If you’re planning a trip to Germany, be sure to add Hamburg to your list of must-visit cities. This beautiful city boasts a variety of unique attractions that will leave you mesmerized.
For starters, don’t miss Miniatur Wunderland, a Guinness World Record-holding model railway exhibition that’ll make you want to become a train-loving kid again. Also, don’t forget to visit Kampnagel, one of the largest entertainment arts venues in Europe.
1. St. Michael’s Church
The church was built in the Baroque style between 1647 and 1669. It is considered one of the finest Hanseatic Protestant churches and is a prominent landmark in Hamburg.
The 132-meter-high tower totally covered with copper has always been a guide for ships coming to Hamburg and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The tower is a must-see attraction and can be climbed to get a 360 degree view of the city.
Inside the church, you can see the largest tower clock in Germany. Moreover, there is an exhibition in the crypt vault, which will give you a good overview of Hamburg’s history over the last 1,000 years.
The church is a popular place of worship for locals and tourists alike. Regular events include lunch devotions, Protestant masses with children’s church and organ recitals. You can also climb the spire for fantastic panoramic views of the city.
2. The Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie is one of Hamburg’s newest landmarks and an architectural and cultural beacon. Designed by the Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, the building started life as a warehouse in the docks that stored cocoa, tobacco and tea before being transformed into a dazzling music complex.
The bold curve of the dazzling glass facade is reminiscent of sails, water waves, icebergs or quartz crystals. This crystalline effect is achieved through the application of small basalt grey reflective dots that prevent the structure from heating up due to sunlight, while also creating a shimmering appearance.
It’s easy to see why the Elbphilharmonie has become one of the city’s most popular attractions, with concerts and events taking place regularly throughout the year. But if you’re planning to visit, be sure to book in advance, as there is often a wait for tickets.
3. The Alster
The Alster, the 164-hectare lake, is one of the most beautiful features of Hamburg’s city centre. Originally dammed in the 12th century, it now offers plenty of recreational activities for tourists and locals alike.
The lake is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes and parks, and is also home to an abundance of oak and chestnut trees. This makes it perfect for walking, cycling or simply enjoying the views from a shady spot by the water.
To explore the area further, take a tour on a public sightseeing boat or hire your own individual boat for the day. Or head for the Hafenmuseum, which showcases a collection of unique sailing and steamships.
The Alster Lake, as it is sometimes called, has an elegant and sophisticated charm that makes it a popular place to stay in Hamburg. The area is a favorite with people seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours.
4. Altona
Altona is one of the most ritzy and vibrant neighborhoods in Hamburg. It has a number of attractive Neoclassical houses that have been preserved as historical monuments.
- The district also boasts a lively pedestrian zone that has tiny side roads lined with restaurants, bars, cafes and boutiques. It is a great place to stroll and enjoy street performances and music concerts.
- You can also visit the Planten un Blomen park, which is famous for its white light concerts. The park is also home to the PROTOTYP Museum, which focuses on prototype cars.
- The international Maritime Museum is another must-see attraction in the city. It traces the history of seafaring and maritime trade in Hamburg, and showcases a wide array of fascinating exhibits.
