Speicherstadt
15 Best Things to do in Hamburg, Germany. Ensure that you take a leisurely stroll through Speicherstadt after tearing yourself away from its captivating models. This colossal warehouse district, recognized as the largest in the world, boasts magnificent red brick structures and shimmering waterways that provide an excellent backdrop for stunning photographs. As night falls, these buildings are beautifully illuminated, creating a mesmerizing sight against the dark sky.
Situated in the bustling Port of Hamburg, Speicherstadt was constructed between 1883 and 1927 and now forms part of the HafenCity quarter. The area showcases exquisite Gothic Revival architecture and is built on sturdy timber foundations that extend deep into the ground.
Today, Speicherstadt is home to upscale lofts, bars, restaurants, and the renowned Elbphilharmonie. Exploring its warehouses is a delightful experience, as you encounter a blend of historic bridges, buildings, canals, and river views that have become iconic representations of Hamburg.
Miniatur Wunderland
Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable attractions to visit, even though it may not sound particularly exciting. As the largest model railway in the world, it offers an abundance of themed rooms to explore. Some of these rooms are dedicated to the Alps and Austria, while others showcase Scandinavia and the United States.
Since its establishment in 2000, this expansive railway system located in the Speicherstadt has become one of Hamburg’s premier tourist destinations. Its popularity is easily understandable, as approximately 1,120 trains traverse its extensive 16,100-meter track simultaneously. The level of detail is truly astonishing, with thousands of vehicles and miniature human figures adorning the vast sets. Furthermore, the entire display is illuminated by twinkling lights that accurately simulate the transition between night and day every fifteen minutes.
This extraordinary miniature world transports visitors from the vibrant city of Las Vegas and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon in the United States to the enchanting canals of Venice and the fiery eruption of Vesuvius in Italy. Additionally, there is a small section dedicated to showcasing Hamburg alongside other world-renowned destinations. The sheer number of intricate details to absorb is so immense that we found ourselves spending countless hours examining the intricacies of its airport, alpine towns, and fairgrounds. We cannot emphasize enough how highly we recommend experiencing this captivating attraction.
Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie, an incredibly remarkable structure, is undeniably one of the most extraordinary edifices you will ever encounter. Towering above the city, this iconic concert hall dominates the revitalized harbor area.
After years of delays and exceeding the budget by millions, the Elbphilharmonie was finally completed in 2017. Its top twenty floors resemble a glistening iceberg, a majestic wave, or the billowing sails of a ship, depending on your perspective. Perched atop an old red brick warehouse, its curved windows reach a height of 108 meters at their highest point. On the eighth floor, visitors can enjoy an observation deck and a café.
The interior is equally captivating, with the main auditorium resembling a luminous coral cave. The state-of-the-art lobbies, staircases, and two smaller venues are tastefully designed. Despite receiving criticism for its acoustics, the Elbphilharmonie remains a must-see architectural marvel.
Town Hall
Hamburg’s Altstadt is graced by the magnificent Neo-Renaissance Rathaus, a prominent landmark that defines the city. Serving as the seat of the state’s government, this opulent building offers captivating tours that allow visitors to explore its lavish rooms and vaulted hallways.
Situated on one side of Rathausmarkt square, the majestic Town Hall boasts a remarkable central tower and was fully completed in 1897. Underneath its distinctive green gabled roof lies an astonishing 647 rooms, many of which can be accessed through guided tours.
Among the highlights are the aptly named Grand Hallway, the significant Plenary Hall, and the exquisitely painted ceiling of the Kaisersaal. Additionally, visitors can step into the courtyard and admire the various emblems and statues adorning its walls. Our tour guide provided a fascinating account of the building’s history and shed light on Hamburg’s rise to power and wealth. We were truly grateful for the enriching experience.
Take the Express Ferry to Heligoland
Despite its location in the North Sea, Heligoland is actually accessible as a day trip from Hamburg. The Express Ferry takes approximately four hours each way, giving you ample time to explore the small archipelago for another four hours. During the relaxing journey, you can admire breathtaking views of the Elbe River and the vast open sea.
Heligoland, which translates to ‘Holy Land’, is the farthest from the mainland compared to other countries. It was initially owned by the Danes and later by the British, but during World War II, it was heavily utilized by the German military and suffered significant bombing from the Allies.
Today, Heligoland’s tranquil and picturesque surroundings attract daytrippers, birdwatchers, and those seeking duty-free shopping opportunities. Many visitors enjoy leisurely walks along the top of the striking ruddy red sandstone cliffs or indulge in delicious lobster from the local stalls. Additionally, there are several intriguing historical sights and bunkers scattered throughout the area.
If you choose to stay overnight, you can also explore the neighboring Dune, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant seal population.
St. Michael’s Church
St. Michael’s spire is a prominent symbol and attraction in the city of Hamburg. Rising dramatically above the surrounding area, it is known for its exquisite interior and impressive organ. The church is dedicated to the Archangel Michael, and above its main entrance, there is a striking bronze statue depicting him triumphing over the devil.
This remarkable church is considered one of the most remarkable and renowned Hanseatic Protestant churches. Interestingly, it is the third church to be built on the same site. Constructed in 1762 in the elegant Baroque style, its interior is adorned with beautifully crafted altars and pulpits made of marble.
In addition to appreciating its architectural beauty and attending organ recitals, visitors can ascend to the top of the tower. To reach the 130-meter high viewing platform, you can either take the lift or climb the equivalent of ten flights of stairs! Once you reach the top, you will be greeted with breathtaking 360-degree views of Hamburg.
Planten un Blomen
Planten un Blomen, located in Hamburg, is a must-visit tourist attraction for those seeking a nature-filled experience. This picturesque destination encompasses a significant portion of the city center and offers themed gardens, a serene lake, and captivating fountains to discover.
Originating in 1821 with the planting of a single Platanus tree, this urban park has flourished into one of Europe’s finest. The park’s focal point is a sizable lake, surrounded by enchanting pathways and lush green spaces, inviting visitors to leisurely explore. Additionally, there are remarkable greenhouses showcasing an array of succulents, palms, eucalyptus, and various other flowers and plants.
Notably, the park boasts a fragrant rose garden and a meticulously designed Japanese garden, both of which exude beauty and tranquility. Furthermore, it is renowned for its vibrant musical fountain and the captivating concerts held at its outdoor pavilion.
International Maritime Museum
The International Maritime Museum in Hamburg is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the city’s rich history and maritime heritage. Located in the Speicherstadt district, which is renowned as the world’s largest warehouse district, the museum offers a fascinating collection of model ships, maritime art, and nautical devices.
Originally housed in a grand Neo-Gothic warehouse built in 1879, the museum moved to its current location in 2008. It is primarily based on the private collection of Peter Tamm, which boasts an impressive 40,000 items and over a million photographs.
In addition to exploring the history and future of shipping, the museum delves into Hamburg’s significance as a port and its strong maritime identity. Visitors can admire stunning paintings, intricate boat models, and even exhibits featuring explorers and diving robots. One of the highlights is the 3,000-year-old dugout canoe discovered in the Elbe River. For an interactive experience, visitors can also try out the museum’s fun ship simulator.
With its nine decks to explore and a vast array of objects to discover, a visit to the International Maritime Museum can easily occupy half a day. It offers a captivating journey through Hamburg’s maritime past and present, making it a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and maritime lovers alike.
Historic Boats at Landungsbrücken
The St. Pauli Piers, also known as Landungsbrücken, can be found just a short walk away along the waterfront. These piers were originally built in 1839 for steam ships and have since become the largest landing site in the Port of Hamburg. Today, you can admire and explore a variety of fascinating old boats moored along the piers, including the Rickmer Rickmers and the MS Cap San Diego. The Rickmer Rickmers is a tall three-masted ship from 1896, while the MS Cap San Diego is a squat cargo ship from the 1960s. Both of these ships have been transformed into museum ships and are open to the public.
The pier’s terminal is another notable feature, with its green-roofed domes and towers stretching over 205 meters. Inside the terminal, you’ll find a wide range of excellent restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops to enjoy. Additionally, you can take ferry rides along the river, venture to the other side of the harbor through the Elbe Tunnel, or continue your journey to the must-see Elbphilharmonie.
BallinStadt Emigration Museum
Hamburg, one of the largest ports in Europe, witnessed over five million individuals pass through its emigration halls from the 1850s to the 1930s. At the remarkable BallinStadt Museum, visitors can delve into the journeys of these individuals and explore the new lives they embarked upon in the Americas.
Situated in the Veddel quarter on the island bearing the same name, the museum occupies the Swiss chalet-style quarters from 1901 where the emigrants resided while awaiting their departure. Impeccably curated, the captivating exhibits chronicle their arrival in the city and the motivations behind their decision to emigrate.
Through compelling texts, videos, photographs, and historical artifacts, visitors are immersed in the personal narratives and aspirations of these individuals for their future lives. The museum primarily focuses on the experiences of Germans and East Europeans, shedding light on their encounters upon reaching the United States. To enhance your visit, be sure to obtain an audio guide or booklet at the entrance or download the app for comprehensive explanations in English.
Tierpark Hagenbeck
Following the somber memorial, a visit to Tierpark Hagenbeck offers a refreshing change of scenery as you witness the joyful antics of the animals. Located on the outskirts of town in the northwestern region, this historic zoo boasts not only a diverse range of wildlife but also features an aquarium, playgrounds, and picnic areas scattered throughout its premises.
Established in 1863, this renowned zoo holds the distinction of being the first to introduce open enclosures surrounded by moats to house its animals. Today, its expansive outdoor exhibits provide a home to approximately 1,400 mammals, birds, and reptiles from various corners of the globe.
In addition to observing elephants and giraffes, visitors can marvel at polar bears, penguins, and walruses. Furthermore, the aquaria within the zoo offer a captivating journey from the Arctic to the tropics, with regular feeding shows adding to the experience.
St. Nicholas Church
In contrast to the contemporary shopping center, the majestic St. Nicholas Church provides a poignant glimpse into the past. Devastated during the 1943 air raids over Hamburg, the church’s empty shell serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of war and pays tribute to the victims of World War II.
Once the tallest structure in the world, this colossal Gothic Revival cathedral suffered extensive damage during the intense firebombing of the city in the Second World War. While its weighty roof collapsed and its immense nave was eventually demolished, its charred spire still proudly stands at a height of 147 meters.
Since 2005, an elevator has transported visitors halfway up to an observation deck, which also features historical photographs and informative panels about the church’s past. At the base of the church, there is a small yet exceptional museum that provides context for everything encountered on the site. Undoubtedly, the memorial, museum, sculptures, and panoramic views were among the most remarkable highlights of our visit to Hamburg.
Europa Passage
The vast Europa Passage, located near the Binnenalster in the Old Town, houses numerous restaurants and shops. As you explore its five floors, you will be captivated by the remarkable futuristic architecture on display.
This impressive glass structure, which was only opened to the public in 2006, features a grand atrium illuminated by expansive skylights. The shopping center boasts approximately 150 stores and eateries, all thoughtfully designed to provide a delightful shopping experience.
We were fortunate to discover this immense mall just in time to seek refuge from one of the frequent rain showers that often pass through the city. While Europa Passage offers a wide range of shopping and dining choices, it was the astonishing architecture that truly caught our attention.
Kunsthalle Hamburg
The colossal Kunsthalle, one of Germany’s largest and finest art museums, is conveniently located just a short distance from Hamburg’s Hauptbahnhof. This impressive institution houses a vast collection of magnificent paintings, photographs, and sculptures that span over eight centuries of art history.
Established in 1850 in the Altstadt, not far from the two Alster Lakes, the Kunsthalle has acquired an astonishing assortment of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Degas, Rubens, de Goya, and Monet. Each artwork is accompanied by a detailed explanation, and the museum’s app offers even more comprehensive information for visitors.
With its three buildings, the Kunsthalle’s intimate galleries explore a wide range of artistic periods, from the Old Masters and nineteenth-century art to classical modernism and contemporary pieces. The museum’s elegant architecture and the thoughtfully designed layout of its exhibition halls are equally captivating.
U-Bootmuseum is one of the 15 Best Things to do in Hamburg, Germany
The U-Bootmuseum, a fascinating attraction, offers an abundance of enjoyment for exploration. This remarkable museum allows visitors to step inside a Cold War submarine, which was originally launched by the Soviets in 1976 and is now permanently docked along the Norderelbe, adjacent to the renowned fish market of the city.
As one of the largest non-nuclear submarines globally, the U-Bootmuseum showcases the sleek Tango class U-boat, primarily utilized for extended patrols and espionage missions. After being decommissioned in 2001, this impressive vessel spans an impressive length of ninety meters, with visitors entering and exiting through both its bow and stern. While wandering through its interior, you will have the opportunity to observe not only the crew’s cramped sleeping quarters but also its engine and torpedo rooms.
Despite its claustrophobic nature, the museum is undeniably a worthwhile destination, as it offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a submarine. Examining the antiquated equipment and navigating the narrow passageways within the U-Bootmuseum proves to be truly captivating. Additionally, learning about its service in the Soviet Navy adds an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.
