Hamburg
I remember on our way back from a family trip to Hannover; we stopped at Hamburg to explore the city before returning to Denmark. There was so much to see, but the time was limited. Still, we managed to explore Speicherstadt, the Hamburg city hall, and Alster lake in just a few hours. We even had some Miso soup at the food hall in Europa passage for only 4.50 euros!
Hamburg is a city full of life, one of the largest cities in Germany, with around 1.8 million inhabitants. It is located around the Rivers Elbe, Alster, and Bille, so it is believable that there are about 2300 bridges in Hamburg. As I plan on visiting it soon, here are a few ideas from attractions to shopping centers I think are worth visiting in Hamburg.
Activities
I like to explore the city on my own terms, but if you are curious about the history and stories of the city you visit, I suggest you take a tour.
Activities in Hamburg
- Strassenkart touren Hamburg und umland
- Treasure hunt through Hamburgs Hafencity
- Hamburg small-group sunset sailing cruise on lake alster
- Hamburg kunsthalle
Book a Hanse Kart tour with 14 horsepower to explore Hamburg and all its attractions in an extraordinary way. The prices are around 89€, but the experience is one you won’t forget. If you want something more affordable or want to explore the city with your family, the treasure hunt through Hafencity in Hamburg is just the activity for you. The treasure hunt takes you through the city while teaching you about the different sights you come across.
After an exciting day of touring and adventures, it is time for a relaxing evening on the sunset sailing cruise on lake Alster to unwind. Complimentary snacks and one free drink are included in the ride that sails from Barca BOAT EVENTS, An d. Alster 67 and returns to the same spot after an hour.
For all of you art fanatics, visit the most significant art museum in Germany, the Hamburg Kunsthalle. It was built in 1869 and today has masterpieces from the 17th century displayed inside.
Attractions
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a giant? No? Well, anyway, the Miniatur Wunderland will surely make you feel like one. From miniature displays of mountains in Switzerland to “la dolce vita” in Italy, you can get the opportunity to visit the entire world in just a few hours. You can buy tickets online to avoid standing in line on the day of your visit.
The good thing about Hamburg is that most attractions are located within a few km of each other. Hence, my family and I could visit most attractions in just a few hours. However, if you want to enjoy every sight, planning a 2-3 day trip is better. Here’s a list of the things you have to visit in Hamburg, most of which are free and local places you can visit any time of the day.
Elbphilharmonie
Hamburg’s major landmark and one of the largest concert halls in the world
City hall
Also called Rathaus, completed in 1897. You can also take a guided tour inside the building with 647 rooms, some of which are open to the public.
St Michael’s church
Built-in the baroque style, this catholic church has a 132 meters tower with a breathtaking view that stairs and an elevator can access.
Planten un blomen
It was established by planting a Platanus tree in 1821, which is still standing there.
Shopping
For someone who lives in Denmark, one of the most expensive countries in the world, a shopping trip to Germany is on the top of my list while I am visiting. My luggage is usually filled with sweet treats that would cost me three times as much in Denmark. One of the places I wasn’t able to visit last time but wanted to was Primark. From bags and clothes to interior, there is not much you wouldn’t find in Primark for an excellent price too.
If you are looking for brands, the best option is to visit one of the many shopping centers located within a 10 km radius of each other. All of them have a food court with different foods from different cultures. Whether in the mood for ice cream or sushi, you will find it in the food court of the shopping centers, usually relatively cheap.
If you plan to visit the city by car, you will usually find parking buildings around the city with 1-2 euros per hour tickets. Remember not to lose the key to help you get out of the parking spot afterwards. Most of these parking lots are near the attractions, so you won’t have to walk long.
Shopping centers
- Europa passage
- Hansaviertel
- Hamburger meile
- Wandelhalle Hamburg
Food
You can’t just eat good food; you must also talk about it.
Eating good food does not mean you have to spend 60 euros on a plate; as Hamaro Cantu said, “a food’s value is based on how good it tastes.” Searching for good enough places to eat during a vacation can be time-consuming. Thankfully for you, this blog contains ideas on sites for different tastes and budgets in Hamburg.
Let’s start. Remember the Planten un Blomen park I mentioned earlier? There is a Park cafe in the garden that you shouldn’t miss. It is an affordable choice with prices ranging from 3 – 12€ and has various options, from chicken nuggets for 6.90€ to espresso for 2.20€.
For vegan or vegetarian options, visit Das feuerschiff LV 13 for a beautiful experience. A deck boat with a restaurant inside and jazz musicians playing live for entertainment. The prices seem to match lower budgets as if including different diets and a fantastic view wasn’t enough.
Last but not least, you can never go wrong with street food. Every Thursday from 5 – 11 pm, around 15 rotating Food-trucks gather for the Street Food Session with delicious cuisine from lunch to desserts. There is a free entrance and a 100-meter-long table to eat and chat with friends. It is a perfect spot for meeting new people!
- Park cafe planten un blomen
- Das feuerschiff LV13 (vegan and veg)
- Street food sessions
