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Welcome to Hamburg

Hamburg - here, you'll find what you seek.

When summer refreshes the city with its incomparable flair, it's time for your unforgettable trip to HAMBURG ! Let yourself be seduced by Hamburg's charm and immerse yourself in the heart of the city, which comes to life with vibrant festivals and colourful street parties. Here, where modern gastronomy meets traditional delicacies and shopping streets invite you to linger, every sense is indulged in its own way.

Hamburg's harbour, the jewel of the city, embraces you with its maritime flair and gently passing ships that whisper stories from distant worlds. Along the Elbe and Alster rivers, there are countless opportunities to experience Hamburg's maritime soul. The colourful diversity of the city's districts, rich in culture and culinary delights, awakens a longing for more. Feel the lightness of summer and let yourself be inspired.

HAMBURG welcomes you with open arms and offers you unforgettable moments in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.  When are you coming?

Enjoy Football in Hamburg Hamburg as host city for EURO 2024

Discover the diversity of the only host city in the North. Sights, insider tips, maritime highlights and a vibrant nightlife - Hamburg also has a lot to offer off the football field. The city will also be hosting a wide range of events and activities… More

From the 14th of June to the 14th of July Fan Zone Hamburg with Public Viewing

Hamburg is celebrating: for four weeks the Fan Zone with Public Viewing at Heiligengeistfeld will be all about football. There will be public viewing, a beach club, a Ferris wheel, culinary delights and lots of football activities. Best of all: entry… More

By car, train and bus Travelling to Hamburg

There are many ways travel to Hamburg as comfortably as possible. Anything is possible: train, plane or with your own vehicle. More

Top events Highlights 2024

In addition to many musical highlights of the Hanseatic city, various events from art & literature to film & theater are again on the program this summer. Look forward to an exciting and eventful year 2024! Discover now

THIS SUMMER WILL BE UNFORGETABLE A summer fairytale in Hamburg

Summer in Hamburg is better than its reputation! The sun-crazy 'Hamburgers' exploit this wonderful season more than any other - whether it's to grill in the Stadtpark, jog along the Alster or take part in any of the numerous street festivals,… Discover now

You should see this Sights in Hamburg

A short holiday in Hamburg also means sightseeing in Hamburg. Whether the Elbe Philharmonic, Landungsbrücken or Hamburg City Hall - they and many other sights are simply part of a trip to Hamburg. The easiest way to explore Hamburg's sights is on a… More

UEFA EURO 2024 Enjoy Football in Hamburg

Celebrating together during the European Football Championship 2024 in Germany ! From 14th of June to the 14th of July , Hamburg will be one of ten host cities and will warmly welcome teams and football fans from all over Europe. With or without a ticket - football fever can be felt throughout the city, especially at the free fan zone with public viewing on the Heiligengeistfeld in the heart of the St. Pauli district. But the host city also has a lot to offer away from the hustle and bustle of  EURO 2024.

Fan Zone Hamburg with Public Viewing

Hamburg is celebrating: for four weeks the Fan Zone with Public Viewing at Heiligengeistfeld will be all about football. There will be public viewing, a beach club, a Ferris wheel, culinary delights and lots of football activities. Best of all: entry is free.

Hamburg as host city for EURO 2024

Discover the diversity of the only host city in the North. Sights, insider tips, maritime highlights and a vibrant nightlife - Hamburg also has a lot to offer off the football field. The city will also be hosting a wide range of events and activities to welcome teams and fans from across Europe. Come and celebrate!

DISCOVER NOW Hamburg is this beautiful

Let your gaze wander over the harbour , stroll along the Outer Alster lake and watch the white sailing boats or simply relax and stroll through the alleyways. Hamburg is all this and much more. Let yourself be inspired and enchanted by the diversity of the Hanseatic city of Hamburg . Experience your holiday now with unforgettable moments in one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

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@hamburgahoi

Hamburg Ahoi! We love Hamburg and want to show the world the most beautiful sides of the city. We show you tips, inspirations, travel pictures and events on our social media channels. Follow us, be the first to find out what's going on in the city by the Elbe and what you should not miss. Share with us and the world your most beautiful moments with the Hashtag #hamburgahoi .

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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.

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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

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.

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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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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.

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23 Best Things to do in Hamburg, Germany

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The second-largest city in Germany, Hamburg has long been home to one of Europe’s busiest ports. Aside from discovering its rich maritime history, there are plenty of architectural attractions and interesting cultural institutions to check out. It is also famed for its lively nightlife scene with the debauchery of the Reeperbahn being the stuff of legends.

Connected to the North Sea by the Elbe River, Hamburg thrived for centuries as an independent city-state and member of the Hanseatic League. Despite being bombed heavily in WWII, there are still some lovely old churches to see alongside its revitalized warehouse district. Crisscrossing its center are tons of canals, streams and over 2,500 bridges; more than Amsterdam, London and Venice combined.

Apart from trade and transportation, it is an important media center with many of Germany’s biggest newspapers being based here. Other things to do in Hamburg include exploring its top-class museums while outstanding concerts are put on in the Elbphilharmonie; one of its defining landmarks.

Map of Hamburg

23. U-Bootmuseum

Loads of fun to explore, the excellent U-Bootmuseum sees you enter a Cold War submarine. Launched by the Soviets in 1976, it now lies permanently moored along the Norderelbe, right next to the city’s famous fish market.

One of the largest non-nuclear subs in the world, the stealthy Tango class U-boat was mostly used on long patrols or for espionage missions. Decommissioned in 2001, it stretches ninety meters in length with visitors entering and exiting through its bow and stern. As you amble about, you’ll see not just the crew’s cramped sleeping quarters but its engine and torpedo rooms too.

Although claustrophobic, the museum is definitely worth visiting as it is not every day you see inside a submarine. Examining all its old equipment was really interesting as was navigating its very narrow hallways and hearing about its service in the Soviet Navy.

22. Kunsthalle Hamburg

Just a stone’s throw from Hamburg’s Hauptbahnhof is the colossal Kunsthalle; one of the country’s biggest and best art museums. Full of fabulous paintings, photos and sculptures, its huge collection impressively spans over eight centuries of art history.

Located in the Altstadt not far from the two Alster Lakes, its ‘art hall’ was established in 1850. Since then, it has amassed a staggering array of masterpieces by renowned names like Degas, Rubens, de Goya and Monet. Accompanying each artwork is a detailed explanation, with the museum’s app also providing even more in-depth information.

Now spread across three buildings, its intimate galleries look at everything from the Old Masters and nineteenth-century art to classical modernism and contemporary pieces. Just as eye-catching are the museum’s elegant architecture and the lovely layout of its exhibition halls.

21. Schmidt Theater

If instead of old art, architecture and U-boats it is a scintillating show you are after, then the Schmidt Theater is one of the most memorable places to go in Hamburg. Lying along the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli, it hosts a packed schedule of highly entertaining musicals, comedy nights and cabarets.

Instantly recognizable from its colorfully lit exterior, the vibrant venue has been a firm favorite with theatergoers ever since it first opened its doors in 1988. Scattered about before its small stage area are countless tables and chairs while balconies also overlook the performers. This proximity to the actors (and the drinks served during the shows!) helps create an intoxicating atmosphere.

Guaranteed to have you in stitches (well, if you speak German!), the fun theater’s quirky productions are now the stuff of legend. Delicious dinners and cocktails can also be enjoyed here while you take in their signature production – the Schmidt Midnight Show.

20. Chocoversum

Those with a sweet tooth will instead want to head to the Chocoversum, just south of the city center. On their ninety-minute tours, you don’t just learn about the history of chocolate and sample different kinds, you also make your own bar to take home too!

At their old brick building in front of the iconic Chile House, friendly and enthusiastic staff whisk you around the chocolate museum. On the way, you’ll see how cocoa is harvested, nibble the bitter beans and inspect equipment used to produce chocolate.

Informative yet engaging, the tours really make you appreciate the taste, smell and feel of cacao and all the steps that it takes to make each tasty piece. Very highly rated by guests, their interactive tours are available in both English and German. Before stopping by the museum shop, you can also create a bar to take back with you.

19. Europa Passage

Just off of the Binnenalster in the Old Town is the enormous Europa Passage and all its restaurants and shops. While exploring its five floors, you can also admire the phenomenal futuristic architecture on show all around you.

Only unveiled to the public in 2006, its glittering glass building is centered around its cavernous atrium which is lit by giant skylights from above. In total, roughly 150 shops and eateries can now be found throughout the delightfully designed shopping center.

We were very thankful to stumble upon the massive mall just in time to shelter from one of the rather regular rain showers that seem to sweep the city. Although Europa Passage has a wide selection of shopping and dining options, it was its astounding architecture that really stood out the most to us.

18. St. Nicholas Church

In contrast to the modern mall, the soaring St. Nicholas Church offers a very moving look at the past. Largely destroyed during the 1943 air raids over Hamburg, its hollowed out husk now highlights the horrors of warfare while also commemorating the victims of WWII.

Briefly the tallest building in the world, the ginormous Gothic Revival cathedral was heavily damaged during the fierce firebombing of the city in the Second World War. While its heavy roof collapsed and its huge nave was eventually demolished, its charred spire still stands 147 meters tall.

Since 2005, an elevator has taken guests halfway up to a viewing platform which also has historical photos and panels on its past. At its foot there is a small but superb museum that contextualizes everything that you see at the site. An absolute must-visit, the memorial, its museum, sculptures and views were certainly among the best things we saw in Hamburg.

17. Tierpark Hagenbeck

After the haunting memorial, seeing happy animals bounce around Tierpark Hagenbeck makes for a welcome change of scenery. Set on the northwestern outskirts of town, the historic zoo also has an aquarium, playgrounds and picnic areas dotted about.

Dating from 1863, the old zoo is known for being the first to use open enclosures surrounded by moats to house its animals. Nowadays, its spacious outdoor exhibits are home to roughly 1,400 mammals, birds and reptiles from all around the world.

Alongside elephants and giraffes, you can see polar bears, penguins and walruses. As well as wandering about its naturalistic enclosures, its aquaria take you from the Arctic to the tropics with feeding shows also regularly taking place.

16. Reeperbahn

Lined by hundreds of nightclubs, bars, strip clubs and brothels, the Reeperbahn lies right at the heart of Hamburg’s debaucherous entertainment and nightlife scene. Part of St. Pauli, it is famed for both its red light district and for being the birthplace of The Beatles.

Nicknamed ‘the most sinful mile’ or die sundigste meile in German for a reason, the street’s raucous, rebellious reputation now dates back centuries. It originally developed as a place for sailors to make ropes and lay them out in long lines. Over the years, tons of rowdy bars and other establishments of ill repute sprung up around where they worked.

In the sixties, The Beatles polished their act and songs here, playing hundreds of gigs in its many live music venues. There are still lots of places where you can catch bands or watch plays, cabarets and musicals.

Pretty sleazy and rundown for the most part though, the Reeperbahn is a very unique (and eye-opening!) place you won’t forget anytime soon. Many people even power through til the morning and have breakfast at the fish market while listening to yet more live music.

15. Museum of Art and Design

Once you’ve recovered from your epic night out, it is worth heading to the Museum of Art and Design. Situated just south of the Hauptbahnhof, it displays a myriad of amazing decorative art pieces, fine furniture and musical instruments.

Modeled after the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, it was founded in 1874 and now occupies a vast Neo-Renaissance palace along Steintorplatz. While some sections focus on ceramics, carpets and sculptures, others contain Expressionist works and items from the Far East. These impressively cover over 4,000 years of art history and hail from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Particularly arresting exhibits include its extraordinary Art Nouveau-decorated rooms from the 1900 Paris Exposition and its incredible old keyboards. The museum puts on terrific temporary exhibitions from time to time and has a cafe for you to stop by.

14. BallinStadt Emigration Museum

Long one of the largest ports in Europe, Hamburg saw more than five million people pass through its emigration halls between the 1850s and 1930s. At the marvelous BallinStadt Museum, you can learn about their journeys and the new lives they started in the Americas.

Located in the Veddel quarter on the island of the same name, the museum occupies the 1901 Swiss chalet-style quarters that the emigrants lived in while waiting to depart. Very well done, its enthralling exhibits trace their arrival in the city and their reasons behind emigrating.

Through engaging texts, videos, photos and old artifacts, you hear people’s stories and expectations about their future lives. The museum mostly focuses on the German and East European experience and what they found upon arrival in the States. Make sure to pick up an audio guide or booklet at the entrance or download the app for English explanations about everything.

13. Altona Fischmarkt

One of the quintessential yet exhausting things to do in Hamburg is somehow staggering to the Altona Fischmarkt after a night out along the Reeperbahn. Only open early Sunday mornings from 5am onwards, it has countless fresh fruit, veg and fish stands to peruse while DJs and bands pump out yet more music.

The city’s oldest open-air market, fishermen have been hawking their catch here in the Altona district since 1703. Along its wide wharf area you’ll also find flower sellers and souvenir booths, food trucks and coffee stalls.

The party continues inside its nineteenth-century Fischauktionshalle where early risers and late-night revelers take over the dance floor. We unfortunately didn’t manage to make it, having tapped out a couple of hours too early the night (or morning?!) before!

12. Historic Boats at Landungsbrücken

Just a short walk away along the waterfront is the lovely Landungsbrücken which is also known as St. Pauli Piers. If you have any energy left, its sailing boats and old brick architecture are very interesting to see.

The Port of Hamburg’s largest landing site, its piers were first constructed for steam ships way back in 1839. Moored along them now are a number of cool old boats to photograph and explore such as the Rickmer Rickmers and the MS Cap San Diego. While the former is a tall three-masted ship built in 1896, the latter is a squat 1960s cargo ship. Both are now open to the public as museum ships.

Just as distinctive are the green-roofed domes and towers of the pier’s 205 meter-long terminal. This now houses loads of fantastic restaurants, cafes and some souvenir shops. From here, you can also take ferry rides along the river, head to the other side of the harbor in the Elbe Tunnel or continue to the unmissable Elbphilharmonie.

11. International Maritime Museum

As Hamburg’s history and heritage is tied to the waters surrounding it, you just have to stop by the International Maritime Museum. Overlooking the river in the Speicherstadt part of town – the world’s largest warehouse district – it contains thousands of model ships, maritime art and nautical devices.

Now housed in a gigantic Neo-Gothic warehouse erected in 1879, the magnificent museum opened in 2008. Mostly based on Peter Tamm’s private collection, its holdings remarkably number more than 40,000 items and a million photographs.

Besides covering the history and future of shipping, it looks at Hamburg’s importance as a port and its maritime identity. On show are not just brilliant paintings and big models of boats but exhibits of explorers and diving robots too. Other than trying out its fun ship simulator, we really loved seeing its 3,000-year-old dugout canoe discovered in the Elbe. With nine ‘decks’ to explore and so many objects to examine, the museum can easily take up half a day.

10. Hamburger Dom

Held three times a year in spring, summer and winter, the humongous Hamburger Dom is one of the country’s most popular fairs. For one month each time, hundreds of exciting rides, rollercoasters and tasty food stands pack out the Heiligengeistfeld fairground.

The history of the vibrant Volksfest goes back many centuries with the first recorded instance of the fair dating to 1329. Initially only held around Christmas (Winterdom), it expanded later on to include fairs in April (Fruhlingsdom) and August (Sommerdom).

Nowadays, there are tons of rides and rollercoasters to try as well as classic carousels and carnival games. Rows of stands also serve up typical German fare like currywurst, schmalzkuchen and funnel cakes. A must if you’re in town, the fair also has some phenomenal fireworks shows for you to enjoy.

9. Planten un Blomen

If you want to immerse yourself in nature, the picturesque Planten un Blomen is one the best tourist attractions in Hamburg. Spread across a large part of the inner city, its themed gardens, lake and fountains are a treat to explore.

What started in 1821 with the planting of a single Platanus tree has since grown into one of Europe’s best urban parks. Centered around a large lake are plenty of pretty paths and gorgeous green spaces to wander around. There are also some great greenhouses to see that display succulents, palms and eucalyptus among many other flowers and plants.

Particularly stunning spots are its fragrant rose garden and immaculately laid out Japanese garden. It is also famed for its colourful musical fountain and the concerts that are held at its outdoor pavilion.

8. St. Michael’s Church

One of the city’s standout symbols and sights, St. Michael’s spire rises dramatically above the rest of Hamburg around it. Known for its ornate interior and organ, it is dedicated to the Archangel Michael. A striking bronze statue of him conquering the devil also lies above its main entrance.

Considered to be one of the finest and most famous Hanseatic Protestant churches, it is actually the third one to stand on the same site. Built in 1762 in beautiful Baroque-style, its bright white interior features intricately crafted altars and pulpits made out of marble.

Asides from admiring its architecture or enjoying an organ recital, you can head to the top of its lofty tower. To reach its 130 meter-high viewing platform, either take the lift or clamber up the equivalent of ten flights of stairs! Once you arrive, you’re greeted with 360 degree panoramas over Hamburg.

7. Take the Express Ferry to Heligoland

Although it appears rather far off in the North Sea, Heligoland is actually reachable from Hamburg as a day trip. While the Express Ferry is four hours each way, this leaves you another four to explore the small archipelago. On the relaxing trip, you can also enjoy marvelous views of the Elbe and then the open sea before you.

Thought to mean ‘Holy Land’, the two isles are by far the furthest of the countries from the mainland. First owned by the Danes and then Brits, it was extensively used by the German military in WWII and bombed heavily by the Allies.

Nowadays, their quiet, scenic confines attract daytrippers, birdwatchers and duty-free shoppers. Lots of people stroll along the top of its ruddy red sandstone cliffs or stop by its delicious lobster stalls. A couple of interesting historic sights and bunkers are also scattered about.

Staying a night allows you to also see the smaller Dune next to it known for its pristine beaches, waters and hundreds of seals.

6. Town Hall

One of the city’s defining landmarks, Hamburg’s romantic Neo-Renaissance Rathaus dominates the center of the Altstadt. The seat of the state’s government, it has terrific tours to take of all its opulent rooms and vaulted hallways.

Occupying an entire side of Rathausmarkt square, the majestic Town Hall and its stupendous central tower were completed in 1897. Beneath its green gabled roof are a staggering 647 rooms, many of which can be visited on guided tours.

Highlights include its appropriately named Grand Hallway, important Plenary Hall and the exquisitely painted ceiling of the Kaisersaal. You can also enter its courtyard and examine the various emblems and statues that stud its walls. We were very glad we took a tour as the guide explained the history of the building and how Hamburg came to be so powerful and wealthy.

5. Jungfernstieg Promenade

Just a couple of minutes walk from the Rathaus is the gorgeous Jungfernstieg Promenade. Lined by chic shops, cafes and art galleries to one side and the glittering lake to the other, it is a very popular place to relax, unwind and enjoy the ambience.

Now stretching 600 meters along the southwestern shores of the Binnenalster, its origins remarkably date to 1665. This was when a line of linden trees were planted along the lake and wealthy families paraded their unwed daughters about, hoping to secure a potential suitor. It is from this tradition that its name is derived, jungfern meaning maiden and stieg to walk.

Over the years, grand Neoclassical, Renaissance Revival and Art Nouveau-style buildings all sprung up. While many have since been replaced, resplendent facades still overlook all its lakeside terraces and bars. Here you grab a drink, sit in the sun or stroll along watching its water jet spurt in the air.

4. Alter Elbtunnel

Quite cool and atmospheric to wander along, the Alter Elbtunnel seemingly stretches away endlessly into the distance. Other than snapping some photos, the old tunnel under the Elbe is a useful way to get from St. Pauli to Steinwerder on the southern side.

First opened in 1911, the 426 meter-long underwater tunnel represented an astonishing architectural and engineering achievement for its time. Located 24 meters below the river surface, the twin tubes connect central Hamburg to all the nearby docks and shipyards. While one is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists the other is solely for cars.

As there isn’t much of interest to tourists on the other side, we just walked a short way before turning back. Its old lifts also look impressive while sculptures of fish and other fauna found in the river dot its sides. You can also get some great photos of its glinting tiles and lights stretching in front of you.

3. Elbphilharmonie

Absolutely unmissable, the enormous Elbphilharmonie is certainly one of the most unusual buildings you’re likely to ever come across. The tallest in town, the landmark concert hall overlooks the city’s revitalized harbor area.

Finally completed in 2017, years late and many millions over budget, its top twenty stories look like a sparkling iceberg, wave or the sails of a ship, depending on your perspective. Perched atop an old red brick warehouse, its curved windows soar 108 meters at their highest point. Eight floors up, there is an observation deck and cafe for visitors to hang out at.

Inside is just as eye-catching as its immense main auditorium resembles a coral cave bathed in light. The rest of its state-of-the-art lobbies, staircases and two other smaller venues are just as tastefully designed. Although spectacular, criticisms have consistently been made about their acoustics. Even so, you just have to go and see the breathtaking building for yourself!

2. Miniatur Wunderland

There is just no way to make it sound cool but Miniatur Wunderland is without a doubt one of the best things to see in Hamburg. The largest model railway in the world, it has countless themed rooms to explore, some dedicated to the Alps and Austria and others to Scandinavia and the States.

Since opening back in 2000, their sprawling railway system in the Speicherstadt has become one of Hamburg’s top tourist attractions. It’s easy to see why as around 1,120 trains trundle along its 16,100 meters of track at any one time. Incredibly detailed, its huge sets also include thousands of vehicles and tiny human figures. All of this is illuminated by twinkling lights that simulate night and day every fifteen minutes.

This amazing miniature world takes you from Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon in the USA to Venice and the lava-spewing Vesuvius in Italy. There is also a small section of Hamburg to see among other world-renowned destinations. There are just so many tiny details to take in that we spent hours and hours examining its airport, alpine towns and fairgrounds. We really couldn’t recommend it enough!

1. Speicherstadt

After finally managing to drag yourself away from its mesmerizing models, make sure to stroll about Speicherstadt outside. The largest warehouse district in the world, its ginormous red brick buildings and glinting waterways make for some fantastic photos. In the evening, they’re also delightfully lit up against the night sky.

A prominent part of the bustling Port of Hamburg, it was built between 1883 and 1927 in what is now called the HafenCity quarter. Exhibiting some gorgeous Gothic Revival architecture, the entire area is set atop timber foundations, piled deep into the ground.

Now containing fancy lofts, bars and restaurants and, of course, the Elbphilharmonie, its warehouses are wonderful to walk around. All together, its old bridges and buildings, canals and river views form some of the most iconic images of Hamburg.

Best Time to Visit Hamburg

Lying along the Elbe River crossed by hundreds of canals, Hamburg’s history and culture have long been defined by the waters around it. Quite a wet and windy city, it sees between 13 to 17 days with at least some rainfall each month. Make sure to take a coat even in summer!

April to October is the most popular time to visit as temperatures range from around 12 to 22°C (so 53-71°F) with August the warmest month. Although it never gets very hot, exploring the city and sailing about its waterways is very pleasant during this period. Prices remain roughly the same throughout the year though flights are more expensive in summer.

This is also when most of its main events are held starting with the cheery Cherry Blossom Festival in May. Huge parties and a ship parade also take place around then at the port for its Hafengeburtstag. Northern Germany’s largest funfair, the Hamburger DOM, also lights up the city three separate times in spring, summer and winter.

The rest of the year is relatively quiet (and cold!) except for December when people pour in for its charming Christmas market. Temperatures plummet to 4°C (39°F) but all the lights and decorations brighten up its dark days.

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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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When all's said and done, Hamburg's appeal can be narrowed down to one simple calling card: Welcome to one of the coolest cities on earth.

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Hamburg travel tips every first time visitor needs to know

Find out the dos and don'ts of navigating the city, from worthwhile boat tours to museum tips and more

Photograph: Daniel Schwen/Wikimedia Commons

Welcome to Hamburg, a city brisk with sea air, brimming with Hanseatic pride and open to the world not only in terms of centuries of maritime trade, but also in its vivid mix of nationalities, identities and political inclinations – not to mention its dusk-to-dawn party stamina. Whether you’re in town for 48 hours , a week or indefinitely, here’s how to make the most of this exciting harbour city, from public transport tips to tucked-away architectural treasures.

⛴  The best things to do in Hamburg 📍 The best attractions in Hamburg ⏰ How to spend 48 hours in Hamburg

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

20 travel tips every Hamburg visitor needs to know

1.  expect the rough with the smooth.

Every metropolis is multi-faceted, but Hamburg’s vivid contrasts often take first-time visitors by wide-eyed surprise. While Berlin inclines towards a gritty edge, Frankfurt puts its finance suit on and Munich purrs with prosperity and mountain air, Hamburg has something of the rough, the smooth and the salty all mixed together. It’s a place replete with harbour bawdiness as much as Hanseatic elegance, as dense with millionaires as it is with a history of anarchist dissent. Whatever your budget and taste, be adventurous, explore different districts and get a sense of the city’s striking variety.

2.  Get a Hamburg Card

Hamburg public transport (HVV) is extensive and efficient, with round-the-clock services at weekends. With the Hamburg Card, you have unlimited travel on all U-Bahn, S-Bahn, bus and ferry routes, as well as more than 150 discounts at many of the city’s museums, restaurants and stores. A one-day card, which is valid until 6am the following morning, costs €10.90 for one adult and up to three children under the age of 14. A three-day card costs €28.90. You can buy your card of choice on HVV buses, at vending machines, service centres, tourist offices, many hotels and hostels, and online.

3.  …and a Kunstmeile Card if you’re into art

In the heart of Hamburg, the Kunstmeile includes five of the city’s most renowned art institutions: Hamburger Kunsthalle , Kunstverein Hamburg, Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe, Bucerius Kunst Forum and the Deichtorhallen Hamburg, all within walking distance of each other. If you plan on checking out even two of these, it’s worth getting the three-day Kunstmeile Pass, costing €25, or €20 with the Hamburg Card.

4.  Go to the Kunsthalle late

The Kunsthalle is one of the most important museums in Germany, with major works across 700 years of European art history, including star turns from Cranach, Holbein, Canaletto, Gauguin and Caspar David Friedrich. Of course, there are plenty of other people wanting to catch a glimpse of the masterpieces, so if you’re hoping for a wistful moment alone before Wanderer above the Sea of Fog, your best chance will be with a late visit on Thursday, when the Kunsthalle stays open until 21.00.

5.  Carry cash

Like many cities in Germany, Hamburg has plenty of smaller bars, shops and restaurants that will only accept cash. Though you’re likely never too far from an ATM or “Geldautomat,” it’s always wise to have some cash in your pocket.

6.  Take to the water

With its nose to the North Sea, its vast harbour infrastructure, two inner-city lakes, a network of canals and majestic Elbe river, Hamburg is a city defined by proximity to—and the presence of—water. Make the most of the life aquatic with a trip round the harbour, a lazy day beside the Elbe, or a rental canoe, rowing boat or sailing boat on the Outer Alster lake.

7.  …and hop on Ferry 62 for a cheaper harbour tour

Unless you want running (mostly German) commentary, the regular public ferry 62 is a great way to see Hamburg’s harbour, and is much cheaper than the official tours. A round trip will start and end at Landungsbrücken, taking in Altona, the Fischmarkt , Fischereihafen and Neumühlen, where you’ll find the city beach, Strandperle . The ferry is yours to ride with a standard HVV ticket, and you’re free to hop on and off along the route.

8.  Put in some pedal time, too

With flat roads and dedicated cycle paths throughout the city, Hamburg is a very bike-friendly place. Some hostels and hotels have their own bike rental, but you can also check out the city-wide “Stadtrad” rental scheme—sturdy, red-pedal steeds which you can pick up and drop off at a multitude of stations all over town. The bikes are free to ride for the first 30 minutes, costing eight cents per minute thereafter, up to a daily cap of €12.

9.  Sundays are for leisure

Germany takes Sundays seriously; in the interest of both the religious Sabbath and workers’ rights to at least one day off a week, the country has some of the strictest laws on retail opening hours in Europe, and Hamburg is no exception. Though most restaurants, attractions and bars will be open and bustling on a Sunday, you can expect almost all shops to be closed, except for very basic grocery stores or “spätis.” If you need some supplies or plan to dine in, be sure to stock up on groceries on Saturday afternoon.

10.  Pack a raincoat in winter

If you’re hoping to escape wet weather, think again; Hamburg is renowned for its damp and cloudy winters. There’s plenty to keep you warm and entertained indoors, but between October and April, you’ll do well to pack a raincoat and umbrella.

11.  …and swimwear in summer

When sun hits the city, Hamburgers flock to the city’s many waterfront locales, whether for a sail, a chilled Astra beer or a paddle in the shallows. Though real swimming is not recommended due to passing boats, currents and swells, many dip their toes in both the Elbe and Outer Alster Lake. Strandperle and Strand Pauli are among the city’s best-loved beach clubs.

12.  Don’t miss the Reeperbahn

With its lurid run of erotic shops, fast-food joints and 24-hour pharmacies, the fluorescent thoroughfare that is the Reeperbahn is certainly not the makings of an elegant night out, but it’s an essential part of Hamburg’s identity. Whatever your taste, it’s well worth at least one walk down the “party mile”, if only to observe the bawdiness of its bars and the diversity of its crowds, from ebullient bachelorette parties to law school kids out to prove their wild side. You’ll see plenty of prostitutes, strip joints and upfront seediness, but with so many bright lights and people around you’re very unlikely to feel unsafe.

13.  You can party long and late if you want to

Whether you embrace raucous Reeperbahn revelry or opt for one of the city’s finest upscale cocktail joints, you can be sure to stay out late in Hamburg. Many bars and clubs won’t really kick off until well after midnight and the most dedicated night-owls will head straight from the party to breakfast, often in the form of a salutary sandwich at the Sunday morning Fischmarkt .

14.  Book ahead for Elphi

Hamburg’s new Elbphilharmonie , affectionately known as “Elphi”, opened in January 2017 to rapturous acclaim, despite being several years late—and ten times over budget—on completion. As well as its stunning waterfront location and impressive architectural impact, the building’s three concert venues boast some of the best acoustics in the world. If you want to experience them for yourself, do book well in advance either online or over the phone. Note that the Laeiszhalle is a separate venue, three kilometres away from the new building.

15.  Ogle the architecture

Though it suffered significant bombing during World War II, Hamburg is home to some remarkable buildings old and new. As well as the Elbphilharmonie , other major architectural landmarks include the elaborate, neo-Renaissance town hall; the extraordinary red-brick warehouse district; the seventeenth-to-nineteenth century houses on the Deichstraße; and the 1920s Chilehouse and waterfront Dockland Office Building (2005), both of which nod to Hamburg’s maritime identity with forms like a ship’s prow.

16.  Sample the seafood

Naturally, Hamburg prides itself on excellent fish. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Hanseatic elegance at the Fischereihafen , sublime sushi at Henssler and Henssler , or market stall banter and  fischbrötchen (fish sandwiches) at the Fischmarkt , be sure to savour some seafood.

17.  Enjoy a free concert at the St Michaeliskirche

Beneath its 132-metre high spire, the 18 th -century ‘Der Michel’ is a historic Hamburg landmark, and not just for ships sailing up the Elbe. Dedicated to the Archangel Michael, it is considered one of the finest Hanseatic Protestant churches in the baroque style. There is an organ recital at noon each day, allowing you to enjoy the church’s remarkable acoustics as well as its impressive interior.

18.  Miniatur Wunderland is not just for kids

Tucked away in the Speicherstadt district, the Miniatur Wunderland is the largest model railroad in the world, and you sure don’t need to be a child or a train geek to get a kick out of its scale, technical wizardry and extraordinary attention to detail. At last count, it consisted of 15,400 metres of track and 900 trains, alternatively whizzing or trundling through replica American, Swiss, Scandinavian, Italian, German and Alpine landscapes. It’s not just trains, either; the Miniatur Wunderland also includes road, air and sea traffic infrastructure with cars, lorries, fire engines, police cars, cruise liners and the world’s most comprehensive miniature airport, complete with hangars, terminals, ground staff and vehicles.

19.  Get botanical

Hamburg has many glorious green spaces, among them the Planten un Blomen park. This 116-acre city oasis features a vast tropical greenhouse, water features, an ice-skating rink, an Alpine garden, a rose garden with some 300 varieties of rose and a show-stealing Japanese garden, complete with tea pavilion. If you’re in town in the summer, pack a blanket and a bottle of wine and watch one of the park’s water light shows, or Wasserlichtkonzerte , which take place every night from May to September, starting at 10 pm.

20.  Explore the suburbs

With so much to see in the Altstadt and neighbouring districts, it’s easy to spend your trip in Hamburg central only. But for those who enjoy a little serenity in the city, a bus trip west to the rolling Jenisch Park or upscale Blankenese suburb promises a major dose of leafy peace and luxury. Wander the park’s peaceful woodland paths; pop into the Ernst Barlach Museum of modern expressionist sculpture; or enjoy tea, cake and pristine Elbe views in one of Blankenese’s classic cafes.

Time to see some sights

The 10 best attractions in hamburg.

Known as a harbour city, millionaire’s metropolis, media capital and an anarchist hub, Germany’s second-largest city is an intoxicating mix. A place where the North Sea winds carry prosperous Hanseatic trading history, as much as bawdy nightlife and a long tradition of leftist dissent.

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Die Fußball-EM 2024 in Hamburg erleben

auf der Fan Zone mit Public Viewing

Neue Ecken entdecken

Routen durch Hamburg abseits der Innenstadt

MARITIMER CHARME UND URBANES METROPOLFEELING HAMBURG - Bei uns findest du, was du suchst

Wenn der Sommer mit seinem unvergleichlichen Flair die Stadt erfrischt und zum pulsierenden Leben erweckt, dann ist es Zeit für eine unvergessliche Reise nach HAMBURG ! Lassen Sie sich vom Charme Hamburgs regelrecht verführen, tauchen Sie ein in das Herz der Stadt, die mit pulsierenden Festivals und farbenfrohen Straßenfesten zu neuem Leben erwacht. Hier, wo moderne Gastronomie auf traditionelle Köstlichkeiten trifft und Shoppingmeilen zum Verweilen einladen, wird jeder Sinn auf seine Weise verwöhnt.

Der Hamburger Hafen, das Juwel der Stadt, umfängt Sie mit seinem maritimen Flair und sanft vorbeiziehenden Schiffen, die Geschichten aus fernen Welten flüstern. Entlang von Elbe und Alster bieten sich unzählige Gelegenheiten, die maritime Seele Hamburgs zu erleben. Die bunte Vielfalt der Stadtteile, reich an Kultur und kulinarischen Genüssen, weckt die Sehnsucht nach mehr. Spüren Sie die Leichtigkeit des Sommers und lassen Sie sich inspirieren.

HAMBURG empfängt Sie mit offenen Armen und bietet Ihnen unvergessliche Momente in einer der schönsten Städte der Welt.   

#weilwirhamburgsind

Heiß, heißer, Hamburg Hamburg im Sommer

Der Sommer in Hamburg ist besser als sein Ruf ihm vorauseilt und die sonnenverrückten Hamburger nutzen diese tolle Jahreszeit mehr denn je. Neben grillen im Stadtpark, joggen an der Alster warten zahlreiche Straßenfeste, Festivals und Events auf Sie.… Jetzt entdecken

TOP Perfect Places 10 schöne Plätze am Wasser

Eine Prise Meeresluft, ein Hauch Küstenfeeling, kleine Segler, große Dampfer und ganz viel Wasser, fertig ist unsere Lieblingsstadt: Willkommen in Hamburg. Wir zeigen euch Hamburgs schönste Wasserseiten. weiterlesen

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Erleben Sie die Musical-Hauptstadt Hamburg! Ob der Langzeiterfolg Disneys DER KÖNIG DER LÖWEN, bewegende Musical wie TANZ DER VAMPIRE oder urkomische Shows auf der Reeperbahn – hier ist für jedes Alter und jeden Geschmack etwas dabei. Jetzt entdecken

Sommer, Sonne, Showtime: Bühne frei für den Musical Sommer!

Erleben Sie den Sommer mit einem Musical-Erlebnis der Extraklasse! Sparen Sie bis zum 14.07.2024 bis zu 25 % auf ausgewählte Vorstellungen bei einem unserer fünf Musicals. Lassen Sie sich von packenden Melodien, atemberaubenden Bühnenshows und unvergesslichen Geschichten verzaubern.

Bis zu 40% in der 1. Klasse sparen.

Sparen Sie jetzt bis zu 40 % und sichern Sie sich unsere Vorteilspreise in der 1. Klasse. Das Angebot gilt bei allen Buchungen bis 31.08.2024 für den Reisezeitraum 16.07.2024 - 15.09.2024 von allen DB Bahnhöfen in Deutschland!

DIE UEFA EURO 2024 Fußballfieber in Hamburg erleben

Gemeinsam feiern bei der Fußball-Europameisterschaft 2024 in Deutschland! Vom 14. Juni bis 14. Juli heißt Hamburg als eine von zehn Host Cities Mannschaften und Fußballfans aus ganz Europa herzlich willkommen. Ob mit oder ohne Ticket - das Fußballfieber ist in der ganzen Stadt zu spüren, besonders auf der kostenlosen Fan Zone mit Public Viewing auf dem Heiligengeistfeld mitten im Szeneviertel St. Pauli . Aber auch abseits des EM-Trubels hat die Host City viel zu bieten.

Fan Zone Hamburg mit Public Viewing

Hamburg jubelt: Auf der Fan Zone mit Public Viewing auf dem Heiligengeistfeld dreht sich vier Wochen lang alles um Fußball. Hier gibt es die EM-Spiele live zu sehen, einen Beach Club, ein Riesenrad, kulinarische Highlights und zahlreiche Fußball-Aktivitäten. Und das Beste: Der Eintritt ist frei.

Die ganze Stadt im Fußballfieber

Entdecken Sie die Vielfalt der einzigen Host City im Norden. Sehenswürdigkeiten, Geheimtipps, maritime Highlights und ein lebendiges Nachtleben - Hamburg hat auch abseits des Fußballfeldes viel zu bieten. Außerdem finden rund um das Turnier in der ganzen Stadt zahlreiche Veranstaltungen und Aktionen statt, um die Mannschaften und Fans aus ganz Europa zu begrüßen. Feiern Sie mit!

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German woman given harsher sentence than convicted rapist for calling him ‘disgraceful rapist pig’.

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A German woman was handed down a harsher sentence than a convicted rapist after she called him a “disgraceful rapist pig.”

Maja R, 20, was jailed for a weekend after she was found guilty of defaming the man, who was one of nine attackers who had gang-raped a 15-year-old girl in a Hamburg park four years earlier, according to reports.

The man had only been given a suspended sentence and served no time in prison due to his age, the New Zealand Herald reported.

Maja R. reportedly did not know the rapist, but was one of at least 140 people who sent him disparaging messages via WhatsApp, after his name and number were leaked on Snapchat.

“Aren’t you ashamed when you look in the mirror?” she wrote, calling him a “disgraceful rapist pig” and a “disgusting freak”.

She also told the criminal that he “couldn’t go anywhere without getting kicked in the face” and said, “Let’s hope you are just locked away.”

Maja R. told the court she sent the message “without thinking twice” — a brave action for a country with notoriously strict defamation laws.

The pediatric nursing student did, however, apologize to the rapist, telling the court “it didn’t help anyone.”

The man — who was not named by the New Zealand Herald — was one of nine teenage boys convicted of abusing the 15-year-old girl for a number of hours in September 2020.

Almost all evaded jail time because of German juvenile law, except for one Iranian national who brazenly accepted responsibility for the rape by telling the court: “What man doesn’t want that?”

Maja R.’s sentence was harsher than the rapist she defamed because she had a previous conviction for theft and had not attended the court hearing for the case.

A court spokesperson told local media that Maja R.’s hostility was emblematic of the country’s lingering anger over the rape case, even four years later.

The case had “reached a new, worrying level of intensity,” he said, describing the criticism as “a targeted attack on the rule of law.”

Germany famously has strict defamation laws that criminalize even the mildest of slurs.

Calling someone an “idiot” in Germany can result in a prison sentence of up to two years.

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Why Do We Love ‘The Bear’ So Much?

The grit, the merch, the biceps. Charting the cultural phenomenon that sparked new interest in the people behind the scenes at restaurants — or at least, in their stuff.

By Tejal Rao

The first time I heard a stranger say “corner” outside a kitchen, I was taken by surprise, but pretty soon, I lost count. After the FX show “The Bear” began streaming on Hulu in 2022, shouting out phrases that bounce around professional kitchens became something of a national bit.

In Bon Appétit, Sarah York coined the term Line Cook Summer to describe the frenzy over Jeremy Allen White’s character, Carmen Berzatto — a soft, dirtbag type. Even before the Calvin Klein underwear ad , it was perfectly captured in a New Yorker cartoon by Emily Flake. In it, a woman — flushed, happy, naked — lies in bed next to her befuddled husband, who asks, “So … what was all that ‘Yes, Chef’ stuff about?”

The show drove affection toward a big-hearted, dysfunctional kitchen crew at an unlikely moment, two years into the pandemic, after so many investigations into abusive chefs and work environments that the word “toxic” had become not just vague, but inadequate.

The third season begins streaming on Wednesday, and the trailer already has nine million views on YouTube. At least three of those were me, trying to wrap my mind around the expanse of the “Bear” effect — I’ve been fascinated by chefs onscreen for decades.

The Swedish Chef, his Muppet eyes hidden under caterpillar brows and floppy toque, tickling the shrimp, was a mildly distressing clown. The fussy, elegant Italian brothers in “ Big Night ,” played by Stanley Tucci and Tony Shalhoub, blurred the dysfunction of a restaurant “family” with their own. Courteney Cox as Monica Geller, the underappreciated perfectionist of “Friends,” cooked her way through the most complex feelings a ’90s sitcom would allow. And Martina Gedeck only seemed impenetrable as the second-best chef in Hamburg in the 2001 German movie “ Mostly Martha .”

Jon Favreau was charming in “ Chef ,” and Bradley Cooper overplayed it in “ Burnt ,” though something about both those chefs struck me as faintly embarrassing. Most recently, Ralph Fiennes played the part as a cartoonish psychopath in “ The Menu .” And speaking of cartoons, animation has delivered some of our most delicious performances, including Bob from “ Bob’s Burgers ” — a perpetually broke small-town burger chef and a grumpy, but loving dad, hopelessly devoted to his craft.

None of these chefs landed with the sweaty force of Carmy, trying and failing to cook at the highest level without causing any damage. The profoundly unglamorous, relentless kitchen work in the show was widely complimented as “realistic,” as something that might even deepen our understanding of restaurants.

If you were following along, “The Bear” didn’t just get food and cooking right. It got Chicago right, it got the culture of the workplace right, it got the complexity of grief right, it got the devastation of addiction right, it got the beauty of good hospitality right — along with the tortured ache that can lurk behind it.

It also got that the chef wasn’t the only important character in a restaurant, and slowly expanded its story lines into the emotional lives of the other people prepping, washing dishes, scrubbing walk-ins and fixing toilets through dysfunction and disaster.

Restaurants featured on the show — even for a few moments — experienced a surge in business. Italian beef sales boomed . A cottage industry of gastro tourism bloomed in Chicago, where you can hop a bus and take a tour inspired by the show (led by someone dressed as Carmy).

But so much of the pleasure of watching “The Bear” has been in the investigative work that followed each episode — where exactly were the characters eating, what were they wearing, how were they cooking? We needed to know.

To meet our collective appetite for the characters’ stuff, users on Reddit and TikTok, along with editors and writers, identified and analyzed the minutiae of everything that appeared on the show. We could cook with the same San Marzano tomatoes . Replicate the cookbook collection . Wear the exact brand of white T-shirt that hugs Carmy’s biceps. Shop for Sydney’s exquisite scarves. Label our quart containers at home with the same green painter’s tape .

We stripped the kitchen for its parts: lingo, recipes, shoes. There was so much excitement over what was “real,” but little interest in the real, tedious issues restaurants were dealing with.

The effect of the “Bear” effect on us has been an interest, not so much in the people who work in kitchens, but in their aesthetic. In the sweet, shoppable details of the cook’s accessories, from the warped quart container to the vintage jacket .

If “The Bear” attuned us to the realities of working in professional kitchens, primed us for understanding and insight into the restaurant industry’s complexities, the “Bear” effect pulled us away in search of a pair of Birkenstock Tokios. No item has been too small to covet.

Maybe this is just how we watch TV now, but after I finished the second season , I gave in to the impulse to buy a fresh set of Sharpies for my home kitchen.

Before I even had them in my hands, I imagined tearing the crinkly plastic that held them in place away from the cardboard. I imagined the pleasure of writing with a fresh and inky nib. And when I finally uncapped a pen to gratuitously mark a Cambro of flour in my home kitchen, I could almost pretend that the show was bleeding over into my real life.

Follow New York Times Cooking on Instagram , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok and Pinterest . Get regular updates from New York Times Cooking, with recipe suggestions, cooking tips and shopping advice .

A picture caption with an earlier version of this article misspelled the surname of the actor who plays the chef Sydney Adamu, She is Ayo Edebiri, not Edibri.

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Tejal Rao is a critic at large for the Food section and contributes regularly to The New York Times Magazine. More about Tejal Rao