The 11 Best Things to Do in Hamburg Germany + 2 Things I’d Skip (2025)

If you’ve read any of my other Hamburg travel guides, then you already know this: Hamburg is for sure one of my favorite cities in Germany.

The thing I love about Hamburg is the mix. Berlin, to me, is a bit too grimy and edgy, while Munich is kinda the opposite, too posh and polished. Hamburg though, lands right in the sweet spot between the two.

You’ve got the beautiful Old Town and the historic Speicherstadt on one hand, and then on the other you’ve got the Schanzenviertel and the St. Pauli red-light district, which are as gritty, alternative, and fun as it gets.

I’ve been to Hamburg quite a few times over the years (I grew up in Germany), and I just got back from another trip. So I figured it’s finally time to put together a guide to my favorite things to do in Hamburg, some a little touristy, some less so, and also share a couple of things I think you can skip because, honestly, they’re a bit overhyped.

Things to Do in Hamburg – My Experience

As I’ve said many times before, I love Hamburg, it’s definitely one of my favorite cities in Germany. I’ve been coming here for years (growing up in Germany makes that easy), and every time I go back, I remember why I like it so much.

I’ll be honest: if we’re talking “big-ticket” tourist sights, Hamburg doesn’t have quite as much going on as, say, Berlin. But that’s not really the point of Hamburg. What makes the city special to me is its neighborhoods, its people, the slightly quirky atmosphere, and most importantly, the excellent seafood.

On my last trip, I did the classics I always end up doing: the fish market on Sunday morning (yes, I was horribly hungover, which I can only recommend for maximum authenticity), drinks in the Reeperbahn red-light district, and more drinks in Schanzenviertel, which is full of pubs and restaurants that are actually authentic and full of locals.

But my absolute favorite part of Hamburg has to be the food. Where I grew up in Germany, we don’t have the same specialties, so I always look forward to eating my way through them when I’m here. 

That means piles of fresh fish at the market, dinners out in cozy restaurants, and at least one plate of Labskaus, a very Hamburg dish of mashed potatoes, beetroot, and corned beef. It might sound odd, but trust me, it’s delicious, and it’s one of those things I’ll always order.

For me, Hamburg isn’t about checking sights off a list. It’s about experiencing the culture, eating well, having drinks, and just living the city a little. And that’s exactly why I’ll always recommend it.

My Top Things to Do in Hamburg

1. Visit the Reeperbahn (Red Light District)

One of the most iconic places in Hamburg is the Reeperbahn, the city’s red light district in St. Pauli. A couple of things worth knowing: the Reeperbahn is very much part of Hamburg’s culture, not something people whisper about. Think of it a bit like Amsterdam,  it’s openly embraced, tied to the nightlife, and part of the city’s identity. 

Going out for drinks here on a weekend is completely normal, men, women, locals, tourists, young-ish, married, not married, everyone ends up here at some point.

Of course, I went again on my last trip. For me, it’s one of those must-do nights in Hamburg. We didn’t go overboard, but we did the classic routine: walked down the Große Freiheit (one of the busiest bar streets), stopped into Thomas Read, an Irish pub I really like that always has a great atmosphere and then wandered over to the Christmas market set up here in winter, which is equal parts hilarious and quirky. 

No strip clubs or anything wild, just drinks, laughs, and a fun night out in one of Hamburg’s most famous spots.

2. Hafencity + Speicherstadt Hamburg

The Speicherstadt is hands down my favorite “landmark” in Hamburg. Built in the late 1800s right on the Elbe River, it was originally a maze of red-brick warehouses back when Hamburg’s port was booming. Parts of it were destroyed during WWII, but it was rebuilt and today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I love wandering through here every time I’m in town. On my last visit, we went early in the morning when it was still quiet, walked along the little canals and over the bridges, snapped a few photos (it’s honestly one of the most photogenic spots in the city), and then wandered along the waterfront until we found a place for breakfast. 

Some of my favorite cafés and restaurants in Hamburg are tucked into this district. That morning we went to the Speicherstadt Coffee Roastery, which is super popular. They have in-house roasted beans, fantastic coffee, and a breakfast that set me up perfectly for the day.

A while back I did a canal cruise through the Speicherstadt which was also super fun and a great alternative if you don’t want to walk around all morning!

3. Fish Market Altona

The fish market in Altona is one of those iconic Hamburg experiences you just have to do at least once. It only runs on Sunday mornings from 5:00 to 9:30, which means either dragging yourself out of bed painfully early or just rolling in straight from the night before (which, honestly, a lot of people do).

When I went, I was very much in the “painfully hungover” camp, but that’s part of the tradition here. The market sits right by the Elbe and has this wonderfully chaotic, authentic vibe with market criers yelling, the big auction hall buzzing, stalls piled high with fresh fish and food. Being there at sunrise feels like you’re in on a little Hamburg ritual, whether you’re running on three hours of sleep or none at all.

And don’t worry, it’s not just raw fish everywhere. I started with a strong coffee to get my bearings, then dove into a few of the local classics. The first thing I tried was a Fischfrikadellenbrötchen (a fish patty in a crusty German roll with garlic-herb mayo and lettuce) is honestly one of my favorite things to eat in Hamburg. 

I also tried some rollmops, pickled herring fillets, which, let’s just say, will wake you up at 7 a.m. better than any espresso (definitely puts some hair on your chest). Not for the faint of heart, but part of the experience.

4. Drinks in Schanzenviertel

When it comes to going out for drinks and good food in Hamburg, the Schanzenviertel is for sure my favorite neighborhood. It’s got a cool alternative, slightly scruffy charm with plenty of pubs and restaurants, and the vibe is way more pub-oriented and laid-back compared to the Reeperbahn’s club scene.

I’ve been here many times, and summer nights in the Schanze are just unbeatable. The sun hangs around until 10 p.m., every restaurant spills out onto the streets with outdoor seating, and the whole area feels like one giant beer garden. Those are the nights where you just never want to go home.

On my last visit it was winter, so no balmy late sunsets, but it was still great. We grabbed dinner at Feldstern, which serves hearty German classics in a really cool old brick building, and then rounded off the night with beers at Oma’s Apotheke, one of the most iconic pubs in the area.

5. Christmas Markets in Hamburg

If you’ve read any of my other Germany travel guides then you already know this, but I’m obsessed with German Christmas markets. So if you’re ever in doubt about spending Christmas in Germany, the answer is always yes, do it. 

I grew up here, so over the years I’ve been to plenty, from the big city Christmas markets to the small rustic village ones and honestly, Hamburg has some of my favorites.

What I love is how different they are from each other. On my last trip I didn’t manage to tick off as many as I wanted (too busy eating, drinking, and being merry, I guess), but I still made it to the major ones. 

The Rathaus (Town Hall) Christmas market was first. It’s classic and beautiful, with rows of food stalls, mulled wine stands, and souvenir huts, all set against Hamburg’s gorgeous 100+ year old Town Hall.

And then, for something completely different, we went to the St. Pauli Christmas Market in the red light district. It was hilarious and so unique with live music, quirky stalls, and even a strip show. Very Hamburg, very St. Pauli, and definitely not your average wholesome Christmas market experience but I still had an amazing time.

6. Seafood at the Landungsbrücken

If the fish market wasn’t enough and you’re craving more of Hamburg’s seafood, then head straight to the Landungsbrücken (the landing bridges). Originally the historic piers for ferries and ships, today it’s a big waterfront promenade lined with fish restaurants and casual spots to grab a bite.

I love coming here, and I’ve been many times, it’s definitely more of a summer or at least sunny-day kind of activity. For me, it’s less about sitting down for a fancy meal and more about grabbing something quick and delicious. 

My go-to is Brücke 10, which is technically more of a takeaway joint but serves up some of the best fried fish with chips I’ve had. It comes with a garlic-herb mayo that makes it feel very English fish-and-chips inspired, and honestly, it was perfect on my last visit.

If you want something a little more local, though, go for a Krabbenbrötchen, a German bread roll filled with North Sea shrimp. Simple, fresh, and very Hamburg.

7. Miniatur Wonderland

If you think Miniatur Wunderland is just for kids, think again, I had an absolute blast here. It’s basically a gigantic world of miniature replicas, from entire cities like Venice to working model airports with planes actually taking off and landing. It also hold the Guiness World Record for the largest model railway in the world. Everything is so detailed and parts of it are even moving, which makes it way more entertaining than you’d expect.

Would I call it a must-visit? Maybe not, but since I had such a fun time, I couldn’t leave it off the list. And honestly, if you’re traveling with kids, this is hands down the best thing to do in Hamburg with kids. They’ll be obsessed, I promise.

Click Here: Miniatuar Wonderland

8. Sunset Drinks at Strandpauli

Strandpauli is one of the coolest summer spots in Hamburg, it’s a proper beach bar right on the harbor. It’s definitely only worth it if you’re here in the warmer months, but if the sun’s out, it’s perfect.

My ideal day usually looks like this: wander around Speicherstadt in the morning, explore the old town in the afternoon, and then grab a seat at Strandpauli for those last rays of sunshine and a sunset drink. 

It’s a super chilled-out place, big open space, plenty of people hanging out, sometimes even live music. With the water right in front of you and a cold drink in hand, it’s just one of the best vibes in Hamburg.

9. Beers or Wine at Alster Lake

The Alster Lake is Hamburg’s very own city lake, sitting right in the center, and it’s always buzzing with life. I’ve been there in winter when it’s much quieter, but I still love grabbing a coffee nearby and strolling along the water.

Summer, though, is a whole different story. The lake fills up with kayaks and little sailboats, runners circle around it, and groups of friends lay out picnic blankets to soak up the sun. It’s lively but in a laid-back, easygoing way. 

I like coming here when I want a break from the busier parts of the city since the area is green and peaceful. And since drinking in public is totally fine in Germany, I’d would often pack a picnic blanket, some snacks, and maybe a couple of beers or a bottle of white wine to enjoy in the shade by the lake.

10. Harbour Boat Tour

I haven’t done a harbour tour in Hamburg in a while, but it’s still one of the best things to do here. Hamburg is all about the water, and getting out on a boat really shows you that side of the city.

I love boat tours in general, whether it’s a river cruise in Cologne or a canal tour in Amsterdam, and Hamburg’s version is just as good. 

You usually get a guide who shares a bit of history and fun facts about the port and landmarks, plus you see the city from a completely different angle without having to walk (which, honestly, sometimes feels amazing after a long day exploring on foot). 

It’s also a great option for anyone who prefers a more relaxed way of sightseeing or simply can’t walk long distances. Either way, floating past Hamburg’s massive harbour and waterfront is an experience you shouldn’t miss.

Click Here: Harbour Boat Cruise

11. Traditional German Food in Hamburg

I absolutely love traditional German food, which is a bit funny considering I grew up with it. You’d think I’d be sick of it by now, but living abroad for many years has definitely made me crave the food I grew up with.

In Hamburg, there are a couple of dishes I always look forward to. Seafood is big in northern Germany, so I recommend trying Pannfisch (pan-fried fish with mustard sauce and potatoes). Another Hamburg classic is Labskaus, a mix of mashed potatoes, corned beef, and beetroot, usually served with pickled herring and a fried egg. 

I know, it doesn’t sound particularly appetizing, but trust me, it’s a lot better than it looks. I personally love it, and even my overseas friends (especially from the US and Australia) who were skeptical at first ended up really enjoying it.

My go-to spot for traditional German food in Hamburg is Laufauf. I basically go there every time I’m in the city, it’s super local, cozy, and not at all touristy. Their Labskaus is amazing, and so is their schnitzel.

That said, Hamburg has plenty of great German restaurants all over the city. My advice is to check a few Google reviews before picking one, just to make sure you end up somewhere you’ll really enjoy.

2 Things in Hamburg I’d Skip

Hamburg Dungeon

I did the Hamburg Dungeon a while back and honestly, I don’t get why it’s so popular. To me it just feels like one of those very “touristy” attractions. That said, I’ll admit this might be a me issue, because when I looked it up on Google or GetYourGuide the reviews are glowing. People seem to love it!

For me personally, I’d skip it. But if you’re traveling with kids or you’re into that kind of interactive theme-park history experience, then it could still be a fun stop. 

My advice is, do a little research first, read some reviews, and see if it sounds like your thing. If yes, go for it. If not, you’re not missing out on anything major.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

I don’t think a hop-on hop-off bus in Hamburg is worth it at all. Those buses can make sense in places like New York or even Berlin, where there’s a long list of must-see landmarks and you’re short on time. But Hamburg isn’t really that type of city.

For me, Hamburg has always been more about atmosphere than sightseeing. It’s about strolling along the waterfront in Hafencity, hanging out by the Alster, exploring different neighborhoods, or grabbing beers in Sternschanze and St. Pauli. 

You miss all of that vibe if you’re stuck on a bus. So unless you really love those tours, I’d say skip it and explore the city on foot, by bike, or even by boat instead.

FAQs About What to Do in Hamburg Germany

What are unique things to do in Hamburg?

Personally, I love the Christmas markets in Hamburg (though of course that’s only a winter thing). Outside of that, the Sunday morning fish market is always a highlight for me, and I never skip an evening of drinks in the Schanzenviertel.

What are the best free things to do in Hamburg?

The fish market is definitely up there, it’s free to wander and full of atmosphere. You can also walk around the Schanzenviertel and the Reeperbahn without spending a cent. Honestly, some of my best memories in Hamburg are just from exploring neighborhoods and enjoying the vibe, and that doesn’t cost a thing.

What are good things to do in Hamburg with kids?

Miniatur Wunderland is without a doubt the best activity for kids. It’s a massive miniature world with models of cities, airports, trains, you name it. The level of detail is insane, and kids (and adults, honestly) are always blown away by it.

What to do in 2 Days in Hamburg?

If I had just 2 days in Hamburg, I’d spend one day in the Old Town, New Town, and HafenCity (basically the city center), and then plan two evenings: one in the Schanzenviertel for food and drinks, and another in St. Pauli on the Reeperbahn. That way you get the best of both sides of the city.

Is Hamburg worth visiting?

Absolutely. Hamburg doesn’t have the same “iconic landmarks” vibe as Berlin, but it has atmosphere, culture, and just a really good energy. If I had to pick a city in Germany to live in as a non-tourist, it would 100% be Hamburg.

Final Thoughts on The Best Places to Visit in Hamburg

I’ve said this before in other Hamburg travel guides: it’s not a city where you spend your days ticking off 50 sightseeing spots. And honestly, that’s what I love about it. Hamburg is about being here, it’s about good food, long nights, sitting by the water, and just enjoying the atmosphere.

For me, 2 days in Hamburg is the perfect amount of time. If you’re planning your trip, don’t stress too much about doing everything. Just make sure you hit the fish market on a Sunday morning, spend an evening in the Schanzenviertel, go visit the Reeperbahn at night and let the rest unfold naturally.

I hope this little guide gives you a good idea of the best things to do in Hamburg and inspires you to add it to your next Germany itinerary.

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