Things to do in Hamburg
Discover the best attractions and experiences Hamburg has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Hamburg’s storied past through grand buildings and historic districts that frame the city’s maritime heritage.
Speicherstadt
UNESCO-listed warehouse district with red-brick architecture and canals that evokes Hamburg’s trading era.
Rathaus (Hamburg City Hall)
A neo-Renaissance masterpiece in the Altstadt and the seat of city government.
Chilehaus
Iconic early 20th-century office building known for its curved brick silhouette.
Museums
Hamburg’s museums span maritime history, art, and science.
Miniatur Wunderland
World’s largest model railway exhibit with tiny landscapes and intricate scenes.
Kunsthalle Hamburg
A premier art museum presenting European paintings from the Middle Ages to modern works.
International Maritime Museum
Extensive collection tracing seafaring history and Hamburg’s port.
Museum für Hamburgische Geschichte
The history museum charting Hamburg’s social and urban development.
Religious Monuments
Hamburg’s churches offer history, art, and city views.
St. Michaelis Church (Michel)
One of Hamburg’s most recognizable landmarks with a panoramic tower view.
St. Petri Church (Petrikirche)
A medieval church in the Altstadt with a simple, sturdy exterior.
St. Katharinen Church
Historic church near the Speicherstadt with a watchful spire.
National & Theme Parks
Natural and garden escapes around the city.
Nationalpark Hamburgisches Wattenmeer
Part of the Wadden Sea network with tidal flats and migrating birds.
Planten un Blomen
A lush urban park famous for its botanical gardens and water-light concerts.
Stadtpark Hamburg
Large green oasis with lakes, lawns, and scenic promenades.
Tierpark Hagenbeck
Historic zoo and park featuring a wide range of animals and savannah layouts.
Neighborhoods
Dive into distinct quarters with their own character.
Schanzenviertel (Schanze)
Vibrant, bohemian neighborhood known for street art, cafés, and nightlife.
St. Pauli & the Reeperbahn
Iconic nightlife district with bars, clubs, and live music.
Altstadt (Old Town)
Historic core with Neoclassical architecture, the Town Hall, and galleries.
Hafencity & Speicherstadt
Modern waterfront district blending historic docks with contemporary design.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Hamburg without paying admission.
Walk along the Elbe and the Landungsbrücken
Watch ships and enjoy the harbor atmosphere from the quay.
Stroll around the Alster lakes
A scenic circuit suitable for walking, strolling, or a casual picnic.
Explore Planten un Blomen gardens from outside
Admire the park’s greenery and seasonal displays at no cost.
Admire exterior architecture in HafenCity and Speicherstadt
Maritime-inspired facades and canals are free to enjoy.
Gastronomy
Taste regional specialties and harbor-inspired bites.
Labskaus
A hearty sailor’s dish of corned beef, onions, and mashed potatoes.
Franzbrötchen
Cinnamon-sugar pastry that’s a Hamburg street-food staple.
Matjesfilet
Young herring served with onions and cream sauce—classic Northern fare.
Fischbrötchen
Fresh fish sandwich from harbor stalls, a local favorite.
Nightlife
Evenings in Hamburg offer music, drinks, and street life.
Reeperbahn (St. Pauli)
A world-famous nightlife street with bars, clubs, and live music.
Schanzenviertel nightlife
Eclectic bars and casual venues in a bohemian quarter.
Landungsbrücken night scene
Harbor-front bars and casual venues with river views.
Entertainment
The city’s performing arts and iconic venues.
Elbphilharmonie concerts
Renowned concert hall hosting world-class classical and contemporary programs.
Thalia Theater
Historic theater showcasing contemporary productions and classics.
Hamburg State Opera
Grand venue offering opera and ballet performances.
Stage Theater Neue Flora
Popular venue for major musical productions.
Sports
Active ways to enjoy Hamburg’s sports scene.
Watch HSV at Volksparkstadion
Experience German football with a match atmosphere.
Rent a bike and ride along the Elbe and Alster
Scenic routes suitable for a relaxed ride.
Rowing or sailing on the Alster
Water sports with city views.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and out-of-the-way experiences.
Treppenviertel in Blankenese
A picturesque hillside quarter with steep stairs and harbor views.
Alter Elbtunnel
Historic tunnel offering a glimpse into Hamburg’s river crossings.
Ohlsdorf Cemetery
One of Europe’s largest rural cemeteries with gardens and sculpture.