Is Hamburg Worth Visiting? My Honest Review 2025

Hamburg, Germany, is without a doubt one of the country’s coolest (and most underrated) cities to visit. In fact, if I had to pick a favorite German city, I’d probably go with Hamburg.

The city just has such a cool and unique vibe, it’s fun, easy to explore, and somehow manages to hit the sweet spot between Berlin and Munich. To me, Berlin has always felt a little too scruffy, while Munich is definitely a little too posh for my taste. Hamburg, on the other hand, feels like the perfect middle ground: polished enough to feel beautiful, but still alternative and creative enough to feel exciting.

Since I grew up in Germany and some of my best friends live in Hamburg, I’ve been back quite a few times over the years. I wouldn’t claim to be a local, but I’ve visited enough that I know a thing or two about what makes the city tick.

So, is Hamburg worth visiting? In this article, I’ll give you my honest take, including what I love, what I don’t, and some of my favorite things to do in Hamburg.

Is Hamburg Worth Visiting? My Quick Answer & Experience

Quick answer: yes, 100%! I really like Hamburg for what it is. It’s a super cool city with great communities, fun neighborhoods, and an overall vibe that just feels a little different from anywhere else in Germany. If I ever moved back to Germany and had to pick a city to live in, I honestly think I’d choose Hamburg.

That being said, if it’s your very first time in Germany and you’re only going to visit one city, I’d probably still recommend Berlin or Munich. They simply have more sightseeing, landmarks, and activities to offer. But Hamburg is still, in my opinion, the coolest city of them all.

My favorite parts of Hamburg are definitely the historic Speicherstadt warehouses (they’re so beautiful) and the Schanzenviertel, which is full of quirky little bars, cafés, and an alternative vibe I always enjoy. And of course, you can’t talk about Hamburg without mentioning the Reeperbahn, the famous red-light district. It’s chaotic, loud, and a little wild, but also kind of the beating heart of Hamburg’s nightlife.

One of my favorite memories was a big Christmas trip I did a few years ago, where I went to Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Berlin, and Hamburg all in one go. Hamburg was such a fun stop on that trip. If you’re planning something similar this winter, I can definitely recommend it. (And if you need ideas, check out my other guides on those cities too!)

What I Really Like About Hamburg

Hamburg has a Great Atmosphere

I just got back from Hamburg recently, I went for a couple of days in the summer, and honestly, the vibe here is unbeatable. 

In the mornings I did loads of sightseeing (I wandered through Speicherstadt a few times, which never gets old), but every afternoon and evening I’d end up in Sternschanze. That neighborhood is full of little bars, cafés, and restaurants, and it’s one of my favorite areas to hang out in Hamburg. 

Two of my go to spots I always go to when I’m in Hamburg is A: I go get a burger from Otto’s Burger, they’re fantastic. And B: I hang out and enjoy a few beers at Oma’s Apotheke, one of my favorite pubs in Hamburg.

Hamburg is Less Touristy 

Compared to Berlin or Munich, Hamburg feels a lot less touristy, and I actually love that. Sure, it doesn’t have quite as many “big ticket” landmarks, but for international visitors, it feels a bit more off the beaten path. 

Whenever I’m in Hamburg, I notice fewer Australians or Americans around compared to Berlin, which makes it feel a bit more local and authentic.

Christmas in Hamburg

It’s been a while, but I did spend Christmas here once, and it was fantastic. I am super obsessed with Christmas markets in Germany and from my experience I have to say, the Christmas Markets in Hamburg are some of the best.

I went to the big Christmas market at the Town Hall, which felt really cute and traditional, but I also checked out the Christmas market at the Reeperbahn (yes, the red-light district). That one was quirky, weird, and so much fun, a very Hamburg twist on Christmas.

I Love All the Water in Hamburg 

One of the biggest reasons I like Hamburg so much is because of the water. It’s Germany’s major port city, and you really feel that everywhere, the canals, the harborfront, the Elbe River, and of course the Alster Lake in the middle of the city. 

Personally, I love cities with water because they just feel more open and lively. One of the reasons I don’t love Berlin sometimes is that it feels so grey and built-up, but Hamburg has this breezy, watery charm that balances the city perfectly.

Seafood in Hamburg

Growing up in Germany, I’ve always associated the north with good fish, and Hamburg is no exception. The fish market here is iconic, and I love going whenever I can. 

It’s local, fun, and full of things to snack on. My favorites are the classic Fischbrötchen (fish sandwich), Schillerlocke, and pickled herring or mackerel. It’s simple food, but it’s very “Hamburg,” and I think it’s one of the best ways to get a taste of the city.

What I Don’t Like About Hamburg Germany

Lack of Sights & Activities

This is a bit of a double-edged sword for me. From the perspective of someone who might actually want to live in Germany, I love Hamburg and it’s got a great vibe and feels like a city you could happily settle into. 

But from a tourist’s point of view, it definitely has fewer big landmarks compared to somewhere like Berlin. That doesn’t mean I’d skip it, I still think Hamburg belongs on a Germany itinerary, it just means you shouldn’t expect a “sightseeing marathon” here.

Weather in Hamburg

I don’t think I’ve ever had a weekend in Hamburg where the weather was completely nice. At some point, it’s almost always raining or at least grey and overcast, especially in winter.

Personally, I don’t really mind moody weather, but if you’re visiting, definitely bring a rain jacket and maybe manage your expectations a bit. Sunshine isn’t exactly Hamburg’s strong suit.

Hamburg can be pricey

On my most recent trip, I noticed how much prices have gone up compared to my first visits about 10 years ago. I paid almost double for my hotel room this time around. To be fair, that’s happening in a lot of places, not just Hamburg, and it’s still not anywhere near New York or London levels. But compared to other German cities, Hamburg definitely leans toward the more expensive side.

Things to Do in Hamburg Germany

• Explore the Speicherstadt: My favorite part of Hamburg has to be the Speicherstadt. Every single time I visit, I make an effort to come here at least once. You’ve probably seen it in photos already, the red-brick warehouses with canals weaving between them. It’s one of the most photogenic spots in the city and perfect for a long walk or taking a few (hundred) pictures.
  
• Elbphilharmonie: The Elbphilharmonie is one of Germany’s most famous concert halls and definitely an icon of Hamburg. Its glass-wave design makes it stand out immediately on the skyline. I haven’t been inside yet myself, but it’s on my list for next time.
  
• Hamburg Fish Market: I love the Hamburg Fish Market, and honestly, I go every time I’m in town. On my most recent visit, we dragged ourselves out of bed on a Sunday at 5 a.m. to grab Fischbrötchen for breakfast, and it was so worth it. The market is only open until 9:30 a.m., so it’s very much an early-morning affair. Funny enough, when I was younger, we’d actually go straight from the clubs to the fish market (which is what half of Hamburg seems to do). You grab a roll, maybe a coffee (or a beer), and call it a night, or morning.
  
• Miniatur Wunderland: Miniatur Wunderland is quirky, hilarious, and genuinely impressive. It’s essentially a massive model railway exhibition that recreates countries, cities, and even airports in miniature form. Honestly, I think it’s super cute and worth a visit. I wouldn’t call it an absolute must-see, but if you’ve got a couple of hours and want something a bit different, it’s great fun.

Christmas in Hamburg Germany

Since Christmas is coming up and I know many of you are planning trips to Germany during the holiday season, I wanted to add a little section on what Christmas in Hamburg is actually like.

I’ve been to Hamburg for Christmas a couple of times now, and I definitely enjoyed it. The last time was a few years ago, but I still remember the vibe very clearly: Hamburg’s Christmas markets are lively. People are out drinking, laughing, and having a really good time. Compared to the smaller, quieter markets where I grew up in Germany, Hamburg’s feel more like a festive party.

The first market I visited was the Christmas market at the Town Hall (Rathausmarkt). This is the main one in Hamburg and probably also the prettiest. It has everything you’d expect, plenty of mulled wine, hearty food, and endless souvenir stands. It’s traditional, atmospheric, and definitely worth checking out.

But my personal favorite was the Christmas market at the Reeperbahn. And honestly? It was one of the weirdest and funniest Christmas markets I’ve ever been to. It was way busier than the Rathaus one, with more drinking, live music, and a wild energy all around. At one point, there was even a strip show happening on stage… at a Christmas market. I couldn’t believe it, and I definitely couldn’t stop laughing.

But this is exactly what makes Hamburg, Hamburg. The Reeperbahn and St. Pauli area is the red-light district, yes, but it’s also the heart of the city’s nightlife. It’s not frowned upon, it’s embraced. So if you visit during the holidays, I’d say lean into it and experience it for yourself. It’s messy, fun, and 100% unique to Hamburg.

FAQs About Visiting Hamburg Germany Travel Guide

What is better: Hamburg vs. Berlin?

From my own experience, if I were choosing a city to live in, I’d pick Hamburg. It’s got a great vibe, cool neighborhoods, and feels a bit more relaxed. But if I’m coming as a tourist and want museums, landmarks, and endless sightseeing, Berlin has way more to offer. I say this with a heavy heart because I personally prefer Hamburg, but I have to be honest, Berlin has more tourist attractions.

What to do in Hamburg?

For me, it’s all about the nightlife. The Schanzenviertel and St. Pauli are the craziest and most fun areas to go out in. It’s basically impossible to have a bad night here with bars, clubs, street life, you name it.

Is Christmas in Hamburg worth it?

Absolutely! Even if Hamburg doesn’t have quite as many attractions as Berlin, the Christmas atmosphere here is lively, festive, and unique. I’d definitely include it in a Germany itinerary.

Are there good Christmas markets in Hamburg?

For sure. The Christmas market at St. Pauli on the Reeperbahn is hands-down the quirkiest, weirdest, and most hilarious Christmas market I’ve ever been to. Definitely not your average holiday experience!

Final Thoughts: Is Hamburg, Germany Worth Visiting?

Yes, Hamburg is absolutely worth visiting. In fact, it’s my favorite city in Germany, and I really think you should come see why.

Hamburg might not have the sheer number of tourist attractions that Berlin does, but what it does have is a unique atmosphere, buzzing neighborhoods, and some of the best nightlife in the country. The city feels alive, with people out drinking, eating, and just enjoying life together.

And if you’re planning a Christmas trip to Germany or Europe, Hamburg is a fantastic addition to your itinerary. The Christmas markets here, especially the Reeperbahn one, are unlike anywhere else.

I hope this helped answer the big question of “Is Hamburg worth visiting?” and gave you enough inspiration to add it to your next trip.

Check Out My Other Hamburg Travel Guides

Best Time to Visit Hamburg: When to Visit Hamburg

Is Hamburg Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

2 Days in Hamburg: My Perfect Weekend in Hamburg

Food in Hamburg: My Favorite Things to Eat + Restaurants

Things to Do in Hamburg: My Favorite Activities

Where to Stay in Hamburg: The Best Areas & Hotels