tours from hamburg germany

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Hamburg Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Hamburg. We've got 62 adventures going to Hamburg, starting from just 7 days in length, and the longest tour is 61 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

62 Hamburg tour packages with 508 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Best of Germany (12 Days)

Hello, The 12days the best of Germany were a real success, we visited many interesting cities, I was born in Germany andlived there for 19 years, I had not been back in 30 years,the hotelswere excellent, the food aswell and I found the people very friendly. Our guideswere extremely professional and the road trips were very entertaining with speeches and videos. There were only 29 passengers ,mostly americans, one French canadian from Ottawa andme, I have lived in Montreal since 1965 and am a canadian citizen, Istill speak german, as I was teacher in elementary and high school. This was a wonderful experience, Diana Vega

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Highlights of Germany

We really enjoyed the tour. It was a real rush, packing so much into only 10 days. There were only a few minor irritations which were provided in detail directly to Cosmos. I was not very satisfied with the service provided by TourRadar, however. .We asked several questions in the weeks before the tour and did not get answers and our tour package did not arrive until barely a week before the tour. By that point I was in such a panic that I contacted Cosmos to see what was wrong. They were most helpful. In future we will be dealing directly with companies like Cosmos rather than using TourRadar.

Customized Germany Train Trip with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Germany and Norway

There were many places that Europamundo was not totally forthcoming and just a very short list that I see as shortcomings. I will be writing a letter later. 4 different buses, 3 different guides, only 13 English speakers with 9 being my family, not one hotel even near the city center, and paid much money for us to be picked up at 2:15 am to get to airport and never showed up. Needed to pay for a taxi to take us there. This will be followed with letters

Beautiful Views

An excellent tour with great hotels, lovely guide ( many thanks Ro ) and skilled drivers. Very good value and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Europamundo as a Tour company.

• River Cruise

From Hamburg to Berlin: Discover the Medieval Charms of Hanseatic Cities

BEST OF GERMANY BY TRAIN

Javier was very helpful all the way. he always answered quickly via WhatsApp. It s necessary to clarify that this is practically a self-guided tour for the most part. you will join some local tours but you travel on your own and you have remote support and guidance. As a recommendation get a SIM card from Aldi and get credit at the store to load and set up a local data service. Overall a very good experience.

Northern Explorer

Expat Explore Travel is one of the best that I experienced, I booked with them last year, this year I was with them again for the Northern Explorer for 18 days; Willy Our tour guide is one of a kind person, funny and handsome man; and surprise !! Carl and Jack the co-founder of Expat Explore were with us in the tour, and they are both down to earth and accommodating; the tour itself is so amazing and we visited most of the major tourist spots; the accommodations are best since most were near the tourist spots and transport area; I do highly recommend Expat Explore for your tours and that is why I booked again a tour for 2017 on their 1st Balkan Explore..

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coach / Bus

London to Warsaw Vistas (Summer, Start Amsterdam, 10 Days)

Get Social: Mega European

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Educational

WHEELS AND WONDERS An authentic german road trip

Get Social: Northern & Eastern Europe Highlights

Loved this trip! Would have liked to see more of Scandinavia but was a good intro to those countries

London to Warsaw Vistas (Summer, Start London, 10 Days)

LET'S GO EUROPE

• Ocean Cruise

Wild Islands of the North Atlantic | Reykjavík to Hamburg (2025)

What people love about hamburg tours.

The trip was packed with activities and experiences. The tour director was excellent. Christina was very helpful and friendly. We purchased all the optional experiences and thought all were worthwhile except the last one. We will book a similar trip in the future

A fascinating, (sometimes too) whistlestop tour of German towns and cities. The tour guide Zsofi and her driver were probably the best I've ever had - they were helpful, upbeat and very clear in their instructions. Trip 'Good' rather than 'Excellent' because of the location of the hotels, most of which were so on the outskirts of a city that it limited what we could do in our free time. Also, some days towards the end of the tour were a bit rushed - the whole thing could stand to be at least two days longer.

• to Europe (5)
• Germany Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Germany Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Hamburg Tours

15 Best Hamburg Tours

After the capital of Berlin, Hamburg, with its nearly 1.9 million residents, is the second-largest city in Germany.

It’s also one of Germany’s federal states and is bordered by Schleswig-Holstein to the north, and to the south by Lower Saxony.

Though it’s not located directly on the North Sea, it’s connected via the River Elbe, which has made it a commercial hub for centuries, and one of the country’s economic powerhouses.

Hamburg features a variety of historical sites, tons of natural beauty, and all the big-city attractions international visitors expect.

Below are 15 of the best tours of Hamburg.

1. 3 ½-Hour Bike Tour

Despite its bustling streets and millions of residents, Hamburg has many areas that are perfectly accessible to those traveling by bike.

On this 3 ½-hour guided tour, eager peddlers will be taken to many of the city’s most iconic attractions, including St Michael’s Church, the Alster Lakes, the Town Hall, and the world-renowned Reeperbahn.

Brief stops are made at each attraction; participants will have time to ask questions, snap a few photos, and have a quick drink before heading off to the next site.

Due to the city’s relative flatness, tours are appropriate for those of most ages and levels of physical ability.

2. 2-Hour Hamburg Port Tour

According to commerce statistics, the Port of Hamburg is second only in volume to Rotterdam. It’s almost always abuzz with arriving and departing freight vessels from all over the world.

The port is largely responsible for Germany’s economic might and features one of the most modern overseas container facilities on the continent.

It’s also home to fish markets, seedy stretches that cater to sailors’ every whim, and historical attractions as well.

This 2-hour tour is a pleasant alternative to city tours and leaves plenty of time to explore on your own or hook-up with another two or three-hour tour afterward.

View Prices & Reviews

3. Evening Illumination Cruise through Harbor

Evening cruises around Hamburg’s harbor are the perfect way to end an exhausting activity-filled day.

As the evening light fades, the city becomes awash in vibrant light that makes for truly remarkable views.

The bustling container terminal is an impressive sight, as are the bevy of canals, the International Maritime Museum, and the Marco Polo Tower – to name just a few included attractions.

Along the way, guests will benefit from anecdotes of local history offered by their guide, and get a totally new perspective of the layout of the city, as well as its history, cultural, and maritime commerce tradition.

4. City Tour with Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket

Discovering Hamburg on your own terms couldn’t be easier for those who purchase hop-on-hop-off city tour tickets.

Hop-on-hop-off tours give savvy travelers access to a number of sites and allow them to see and experience the things that interest them while ignoring those that don’t.

For many guests, there are too many attractions to visit in a day, but perennial favorites include the St. Pauli Piers, Miniature Wonderland, Hans Albers Square, and the Reeperbahn.

Depending on the weather and their level of exhaustion, guests may choose to stay on the bus as little or as much as they want—at least until something strikes their fancy.

5. Haunted Hamburg Tour

From long-lost ghost ships and medieval witches to demons and the downright unexplainable, Hamburg is an eerie place after dark.

This two-hour guided night tour is a perfect fit for lovers of the odd and macabre. It offers guests a slice of the city that isn’t often experienced by more traditional tourists.

Along with their guide, guests will make their way to several supposedly haunted sites that seem perfectly normal by day.

The Reeperbahn, St. Catherine’s Church, and the Quarter of the Crooked Moon are all on the itinerary, but tours are best left to those 12-years and older.

6. 3-Hour Culinary Tour of the Schanzenviertel

Featuring a staggering number of nearly unpronounceable epicurean destinations for English-speaking visitors, this 3-hour culinary tour is still a popular option for lovers of all things food-related.

Many of the city’s oldest neighborhoods are known for their distinct cuisines. On this tour, guests will have ample time to explore them, meet locals, and sample a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes.

Tours stop by at least five different locations and include elements of history, politics, and contemporary issues that most guests find intriguing, like gentrification, commerce, and labor issues.

Guests are encouraged to show up with empty stomachs and open minds.

7. 1-Hour Harbor Cruise

For centuries Hamburg and other Hanseatic cities dominated much of the region’s maritime trade, and the city still boasts more canals, bridges, and locks than nearly any other place in Europe.

Seeing the city from the water on this 1-hour harbor cruise tour is an excellent use of valuable vacation time, because it covers parts of Hamburg that those stuck on land just won’t see.

Tour highlights include impressive bridges, the container terminal, and the Speicherstadt warehouse district.

Tour vessels include shaded sun decks and ample indoor seating for those who prefer cold drinks and air-conditioning to sun and sea breezes.

8. Following the Footsteps of Olivia Reeperbahn Tour

According to those who’ve already experienced it, Hamburg’s Reeperbahn neighborhood is akin to Las Vegas, only sleazier and more glitzy.

Also an uber-concentrated pocket of everything that makes Hamburg what it is, it is, therefore, a must-visit attraction for the adventurous and un-prudish.

The area features a little bit of everything – from seedy cocktail bars and drag-queen shows to iconic football stadiums and cabaret venues.

Though it’s generally the exclusive realm of the young and crazy, this 2 ½-hour tour has its fair share of older visitors as well, so if you fall into the latter category, consider stepping out of your comfort zone.

9. Hamburg Harbor Light Tour

As the sun drops behind the skyline, Hamburg’s harbor becomes engulfed in a myriad of lights that make it particularly stunning.

In fact, the lights at the port and container terminal are so bright that they cast the city in an aura, making the skyline stand-out against the night sky.

This evening tour lasts 90 minutes and includes engaging historic narration from the captain-guide along the way.

Visited sights vary slightly depending on the tide and season, and a number of special tours are offered periodically, so check to see what’s on their schedule before booking your excursion.

10. Sex and Crime in St. Pauli

Hamburg’s St. Pauli District has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the city’s grittiest neighborhoods.

It’s a pleasant mix of gangsters, strip clubs, show bars, and training facilities for world-class boxers.

On this two-hour tour, guests will experience a side of the city that’s definitely not for the faint of heart.

Led by their guide, participants will learn about the competing gangs that vie for control of the area, colorful criminals who’ve stalked the streets of the red-light district in the past and visit a few of the city’s most unique clubs.

Tours begin and end at a central Hamburg location.

11. HafenCity 3-Hour Food Tour and Elbphilharmonie Visit

Even by value-packed combo tour standards, this 3-hour HafenCity food and Elbphilharmonie option is quite a gem.

The tour combines elements of food, history, culture, and the city’s robust and bustling economy into one streamlined package.

Things kick-off with a brief intro and food tasting in HafenCity.

Guests will also visit a warehouse complex that’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ride on the country’s longest escalator, and take in panoramic views of the sprawling city and harbor below.

At the Elbphilharmonie, you and your group will learn about the renowned music venue before continuing on to the tour’s culinary finale.

12. Ticket to the Panoptikum Waxworks

Guided tours are great options for travelers looking to make the most of their time, but some attractions don’t warrant the extra cost of a live guide.

The Panoptikum Waxworks is the oldest facility of its kind in the country. It features more than 100 amazingly lifelike figures of celebrities, politicians, scoundrels, royalty, and historically significant figures from all over the world.

Each exhibit is accompanied by an explanation of just who it is that you’re seeing. As such, there’s not much use in having a guide along for the ride.

Audio guides are available in multiple languages, as are local professional ones if you’re interested.

13. 1 ½-Hour Chocoversum Tour

German chocolatiers have been churning out some of the world’s most sought after confections for countless generations.

This short tour of the Chocoversum Museum is not only fun and unique, but engaging and educational as well, making it a great fit for those of most ages.

It’s an interactive experience, which means that guests will see and learn about the chocolate-making process from beginning to end, and they’ll have the opportunity to get involved if they so desire.

Admission and multiple samples are included, and each guest gets their own chocolate bar to take with them when the tour is over.

14. Guided AIDA Ship Tour with Lunch

For many international travelers, the thought of being crammed into a tiny cabin on a crowded cruise ship for days on end isn’t too appealing.

But for those who’d still like to get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the magnificent vessels, this guide AIDA ship tour would be a great way to spend three hours.

AIDA’s cruise ships are known for the abundant amenities and fun activities designed with younger travelers in mind.

Guests will see parts of the ship that are typically off-limits, and get insider’s insights into how everything works.

Tours include a buffet-style lunch and non-alcoholic drinks.

15. St. Pauli Nighttime Tour

Like beer and shots?

Prefer to rub elbows with bimbos, sailors, pimps, and criminals rather than boring tourists?

If so, read on, because this whirlwind nighttime tour of Hamburg’s St. Pauli area has your name on it.

Along with their guide, guests will follow in the footsteps of prominent visitors – like the Beatles – who decided it to slum it for an evening in the city’s most sinful quarter.

Interesting tales of debauchery and tomfoolery abound; you’ll hear them in all their splendor while imbibing and people-watching in one of the city’s standout attractions.

15 Best Hamburg Tours:

• 3 ½-Hour Bike Tour
• 2-Hour Hamburg Port Tour
• Evening Illumination Cruise through Harbor
• City Tour with Hop-On Hop-Off Ticket
• Haunted Hamburg Tour
• 3-Hour Culinary Tour of the Schanzenviertel
• 1-Hour Harbor Cruise
• Following the Footsteps of Olivia Reeperbahn Tour
• Hamburg Harbor Light Tour
• Sex and Crime in St. Pauli
• HafenCity 3-Hour Food Tour and Elbphilharmonie Visit
• Ticket to the Panoptikum Waxworks
• 1 ½-Hour Chocoversum Tour
• Guided AIDA Ship Tour with Lunch
• St. Pauli Nighttime Tour

Sightseeing Tour Hamburg Linie A

Information on timetables and current restrictions – CLICK HERE!

• Die Roten Doppeldecker | Hamburg | EN

The Classic

Sightseeing Tour – Line A

Hop on – Hop off with the Red Double-decker day pass on the Line A city tour. The classic amongst sightseeing tours!

Sightseeing and harbour tour

Combine the Line A city tour day pass with a 1-hour or 2-hour harbour tour for unbeatable value. Pure Hamburg, guaranteed!

Hop on - Hop off

Line A & Schedule

Put together your visit to Hamburg just the way you want. Hop on – Hop off at 20 stops – plan your stops here:

Discovery tour

The discovery tour combines the Line A city tour with a harbour and an Alster tour. The complete Hamburg experience!

Tickets & vouchers bookable online

You can purchase your tickets or gift vouchers easily in our online shop.

Mobile home parking in Hamburg

You're coming in a mobile home to Hamburg to discover this great cosmopolitan city. Our mobile home parking area is in the heart of the city.

Heinrich´s Hamburg Bräu

The original Hanseatic beer! Available from us.

Makens Hoff

The convivial farmhouse for rental with its legendary pancake Monday for everyone. When are you coming?

Line A City Tour – the Red Double-deckers

The Red Double-deckers have been offering sightseeing tours in Hamburg since 1978 – first with the Hamburg Hummelbahn vehicles and then with the famous and well-loved open-top double-decker buses that are today part and parcel of the Hamburg city landscape. Open-top tours in particular are a special thrill in all seasons and offer fantastic all-round views from a height of 4 metres. The mission of the Red Double-deckers is as simple as it is clever: To tour Hamburg is to experience Hamburg. The Line A tours feature a Multilingual Audio Guide with a choice of 11 languages, providing English, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, French, Japanese, Danish, Italian, Arabic, Portuguese and German.

Discover Hamburg – on land and on water

The Landungsbrücken, the breath-taking harbour, the historical Speicherstadt, the modern HafenCity with the new concert hall “Elbphilharmonie”, the famous Reeperbahn, the 'Michel', the Alster, the Hamburg City Hall, the museums, the magnificent villas along the genteel Elbchaussee, the Blankeneser Treppenviertel, Planten un Blomen – the list of sights in Hamburg is long and diverse. You'll discover the most beautiful side of the city with the sightseeing tours from the Red Double-deckers. If you want to see where the heart of Hamburg beats, you have to take to the water. So, alongside the Line A city tour, the tours of the harbour and of the Alster are must-dos when on a discovery trip through Hamburg. The tours on a barge or Alster steamer can be combined easily with our city tours and are an absolute must for every visit to Hamburg.

Hop on – Hop off and charter

With the day pass, you have the opportunity to break and continue your tour at any of the 20 stops all day long and as often as you want (Hop on – hop off). Whether you're in Hamburg for the first time as a visitor or live in the city and want to show it off to friends, family and colleagues, whether you are planning an unusual family event or a corporate event is coming up – our range of services is just as diverse as the wishes of our guests. Scheduled and individual sightseeing tours, special trips as well as transfer and shuttle services are integral components of the Red Double-deckers.

Red on the outside but green on the inside!

All of our Red double-deckers have the latest drive technology – powered by Mercedes-Benz. A slow-driven sightseeing tour bus has special technical requirements in order to keep emissions and fuel consumption as low as possible. Daimler Ag has developed the optimal solution with Euro 5 motors and Blue Tec EEV. This drive system is still the best and most ecological possibility for offering sightseeing tours, since the EEV technology paired with the Euro 5 motor still achieves the best emission values, the lowest fuel consumption and the best exhaust gas treatment!

Welcome to Hamburg

Experience and discover the beautiful city on the waterfront.

Hamburg is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and radiates an incomparable charm. Go on a discovery tour through the city by the Elbe and explore the most beautiful sights, attend unique events or feast in the most delicious restaurants & cafés. The city's scene & nightlife are known all over the world and Hamburg is also a great shopping metropolis. When are you coming?

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You should see this Sights in Hamburg

A short holiday in Hamburg also means sightseeing in Hamburg. Whether the Elbe Philharmonic, Landungsbrücken or Hamburg City Hall - they and many other sights are simply part of a trip to Hamburg. The easiest way to explore Hamburg's sights is on a… More

Shopping centres, department stores, shops Shopping in Hamburg

Hamburg is a paradise for shopping fans! The city centre is known to be one of the most attractive shopping streets in Germany. Discover now

Theatre, Museums, Galleries & Music Culture & Music in Hamburg

When it comes to culture, Hamburg certainly caters for all tastes! With everything from theatres, museums, exhibitions, live music and a lively club scene to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and exciting adventure attractions right through to the jewel… Discover now

@hamburgahoi

Hamburg Ahoi! We love Hamburg and want to show the world the most beautiful sides of the city. We show you tips, inspirations, travel pictures and events on our social media channels. Follow us, be the first to find out what's going on in the city by the Elbe and what you should not miss. Share with us and the world your most beautiful moments with the Hashtag #hamburgahoi .

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Hop On Hop Off Hamburg - Bus Tours

Hamburg sightseeing bus tours.

Top Customer Reviews

Bill erickson.

Gave reasonable alternatives with little of no pressure to overspend.

Robert Schlafke

We felt we got a great explanation of Hamburg by the bus driver.

Iva Schwarz

We bought the tickets for Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Hamburg. It was impossible to find out how to find the bus, where are the bus-stops exactly. This shall be certainly improved. After chatting with Isango and then calling the local bus company we got the right info. At the end the bus tour was very nice and it all worked out.

Experience Hamburg in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

A major port city in Germany, Hamburg is a popular international tourist destination. Located on the river Elbe, the city is the third largest port in Germany. With over 2500 bridges on its various rivers and canals, Hamburg tops the city with the highest number of bridges in Europe.

With your Hamburg bus tour tickets, you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you want during the course of a single day. A Hamburg sightseeing trip has never been easier! The bus will make 9 stops at strategic locations throughout the city, allowing you to pick and choose what you want to see. Check out the top Hamburg attractions, such as Hamburg’s Old Town Hall, the bustling Fish Market, HafenCity, and much more. Listen to an informative audio guide, available in both English and German, as you take in the sights and sounds during your Hamburg tour. Make the most of your Hamburg vacation by getting dropped off right in front of the top Hamburg points of interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to book a hamburg hop-on hop-off tour.

Hamburg has comfortable and pleasant weather from May to September. It is the peak tourist season in the city, so you can expect some crowds. However, days are long with hours of sunshine to make sightseeing quite an enjoyable experience on top of double-decker buses.

Q: How does it work?

Hamburg bus tour offers you the convenience and flexibility to get off at the nearest designated stop. No tour guide, you set your own itinerary. You’ll find all the stops are located strategically at all the major attractions, making your touring as hassle-free as possible. And then, when you’re ready to continue, return to a designated bus stop, show your pass, and hop back on the bus and onwards towards your next attraction. The ticket allows for unlimited use within the ticket validity. Also, you can enjoy the interesting audio commentary and live guide in English and German, apart from other languages.

Q: What is the validity of the ticket?

There are several ticket options available to you, depending on your length of stay. Each bus tour will have validity from 24, 36, 48 to 72 hours. And the great thing is you can plan ahead as the vouchers are valid anywhere between 6 months to 1 year and can be used at any point during that period. Check the product page or bus tour operator for complete details.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various Hamburg hop-on hop-off tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops, and timings change frequently.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

• New York City
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• Johannesburg
• San Antonio
• Reykjavik Iceland
• St-Petersburg
• Benalmadena
• Thessaloniki
• Kristiansand
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Hamburg   Travel Guide

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18 Best Things to Do in Hamburg, Germany

Updated February 11, 2021

Most of Hamburg's attractions, such as the  Hamburger Kunsthalle ,  Miniatur Wunderland  and the trendy HafenCity neighborhood, are clustered in the city center and Harbour districts. But you should explore Hamburg's other neighborhoods to experience

• All Things To Do

Elbphilharmonie Elbphilharmonie free

A stunning architectural marvel often compared to Sydney's opera house , the Elbphilharmonie is a concert hall and performance space designed by the Pritzker Architecture Prize-winning Swiss architecture firm Herzog & de Meuron. As soon as it opened in 2016, it became an instant architectural icon thanks to its wave-like rooftop and glass façade. Luckily, you don't need tickets to a show to enjoy the striking space.

A public viewing platform is open to everyone and offers breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city and the harbor – a particular highlight for recent visitors. While admission to the viewing plaza is free, you do need a ticket to enter. Advance booking is available and recommended by recent visitors, though a booking fee of 2 euros (or about $2.25) applies. Reviewers also recommended taking a harbor cruise to admire the building from the water.

Alter Elbtunnel Alter Elbtunnel free

The  Alter Elbtunnel  (also called the Old Elbe Tunnel, St. Pauli Elbe Tunnel) is a pedestrian, bike and motorist tunnel (though cars are not permitted), which travels underneath the River Elbe. It connects central Hamburg to the southern side of the river. Opened in 1911, the tunnel was built to serve the port and shipyard workers as a connecting route between the Landungsbrücken and Steinwerder piers. It became a tourist attraction when the "new" Elbe tunnel opened in the 1970s. It has been undergoing renovation for the past several years.

While walking through the quarter-mile-long tunnel, take time to look at the tile reliefs that line the walls, which portray starfish, dolphins and other creatures. Past travelers enjoyed the experience of walking beneath the river and taking in the great view from the opposing side. Others said it provides an interesting photo opportunity, though there is little else to do.

Planten un Blomen Planten un Blomen free

Planten un Blomen , which translates as the very imaginative Plants and Flowers, spans over 100 acres and is a favorite among locals and travelers. Referred to as "Hamburg's green lung," it is home to various themed gardens, including a rose garden, Mediterranean terraces and one of the largest Japanese landscaped gardens in Europe. Planten un Blomen offers much more than the eponymous "plants and flowers." There are playgrounds, mini-golf, an ice rink in winter and a roller rink in summer, and even life-size chess games. There are also several cafes and food kiosks.

Many past visitors said the park is a relaxing place to unwind and highly recommend touring the Japanese garden. Others said the park is well-maintained and a worthy stop even in the offseason.

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Hamburg Boat Tours Hamburg Boat Tours

No visit to Hamburg is complete without getting out on the water. The easiest, not to mention one of the least expensive, ways to enjoy Hamburg by water is via a public ferry. Head to the Landungsbrücken piers and hop aboard one of Hamburg's many public transportation options.

One of the most popular ferry trips is aboard the No. 62 toward Finkenwerder island, which takes 30 minutes and allows you to see some of the city's most important waterfront sights. You can also hop on a guided tour, many of which also operate from the piers at Landungsbrücken. You'll enjoy an overview of the industrial docks, the historic Speicherstadt warehouses and modern architecture highlights such as HafenCity Hamburg and the  Elbphilharmonie . Rainer Abicht Elbreederei and Barkassen-Centrale Ehlers GmbH earn high marks from recent tour-goers. You can find more information about available harbor cruises on the city's tourism website .

Fish Auction Hall and Market Fish Auction Hall and Market free

All-night revelers finish up their partying at the Sunday morning St. Pauli  Fischmarkt  (Fish Auction Hall and Market) and early morning shoppers get a head start on the day. Not only are there stalls brimming with fresh fish and other goods, there's also steaming hot bratwursts, free-flowing beer and even an energetic band to keep the jovial atmosphere alive. It's also one of those uniquely Hamburg attractions, one which has been an institution since 1703. If you sleep in (or you're just getting to bed after bar hopping), you'll miss out on the Fischmarkt; it's open on early Sunday mornings only.

Recent visitors who knew what they were in for say the scene is fun and festive, while those looking for a traditional market were a bit disappointed. Reviewers described the scene as merry, with many comparing it to Oktoberfest.

Miniatur Wunderland Miniatur Wunderland

Self-described as the world's largest model railway, the more than 10,000-square-foot Miniatur Wunderland takes visitors around the world to admire models of miniature-sized countries and cities, including Southern Germany, Hamburg, USA, Scandinavia, Switzerland and Venice. Across nine different sections are more than 1,000 trains, 130,000 trees and nearly 250,000 figures.

Recent visitors offered rave reviews for Miniatur Wunderland, saying it was appealing to both kids and adults alike. Others were in awe of the attention to detail. However, a few warned that since this is a popular attraction, it can get very crowded. Miniatur Wunderland advises timing your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the largest crowds.

St. Michael's Church St. Michael's Church

St. Michael's, Hamburg's largest church, is actually the third church to be built in the same spot and was constructed in 1912. Visitors flock to the landmark church to see its five different organs, its 65-foot altar, its crypt and the amazing views from the nearly 350-foot-high observation deck. The church's 433-foot-tall tower, home to Germany's largest clock bell, is visible from all over the city. In the crypt far below, about 2,000 people have been laid to rest.

Views from the top are not to be missed, according to recent visitors. Others described the church's interior as "ethereal." What's more, travelers were pleased with the affordable admission fee.

Hamburg Zoo (Tierpark Hagenbeck) Hamburg Zoo (Tierpark Hagenbeck)

The Tierpark Hagenbeck (or Hamburg Zoo) is owned by the Hagenbeck family; Carl Hagenbeck, Jr. (who founded the zoo in 1907) was a wild animal trader and merchant. One of his innovations was to use moats instead of cages to enclose animals, a practice still used to this day. Today, visitors can encounter thousands of animals at the zoo, including one of the largest elephant herds in Europe. Of special note is the four-level Tropical Aquarium, an artificial habitat comprising more than 14,300 animals, including Nile crocodiles and around 13,000 fish. There are also several restaurants, playgrounds for kids, feeding demonstrations and a recreation park, among other attractions.

Recent visitors advised allowing plenty of time to check out all of the exhibits (some said they spent the whole day at the zoo) and said it's a great family-friendly activity. Reviewers were particularly fascinated by the walruses and polar bears. According to travelers, the zoo provides food to feed select animals (donations are encouraged).

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Hamburg 2-hour harbor tour on the beautiful Elbe

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Emigration Museum BallinStadt Hamburg Emigration Museum BallinStadt Hamburg

Just as compelling and moving as Ellis Island, this museum and ancestral research center conveys the story of European emigration to the United States and elsewhere. The museum occupies the land originally used by the Hamburg-Amerikanische Packetfahrt-Aktien-Gesellschaft (HAPAG) shipping company for the city's Emigration Halls, which were built 120 years ago to accommodate people from all over Europe hoping to sail across the Atlantic. To lessen the likelihood of immigrants being sent back from the United States due to illness or other reasons (at the shipping company's cost), HAPAG offered medical examinations. Millions of people passed through the complex, which at one point included a hospital, a church, a music hall, housing and even hotels.

There are several halls that detail why people were emigrating, their journey across the ocean and what happened when they reached America, with interactive exhibits, displays, photos and artifacts. For an even more immersive experience, consider grabbing a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant Nach Amerika (or "To America"), which serves meals based on recipes used in the canteens of the former Emigration Halls. Visitors can also search complete passenger lists of all the ships that left the harbor in the family research area.

Hamburger Kunsthalle Hamburger Kunsthalle

One of Germany's great art museums (and one of its largest in terms of exhibition space), the Hamburger Kunsthalle boasts an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures – both old and new. The permanent collection encompasses art from eight centuries – with some pieces dating back to the Middle Ages. In the modern and contemporary sections, artists like Andy Warhol, Max Beckmann and Bruce Nauman are represented; in the older sections, you'll find works by Rembrandt and Anthony van Dyck, as well as a noted collection of works by German Romantic painters.

The museum is a highlight for many recent visitors, who rave about the excellent collection, especially the representation of German painters. Others were impressed by the building.

City Hall (Rathaus) City Hall (Rathaus)

The  Rathaus  (City Hall) is big – bigger than  London's immense  Buckingham Palace  – and according to travelers, it's one of the best sights in Hamburg. Resting on a square, inspired by  Venice's   Piazza San Marco , the neo-renaissance building's formidable exterior opens into a lavish interior, which is peopled by Hamburg's city council and state government officials. English-language tours take about 45 minutes and wind past the opulent state rooms, a mere fraction of the 647 rooms located on-site.

Recent visitors called the building "beautiful" and recommended taking the tour if you can.

International Maritime Museum International Maritime Museum

Located in a former warehouse, the International Maritime Museum offers a look at 3,000 years of maritime history across nine floors, with a stunning number of exhibits, artifacts and more, including thousands of model ships – a highlight for many recent visitors. Others were pleasantly surprised with the interesting and informative exhibits. One of its most treasured pieces is a copy of the "Atlantis Majoris" from 1657, the first nautical atlas printed in the Netherlands. Other exhibits include medals and uniforms from navies around the world, displays of commercial and passenger shipping and works by well-known maritime painters. One way to tackle the massive museum is by taking a 60- or 90-minute tour, which is offered in English, and costs 70 euros (about $77) and 80 euros (around $88), respectively. Audio guides are also available for a much smaller cost.

Recent visitors called the museum "fascinating" and said you should be prepared to do a lot of walking throughout its various levels and set aside several hours. However, some reviewers expressed disappointment that a few exhibits did not offer English translations. 

Speicherstadt Speicherstadt free

The red brick buildings of the  Speicherstadt  (Warehouse District) used to shelter the city's imports – coffee, spices, silks – which were carried fresh off the boats in the harbor. In 2015, Speicherstadt became Germany's 40th UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, this area full of neo-Gothic buildings, mostly constructed between 1883 and the late 1920s that are fun to see on foot. Though there are a few attractions within the area, including Miniatur Wunderland and the International Maritime Museum , it mostly attracts visitors in search of photo ops and a picturesque stroll. Popular photo spots include the Wasserschloss (or "water castle") at the end of Holländischer Birdge and Fleetschlösschen, a former customs booth.

Recent visitors call the area magical and recommend taking a canal tour if you can. A few reviewers said it's worth visiting at night when the area is beautifully illuminated.

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Reeperbahn Reeperbahn free

Hamburg's Reeperbahn once rivaled  Amsterdam's Red Light District for its sex trade, but times have changed (slightly). Located in St. Pauli, the Reeperbahn is a nightlife hub, still notorious for its corridor of sex shops, strip shows and brothels, though there are plenty of other non-X-rated activities and sights, from dive bars to the Beatles monument (the Beatles made their mark in Hamburg). St. Pauli is now almost better-known for its huge live-music scene, with clubs, bars, theaters and music venues. The annual Reeperbahn Festival in September brings in around 25,000 people to hear live music.

Recent Reeperbahn visitors found the area interesting to see, with plenty of music and pubs to check out. Others warned of potential pickpockets.

Hamburg Planetarium Hamburg Planetarium

Head to the Hamburg Planetarium to see everything from children's films to 3D trips through the solar system. The art deco building dates back to 1912 and is considered one of the world's oldest observatories. Visitors can also enjoy concerts and other musical shows in the enormous domed hall. The high-tech planetarium claims it's the most modern planetarium in the world. Previous shows include "Night Flight through the Galaxy," "Laser Zeppelin," and the "Green Planet 3D." After your show, head up to the rooftop terrace for unparalleled city views.

Recent visitors were impressed with the planetarium and highly recommend seeing a show there. Others suggested taking a stroll through the lovely Stadtpark City Park, where the planetarium is located, before or after a show.

Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe

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CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ CHOCOVERSUM by HACHEZ

Schmidt Theater Schmidt Theater

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12 Day Germany Tour to Hamburg, Berlin and Munich

12 days, 1 country and 12 cities

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11 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 4 Dinners

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See all the sights on this jam-packed Best of Germany trip. From cutting-edge Berlin, you’ll travel back in time and enjoy a traditional meal in a medieval castle, watch life along the Rhine unfold on a cruise and see how the beauty of the Black Forest inspired fables and fairy tales.

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12 days itinerary trip from Frankfurt to Frankfurt visiting 1 country and 12 cities

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Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Berlin with a Local Specialist

Discover Frankfurt, Cologne, Hamburg, Dresden, Nuremberg, Rothenburg, Munich and Heidelberg

Visit the Berlin TV Tower, Mödlareuth Open Air Museum and Neuschwanstein Castle

View Cologne Cathedral and Heidelberg Castle

See the Lorelei Rock and the Bavarian Alps

Scenic Cruise along the Rhine River

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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

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On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

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Panoramic Hamburg

Hamburg, germany.

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Duration 3 1/2 hrs

Enjoy a leisurely drive past the key landmarks in Germany’s second-largest city with stops for shopping and to explore Hamburg’s beloved St. Michael’s church. After departing from the pier, you will soon begin touring Hamburg, a sprawling city on the meandering Elbe River. Charlemagne founded Hamburg in 810 A.D., so there are plenty of historical sites even though much of the city was destroyed in the fire of 1842 and by Allied bombing during World War II. Fortunately, it was beautifully rebuilt in both instances, as you will discover through landmarks such as Germany’s oldest stock exchange, the opulent 647-room town hall, and the 100-year-old Gothic-style warehouse district that borders the harbor. Known as the Speicherstadt, it is the world’s largest complex of warehouses, most of which are made of beautiful red brick. Other highlights nearby include Lake Alster and the exquisite shopping street Jungfernstieg. Its name comes from a time long ago, when families would stroll the promenade here on Sundays with their unmarried family members (“jungfer” in German means “single”). The Jungfernstieg is located nearby the townhall, where you will be given some free time. Following your free time to shop along Jungfernstieg, you will drive the Reeperbahn, a street known for its nightlife. The Beatles played in clubs here long before becoming famous. Then it’s on to the extraordinary St. Michael’s, an enormous Baroque church with distinctive features such as Germany’s largest clock tower. As a contrast, you will also visit a modest 17th-century almshouse for the widows of shopkeepers.

• Adult from: € 73,22 EUR
• Child from: € 54,68 EUR

Duration 4 hrs

Spend hours exploring the attractions in Hamburg that sound most appealing with no schedule to follow but your own. With a map in hand and recommendations from the guide, you can maximize your time in the city that Charlemagne founded on the Elbe River in 810. After being dropped off in the Hamburg-Mitte city center, you might browse the countless attractions within the Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is the world’s largest complex of warehouses. Narrow canals and bridges crisscross the district, making it easy to meander about at your leisure. Other options well worth seeing include the exquisite Jungfernstieg shopping street, Germany’s oldest stock exchange, the 647-room town hall and St. Michaelis, an enormous Baroque church that features Germany’s largest clock tower. With so many waterways, downtown Hamburg is lush and full of parks and gardens. Any of them is a great choice if you wish to relax in an urban oasis. Explore Hamburg however you wish by spending hours of free time in the city center. Maximize your time by using the complimentary map and advice from the tour escort. Browse the shops in the Speicherstadt warehouse district if you wish. See historical sites such as St. Michaelis church and Germany’s oldest stock exchange.

• Explore Hamburg however you wish by spending hours of free time in the city center. • Maximize your time by using the complimentary map and advice from the guide. • Browse the shops in the Speicherstadt warehouse district if you wish. • See historical sites such as St. Michaelis church and Germany’s oldest stock exchange.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

• Adult from: € 63,95 EUR
• Child from: € 45,41 EUR

Admire Hamburg from two unique perspectives: while cruising along the shores of its main urban lake, and while driving past its most historical highlights. After departing from the pier, you will soon notice the abundance of waterways throughout the city. The Elbe River connects Hamburg to the North Sea, and the city boasts an extensive network of Venice-like canals. The prevalence of water keeps Hamburg’s 1,400 parks and gardens flourishing, as you will see at leafy Planten un Blomen park downtown, which you pass during your panoramic coach tour. Then, it’s on to Alster Lake, where you will enjoy a leisurely cruise across its serene waters, presenting you with a different perspective of the city. The lake was formed in the 12th century after the Alster River was dammed. Today, small pleasure vessels often sail the waters and joggers follow the paths along the shore. Following your cruise, you will resume driving through Hamburg, passing the most iconic landmarks, which miraculously survived a devastating fire in 1842 and World War II bombings. One highlight is certainly St. Michael’s Church, whose soaring clock tower has loomed over the city since the 1680s. However, locals consider the 647-room town hall, a neo-Renaissance masterpiece, to be the symbolic heart of Hamburg. As a contrast to its opulence, you will also visit a modest 17th-century almshouse for the widows of shopkeepers. Before returning to the pier, you will have some brief free time in the city center to perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.

• Adult from: € 101,02 EUR
• Child from: € 91,75 EUR

Duration 2 hrs

See Hamburg’s highlights by riding a double-decker bus around the city. Sightsee from your seat, as the bus will loop back to your starting point. Charlemagne founded the city on the Elbe River in 810 A.D. and its historical landmarks include the gothic-style Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest complex of warehouses. Then, there is the Reeperbahn entertainment district, where the Beatles played long before they became famous, the Music Hall, and the edge of the harbor, offering breathtaking vistas of the Hamburg skyline. If you love the outdoors, you will enjoy the view of the Outer Alster Lake, a serene naturally beautiful spot. Explore a range of historical landmarks and the park-like setting of Outer Alster Lake.

• See Hamburg’s highlights by riding a double-decker bus around the city Sightsee from your seat. • Explore a range of historical landmarks and the park-like setting of Outer Alster Lake.

• Adult from: € 46,34 EUR
• Child from: € 46,34 EUR

Duration 5 hrs

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Hamburg, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Selfie sticks and selfie photo frames are also available. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Hamburg, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include: • Speicherstadt warehouse district • City Hall • St. Michaelis Church • Elbphilharmonie concert hall • World’s largest model railway

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Hamburg, • Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures. • Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings. • Behold the red-brick Speicherstadt, the world’s largest complex of warehouses. • Explore St. Michaelis, an enormous Baroque church with Germany’s largest clock tower. • See Elbphilharmonie, a giant glass-encased concert hall atop a massive brick warehouse.

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. • Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. • Be sure your phone or camera is fully charged.

• Adult from: € 165,89 EUR
• Child from: € 156,63 EUR

Hamburg & Town Hall

Gain a broad understanding of Hamburg by driving past its most intriguing landmarks and by touring iconic St. Michael’s Church and the phenomenal town hall. After departing from the pier, you will soon begin touring Hamburg, a sprawling city that lies on the Elbe River. Charlemagne founded Hamburg in 810 A.D., so there are plenty of historical sites even though much of the city was destroyed in the fire of 1842 and by Allied bombing during World War II. As an introduction to Hamburg’s charms, you will drive through the 100-year-old Gothic-style warehouse district near the harbor. Known as the Speicherstadt, it is the world’s largest complex of warehouses, most of which are made of beautiful red brick. After your panoramic coach tour, you will arrive at the town hall for a visit of both its exterior and interior. This impressive neo-Renaissance masterpiece, with more than 647 ornate rooms, is the symbolic heart of Hamburg. Then, visit St. Michael’s Church, whose soaring clock tower has loomed over the city since the 1680s. The organs inside are remarkable, especially the largest one with five keyboards. Then, it’s one spectacular photo opportunity after another. You will pause briefly at the modest 17th-century almshouse for the widows of shopkeepers, gorgeous Alster Lake downtown, and you will pass by the telecommunications tower named after the German physicist Heinrich Hertz. Afterwards, you will return to the pier.

• Adult from: € 82,48 EUR
• Child from: € 73,22 EUR

Hamburg Night Lights: Panoramic Tour & Bavarian Dinner

Drive through the most characteristic areas of Hamburg in the evening when the city is beautifully illuminated and celebrate the occasion with a hearty Bavarian dinner. You will pass historical landmarks such as the Speicherstadt – a UNESCO World Heritage site that is the world’s largest complex of warehouses – and contemporary icons that include the Elbphilharmonie, whose bold design features a giant glass-encased concert hall set atop a massive brick warehouse. Time will be allotted for photo stops at the massive 647-room town hall and at St. Michaelis, an enormous Baroque church with Germany’s largest clock tower (depending on the time, an inside visit will not be possible). Afterwards, you will settle in for an delicious Bavarian meal at Hofbräuhaus, a traditional beer hall in the heart of Hamburg. Although the menu changes periodically, you can expect to dine on succulent schweinshaxe, which are roasted skin-on pork knuckles, and Knödel potato dumplings. A cold liter of beer will perfectly complement the meal.

• Enjoy an enlightening drive through Hamburg at night when the city is most radiant. • See the Speicherstadt, a massive warehouse complex that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. • View the modern Elbphilharmonie concert hall, which sits atop a historical brick warehouse. • Enjoy a traditional Bavarian dinner and a Maß of beer, which equals a full liter.

• Adult from: € 91,75 EUR

*Prices vary by ship and sail date. See Terms & Conditions

NCL makes arrangements for Guests for shore excursions solely for the convenience of the Guest; NCL does not act on behalf of or supervise the parties or persons who own, furnish, or operate such excursions, and the same are provided by independent contractors. NCL assumes no responsibility for, nor guarantees the performance of, any such excursion provider, and Guests acknowledge that NCL shall not be liable for losses or injuries arising from the acts or omissions of such provider.

Participation in activities and excursions may involve physical exertion, and may be potentially hazardous or dangerous. It is the responsibility of each individual to determine whether you are capable of engaging in any activity. Participation in any activity or excursion is at your own risk.

Photographs are for illustration purposes only used to represent the excursion experience and may not accurately depict the excursion, location, or activity indicated.

Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen kann körperlich anstrengend sein und unter Umständen Risiken und Gefahren beinhalten. Jeder einzelne Gast trägt die Verantwortung dafür, einzuschätzen, ob er/sie in der Lage ist, an entsprechenden Aktivitäten teilzunehmen. Die Teilnahme an Aktivitäten und Exkursionen erfolgt auf eigene Gefahr.

Die Fotos dienen ausschließlich zur Veranschaulichung der Exkursionserfahrung und bilden möglicherweise die entsprechende Exkursion, den Ort oder die Aktivität nicht akkurat ab.

A participação em atividades e excursões pode envolver esforço físico e pode ser perigosa. É sua responsabilidade determinar se você é capaz de participar das atividades. A participação em qualquer atividade ou excursão é por sua conta e risco.

As fotos são apenas para fins ilustrativos, usadas para representar a experiência da excursão e podem não retratar com precisão a localização ou atividade indicada.

アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーには激しい活動を行うものもあり、危険が伴う場合もあります。 内容がご自身に適したものかは各自でご判断ください。 アクティビティや寄港地観光ツアーへは、あくまでもご自身の責任でご参加いただきますようお願いいたします。

写真は寄港地観光ツアーの体験を表現するためのもので、実際のツアーや場所、アクティビティとは異なる場合があります。

La partecipazione ad attività ed escursioni potrebbe prevedere sforzi fisici e potrebbe essere potenzialmente rischiosa o pericolosa. È responsabilità di ciascun individuo stabilire se si è in grado di partecipare a qualsiasi attività. La partecipazione a qualunque attività o escursione è a proprio rischio e pericolo.

Le fotografie utilizzate per raffigurare l'escursione sono unicamente a fini illustrativi e potrebbero non rappresentare accuratamente l'escursione, il luogo o l'attività indicata.

La participation aux activités et excursions peut demander un effort physique et peut parfois être potentiellement dangereuse. Il revient à toute personne de déterminer si elle est capable de participer à une activité ou non. La participation à toute activité ou excursion se fait à vos propres risques.

Les photos sont affichées à titre d'illustration uniquement et de représentation de l'expérience et peuvent ne pas représenter l'excursion, le lieu ou l'activité indiqués avec précision.

השתתפות בפעילויות ובסיורים עשויה לכלול מאמץ פיזי, ועלולה להיות מסוכנת. זוהי אחריותו של כל אדם לקבוע האם הוא מסוגל להשתתף בכל פעילות. השתתפות בכל פעילות או סיור היא על אחריותכם בלבד.

תמונות מוצגות לצורך הדגמה בלבד, הן משמשות כדי לייצג את חוויית הסיור ועלולות שלא לתאר במדויק את הסיור, המיקום או הפעילות.

Las fotografías son solo para fines ilustrativos y se utilizan para representar la experiencia de la excursión y es posible que no reflejen con precisión la excursión, el lugar o la actividad indicada.

• Destinations

Free tours in Hamburg

• Tours in Hamburg

Hamburg - Placid waters and vibrant life

Hamburg, the second largest German city, is a beautiful mix of tradition & heritage with modern cosmopolitanism, creating a charming maritime metropolis. This old port city, on the river Elbe from the north sea, is decorated with many canals & boat-dotted tranquil lakes against a backdrop of buzzing cafés & restaurants, atmospheric nightlife, culture, arts & entertainment and impressive architecture, ideal for a wonderful city visit.

Hamburg has lots to see and do and a freetour.com recommended free walking tour is perfect for getting to grips with Hamburg's history and culture with a great guide as well as getting a genuine local perspective and helpful Hamburg tips. Free tours include key sights and locations like the Old town, Altstadt, & Neustadt, the century old & striking Speicherstadt complex of Gothic red-bricked warehouses, the majestic town hall, the splendid harbour and its market, centuries upon centuries of fascinating history and much more.

And after exploring the city you can relax in one of the many fantastic parks around lake Alster, do a spot of shopping on Spitalerstrasse or visit interesting museums & galleries like Dialog im Dunkelnor & Bucerius Kunst Forum. By night, visit the Reeperbahn, once a red light district now a famous kilometer-long night-time hot-spot of exciting bars, clubs, pubs & entertainment. Hamburg is definitely one for the to do list.

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All-in-One Hamburg: Tour from the port of Kiel for Cruise Ship Passengers

• Professional guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Food and drinks
• Our tours start at the port of Kiel. We pick up from all Kiel ports. Pick up at Hamburg hotels and ports is 1.5 hours after the pick up in Kiel.
• Hamburg Port
• Cruise Terminal Ostseekai, Wall 65, 24103 Kiel, Germany
• Parkplatz am Norwegenkai, Zur Fähre, 24143 Kiel, Germany
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 35 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• You'll get picked up See departure details
• Pass by Kiel
• 1 Hamburg Town Hall Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 2 St Nikolai Memorial Stop: 20 minutes See details
• 3 Speicherstadt Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 4 Hamburg Stop: 60 minutes See details Pass by Kiel
• You'll return to the starting point

• F1386LOkevine 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour both content and effective education and fun Excellent tour both educational and fun. Nick is talented and knowledgeable and had everybody listening and interested Read more Written September 22, 2023
• sandylE578ZN 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience! Scott was very knowledgeable and added some humor to make it a very enjoyable experience! I highly recommend this tour and Scott from Scotland as your tour guide. Read more Written September 22, 2023
• WAREAGLE92 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles When you only have one day in Berlin… This tour will get you from the cruise ship to Berlin, you will see a lot of important sites with an informative guide, then they get you back to the cruise ship with time to spare. Yes, the 3 hour bus trip isn’t fun but there were only about 25 of us on a 40-seater so plenty of room to spread out. A bathroom stop included each way. Less expensive than the cruise ship sponsored excursions. Matt was our guide and he was very knowledgeable. I would recommend this tour. Read more Written September 11, 2023
• J112ECdebbiec 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Family cruise port stop We had a long (from the cruise port) but wonderful day. Ann was VERY informative and one of the best tour guides I’ve had. She was with us from the moment we got on the bus till we got off telling us all the history of Berlin. We had two bathroom stops (one going and one returning) and the bus had a comfortable temperature. I would recommend this tour if you have the time (she got us back well before the ships departure) Read more Written June 21, 2023
• Steve B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great way to see Berlin Walid and Markus were a great duo for our tour of Berlin. They were fun, informative and flexible. We learned a lot, laughed a lot, and have a good appreciation of the city and its history. Read more Written June 7, 2023
• 11Brittneyjr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles School Trip My favorite part of the trip was the walk and explanation of the concentration camp. Tip for when coming to this tour is bring shoes you won’t mind walking 2-6 miles a day in. Loana was a great guide as well! Filled with so many local places go visit. Read more Written May 14, 2023
• oliviadD1850DL 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Yay Ioana!!! Ioana was amazing!!! She was extremely helpful and gave us awesome ideas to see the city after the tour. She even sent us Google Map locations to help us get around the city and checked in on us in case we needed help. She was extremely knowledgeable about the city’s history and about the Nazi regime. I learned a ton about Berlin and Germany from her. 10/10 would recommend!!! Read more Written May 14, 2023
• 859madisonj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Berlin Experience It was a lovely experience learning about Berlin and the Sachsenhausen Concentration camp. As a large group, she was able to engage us all while still giving us the information. Read more Written May 14, 2023
• carolinebomi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Ioana was wonderful! I would recommend her! Ioana is AMAZING! She is incredibly knowledgeable & I appreciated her expertise when touring Berlin! I would recommend her to anyone going to Berlin who is looking for a thorough and exciting tour of the city. She also provided additional details about things to do in our free time. Overall, I truly believe that Ioana is best tour guide we could’ve gotten! Read more Written May 14, 2023
• Braxton04288 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Berlin tour Ionana was an amazing tour guide. She went out of her way to accommodate to our group and Continued to give amazing recommendations for the trip. She is a very friendly person and was a great guide for us in Berlin! She also helped our group navigate the public transport of Berlin. Read more Written May 14, 2023
• 438sethh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Tour Guide Ioana our tour guide was amazing, she was super informative and very helpful showing us around berlin and taking us to all the really cool sights and locations that i would miss otherwise Read more Written May 14, 2023
• 444florencev 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun and interesting tour of Berlin! We booked the queer tour of Berlin and Walid was our guide. The tour was very interesting and Walid made it fun! I would definitely recommend it! Read more Written April 20, 2023
• arnof607 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Custom tour catered to your interests! Walid is a very joyful and enthousiastic guide who takes you to all the important historical queer spots in Berlin, mixed in with some great history lessons about Germany and Berlin in particular. Read more Written April 20, 2023
• Patricia A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles History and highlights Very good highlights and insights on history. Walid is a pleasant, knowledgeable , and considerate guide!! Loved the tour!! Read more Written April 10, 2023
• William T 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles OK but it does involve a lot of walking You would enjoy this trip and gain more by doing some homework. Not really a lot to see and learn when you have not studied and prepared. Fairly long bus ride. They do have some restrooms in the parking lot which was nice. Read more Written December 14, 2022

All-in-One Hamburg: Tour from the port of Kiel for Cruise Ship Passengers provided by Vexperio | www.vexperio.com

Best Things to Do in Hamburg, Germany

Weekend in hamburg itinerary – top things to do in hamburg germany.

H amburg, Germany’s Harbor City, is still a relatively undiscovered treasure among foreign tourists, but well worth a visit. I had been to Hamburg and Northern Germany a few times as a child/teenager, but not recently and so I was really excited when I was invited on a press trip to Hamburg for a few days to explore the top things to do in Hamburg, Germany.

What makes the city of Hamburg so special? Despite being Germany’s second largest city, it is still overlooked by many international tourists. Yet this city is full of surprises and lots of cool stuff is happening here. Did you know that Hamburg is considered the coffee capital of the world? Or the craft beer capital of Germany? Or that The Beatles spend more time performing in Hamburg than anywhere else in the world?

The Hamburg itinerary I followed was incredible and showed me not only the top tourist attractions in Hamburg but also some stuff only the locals know about. I can’t wait to share some of my favorites sights, travel tips, and things to do in Hamburg with you.

Insider Tip:  If you plan a jam-packed Hamburg Itinerary and want to see and experience all the top things to do in Hamburg, I highly recommend getting the Hamburg Card . It not only includes free public transportation but also up to 50% discounts on all Hamburg Museums, many tours, Alster cruises, experiences, and even restaurants. You can buy your Hamburg Card here in advance and either print it or use it on your smartphone.

And here is a great guide for the best Restaurants in Hamburg Germany .

Elbphilharomonie Hamburg

Let’s start with the top Hamburg tourist attraction: The Elbphilharmonie Hamburg.

Built on top of a historical warehouse in the heart of Hamburg’s HafenCity, the Elbphilharmonie concert hall has not only become a stunning addition to Hamburg’s cityscape but is becoming one of the most recognizable and iconic buildings in Germany.

Elbphilharmonie Acoustics

The Elbphilharmonie Hamburg – lovingly called Elfie – opened its doors for the first concert in January 2017 and has impressed music aficionados with its acoustic excellence.

The large concert hall is not only visually striking but also optimized the architecture to create the perfect sound experience from every seat in the audience. No seat is more than 30 meters (98 ft) from the conductor and the vineyard-style seating allows undisturbed views of the orchestra.

Elbphilharmonie Concert

I was lucky to enjoy a concert at the Elbphilharmonie, which was definitely a highlight of my Hamburg itinerary. The piece, written by the conductor himself, was perfect to showcase the sound capabilities of this renowned concert hall.

You can find a list of upcoming concerts at the Elfie here .

Elbphilharmonie Tickets

If you like to attend a concert at the Elbphilharmonie during your Hamburg trip, I recommend you book tickets ahead of time, in case of popular artists or performances even months in advance. Make sure that you get tickets for the Grand Hall (Großer Saal in German).

In case you decide spontaneously, you can always try to get a ticket on the day of the performance at the ticket booth inside the concert hall.

Elbphilharmonie Hamburg

Platz der Deutschen Einheit

20457 Hamburg

Find the Elbphilharmonie on Google Maps here>>

Westin at the Elbphilharmonie

My already perfect evening at the Elfie became even more memorable because I spend the night there. Yes, you can sleep inside one of the most famous concert halls in the world. Inside the Elfie building, surrounding the concert hall is the Westin Hamburg .

This 5 Star Hotel is one of the best Hotels in Hamburg and leaves nothing to be desired in terms of luxury and comfort. If you book a premium room, you will be spoiled with stunning views over the city or the Elb river, which connects Hamburg to the North Sea.

Book your room at the Westin Hamburg here>>

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District of Hamburg

Germans are practical when it comes to naming places, so the name Speicherstadt is nothing but a literal translation of “storage city”. I have to say, the German name sounds a bit more idyllic and fitting for the beautiful buildings that make up the largest warehouse district in the world.

UNESCO recognized the Speicherstadt in Hamburg as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, but it has been a magnet for tourists long before.

What makes a warehouse district so special, you might wonder? Three things:

• History: Learning about the importance of Hamburg as one of the major trading cities (Freie und Hansestadt Hamburg) in the world is fascinating. Starting in the 11th century, the Hanseatic League – a confederation of merchant guilds and trade towns in Northern Germany and Scandinavia dominated the Baltic trade in Europe. You can learn more about this at the Maritimes Museum Hamburg . The port of Hamburg is still known as one of the largest trade centers for coffee and rugs in the world. Lots of warehouses are still used for their original purpose. While the Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District were extensively damaged during World War II, it was rebuilt in an authentic way.
• Architecture: The red brick warehouses, built between 1883 – 1927, are absolutely stunning. Rows and rows of Neo-Gothic style buildings, alternating with cobblestoned streets and canals make the Speicherstadt extremely picturesque.
• Modern Use: While it is forbidden to live in the Speicherstadt due to flood management restrictions, many of the old warehouses are now office space or specialty shops, restaurants, bars and more. I really liked that these historic buildings were not turned into a museum, but rather are part of the city, where tourists and locals enjoy themselves, go to work and hang out.

Kontorhaus District

The Kontorhaus District is part of the UNESCO Heritage Site , but not directly located in the Speicherstadt. It is famous for 8 Kontorhouses: The Chilehaus, Messberghof, Sprinkenhof, Mohlenhof, Montanhof, former Post Office Building at Niedernstrasse 10, Kontorhaus Burchardstrasse 19-21 and the Miramar-Haus.

These huge office buildings were built between 1920 – 1950 and are prime examples of modern city planning in dense urban areas. Pure office buildings were a new concept, as it was more common to have mixed-use buildings in urban settings.

Due to the rapid expansion of the Hamburg Harbor and the Speicherstadt, the demand for office space also increased and the Kontorhaus District was the solution to provide office space for trading companies as well as port authorities.

Chilehaus Hamburg

The most iconic and famous Kontorhaus in Hamburg is the Chilehaus designed by architect F. Höger and a prime example of expressionist architecture. The wavey facade of the building leads to a sharp corner, looking like a ship’s prow.

Inside, you will find stunning tile work, art deco details, and beautiful staircases, as well as one of the only still working paternoster elevators in the city. Also, don’t forget to check out the nice courtyard in the center.

Chilehaus on Google Maps>>

Elbphilharmonie, Speicherstadt, Kontorhaus, HafenCity Walking Tour

Because the history of the Speicherstadt and the Kontorhaus District is so interesting, I highly recommend a walking tour of the area. This one includes a visit to the Plaza of the Elbphilharmonie, a tour of the Speicherstadt, Kontorhaus District and HafenCity and you can book it here .

Hotels in Hamburg HafenCity:

Westin Hamburg  

My stay at the Westin was a real treat. The service is impeccable and nothing could beat the view from my room. Sleeping inside one of the most iconic buildings in Hamburg is an unforgettable experience and simply walking through the lobby to access one of the most famous concert halls in the world can’t be topped. If you want to treat yourself, I highly recommend the Westin Hamburg .

25 Hour Hotel Altes Hafenamt

I stayed here for 2 more nights during my weekend in Hamburg and really enjoyed it. The decor feels like Indiana Jones meets National Geographic with a hint of Hipster. The rooms are very large and the location is very convenient. Their breakfast is also noteworthy – they had an extensive buffet selection and offered made to order dishes as well, including omelets, shakshuka, and of course eggs in all shapes and forms.

Top Attractions in Hamburg’s Speicherstadt

• Elbphilharmonie
• Miniatur Wunderland (see info below)
• Coffee museum
• Dialogue in the Dark
• HafenCity Visitor Center (with an impressive model of Hamburg City)

Miniatur Wunderland

Unfortunately, I did not have time to visit the Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg myself, but my father and my nephew went there last year and they both absolutely loved it.

What can you expect from Hamburg’s top tourist attraction and who should visit? The Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg is the world’s largest model railway. If you think that is a bit nerdy and not for you, I think you should at least watch this short video to see how cool it actually is:

Pretty cool, isn’t it? Over 1 Million visitors a year will probably agree with you. You can book your tickets in advance here: Miniatur Wunderland Hamburg

St Pauli & the Reeperbahn – Visit Hamburg’s Red Light District

Let’s continue with a little Hamburg tourist attraction that is a little less suitable for kids: St Pauli and the Reeperbahn are in Hamburg’s Red Light District. So what is there to see, other than seedy strip clubs and brothels?

A lot, actually. St Pauli is actually a pretty large neighborhood and the Red Light District around the Reeperbahn is only a tiny fraction. There is the famous FC St Pauli soccer stadium, for example. I did a Beatles Walking Tour (see more below) in St Pauli and it was one of my favorite neighborhoods in Hamburg with a lot of charm, cool bars, and restaurants (once you get away from the Reeperbahn).

Große Freiheit

This street is filled with clubs and bars featuring the hottest DJs as well as live music, some of them for 80+ years. If those walls could talk. Some of the bars and clubs hosted stars like The Beatles, Bill Haley, Jimi Hendrix, Jerry Lee Lewis and many more. In the 60s, Hamburg was THE place to be for young and up and coming musicians.

Beatles Walking Tour

This was another highlight of my Hamburg itinerary, the Hamburg Beatles Tour. If you are a Beatles fan – and who isn’t, really – you might already know that they performed in Hamburg.

The tour led me all across St Pauli and showed me some of the iconic places like the Kaiserkeller or Club INDRA, where The Beatles performed for the very first time on August 17, 1960. Steffi Hempel, the tour guide, knows EVERYTHING about the Beatles and her passion for this band and their music is contagious.

Here are some of the fun facts that Steffi shared with me on the tour:

• The Beatles were the second choice band that the agent selected to go play in Hamburg
• They had NEVER performed together and only had a handful of practices together before coming to Hamburg
• They performed more hours on stage in Hamburg than in any other place in the world
• They slept for months in unheated broom closets in a movie theater in the heart of St Pauli (which showed children’s movies during the day and adult movies at night)

If you are a Beatles fan, this tour is a MUST, but even if you are only remotely interested in the band and their history, you will find the tour interesting. This is also a more child/teenager appropriate tour to see and experience St Pauli and the Reeperbahn.

Herbertsstraße

The most sinful street in the Kiez, the Herbertstraße, is the epicenter of the Red Light District near the Reeperbahn. The entrance is boarded up and only men over 18 are allowed in . Yes, you read this right. Women are not allowed. And ladies, DO NOT TRY TO GO IN! In all seriousness, this is not a game, especially not for the Madames working there.

What will you find in the Herbertsstraße? As I am a woman, I can’t tell you from personal experience, but from research and stories, this is what you will see: Ladies in Boots, as the locals call the working women in Hamburg, sit scantily clad behind windows and use their feminine charms to siren men to their room of pleasure.

*Disclaimer: Prostitution is legal in Germany and most of the women are working as independent contractors or even employees, pay taxes, and receive social benefits just like any other worker in any other industry.

St Pauli Walking Tour

This is an 18+ tour that will take you in the heart of the Kiez and the Red Light District. You will learn about the history of the most sinful mile in Germany, the sex, the crime, and all the other debauchee details.

It also includes visits to some of the most legendary bars and clubs of the Kiez and definitely promises a fun time for the grown-ups. You can book your spot on the 2 hours St Pauli Sex and Crime tour here!

Hamburg Fish Market

Sunday morning is Fish Market in Hamburg. It starts early – at 5 AM – but the only ones you will find there at that time are over-eager tourists and Reeperbahn zombies trying to sober up from last night’s debauchery.

However, at 10 AM sharp, the market sellers have to pack up their stuff and leave, so I recommend getting there at 8 – 8:30 AM to check out the Fish Market.

This gives you enough time to listen to the barkers praising their fish offers and eat a traditional Matjesbrötchen (a bread roll with pickled herring) or a Backfischbrötchen (bread roll with traditional “fish cake patty” and remoulade or any of the other delicious treats you might enjoy.

They do have limited options for people who don’t like to eat fish, but other than fresh produce and fruit, I have not seen anything that might be suitable for vegetarians, so consider that when you have dietary restrictions.

After that, head to the Fish Market Hall right next to the Market and enjoy some live music, coffee, beer, more fish and definitely a good time.

Fish Auction Hall on Google Maps 

Hamburg Harbor Tour by Boat

If it is Sunday, and you already are at the Fish Market, I recommend that you do your Hamburg Harbor Boat Tour right after. It is a nice 15-20 minutes walk along the river to get to the Landungsbrücke (Pier), where the Harbor Tour takes off.

The Hamburg harbor is the 3rd largest port in Europe and Germany’s largest port city, and also plays an important part of the city’s incredible charm. Seeing those huge container ships close up and learning about the history, day-to-day operation and lots of interesting fun facts make the Harbor Cruise a must for your Hamburg itinerary. Book your 1-hour harbor cruise here.

Old Elbe Tunnel

After your harbor cruise, I recommend another Hamburg attraction, which is just around the corner from the cruise pier: The Elbtunnel in Hamburg. Just walk along the bank of the Elbe and you will run right into it.

The Elbtunnel opened its doors in 1911 and was a real sensation for the time and is still amazing to see in today’s time. The 1400 feet (426 m) long tunnel lays 80 feet (24 m) beneath the surface of the river Elbe.

On each end, there are 4 large elevators that hold cars and motorcycles. Yes,  you heard that right, this tiny tunnel was made for cars and is still used as a regular way to commute to and from the city for locals. In 2008, 700,000 pedestrians, 63,000 bicyclists and 300,000 cars used the Old Elbtunnel ( Source Wikipedia ).

When you get out on the Steinwerder side, turn right and follow the signs to the viewpoint and you will have a great view of Hamburg’s skyline and the Elbphilharmonie.

Opening Hours Old Elbtunnel:

Pedestrians/Bicyclists: 24/7, except New Year’s Eve (closed from 9 PM to 4 AM).

Cars and motorized vehicles:

Monday – Friday:

8 AM to 1 PM: One-Way traffic from St. Pauli to Steinwerder

1 PM to 6 PM One-Way traffic from Steinwerder to St. Pauli

Saturday, Sunday, and Bank Holidays: Closed for Cars.

Insider Tip: Due to exhaust fumes, I highly recommend pedestrians and bicyclists to only use the Elbtunnel when it is closed for motorized vehicles. I walked through the Old Elbtunnel on Sunday after the Fish Market and it was a fun stroll, but if I had to walk next to cars with their motors running, I probably would have turned back.

Elbtunnel on Google Maps

Dialogue in the Dark Hamburg

When I first heard about Dialogue in the Dark, I thought it was an interesting concept. I didn’t know that this would be such an incredible experience.

So, what is Dialogue in the Dark?

Dialogue in the Dark is a social concept exhibition that has locations around the world. When you visit, you are experiencing a glimpse of the daily life of a blind person. You will be guided by a visually impaired guide through an exhibit that simulates situations of daily life, such as walking through a park, exploring a living room, crossing a street and even sitting in a boat – in complete darkness.

Why should you visit Dialogue in the Dark?

This is difficult to answer, but let me tell you my personal experience of Dialogue in the Dark and what I got out of it.

• It pushed me outside of my comfort zone as I had to relearn the most basic daily tasks, such as crossing a street or identifying vegetables by touch and smell.
• It made me realize how different my life would have been if I had been born with a visual impairment or if my eyesight had been taken away through disease or an accident.
• A sense of accomplishment, when I was able to identify an object with the senses that I usually pay much less attention to.
• I got to talk to several guides and learned about their personal story, some of them blind since birth, others who lost their eyesight later in life. It was interesting to see and learn more about the difficulties they encounter and actually experience a few of them myself.
• I learned more about how I can become more proactive in helping visually impaired people the right way. I am working on updating the photos on EuropeUpClose to include a better description of the photo and make my website more accessible for visually impaired visitors.
• It also made me feel thoughtful and even a bit somber, as I was able to walk out of the exhibit and see again, while my guides could not. It is their daily life.
• It made me aware of the ingenuity that visually impaired people have to master their lives. I am in awe of their problem-solving skills, their creativity, and their memory skills.

Dialog in the Dark on Google Maps

Explore the Craft Beer Scene in Hamburg

Everyone knows that Germany is the country of beer. German beer is good, some of it even great. But Craft Beer has been a bit slower to take off in Germany than in most other countries. I think this is due to three reasons:

• Part of it is because of the strict German Purity Law, which does not allow any ingredients other than water, barley, and hops. You can’t get too creative with just those three ingredients.
• Another reason might be that because German beer has always been decent, there has been less of an urgent need to come up with more tasty beer recipes.
• And lastly, because Germans are not very adventurous when it comes to their favorite beverage. I know people who have bought the same brand of beer for decades and they simply don’t see a reason to try something else. They buy what they know and what they like. Thankfully, this is slowly changing.

So Craft Beer Breweries and Beers are not as readily available in Germany as in many other parts of the world. If you are a craft beer lover, and you have been missing your Craft Beers while traveling, you should definitely check out these Breweries/Tap Rooms/Brew Pubs when you are in Hamburg:

This brewery/brewpub is located right along the Elbe. This colorful brewery and brewpub was by far my favorite Craft Beer stop in Hamburg.

Their beers are really good and balanced. Many IPAs I have tried in Europe are on the sweet side, but the Supadupa IPA and the World White IPA were nice and dry with a fruity hop aroma. Their Lieblings Lager and the Original (Helles) are a great choice if you don’t like too much hops.

I talked to their Head Brewer and he knows what he is doing. He has brewed all over the world and you can taste his passion in his beers.

They also have amazing pizza there. I had the Margarita and even it was the perfect pairing for the beer flight I had. The dough is fluffy, but not doughy and the toppings are fresh and flavorful.

Überquell also likes to do fun events with other breweries in the area, collaboration brews, live music, and other fun stuff.

Überquell on Google Maps

Ratsherrn Brewery

The Ratsherrn Brewery is located in the Schanzenviertel of Hamburg and offers a brewery experience similar to what you would get in the US. They offer a brewery tour with tasting, have a craft beer store and next door is a brewpub.

They offer English speaking tours every Friday at 1 PM and I highly recommend booking in advance. If you can’t make it on Friday, you can also join any German tour and they will provide you with an audio guide in English. The tour was good, but more targeted towards people who have never been on a brewery tour before. What I liked a lot about the tour was that I learned a lot about the history of beer in Germany and especially Hamburg.

They have a very large selection of beers and I liked their variety of different beer styles. However, they all were a bit too sweet and malty for my personal taste.

Ratsherrn Brewery on Google Maps

Altes Mädchen

Next door to the Ratsherrn Brewery is the Brewpub Altes Mädchen (Old Girl). They have 30 taps on draft and countless bottled beer options, so you will most definitely find something to your liking.

Prices are mid-range and you should definitely try their bread. They take the German bread obsession to the next level with their own Bread Sommelier. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to eat there, but they served their bread during the beer tasting at Ratsherrn brewery and it was knock-your-socks-off DELICIOUS.

If I lived in Hamburg, this would probably be my hangout spot. It is a tiny little bar in a residential neighborhood with about 20 beers on tap. Most of them are from the region and you can get a taster before you commit (which is NOT common in Germany).

The interior design is part dive, part mid-century modern living room with a cozy atmosphere and friendly service. There is not a lot going on, no TVs or loud music or other distractions. It is the kind of place, where you go to talk to your friends, drink some beers, even read a book, write in your diary and just hang out.

Bar Oorlam on Google Maps

Coffee Museum

Most of us drink it every morning yet we know so little about it: Coffee. Did you now that the largest Coffee Wholeseller is located in Hamburg. Every 7th cup of coffee you consume is sold by a family-owned company based in Hamburg. This makes Hamburg de facto the Coffee Capital of the world.

I visited the Kaffeemuseum Burg  in the Speicherstadt. During my visit, I toured their coffee museum and also had a coffee tasting. If you like coffee, I highly recommend this experience. I not only learned interesting facts about coffee and its history but also great tips on how to find good quality coffee, how to prepare it properly and why cold coffee often tastes horrible.

Opening Hours/Tickets Coffee Museum Burg:

Tuesday – Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM ( please see this site for exceptions )

Public Tours:

Tuesday – Friday: 10 AM – 12 PM – 14 PM – 16 PM

Saturday & Sunday: Every full hour

Ticket Price: 10 EUR for adults, 8 EUR for teenagers (12-18 years), and free for children under 12

Kaffeemuseum Burg on Google Maps

Relax at the Alster

After all this exploring, let’s finish with something more relaxing. I told you that Hamburg is a city surrounded by water. Aside from the Elbe river, there is also the Alster. While the Alster is only about 30 miles long (50 km), it is one of the favorite outdoor recreation areas in Hamburg.

You can learn sailing or do a sunset sailing cruise, rent a SUP or paddleboat, or do an Alster Cruise, that takes you around the Alster and lets you peek into the backyards of Hamburg’s rich and famous. You will see beautiful villas and gardens, parks and bridges along the way as your enjoy one of the boat tours.

If you like walking, running, or cycling, you can do that along the Alster banks in Alster Park. It is also a great spot to let the kids run around and enjoy themselves if you travel as a family. Hamburg’s stunning city hall with its green copper roof is also with a look, as it is right around the corner from the Jungfernstieg.

Jungfernstieg on Google Maps

Planten un Blomen

This beautiful park is a favorite among the locals and especially during the spring and summer months a nice spot to hang out, relax and enjoy the greenery. If you are traveling with kids to Hamburg, check out the large playground at the southern end of the park.

St Michael – Hamburger Michel

This baroque church in Hamburg’s Neustadt is one of the iconic steeples in Hamburg’s cityscape. What makes this church special is that it was built as a Protestant church, unlike most other churches which were converted from Catholic churches after the Reformation.

So you see, there are so many things to do in Hamburg that you definitely have enough options to fill a few days in this beautiful city. In fact, a weekend in Hamburg might not be enough time to do all the things and see all the sights in Hamburg that interest you.

Hamburg is one of my favorite cities in Germany because it is so full of history and charm, but also has such an international feel to it. I love the architecture in the Speicherstadt and the history of centuries of trade that influenced the city to have such an open-minded character.

If you are looking to add another city to your Europe or Germany trip, I highly recommend Hamburg. It has a very different atmosphere than Berlin and Munich and I am sure you will enjoy your stay.

Things to Do in Hamburg – Pin for Later: