go after a night out for a  galão (espresso with steamed milk) and pastel de nata (a custard tart). Close to the harbour, it’s also where to head to satisfy a craving for fresh seafood. Try a bowl of steamed mussels from one of the dozens of restaurants offering the best Mediterranean food in the city.

7.  Flohschanze flea market

• price 1 of 4

For the best retro or vintage souvenirs, head to Flohschanze, which many consider the city’s best flea market. Every Saturday, hundreds of vendors hold court at the market, located in the hip Schanzenviertel district near an old slaughterhouse and has an excellent view of the FC St Pauli football stadium. You can find just about everything here, from mid-century light fixtures and brass candlesticks to used bicycles, clothes, furniture and even car batteries. Though you won’t find brand new items from local retailers, that’s a good thing; it’s a flea market in the truest sense, meaning bargains are aplenty.

8.  Le Lion

• Bars and pubs
• Cocktail bars

A green-tinted muddle of basil, gin, lemon juice and sugar, the gin basil smash is a fragrant, summery drink found in bars worldwide these days. Le Lion makes the case that they invented it – this claim is boldly stated on the sign outside the speakeasy-style cocktail bar you’ll find brimming with lion accents. True or not, Le Lion is the place to find a fabulous cocktail in a sultry locale. Head to one of the upholstered bar stools on the second level, and you’ll have an excellent viewpoint from which to watch the well-heeled crowd. Small plates of food are also on hand, mostly salami and cheeses. Reservations are recommended; ring the bell to enter.

9.  Miniatur Wunderland

• Specialist interest

Whether you have kids or are just a big kid yourself, Miniatur Wunderland is a must-visit. Teeny-tiny narratives unfold all over this miniature world, so keep an eye out for what’s going on. Allow at least three hours to see the whole thing – and don’t get too frustrated by the crowds of onlookers hustling for prime position. Miniatur Wunderland is home to the largest model railway in the world (at 50,000 feet), which runs through various model areas, including Hamburg, the United States, Scandinavia, Knuffingen Airport and Venice. Book in advance to skip the queues and, if it’s not too busy, you can bring your dog along.

10.  Reeperbahn Red Light District

Hamburg’s ‘most sinful mile’ on the Reeperbahn is one of the city’s main attractions. However, with lively restaurants, bars and clubs mixed in with all the strip clubs, sex shops and brothels, this part of St Pauli is also one of the buzziest areas for eating, drinking and live music. Prostitutes roam openly on the infamous Herbertstrasse, where women are forbidden (though word has it some have slipped through with the right disguise). And around Christmas, you’ll find the city’s naughtiest  Christmas market , the Santa Pauli Market, which features adult-only strip shows, live music, and an adult tent housing some rather sexy holiday gifts. Gentrification means the erotic playground part of the Reeperbahn might not be around much longer – see it while you can.

More great things to do in Hamburg

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Famous Sightseeing Places to Visit and Things to Do in Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city in Germany. It is officially known as the Free and Hanseatic city of Hamburg. The city is connected to the North Sea through the Elbe river. Even today, some of the best things to do in Hamburg can be found along the banks of this river. Historically, this city was part of the Hanseatic League and one of the free imperial cities of the Holy Roman Empire. You will see memories of city’s associations with various empires in the best places to visit in Hamburg .

Owing to its strategic trade location, the city progressed rapidly in terms of economics as well as culture. Exploring art and culture are integral part of Hamburg sightseeing . The city has some of the finest art galleries, museums and cultural centers of Germany. The city also has opera houses, theaters, performance centers and many such places to explore. It also numerous cultural events concerning food, music, drama, films, fine arts and more.

On the trade and commerce side, the city’s port has had great impact on Germany as well as Europe. Many of the top things to see in Hamburg are concerning its port, maritime history and trade history. There is a submarine, a trade ship, a fire ship, shipwreck and more such interesting Hamburg attractions to explore. There are also 2 areas, namely Speicherstadt and Kontorhausvietel, have been included among UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The city has also faced several tragedies during its history. You will see scars of these tragedies like Great Fire of 1842, North Sea Flood of 1962 and Second World War bombings on many Hamburg tourist attractions .

As for fun things to do in Hamburg, you can go exploring nature around the city, go sailing in the lakes, take a cruise in the river, make your own chocolate, enjoy the nightlife and so on. It is one of the liveliest cities to explore in Germany.

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Table of Contents

Top 22 Tourist Places to Visit in Hamburg, Germany in 3 Days (Trip Itinerary)

1. planten un blomen.

This Japanese style garden is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg for some leisure time. The garden also has a quaint little tea house to enjoy. You can easily spend an hour or so at this garden.

2. The Alster Lakes (Außenalster)

These lakes are hot-spot for some of the best things to do in Hamburg Germany. People come here for several outdoor activities like hiking, boating, picnic, sailing and more. You would need about half an hour to see these lakes.

3. Hamburger Kunsthalle

This art museum is dedicated to several masterpieces created by renowned European artists such as Caspar Friedrich, Rebeccas Horn, Gerard Richter, Georg Baselitz and so on. You would need about 2 hours to explore these museum.

4. Museum of Arts and Design (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe)

This museum is dedicated to ancient and medieval works of art. The museum also exhibits several historical artifacts as well. For art admirers, it is one of the top things to see in Hamburg. You would need about an hour to explore this museum.

5. Church of Saint Peter (Hauptkirche St. Petri)

This church has a history going back to 1189 A.D. It is one of the most dominant building in the city. It is one of the top Hamburg tourist attractions. You would need about 30 to 45 minutes for this church.

6. City Hall (Hamburger Rathaus)

The city hall is an excellent example of 19th century Neo-classical architecture. It is one of the most beautiful Hamburg attractions. The city hall exhibits several artifacts concerning the history of the city. You would need 30 to 45 minutes for this place.

7. St. Nicholas’ Church (St.-Nikolai-Kirche)

This gothic church lies in shambles today owing to bombings on the city during the second world war. It is one of the most fascinating buildings to explore during Hamburg sightseeing. You would need 30 to 45 minutes for this church.

8. St. Michael’s Church (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis)

This is the largest protestant church in the city. It features wonderful baroque design elements. It is known for its wonderful interiors as well as beautiful architecture. You would need about half an hour from Hamburg travel for this church.

1. Fischmarkt

This fishmarket is open  only on Sunday and is situated by the river. You can also get seafood based street food items at this market. You would need about 30 minutes for this place when you visit Hamburg.

2. U-434 (U-Boot Museum)

This soviet submarine is among the most fascinating places to see in Hamburg. It serves as a museum of maritime history of the nation as well as port of the city. You would need about an hour for this submarine.

3. Reeperbahn

This street is known for several top things to do in Hamburg including shopping, dining, nightlife and entertainment. You would need about an hour for this street.

4. Museum for Hamburg History (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte)

This museum delves in the history of the city exhibiting several artifacts and stories of the city. The museum focuses on trade, port, politics and art of the city’s history. You would need about an hour for this museum.

5. Old Elbe Tunnel (Alter Elbtunnel)

Also known as St. Pauli Elbe tunnel, is considered an engineering marvel. This pedestrian and vehicle tunnel stretches for 426 meters and is situated 24 meters beneath the surface. You would need about an hour or so for this tunnel.

6. Rickmer Rickmers

This museum is housed in a ship which used to be a sailing firefighting ship. The museum primarily focuses on the 90 years history of this ship as it served several countries including Britain and Portugal. It one of must see in Hamburg. You would need about an hour for this ship.

7. Miniature Wonderland (Miniatur Wunderland)

This park is one of the finest Hamburg sights and consists several miniature recreations. It is also known for having the largest miniature model railway system in the entire world. You would need about 2 hours for this place.

8. Warehouse District (Speicherstadt)

This district is included among UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You will see several Neo-Gothic red-bricked warehouses in the district. It is one of the most historically significant places to go in Hamburg. You would need about an hour to explore this area.

1. BallinStadt – Emigrant Museum

This museum is dedicated to Europeans who left for the Americas from the Hamburg port. It gives a great glimpse of the city’s past. You would need about an hour for this museum.

2. HafenCity

This futuristic neighbourhood has some interesting activities in Hamburg along with impressive architecture to behold. You would need at least an hour to explore this area.

3. International Maritime Museum

This museum is dedicated to the naval and port history of the city as well as the evolution of naval trade, exploration and warfare. It is one of the best places to visit in Hamburg for those interested in history. You would need about 2 hours for this museum.

4. Deichtorhallen

This iconic building is home to the museum of contemporary art and photography. It is well known among things to see in Hamburg for exhibiting works of renowned artists such as Rupprecht Mattheis, Richard Serra, Georg Baselitz, Marilyn Minter and more. You would need about an hour for this place.

5. Chocoversum by Hachez

This is a museum of chocolates, which is deeply intertwined with the history of the city. One of the most fun things to do in Hamburg is designing your own chocolate bar at this museum. You would about 2 hours for this experience.

6. Chilehaus

This 10 story building is a popular spot during Hamburg sightseeing for being an impressive example of Brick Expressionism architecture along with Gothic elements. You would need about half an hour for tour of this building.

If you are looking for more activities in Hamburg, check out the sections below. We have complied lists of places and things to do in and around the city.

Things to do in hamburg, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in hamburg.

• Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall
• Hamburger Kunsthalle
• St. Michael’s Church
• International Maritime Museum
• Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe
• Deichtorhallen Museum of Contemporary Art
• St. Nikolai Memorial
• Museum of Hamburg History
• Bucerius Kunst Forum
• Chocoversum by Hachez
• Museum of Ethnology
• Hamburg Planetarium
• BallinStadt Emigration Museum
• Altonaer Museum
• Rickmer Rickmers
• U Boot Museum
• Museum of Work
• Panoptikum Wax Museum
• Ohlsdorf Cemetery
• Jenisch House
• Hamburg Archeological Museum
• Ahrensburg Palace
• Zoological Museum
• Sammlung Falckenberg
• Freilicht Museum am Kiekeberg
• Automuseum Prototype
• Ernst Barlach Haus
• Bismark Monument
• Speicherstadt Museum
• Memorial del Campo de Concentracion de Neuengamme
• Spicy’s Gerwurz Museum
• Deutsches Hafen Museum
• St. James Church
• Museum fur Bergedorf und die Vierlande
• Hamburg State Opera
• St. Catherine Church
• Hafen Oevelgonne Museum
• Galerie der Gegenwart
• Deutsches Zoll Museum
• FC St. Pauli Museum
• Museum der Illusion
• Deichtohallen Hamburg
• Schloss Reinbek
• Pinneberg Museum
• Bismark Museum in Friedrichsruh

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Hamburg

• Alster Lakes
• Wildpark Schwarze Berge
• Europaischer Fernwanderweg
• Fischberker Heide
• NSG Duvenstedter Brook
• Boberger Niederung Nature Reserve
• Boberger Dunen
• Pulvermuhlentiech Lake
• See im Gorssen Moor

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Hamburg

• Miniatur Wunderland
• Tierpark Hagenbeck
• Planten un Blomen
• Hamburg Dungeon
• Jungfernsteig Boulevard
• Cap San Diego
• Heide Park Resort
• Binnenalster
• Dialogue House
• Tropen Aquarium Hagenback
• Jenisch Park
• Ojendorfer See
• Park Fiction
• Heinrich Hertz Tower
• Old Botanical Garden
• Loki Schmidt Garden Botanical
• Altonaer Volkspark
• Stintfang Vineyard
• Millerntowache Park
• Arriba Waterpark
• Polizeikkommissariat 15
• Water Art Elbinsel Kaltehofe

Shopping in Hamburg

• Rathausmarket
• Spitalerstrasse
• Colonnaden Street
• Europa Passage
• Alsterarkaden
• Monckeberg Strasse
• Jungfernsteig

Beaches in Hamburg

• Elbstrand Beach
• Boberger See Beach

Offbeat Places & Adventure Activities to Do in Hamburg

• Boat Cruise

Sightseeing in Hamburg

• Alter Elbtunnel
• Alster Canal
• Treppenviertel Blankenese
• Deichstrasse
• Beatles Platz
• Pont de Kohlbrand

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Hamburg

• Fischereihafen
• Henssler & Henssler
• Heldenplatz
• La Plat du Jor
• Frau Moller
• Balz und Balz
• Erika’s Eck

Where to Stay in Hamburg?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Hamburg. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Hamburg.

Luxurious Hotels

• Grand Elysee Hotel Hamburg
• AMERON Hamburg Hotel Speicherstadt
• Scandic Hamburg Emporio
• Lindner Hotel Am Michel
• Adina Apartment Hotel Hamburg Speicherstadt
• Hotel Hafen Hamburg
• 25hours Hotel Hamburg HafenCity
• Le Meridien Hamburg
• Hotel Europaeischer Hof
• Movenpick Hotel Hamburg
• Hamburg Marriott Hotel
• Empire Riverside Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

• Premier Inn Hamburg City Zentrum Hotel
• prizeotel Hamburg-City
• Holiday Inn Hamburg – City Nord, an IHG Hotel
• Premier Inn Hamburg St. Pauli hotel
• MEININGER Hotel Hamburg City Center
• Mercure Hotel Hamburg City
• Courtyard Hamburg City
• Novotel Hamburg City Alster
• IntercityHotel Hamburg-Barmbek
• Ibis Hamburg St Pauli Messe
• Novotel Suites Hamburg City hotel
• NH Hamburg Horner Rennbahn

Budget Hotels

• Best Western Hotel Hamburg International
• Leonardo Hotel Hamburg-Stillhorn
• a&o Hamburg City
• B&B Hotel Hamburg City-Ost
• B&B Hotel Hamburg-Harburg
• Premier Inn Hamburg City Hammerbrook hotel
• Novum Hotel Holstenwall Hamburg Neustadt
• Alt Lohbrugger Hof
• ibis Hamburg Airport Hotel
• Select Hotel Hamburg Nord
• ibis budget Hamburg St. Pauli Messe

Custom Tours Package in Hamburg

How to reach hamburg.

The most convenient option for Hamburg travel is by air. The largest one is the Hamburg-Fuhlsbuttel Airport. You can get direct flights from Athens , Dublin , Moscow , Riga , Paris , Vienna , Istanbul , Bucharest , Brussels , London , La Palma, Rhodes, Edinburgh , Salzburg , Manchester , Dubai , Amsterdam , Barcelona , Beirut, Budapest , Munich , Nice , Zurich , Naples , Prague , Reykjavik , Venice , Helsinki , Lisbon and many more. You can get buses and cabs to get around the city from the airport.

You can get direct trains to visit Hamburg from several European cities like Berlin , Dusseldorf , Frankfurt , Munich, Zurich, Cologne , Copenhagen , Budapest, Prague, Vienna and many more. The bus routes can get you to Hamburg from several cities and towns in Germany. You can also reach the city by bus from cities of neighbouring countries. If you are planning to reach Hamburg by road, you should head for routes A1, A7, A23 or A24.

There are several places connected to Hamburg by water routes including port cities of Finland, Denmark, Lithuania, Sweden and Russia. There are also transatlantic boats connecting Hamburg with New York City in the USA.

Image Reference

• Planten un Blomen – hl_1001 / Flickr
• The Alster Lakes (Außenalster) – txmx 2 / Flickr
• Hamburger Kunsthalle – Jorge Franganillo / Flickr
• Museum of Arts and Design (Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe) – Nightflyer / Wikimedia Commons
• Church of Saint Peter (Hauptkirche St. Petri) – Carandoom / Flickr
• City Hall (Hamburger Rathaus) – SofieLayla Thal / PixaBay
• St. Nicholas’ Church (St.-Nikolai-Kirche) – Mark Michaelis / Flickr
• St. Michael’s Church (Hauptkirche Sankt Michaelis) – starrs / PixaBay
• Fischmarkt – Fred Romero / Flickr
• U-434 (U-Boot Museum) – Kevin Hackert / Flickr
• Reeperbahn – Jorge Franganillo / Flickr
• Museum for Hamburg History (Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte) – Can Pac Swire / Flickr
• Old Elbe Tunnel (Alter Elbtunnel) – Chris Frenzel / PixaBay
• Rickmer Rickmers – Michael Hagn / PixaBay
• Miniature Wonderland (Miniatur Wunderland) – Viola ‘ / PixaBay
• Warehouse District (Speicherstadt) – Karsten Bergmann / PixaBay
• BallinStadt – Emigrant Museum – Holger.Ellgaard / Wikimedia Commons
• HafenCity – liggraphy / PixaBay
• International Maritime Museum – Karsten Bergmann / PixaBay
• Deichtorhallen – Wolfgang Staudt / Flickr
• Chocoversum by Hachez – Michael / Flickr
• Chilehaus – Phil Beard / Flickr
• Beautiful Tourist Places to Visit and Things to do in Hamilton, New Zealand
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Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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Welcome to  HAMBURG

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With both the Baltic and the North Sea only an hour's drive away, the many beaches and islands are a Hamburger's weekend delight.

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Hamburg For... Luxury Lovers

Five-Star hotels, haute cuisine, spas and shopping: Hamburg has a wealth of exclusive treats to entice visitors looking for an exclusive experience.

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Mobility hvv Deutschlandticket

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Explore your city and save money doing so! Hamburg CARD Local

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Settle Health

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• Bars & Pubs: © www.mediaserver.hamburg.de / Christian Spahrbier
• Mobility in Hamburg: © IMAGO / agefotostock
• Port of Hamburg: © Hafen Hamburg / Ingo Boelter
• Clusters in Hamburg: © imago stock & people / Westend61
• Hamburg Invest : © imago stock & people / Westend61
• Brexit / Hamburg: © georgeclerk / iStockphoto.com

Germany Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Germany. The country is synonymous with beer, sausages, incredible hiking, majestic castles, serious people, and wild techno parties. It’s huge, diverse, and utterly amazing.

There’s a vibrant art and music scene in Berlin , beautiful forests in the west, majestic cathedrals and castles throughout the country, picturesque “Sound of Music” cities in the south, and overlooked historic cities and beaches in the north.

The more I visit Germany, the more I fall in love with it. Whether you are backpacking, traveling on a mid-range budget, or looking to splash out, traveling around Germany is wonderful.

That said, Germany is a huge country so don’t rush your visit. There’s more to the country than just Berin and those cross-country train rides are longer than you think.

This travel guide to Germany will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Germany

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in germany.

1. Get lost in Berlin

Germany’s hip capital has world-class museums, history, funky neighborhoods, and some of the best nightlife in Europe. From the museums to the art and music scene to the great bars and cheap food, Berlin is electric (and one of the cheapest European capitals). It’s a really amazing city that has grown on me with every visit.

2. See Munich

Berlin’s quiet, upscale cousin, Munich is a city steeped in history, lively beer halls, incredible food, lush parks, and a royal palace. It’s a beautiful destination and there are a lot of Bavarian towns nearby that make for scenic day trips.

3. Party at Oktoberfest

Held annually in September and October, the world’s largest beer festival is filled with huge steins and giant pretzels. I went there for 5 days and had the time of my life. Buy some lederhosen, raise a glass, and sing some German beer songs. Just make sure to plan your trip well in advance as things sell out fast!

4. Explore the Romantic Road

A string of historic cities in Bavaria, the “Romantic Road” is the name for the route through majestic Bavarian towns and their surrounding snow-capped mountains. The area can get quite touristy but it’s a beautiful area and a great choice for road trips and romantic getaways. There are a ton of tour options for the area that are worth checking out. For some of the more further afield attractions, the tours are a must as they are hard to visit without a car.

5. Hike the Black Forest

The Black Forest is so named because of the dark green pine trees that grow here. Spanning over 6,000 square kilometers (2,300 square miles), there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails worth exploring and you can spend some time stopping in towns that are famous for their cuckoo clocks and hearty German fare. If you want to go on a guided hike or adventure activity, you can find a lot here.

Other Things to See and Do in Germany

1. explore lake constance.

Lying along the country’s southwestern border with Switzerland and Austria , Lake Constance (known as Bodensee in German) is Germany’s largest freshwater lake and the third-largest in Central Europe. One of the lake’s main attractions is the island of Mainau, also known as Flower Island, which is home to many specialty gardens, a baroque palace, and one of the largest butterfly houses in Germany. Tickets to visit the island are 10.50 EUR. Be sure to visit the many picturesque medieval villages and castles nearby, enjoy water sports, and go hiking and biking along the 272-kilometer (170-mile) Lake Constance Trail.

2. Visit Hanover

This city was one of the hardest hit during World War II, leaving it with only a few historical landmarks. But what I loved about Hanover were its large green areas of forests and big parks, the River Leine winding through the city, and the Sprengel Museum. Not many people visit, but I think it is one of Germany’s most underrated destinations .

3. Hike Berchtesgaden National Park

This national park, located in the south of Germany along the Austrian border, is an alpine heaven of lush forests, steep rock faces, crystal clear lakes, sleepy villages, and rolling meadows. It’s just you, the chirping birds, and cows ringing their brass bells. Well-marked trails wind through the spectacular scenery, which brims with opportunities for hiking and cycling. While nature is the main attraction, the beautiful red-domed Church of St. Bartholomew (dating to 1697) is a worthwhile stop as well.

4. Check out Trier

Nestled in the Moselle River valley, picturesque Trier is the oldest town in the country. With a 2,000-year-old history, Trier was home to six Roman emperors and contains numerous UNESCO Roman ruins. The most outstanding example is the Black Gate, a monumental structure that was once part of the city walls. Other Roman sites worth visiting include the incredibly well-preserved basilica, the huge amphitheater, the bridge, and the baths. Trier is also home to several important Gothic and Baroque churches, a beautiful main square, and great wine due to its location in the Moselle wine region.

5. Visit Dresden

Dresden, the capital of the German state Saxony, is a vibrant city located along the majestic Elbe River near the Czech and Polish borders. During World War II, the city was subject to one of the most devastating bombings of the war. Tens of thousands of civilians died, and over 90% of the city was razed at the hands of British-American forces. After the war, the city was completely rebuilt. The famous Frauenkirche church, the Neumarkt historic district, the Zwinger Palace, the Royal Palace, and the Semper Opera House have all been restored to their former glory. Other must-see attractions include the Fürstenzug, a unique 102-meter-long (334-foot) porcelain mural dating to the 1870s; and the baroque Grosser Garten, the largest green space in the city.

6. Spend a day in Cologne

Cologne is a cool place to stop in West Germany on your way to or from the Netherlands . The cathedral is the most popular landmark in the city (and one of the most popular in the country), but there’s also a vibrant art scene, incredible international restaurants, and lots of riverside cafes and pubs. It’s an underrated stop worth exploring for a couple of days.

7. See Neuschwanstein Castle

This 19th-century Neo-Romantic palace is the model for the Disney castle and a must for any Germany itinerary. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Europe, with over 1.5 million visitors each year. Perched on a rugged hill in Bavaria near the town of Füssen, the palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and as an homage to Richard Wagner. Visitors can walk around outside and admire the stunning exterior for free, but the interior is only accessible by guided tour at specific times, which must be booked in advance. While the palace is 6,000 square meters (65,000 square feet) in size, only 14 of those rooms were ever finished. The finished rooms were fitted with very modern technology for the time, such as central heating, hot and cold running water, automatic flush toilets, and telephones. Admission is 15 EUR and guided tours are available . I think the guided tours add a lot of context and would really recommend taking one.

8. See Frankfurt

Often considered just a stopover city (there is a huge airport here), Frankfurt is home to a gigantic exhibition hall (one of the largest in the world so tons of events and conferences are held here), an excellent science museum, and a towering 14th-century cathedral. It’s less expensive compared to other cities in Germany and worth spending a day or two visiting.

9. Visit Olympia Park

Located in Munich, this massive complex was originally constructed for the 1972 Olympic Games. It is topped by the largest roof in the world, which spans over 700,000 feet. There is a really good restaurant here too. Tickets to the stadium cost 3.50 EUR while a ticket to the Olympic Tower costs 11 EUR. You can also skate in the ice arena, swim in the Olympic swimming pool, and reserve court time on the tennis courts. The BMW Museum is also nearby and worth a visit.

10. Tour to Schloss Colditz

Originally built to be a Renaissance palace, this interesting structure has a long, bizarre history. Located between Leipzig and Dresden in the region of Saxony, it’s been a hunting lodge, a poorhouse, and even a mental hospital. It is most famous for being a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. There is a museum within the palace, with tickets costing 4 EUR. A two-hour guided tour through the castle (and escape tunnels built by prisoners) is 10 EUR. There is even a hostel within the castle (30.50 EUR per night).

11. Visit Hamburg

Located in northern Germany, Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city. This port city, home to the second-busiest port in Europe, is famous for its parks and canals. Near its core, Inner Alster lake is dotted with boats and surrounded by cafes. The city’s central boulevard connects the Neustadt (new town) with the Altstadt (old town) and is home to landmarks like 18th-century St. Michael’s Church.

12. See Tierpark Hagenbeck

Located in Hamburg, this zoo and aquarium spans over 60 acres and is home to more than 2,500 animals including polar bears, penguins, and walruses. In addition to the classic attractions, there is a petting zoo, a miniature railway, pony rides, a playground for kids, and a serene Japanese garden. Combination tickets for the zoo and aquarium are 40 EUR.

13. Take a break in Bremen

Located in the north (near Hamburg), Bremen is a smaller city worth exploring. The charming medieval Schnoor district makes for a great stroll, and there is a beautiful cathedral and opulent city hall in the historic market square. The medieval harbor has been converted into the Schlachte, a large pedestrian promenade along the banks of the Weser River lined with countless restaurants, beer gardens, and riverboats. Bremen is also home to several fascinating museums, including the Universum Bremen, an interactive science museum in a modern whale-shaped building. The museum also offers a Dining in the Dark three-hour dinner experience, where you learn to experience food with just four out of your five senses.

14. Explore the Rhine Valley

The longest river in Germany, the Rhine holds incredible importance both historically and culturally. The most popular area to visit is the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 67-kilometer (41-mile) stretch is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless castles, ruins, villages, and vineyards. An extensive network of walking and cycling paths, as well as excellent public transportation, means you don’t even need to rent a car when visiting.

15. Step back in time in Bamberg

Located less than an hour from Nuremberg, Bamberg is one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns, home to Europe’s largest intact historic city wall. Founded in the 9th century, the town was important in both the 12th-century Holy Roman Empire and the 18th-century German Enlightenment. It’s an incredibly picturesque town so spend the day wandering around, seeing the old homes, visiting the 13th-century cathedral, the 17th-century palace, the 18th-century city hall, and the seven churches that sit atop each of the seven hills surrounding the village.

16. Take a river cruise

Many of Germany’s major cities lie along large rivers, making river cruises a popular way to see the country. While there are expensive multi-day cruises going from city to city, you can also take a day cruise for a more budget-friendly option . Generally, these are around 15-25 EUR for a 1-2 hour trip. They are super fun.

17. Ascend Germany’s tallest mountain

Located in the Alps along the German-Austrian border, the Zugspitze mountain measures 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) and is a popular destination for winter sports. Even if you’re not into skiing, you can still enjoy the trip up the mountain via one of three different cable cars and a 90-year-old rack railway line. At the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views and several restaurants with traditional Alpine food. Round-trip cable car tickets cost 24-63 EUR depending on the season and which cable car you take. If you don’t want to go solo, day trips are available from Munich and are the best way to get there and around without transportation.

  For more information on specific cities in Germany, check out these guides:

• Berlin Travel Guide
• Cologne Travel Guide
• Frankfurt Travel Guide
• Munich Travel Guide

Germany Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Germany is quite affordable compared to other Eurozone countries. Hostels are plentiful and range from 17-25 EUR per night for a dorm room with 6-8 beds. For a private room, expect to pay 40-60 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices begin around 45-65 EUR for a small double room with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available everywhere with private rooms going for as little as 30-45 EUR per night and entire apartments or homes starting at 50-75 EUR. Book early though or prices will double (or triple).

While wild camping is illegal, there are a ton of campsites around the country. Expect to pay 5-20 EUR per night for a basic plot for two people without electricity.

Food – Food in Germany is very cheap (and hearty). Meat is a staple of most meals, especially sausages; there are over 1,500 different kinds of sausages in Germany (sausages here are known as “wurst”). Stews are also a popular traditional choice, as are potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Breakfast is usually composed of bread, cold cuts, cheese, and boiled eggs.

You can get sausages and bratwurst from outdoor vendors for around 3-5 EUR. Meals at many of the beer halls around the country cost 9-15 EUR. Pre-made sandwiches cost around 5 EUR. Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8.50 EUR for a combo meal.

If you eat in the beer halls, a traditional German meal costs around 14-18 EUR. Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Asian food can be found for as little as 5 EUR, while a nicer meal at a sit-down restaurant costs around 25 EUR.

Beer costs around 4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is around 3 EUR. Bottled water is around 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 40-50 EUR. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat. While they don’t always offer the most variety, the cheapest places are Aldi, Lidl, Penny, and Netto. Bring your own bag if possible.

Backpacking Germany Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Germany, my suggested budget is 55 EUR per day. This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, limiting your drinking, using local transportation to get around, and doing mostly free activities like hiking and taking free walking tours. If you plan on drinking, add another 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 135 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat a few meals out, take the occasional taxi to get around, enjoy a few drinks, take the bus between cities, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and castles.

On a “luxury” budget of 245 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, travel between cities via train, eat out at restaurants for all of your meals, drink more, take taxis to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Germany Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Overall, Germany is not an expensive country to visit. Yes, river cruises are expensive. Yes, there’s plenty of high-end cuisine throughout the country. Visiting Frankfurt, the capital of finance, costs a pretty penny. But those are exceptions to the rule. Overall, Germany is quite affordable for a Eurozone country, with plenty of bargains throughout the country. Here are my best tips for saving money in Germany:

• Eat cheap – Throughout Germany, cheap outdoor sausage vendors offer quick eats for only a couple of euros. Additionally, some of the best and cheapest food in Germany is Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. You can get meals for 5-8 EUR that are delicious and filling. It’s what I mainly eat while in Germany whenever I want to eat out.
• Drink cheap – In Germany, buying beer and walking around — known as a ‘Weg bier’ — is totally acceptable. Take advantage of good weather by sitting outside in Germany’s lovely plazas and lush parks and buy your own drinks from the Späti shops, street kiosks, and supermarkets to save money. Also, find the student areas by the universities as you’ll find the discounted places.
• Take the free tours – The bigger cities in Germany have free walking tours. They’re a good way to see the city, learn about the history, and get your bearings without spending money. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Book your train early – Trains in Germany are expensive but you can get a saver ticket that is around 40-50% off the standard fare if you book at least a week in advance. These tickets have limited availability, so be flexible with your travel plans. Also, if you are more flexible with times, try Flixtrain instead, which has fewer routes between bigger cities sometimes at inconvenient times but is way cheaper than Deutsche Bahn.
• Take the bus instead of the train – While not as comfy or romantic, Flixbus or Postbus are two bus companies with super cheap prices. Download the app and you can get tickets last-minute but be aware that prices vary by time and availability so if you need to be somewhere by a certain time or day book in advance.
• Use rideshares – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar and catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). You save money and get to spend time with locals. Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe (though sometimes rides don’t show up, which is why you need to be flexible). While the bus might be cheaper, this is usually faster (and more interesting). Just make sure to check where the pickup and drop-offs are as sometimes they are not exactly central places or main station.
• Stay with a local – While accommodation in Germany is pretty cheap, if you want to get some local insight into the country, you should Couchsurf. Not only will you save money on accommodation but you’ll meet locals who can help get you off the tourist trail and show you around! Plus, they have occasional meet-ups depending on the city so you can meet other travelers and locals
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.
• Look out for free museum days – Most museums in Germany offer free admission on certain days or evenings. Check their website or ask the local tourism office to find out about discounts.
• Get transportation day passes – If you’re going to be using public transportation a lot in a city, get a day pass. Paying for single rides adds up quickly.
• Get city tourism cards – Most of the major cities in Germany offer city tourism cards. These include free admission to major museums and attractions, discounts on restaurants, and usually unlimited public transportation. If you plan on seeing a lot, these cards can save you money.

Where to Stay in Germany

There are lots of fun and social hostels in Germany. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• St. Christopher’s (Berlin)
• Circus Hostel (Berlin)
• Wombats (Munich)
• Jaeger’s Hostel (Munich)
• Five Elements Hostel (Frankfurt)
• Meininger (Hamburg)
• Generator Hostel (Hamburg)
• Station Hostel for Backpackers (Cologne)
• Black Sheep Hostel (Cologne)
• Lollis Homestay (Dresden)
• Hostel Mondpalast (Dresden)
• a&o Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof (Nuremberg)
• Five Reasons Hostel (Nuremberg)

How to Get Around Germany

Public transportation – Germany has some of the best public transportation in the world. All the cities and larger towns have public transportation that is reliable and efficient. In cities like Berlin and Munich, all the various networks are integrated: one ticket gives you access to buses, trams, U-Bahn (subway), and S-Bahn (above ground train). Fares are determined by zone, but generally, a one-way fare starts from 2.90 EUR. A one-day unlimited pass is generally around 7-9 EUR while a three-day pass costs 17-20 EUR.

Train – Train travel is an incredibly efficient way to get around Germany, though it’s not cheap. Germany’s main rail system is Deutsche Bahn, which has both high-speed trains and regular trains. The high-speed trains are a quick way to get around but are usually much more expensive.

Take advantage of regional group tickets that start at around 22 EUR. These regional discounted tickets are available in Bavaria, Brandenburg-Berlin, Baden-Wüttermburg, Lower Saxony, North Rhine-Westfalia, Hesse, etc. For example, the Bavarian Bayern Ticket is 58 EUR for a group of 5 tickets for any train in Bavaria from 9am to 3am.

Last-minute tickets from Berlin to Hamburg can cost 50 EUR, but advance bookings start around 20 EUR. Frankfurt to Cologne is also around 20 EUR. It’s always best to book in advance when possible, otherwise, you’ll pay the price for last-minute bookings. You can track schedules and fares on the Deutsche Bahn website.

Another great site for trains around Germany (and into neighboring countries), is Trainline .

A Eurail Pass, which allows travelers to explore Europe by providing a set number of stops in a specific time period, might also be a good option if you’re doing some country hopping. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how Eurail passes work and can save you money .

Bus – Aside from hitchhiking, buses are the cheapest way to get around Germany. They are punctual but slow, with comfortable seats, air-conditioning, rest stops, and usually free Wi-Fi.

I recommend Flixbus for the cheapest rates and most comfortable buses. You can get from Berlin to Dresden for as little as 10 EUR, or from Berlin to Munich for 20 EUR. Munich to Hamburg is around 22 EUR.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Ridesharing – Ridesharing in Germany is very common. Ridesharing means you travel as a passenger with someone in exchange for payment toward fuel costs. It’s usually not as cheap as the bus but it’s often faster and you’ll meet some interesting characters! BlaBlaCar and Mitfahren are the two most popular ride-sharing websites.

Car rental – German is a great country to explore by car. Car rentals start at 30 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Renters need to be at least 21 years old.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Germany

Germany is a year-round destination. Summer is the most popular time to visit as temperatures are hot and everyone’s outdoors enjoying the weather. People flock to beer gardens and to the lakes to swim. This is also the peak season, when prices are much higher than usual. During this time, average temperatures hover around 24°C (75°F) and can soar well into the 30s°C (high 80s°F). You’ll want to book accommodation and transportation early (especially in July and August).

Temperatures warm up fast in spring, and the season is marked by the arrival of cherry blossoms. By May it’s warm enough to walk around in t-shirts and shorts. May 1 (Der Erste Mai) is Germany’s Labor Day, and the country breaks out in full celebration. If you’re lucky enough to be here during this time, take to the streets with your fellow Germans and enjoy the live music, drinking, dancing, and general mayhem.

Thanks to the famous Oktoberfest, autumn is a very popular time to visit Germany (especially Munich). From the end of September to early October, millions of people flock here from all over the world to enjoy the most epic beer-drinking festival in the world. If you’re planning on attending Oktoberfest, book your accommodations in advance. Way, way in advance.

An autumn visit to Germany is overall a great idea, especially in Bavaria when the foliage in the hills and mountains makes for some amazing photography. Temperatures can sometimes be chilly, but with light layers, you’ll be fine.

Winter in Germany can be cold, with temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F), but Germany is known for its Christmas spirit and the holiday markets all over the country are well worth your time, especially in Munich, Berlin, and Dresden. Pack some warm clothes and let the delicious glühwein (mulled wine) warm you up.

Winter in Bavaria is a skier and snowboarder’s dream only around one hour outside of Munich. While people might not think of Germany first in terms of skiing in Europe, these slopes are pristine, truly breathtaking, and way cheaper than neighboring Switzerland. Check out Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Füssen, Kranzberg, Zugspitze, and Laber.

How to Stay Safe in Germany

Germany is an incredibly safe place to travel. However, due to a few high-profile terrorist attacks in the country, I often get asked if it’s safe to travel to Germany. I wrote a whole article about how Germany (and Europe) is safe to visit if that’s a concern of yours.

Generally, you just need to watch out for scams and petty crime as you would anywhere (especially in Berlin late at night). Keep an eye on your valuables when in large crowds and on public transportation. Violent crime is rare so as long as you keep your valuables secure you shouldn’t experience any issues.

Scams are rare but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should feel safe in Germany, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Germany Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Germany Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Germany and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Berlin: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Survive Oktoberfest

The 18 Best Things To Do in Berlin

Munich is Better than Berlin

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EURO 2024 host cities: Venue guide

Friday, June 14, 2024

Article summary

UEFA EURO 2024 is taking place across ten world-class stadiums in Germany from the Olympiastadion Berlin to the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg. Find out history, tourist attractions, fixtures and stadium capacity for all the venues and cities.

Article top media content

Article body.

Three-time winners Germany are hosting the 17th UEFA European Championship in 2024.

EURO 2024 is Germany's first major tournament as hosts since the 2006 FIFA World Cup and fixtures at this summer's showpiece event are taking place in ten host cities including the capital, Berlin.

Discover the stadium capacity, history, fixtures and top tourist attractions for Berlin, Cologne, Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Dortmund, Leipzig, Gelsenkirchen, Stuttgart and Düsseldorf with our venue guides.

• Stadium capacity: 71,000
• Home team: Hertha Berlin
• Notably hosted: 2006 FIFA World Cup final, 2015 UEFA Champions League final

Olympiastadion Berlin history

The biggest venue at EURO 2024, the Olympiastadion has staged every German Cup final since 1985, as well as several high-profile games on the continental and international stage. Berlin hosted the 2006 World Cup final between Italy and France. Nine years later, Barcelona beat Juventus at the Olympiastadion Berlin to win the 2015 UEFA Champions League final.

EURO 2024 matches

15/06 : Spain vs Croatia (18:00) 21/06 : Poland vs Austria (18:00) 25/06 : Netherlands vs Austria (18:00) 29/06 : Round of 16 – 2A vs 2B (18:00) 06/07 : Quarter-final (21:00) 14/07 : Final (21:00)

• Berlin venue guide – read in full

A city with a rich history, Cologne sits on the River Rhine and is home to more than one million inhabitants, as well as Germany's most visited landmark: the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Cologne Stadium  

• Stadium capacity: 43,000
• Home team: 1. FC Köln
• Notably hosted: 2020 UEFA Europa League final

Cologne Stadium history

The home ground of 1. FC Köln, Cologne Stadium was reconstructed to stage matches at the 2006 World Cup and since 2010 has been the regular venue for Germany's Women's Cup final, as well as hosting American football, ice hockey and music concerts.

15/06 : Hungary vs Switzerland (15:00) 19/06 : Scotland vs Switzerland   (21:00) 22/06 : Belgium vs Romania   (21:00) 25/06 : England vs Slovenia (21:00) 30/06 : Round of 16 – 1B vs 3A/D/E/F (21:00)

• Cologne venue guide – read in full

Considered the cultural heart of the Ruhr region, Dortmund was known predominantly for coal, steel and beer 50 years ago, but has evolved into a major tech hub, with a lively cultural scene and rich sporting heritage on show at the German Football Museum.

BVB Stadion Dortmund

• Stadium capacity: 62,000
• Home team: Borussia Dortmund
• Notably hosted: 2001 UEFA Cup final

BVB Stadion Dortmund history

One of the most renowned venues in world football thanks to its famous 'Yellow Wall' stand, the BVB Stadion Dortmund is one of the largest arenas at UEFA EURO 2024 and has hosted a string of World Cup and European football fixtures, including the 2001 UEFA Cup final between Liverpool and Deportivo Alavés .

15/06 : Italy vs Albania   (21:00) 18/06 : Türkiye vs Georgia   (18:00) 22/06 : Türkiye vs Portugal   (18:00) 25/06 : France vs Poland   (18:00) 29/06 : Round of 16 – 1A vs 2C (21:00) 10/07 : Semi-final (21:00)

• Dortmund venue guide – read in full

The capital of North Rhine-Westphalia, Düsseldorf has 650,000 inhabitants and more than 250 beer houses and restaurants in its Old Town, which has been dubbed 'the longest bar in the world'.

Düsseldorf Arena  

• Stadium capacity: 47,000
• Home team: Fortuna Düsseldorf
• Notably hosted: 1988 UEFA European Championship group games (former Rheinstadion)

Düsseldorf Arena history

The Düsseldorf Arena is one of the smaller UEFA EURO 2024 venues but still has a capacity of well over 40,000 and is currently home to Fortuna Düsseldorf, whose most recent Bundesliga campaign came in 2019/20.

17/06 : Austria vs France   (21:00) 21/06 : Slovakia vs Ukraine (15:00) 24/06 : Albania vs Spain (21:00)   01/07 : Round of 16 – 2D vs 2E (18:00) 06/07 : Quarter-final (18:00)

• Düsseldorf venue guide – read in full

A global hub for commerce and finance situated on the banks of the river Main, Frankfurt is Germany's fifth largest city and its distinct skyline has earned it the nickname 'Mainhattan'.

Frankfurt Arena  

• Home team: Eintracht Frankfurt
• Notably hosted: 2002 UEFA Women's Cup final, 2006 World Cup quarter-final

Frankfurt Arena history

The Frankfurt Arena, home of Eintracht Frankfurt, was built in 1925 and has hosted games at several major tournaments including the 1988 UEFA European Championship and the 2006 World Cup.

17/06 : Belgium vs Slovakia   (18:00)   20/06 : Denmark vs England   (18:00) 23/06 : Switzerland vs Germany   (21:00) 26/06 : Slovakia vs Romania   (18:00) 01/07 : Round of 16 – 1F vs 3A/B/C (21:00)

• Frankfurt venue guide – read in full

Gelsenkirchen

Gelsenkirchen is known for its coal mining and steelmaking history, but visitors will these days find green space, theatres and boat cruises, as well as industrial heritage in the Ruhr region.

Arena AufSchalke  

• Stadium capacity: 50,000
• Home team: Schalke
• Notably hosted: 2004 UEFA Champions League final, 2006 World Cup quarter-final

Arena AufSchalke history

The Arena AufSchalke, which opened in August 2001, is the home of seven-time German champions and 1996/97 UEFA Cup winners Schalke and features a retractable roof and slide-out pitch. Cristiano Ronaldo provided a memorable moment here for Portugal in their shoot-out success over England at the 2006 World Cup.

16/06 : Serbia vs England   (21:00) 20/06 : Spain vs Italy   (21:00) 26/06 : Georgia vs Portugal   (21:00)   30/06 : Round of 16 – 1C vs 3D/E/F (18:00)

• Gelsenkirchen venue guide – read in full

The third biggest European city that is not a national capital, Hamburg has a world-renowned harbour, a rich cultural history, impressive architecture and nightlife that makes it a 'bucket list' city for many tourists.

Volksparkstadion Hamburg  

• Stadium capacity: 49,000
• Home team: Hamburger SV
• Notably hosted: 2010 Europa League final, 2006 World Cup quarter-final

Volksparkstadion Hamburg history

The Volksparkstadion Hamburg was first opened in 1953 but received a significant upgrade in 2000 and has hosted matches at the 1988 UEFA European Championship and the 1974 and 2006 World Cups.

16/06 : Poland vs Netherlands   (15:00) 19/06 : Croatia vs Albania   (15:00) 22/06 : Georgia vs Czechia   (15:00)   26/06 : Czechia vs Türkiye (21:00)   05/07 : Quarter-final (21:00)

• Hamburg venue guide – read in full

Once the home of Johann Sebastian Bach, Leipzig is steeped in culture and history, not least the peaceful demonstrations in 1989 which captured the mood as Germany moved toward reunification.

Leipzig Stadium  

• Stadium capacity: 40,000
• Home team: RB Leipzig
• Notably hosted: 2006 World Cup group stage and round of 16 games

Leipzig Stadium history

Home to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, Leipzig Stadium – which features a state-of-the-art roof – opened in 2004, having been rebuilt inside the shell of the old Zentralstadion, the biggest stadium in the former East Germany.

18/06 : Portugal vs Czechia   (21:00) 21/06 : Netherlands vs France   (21:00) 24/06 : Croatia vs Italy   (21:00) 02/07 : Round of 16 – 1D vs 2F (21:00)

• Leipzig venue guide – read in full

Home to around 1.6 million people, Munich is Germany's third largest city and a destination brimming with history, art galleries, parks and beer gardens.

Munich Football Arena  

• Stadium capacity: 66,000
• Home team: Bayern München
• Notably hosted: 2012 UEFA Champions League final, EURO 2020 quarter-final

Munich Football Arena histor y

Built by local rivals Bayern München and 1860 München, the Munich Football Arena was opened in 2005, although Bayern have since taken full ownership of the stadium. It served up a memorable 2012 Champions League final, when Chelsea defied home advantage to beat Bayern on penalties, and held several UEFA EURO 2020 games, including Italy's 2-1 quarter-final victory against Belgium.

14/06 : Germany 5-1 Scotland   17/06 : Romania vs Ukraine   (15:00) 20/06 : Slovenia vs Serbia (15:00)   25/06 : Denmark vs Serbia   (21:00)   02/07 : Round of 16 – 1E vs 3A/B/C/D (18:00) 09/07 : Semi-final (21:00)

• Munich venue guide – read in full

Stuttgart is a major industrial city and home to two of the most famous car manufacturers in the world, Mercedes and Porsche, but visitors can also enjoy a rich winemaking and culinary scene, with Flädlesuppe (pancake soup) among the local specialities.

Stuttgart Arena  

• Stadium capacity: 51,000
• Home team: VfB Stuttgart
• Notably hosted: 1998 European Cup final, 2006 World Cup third-place play-off

Stuttgart Arena history

The Stuttgart Arena has been renovated and modernised several times since being built in 1993 and has staged games at the 1974 and 2006 World Cups, as well as the 1988 UEFA European Championship.

16/06 : Slovenia vs Denmark   (18:00) 19/06 : Germany vs Hungary   (18:00) 23/06 : Scotland vs Hungary   (21:00) 26/06 : Ukraine vs Belgium   (18:00)   05/07 : Quarter-final (18:00)

• Stuttgart venue guide – read in full

When is UEFA EURO 2024?

The UEFA EURO 2024 final tournament takes place from 14 June to 14 July 2024.

Who has qualified for EURO?

The final tournament draw took place on 2 December 2023 at Elbphilharmonie Hamburg.

Group A : Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland Group B : Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania Group C : Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England Group D : Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France Group E : Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine Group F : Türkiye, Georgia, Portugal, Czechia

All kick-off times CEST .

Selected for you

Your in-depth guide to EURO

EURO 2024 match schedule

EURO 2024 fixtures by venue

EURO 2024 fixtures by team