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Sundown in HH
Sundown in HH  - Photo by Sebastian Frederik Jacobsen

Explore Hamburg: Germany's Northern Gem with this Travel Guide

About Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg, Germany is a vibrant and diverse city full of history, culture, and intriguing architecture. From the winding canals of the Alster Lakes to the bustling streets of the Reeperbahn, Hamburg has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in art, music, or delicious cuisine, Hamburg is a must-see destination for any traveler.

Hamburg is a city of contrasts, where modernity and tradition blend to create a unique atmosphere. Located in northern Germany, Hamburg is the second-largest city in the country and boasts a rich maritime history. With its world-famous port, museums, and nightlife, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Hamburg.

One of Hamburg's most popular attractions is the Elbphilharmonie, a concert hall that has become an icon of the city's modern architecture. Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the Elbphilharmonie is a stunning example of contemporary design and engineering. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, or attend one of the many concerts that take place throughout the year.

For those interested in history, Hamburg has a wealth of museums and landmarks to explore. The St. Michaelis Church, also known as the "Michel," is one of the city's most famous landmarks. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city. The International Maritime Museum is another must-see attraction, with exhibits on the city's long history as a port.

Hamburg is also known for its lively nightlife. The Reeperbahn, located in the St. Pauli neighborhood, is Hamburg's famous red-light district and a popular destination for club-goers. For a more relaxed evening, visitors can head to one of the city's many bars and cafes to enjoy a local beer or glass of wine.

Finally, no trip to Hamburg would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Hamburg is famous for its fish dishes, particularly the smoked herring known as "Labskaus." Other local specialties include the "Finkenwerder Scholle," a type of plaice, and "Franzbrötchen," a type of pastry.

In conclusion, Hamburg is a city with something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or nightlife, Hamburg is sure to impress. So why not book your trip today and experience all that this exciting city has to offer?

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Popular Stays in Hamburg, Germany

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Hamburg, Germany

Welcome to Holiday Inn Hamburg with a beautiful view over the Elberiver and over the city of Hamburg. The 4-star hotel is located directly at the Elb bridges. Thanks to the direct motorway connection to the A255 and public transport, the sights of the Hanseatic city, such as the Elbphilharmonie, Michel, Speicherstadt, Hafencity and Reeperbahn are easy to reach with a short drive. The Entenwerder Park, including a jogging route for cross-country skiers, is in front of the hotel. Our accommodation also offers 385 rooms in different categories, equipped with free WiFi, TV, telephone, safe, and a minibar with a free welcome drink. In the Elbgarten restaurant, our chef will spoil you with local and international delicacies at breakfast and dinner time. The 17 conference halls and the separate part of the restaurant for exclusive evening events are ideal for groups. In addition, we offer 220 parking spaces in the underground car park.
Crowne Plaza Hamburg, next to the Alster lake. Discover Crowne Plaza Hamburg City Alster the Design Hotel and experience Hamburg in many different ways. The Crowne Plaza Hamburg is a modern city Hotel and only a short walk away from Hamburg's trendy St Georg district where you can experience international cuisine. At this hotel you can enjoy: - Inclusive Wi-Fi- Connectivity (accessible sockets and charging facilities)- The market place (guests can purchase drinks and snacks on the go)- Chef's Station at breakfast Stay with the Alster Lake on your doorstep and choose from a variety of newly renovated guest and trendy designed meeting rooms with modern interiors. If you are planning a short city trip or you are on your way to the coast why don't you plan to stay a night or two at the Crowne Plaza Hamburg – City Alster. Our Hotel is also within easy reach of the main train station and attractions like Hamburg's history harbor districts, the UNESCO world heritage site Speicherstadt, the Elbphilarmonie music hall or Hamburg's trades fair grounds. The exquisite, eclectic cuisine and the perfect combination of stylish design and cosiness add to an unforgettable stay. We are looking forward to welcome you.
n the heart of the Elbe metropolis lies the Steigenberger Hotel Hamburg with its typical Hanseatic architecture and view of the Alsterfleet. In the immediate vicinity of our luxury hotel, shopping arcades invite you to stroll. The historic city hall, the inner city, the Speicherstadt and the HafenCity are only a few minutes walk away.
Centrally located in the lively city of Hamburg in Germany, this charming and pleasant hotel is an ideal choice of accommodation to visit many of the sightseeing attractions that travellers can find, such as the Fish Market or the harbour. Those visitors on a business trip may also appreciate the hotel's proximity to the exhibition grounds. The air-conditioned and sound-proofed guest rooms are tastefully decorated with a warm and cosy touch, allowing its guests to feel completely at ease. All of them count with a convenient, private bathroom and coffee and tea making facilities for added comfort and convenience. Business travellers may wish to make good use of the five versatile conference rooms, fitted with state-of-the-art equipment and filled with natural light. Visitors will also appreciate the on-site restaurant and bar that serve delicious specialities.
The Domicil Hamburg by Golden Tulip Hotel is located in the city center of Hamburg and therefore the ideal choice for your stay in the city. The famous "Schanzenviertel" offers Musical theatres, shops, cafes, as well as bars and clubs just a short walk away Whether you are on a business trip, planning to see a musical or just visiting on a sightseeing trip you will find all you need at the Domicil Hamburg by Golden Tulip Hotel.
The TOP CityLine Panorama Hotel Billstedt Hamburg is a 4 star hotel located in eastern district Billstedt. The hotel offers 111 modern and comfortably furnished rooms. Look forward to various meals, snacks and drinks in the pleasant Clipper restaurant and bar. The hotel enjoys an excellent reputation for holding conferences/seminars and banquets. Do something good for your body and impoverish in our fitness room. For all guests arriving by car our hotel garage is at your disposal.
This modern hotel is not far from the lively town centre, where guests will discover many shopping and entertainment venues as well as local places of interest. They can easily be reached by public transport, as the Berliner Tor underground station is set just 150 m away. Hamburg airport is some 15 km from the property. This 7-storey hotel comprises a total of 93 rooms of which 38 are single rooms and 55 are double rooms. Guests can spend some relaxing moments in the wonderful garden or the café and bar, which serve a selection of excellent drinks. In addition, the à la carte restaurant offers delicious dishes and is a good option for both family and business dinners. Corporate guests may also take advantage of the various conference rooms within the hotel as well as the public Internet terminal.
A hearty Welcome in the 4 star TOP CityLine Hotel Eggers Hamburg for our guests! The hotel offers 92 nonsmoking rooms and junior suites. The hotel bar serves as an excellent meeting point after work or shopping - through the summertime the beer garden invites you to stay a little bit longer. Every day a rich and freshly cooked breakfast buffet is served in the breakfast restaurant. Recreate in the indoor pool, fitness area or sauna or enjoy a drink on the summer terrace. For all guests arriving by car, the parking facilities are at your disposal. . *Kindly note that the city tax is charged on site and applies to ALL bookings (tourist and business travelers).

Things to do in Hamburg, Germany

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Hamburg, Germany

Spend your day in Germany on a private 12-hour tour with an experienced local guide as you walk the streets of Berlin. Walk beneath the Brandenburg Gate, stand on top of Hitler’s Bunker, pass through Checkpoint Charlie, and explore the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Port pickup and drop-off by private vehicle included.
The black diamonds of Hamburg - a sinful mile A brilliant journey with unexpected highlights!  The tour covers the most interesting areas of the city and takes you behind the scenes of the sinful mile: it leads from the harbor over squares, establishments and is lovingly peppered with historical stories from your guide - funny, slightly erotic and exciting - entertaining: bars, world-famous theaters, music clubs, interesting district culture - a bit underground.
Join this 2-hour guided walking tour and explore Hamburg's infamous Red Light District. Learn about the historical background of the district and why the widely practiced profession in this quarter became so popular. Tour the shady and scandalous streets of city and enjoy a unique Hamburg experience.
The Free Walking tour, free walking tour or free tour, are called the tours where there is no fixed price, giving the visitor the option to pay what they consider appropriate. Neither before, nor after, nor during the tour do the guides try to sell you other tours, nor will they force you to take a coffee break. You will simply enjoy the tour where you will get to know the most emblematic places of this city.
Cycle through the neighborhoods of fine society as well as the neighborhoods where drugs, prostitution, but also the autonomous scene or artists' quarters can be found. We cycle towards the Sternschanze, cross the historic district symbolically for grassroots democratic living, Schröderstift, the Sternschanzenpark and then drive through the actual Schanzen district with its diverse alternative cultural offerings. We then drive on the St. Pauli harbor road through the Portuguese quarter to the new town. We reach the office buildings from the 1920s, such as the Chilehaus. Then continue cycling to St. Georg: there are no greater contrasts of multicultural life here in any other district. The path leads us to the Inner Alster, Kennedy Bridge, city panorama, Lombards Bridge with its fine rowing clubs and consulates, and finally back to the bike station.
The hop-on hop-off tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore Hamburg's famous sights. The double-decker bus takes you to the landmarks of Hamburg: the Elbphilharmonie, the Reeperbahn, the Michaelis Church and many other highlights are waiting for you on this tour. The beautiful districts such as the Speicherstadt, the modern HafenCity, the legendary old town and the magnificent outer Alster will, of course, not be missed. A german-speaking tour guide will tell you interesting stories on board. An audio guide in languages English and German is also available. As this is a hop-on hop-off tour you can get off the bus at the locations you want to take a closer look at. If the weather is not playing along or you don’t feel like getting off the bus you can for sure stay in the bus – the ride without getting off takes about 90 minutes. Choose the stops yourself and benefit from the flexibility of the bus ride.
Set sail into the sunset during this 1-hour, small-group cruise on a traditional sailing boat — in the middle of Hamburg. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from Alster Lake, a tributary of the Elbe River. Sail past green parks, historic landmarks and see some of the biggest churches in Hamburg, plus the town hall, the Alster fountain and the new concert hall "Elbphilharmonie" in the distance. Relax and enjoy a refreshing beverage on board as the sun sets over the horizon before returning to dock.
Take the chance to get a wonderful impression of Hamburg. Enjoy the individual sightseeing tour with our driving guides. They will take care of your wishes and interests while you are sitting in the brand new limousine, minivan or minibus.

Why People Love Hamburg, Germany

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Hamburg, Germany

M
Mely_B
5
Oct 2023
Exceeded our expectations. We learned more additional knowledge about the history of Berlin. We're so fortunate to have seen some of the historical landmarks. Nathan was an excellent guide and Joe the driver made it happened for us to get back in time to our ship.
G
ggspider
5
Jul 2019
I participated in this 2-3 hour walking tour of Hamburg in the last week of June 2019. To my delight the group that I was in consisted of only 7 people, which gave all participants the opportunity to ask lots of questions and hear everything our guide, Cara, had to say about Hamburg, which was a ...
P
P8724YYmelanies
1
Jun 2023
Die Tour wurde leider einen Tag vorher wegen Personalmangel abgesagt. Alle anderen Touren in Hamburg waren schon ausgebucht und wir waren nur für einen Tag in Hamburg. So wurde unsere ganze Planung über den Haufen geschmissen.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Hamburg

What are some must-see attractions in Hamburg?

Hamburg has many exciting attractions. The St. Michaelis Church, also known as the Michel, is a must-see landmark in Hamburg. Visitors can climb the tower for a great view of the city. Another popular attraction is the Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway. The Elbphilharmonie is a stunning concert hall and a popular spot for visitors. The Warehouse district is also worth visiting, with its unique architecture and museums.

What are some fun activities to do in Hamburg?

There are many fun activities to do in Hamburg. Visitors can take a boat tour of the harbor, explore the many parks and gardens, or take a bike tour of the city. The Reeperbahn is a lively nightlife district with many bars and clubs. The beach at velgnne is also a popular spot to relax and enjoy the sun.

What are some good restaurants to try in Hamburg?

Hamburg is known for its seafood. Fischereihafen-Restaurant is a popular spot for fresh seafood. Estancia Steaks is a great spot for steak lovers. For a casual meal, try Frau Mller, which is known for its burgers. For a sweet treat, try the famous Franzbrtchen, a cinnamon pastry.

What are some unique experiences to have in Hamburg?

One unique experience is the Elbphilharmonie Plaza, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Visitors can also take a tour of the old Elbtunnel, a historic tunnel under the river. For a unique shopping experience, check out the Altona fish market on Sunday mornings. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the city's street art.

What is the best time of year to visit Hamburg?

The best time to visit Hamburg is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. The winter months can be cold and rainy, but there are also many festive events and markets during the holiday season.

What are some family-friendly activities in Hamburg?

The Miniatur Wunderland is a great attraction for families. The Tierpark Hagenbeck is a popular zoo with many animals to see. The Planten un Blomen park has a large playground and a water light concert show in the summer months. The Hamburg Dungeon is a fun and interactive attraction that takes visitors on a journey through the city's history.

What are some good places to stay in Hamburg?

The city center is a good place to stay, with many hotels and attractions within walking distance. The Hotel Atlantic Kempinski Hamburg is a luxurious option, while the 25hours Hotel HafenCity is a trendy and affordable choice. The St. Pauli district is a lively area with many bars and restaurants, and the Hotel Hafen Hamburg is a great choice for its location and views of the harbor.

What is the transportation like in Hamburg?

Hamburg has a good public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. Visitors can purchase a Hamburg Card, which provides unlimited access to public transportation and discounts on attractions. Biking is also a popular way to get around the city, with many bike rental options available.

What are some popular festivals in Hamburg?

The Hamburger Dom is a popular fair that takes place three times a year. The Hamburg Port Anniversary is a celebration of the city's harbor and takes place in May. The Reeperbahn Festival is a music festival that takes place in September. The Christmas markets in Hamburg are also a popular attraction during the holiday season.

What are some day trips to take from Hamburg?

Lbeck is a historic city located about an hour from Hamburg. It is known for its medieval architecture and marzipan. The town of Blankenese, located on the Elbe River, is a charming spot to explore. The island of Sylt is a popular destination for its beaches and resorts. The Lneburg Heath is a nature reserve that is great for hiking and biking.