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Discover Hamburg, a dynamic city where history meets innovation. With its charming canals, fascinating museums and modern architecture, Hamburg is the ideal destination for those wishing to explore a place rich in culture and contemporary energy.
Here's a guide to making the most of your weekend in Hamburg:
Day 1: Discovering the historic and cultural heart of Hamburg
After your arrival, you can easily reach the city centre from the airport by train, bus or taxi.
Start your Hamburg adventure in the historic city centre. Visit the impressive Town hall (Rathaus), a Renaissance-style building located on the Rathausmarkt. This landmark building offers guided tours that explore Hamburg's rich history and development, highlighting its architectural beauty and cultural significance.
A short walk from the Town Hall is the Binnenalster, an artificial lake ideal for a relaxing stroll or pedalo ride. Surrounded by parks and gardens, it's an ideal place to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere before continuing your tour.
Then it's on to St Michael's Church, a must-see symbol of Hamburg. Climb the 132-metre steeple for a panoramic view of the city, then explore the church's stunning Baroque architecture and the museum, which tells the story of both the church and the city's fascinating past. Don't forget to take a few photos of the breathtaking scenery!
For lunch, visit the fish market (Fischmarkt) near the harbour, offering fresh seafood and local specialities such as fish sandwiches in a lively atmosphere.
In the afternoon, explore the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt district, with its red-brick buildings and picturesque canals. Nearby, visit HafenCity and the Elbphilharmonie, which offers breathtaking views from its observation deck.
If you love miniatures, don't miss Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway. In the evening, head to the lively St. Pauli district, known for its bars, restaurants and nightlife. Try local dishes such as labskause (corned beef, potatoes and beetroot) accompanied by a local Astra Bier.
Day 2: Relaxing and exploring by the water
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Planten un Blomen, a beautiful botanical garden near Hamburg's main railway station, ideal for relaxing amid lush greenery and vibrant flowers.
Explore Hamburg's maritime history on a boat trip on the River Elbe, passing landmarks such as the Köhlbrandbrücke lock and the bustling harbour. For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood or international dishes in a waterside restaurant near HafenCity or Landungsbrücken, with a breathtaking view of the Elbe.
In the afternoon, visit the Kunsthalle Hamburg, one of Germany's largest museums, with works by artists such as Caspar David Friedrich. For shopping, head to Mönckebergstraße, Hamburg's main shopping street, with international brands, local boutiques and department stores such as Karstadt.
Finish your day by crossing the historic Alter Elbtunnel, then dine in one of the floating restaurants, which offer a breathtaking view of the Elbe and Hamburg harbour.
Practical tips for planning your weekend in Hamburg:
- Plan ahead for the weather: As a port city, Hamburg is subject to unpredictable weather conditions. So it's a good idea to bring a coat or umbrella, even if the weather forecast looks good. Don't forget to check the local weather reports to plan your outdoor activities for the best conditions of the day.
- Savour the local specialities: As well as the iconic fish sandwich, try other local dishes such as ‘Labskaus’ (a traditional mixture of corned beef, potatoes and beetroot) or ‘Franzbrötchen’, a sweet, flaky pastry perfect for breakfast.
- Discover local events:If you visit Hamburg at the weekend, be sure to check out local events such as open-air concerts, markets and festivals - the city's events calendar is often packed, especially in the warmer months.
- Enjoy the café culture: Germans like to enjoy their coffee and cakes at a leisurely pace, often in charming tea rooms or cosy local cafés.
- Explore districts off the beaten track: For a more unique experience, venture into districts such as Sternschanze or Karolinenviertel. These trendy, alternative neighbourhoods are full of quirky boutiques, vibrant street art, lively bars and welcoming cafés, offering a less touristy side to Hamburg.
- Take in a concert or show: Hamburg is a cultural mecca, so consider taking in a show at the Elbphilharmonie or the Thalia Theater. Check the list of current events and book your tickets in advance to take advantage of the city's rich arts scene.
- Avoid rush hour: If you're using public transport, try to avoid rush hour (usually 8-9am and 5-6pm) to get around the city more comfortably and relaxed.
