Top Things to Do in Hamburg

About the City

Hamburg, Germany, affectionally known as the 'Gateway to the World,' definitely lives up to its moniker with its bustling port, the second-largest in Europe. This vibrant city offers a unique blend where industrial might meets a love for the finer things - from the opulent Elbphilharmonie concert hall boasting cutting-edge acoustics to the infamous Reeperbahn, a stretch that never sleeps. A haven for foodies and maritime fans alike, one can feast on fresh Fischbrötchen while watching the ballet of ships on the Elbe River. For culture buffs, the Speicherstadt, with its atmospheric red-brick warehouses, now hosts museums and cafes where the scent of history mingles with exotic spices from distant lands. Families find delight in Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway exhibit that can captivate both young and old for hours. Alas, this northern gem's weather can be a fickle friend – often a mix of rain, wind, and more rain, occasionally dampening spirits and picnics. And beware the crowd-filled commutes, for the city's charm has attracted many, leading to typical urban congestion. But even amidst these small tribulations, the warmth of Hamburg's residents and the city's multifaceted character make it an endearing locale that's hard to resist.

Things to Do in Hamburg

Nibble on a Pfeffernuss

Food & Drink

Sneak a spicy little kiss from Hamburg with a nibble on a Pfeffernuss! These are bite-sized gingerbread cookies that pack a peppery punch. They're typically enjoyed during the festive season, but who'...

Alster-Lake Paddling Paradise

Outdoors

Wanna get your paddle on in a postcard-perfect setting? The Alster Lakes are your go-to for a super chill day out on the water. Get yourself a canoe, a kayak, or even a fancy stand-up paddleboard and ...

Trace the Stars' Steps at the Planetarium

The Unexpected

Aim high and get starry-eyed at Hamburg's Planetarium! Glide through galaxies and comets without leaving your seat. It's an out-of-this-world journey in a historic water tower turned cosmic theatre.

Discover Ain't Your Regular Street Art

The Unexpected

Get off that beaten path and hunt down Hamburg's coolest street art. From hidden alleys to buzzing markets, the city's walls are a kaleidoscope of color, telling stories taller than their buildings. P...

Dive Deep into Hamburg's Coffee Culture

The Unexpected

Get buzzed on the charm of the local coffee scene! Sneak into the cozy corners of Hamburg’s cutest cafés and warm up with a cup of what the locals might call 'Liquid gold'. Explore the bean-brewing ar...

Twist and Shout at The Beatles-Platz

The Unexpected

Calling all Beatlemaniacs! Do the twist (or whatever dance you fancy) at the Beatles-Platz, where the fab four played before they were a household name. Jive on the circular plaza, which resembles a v...

Birdwatching Bliss

Outdoors

Get your binoculars out and mingle with our feathery friends! Hamburg's parks and nature reserves offer top-notch birdwatching. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just love a good flutter, you'll be ...

Urban Jungle Zip-lining

Outdoors

Zip through Hamburg's urban jungle with an aerial zip-line adventure! Feel the rush as you zoom from platform to platform, taking in the city from a bird's-eye view. No need for binoculars up here – y...

Jogging Jaunt Around the Alster

Outdoors

Lace up those runners and hit the Alster's surrounding paths for the most scenic jog of your life. Whether you're chasing down a new personal best or just out for a leisurely trot, the Alster's the pe...

Hamburg High-Flyers Kite Surfing

Outdoors

Get your adrenaline rush with some kite surfing action on the Elbe River! Whether you're a kite surfing newbie or a 'been-there-jumped-that' pro, the river's gusts and waves make it a spot where your ...

Slurp on a Bowl of Aalsuppe

Food & Drink

Brace yourself for a truly traditional Hamburg hug in a bowl with Aalsuppe! This ain't your average soup; it's a hearty, historic hodgepodge that's more like a liquid meal. Whether it actually has eel...

Catch a Flick at the Open-Air Cinema in Stadtpark

Sights

Grab some popcorn and snuggle up under the stars for an open-air movie night in Stadtpark. It's like your regular movie experience but with fresh air, the sound of crickets, and the magic of the silve...

Bask in the Planten un Blomen Park

Sights

Get green and serene at Planten un Blomen! It's a lush paradise smack dab in the middle of the city, where you can laze around in botanical bliss. Think pretty flowers, groovy water light concerts, an...

Marvel at the Hamburg Rathaus

Sights

Gawk at the grandeur of the Hamburg Rathaus, the city's majestic city hall. With its opulent façade, towering clock tower, and lavish state rooms, it's where Hamburg's bigwigs get down to business. Sn...

Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour

Sights

Embrace the chills and tales of the supernatural with a spine-tingling ghost tour. Explore Hamburg's darker past and uncover stories of hauntings, historical mysteries, and perhaps encounter a specter...

Groove at the Reeperbahn Festival

Sights

Get ready to boogie the night away at the Reeperbahn Festival, Hamburg's hot spot for music and arts. For a few days each year, this infamous street transforms into a pulsating festival with live gigs...

Tickle Your Palate with Grünkohl

Food & Drink

Winter in Hamburg calls for the ultimate comfort food, Grünkohl! Also known as kale, this isn't your average leafy green. Braised until it's as tender as a Hamburg drizzle, it's packed with smoky baco...

Try a Matjes Herring

Food & Drink

Take a dive into the deep flavors of the North Sea with Matjes Herring! Prepare your palate for a soft, silky fillet of herring, it’s like oceanic butter in your mouth, usually served raw with a side ...

Devour a Hamburger Pannfisch

Food & Drink

Get ready to reel in a real Hamburg classic with Hamburger Pannfisch! This pan-fried fishy feast has been swimming in the city's culinary scene for ages. The delectable dish boasts a mix of fresh loca...

Discover Underground Art in a Bunker

The Unexpected

Dive deep into the heart of Hamburg’s underground art scene! Explore a World War II bunker transformed into a maze of contemporary art. It's like a cavern of creativity waiting to be discovered—just k...