7 days in Hamburg, Germany: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest city, is often overlooked in favor of Berlin or Munich. But let me tell you, my friends, this vibrant metropolis has an unparalleled charm. If you’re a fan of stunning architecture, bustling markets, delicious seafood, and a harbor that tells stories of its glorious past, Hamburg is the place to be. Don’t miss out on the historic Speicherstadt, the modern HafenCity, and the electrifying nightlife of the Reeperbahn.
Things to consider before arriving to Hamburg
Great public transportation
Lively arts and culture scene
Accommodation can be pricey
Art enthusiasts, foodies, and history buffs will love Hamburg
What to bring with you
1. Weather-appropriate clothing (Hamburg can be rainy and chilly)
2. Comfortable walking shoes
3. Umbrella & raincoat
4. Plug adapter for European outlets
5. A reusable water bottle
Best time of the year to visit Hamburg
The ideal time to visit Hamburg is from May to September, when the weather is warmer and more outdoor events and festivals take place. If you want to experience the city’s Christmas markets, visiting during December could also be a great option.
How to get into the city
1. By plane: Hamburg Airport (HAM) is well-connected to major cities around the world. From the airport, you can take the S1 S-Bahn train directly to the city center in just 25 minutes.
2. By train: Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (central station) has connections to other German cities, as well as international destinations such as Copenhagen, Vienna, and Zurich.
3. By bus: Numerous bus companies, such as FlixBus, provide low-cost connections to Hamburg from other European cities. The central bus station (ZOB) is conveniently located near the Hauptbahnhof.
7-Day City Guide Trip to Hamburg, Germany
Day 1 – Welcome to Hamburg!
Start your day by having breakfast at Café Paris in the city center, and then head to the Miniatur Wunderland museum to see the world’s largest model railway exhibit. Walk over to Speicherstadt, the historic warehouse district, and explore the area’s impressive architecture. End the day by taking a boat tour through Hamburg’s harbor and enjoying the sunset.
Day 2 – Discover Hamburg’s Art Scene
Visit the Hamburger Kunsthalle museum in the morning, which showcases some of the best paintings and sculptures in the world. After lunch, wander around the Karolinenviertel neighborhood to see the city’s street art, and visit Kunsthalles, an underground art gallery with a unique exhibition. End the day by watching a performance at the Elbphilharmonie concert hall.
Day 3 – A Day Trip to Lübeck
Take a day trip to Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most picturesque towns in Germany. Wander around the historic old town, visit the Hansemuseum to learn about the town’s medieval trading history, and try the famous marzipan sweets at Niederegger Café.
Day 4 – Explore Hamburg’s Parks and Gardens
Start the day by visiting the Planten un Blomen park, which boasts beautiful gardens, lakes, and fountains. After lunch, head to the Tierpark Hagenbeck, one of the oldest zoos in Europe, and see its impressive collection of animals. End the day by having dinner at the Alster Pavillon, a popular restaurant with lake views.
Day 5 – Discover Hamburg’s Food Scene
Take a food tour of the city and try traditional dishes such as Labskaus, a hearty beef stew, and Fischbrötchen, a fish sandwich. After lunch, head to the Sternschanze neighborhood to try some international cuisine at one of the many street food markets. End the day by having a drink at one of the city’s rooftop bars.
Day 6 – A Day Trip to Bremen
Take a day trip to Bremen, a charming town known for its fairy-tale architecture and UNESCO-listed town hall. Visit the Schnoor district, a maze of winding streets and half-timbered houses, and explore the town’s many museums, including the Beck’s Brewery museum.
Day 7 – Visit St. Michaelis Church and the Reeperbahn
Start the day by visiting St. Michaelis Church, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Climb the tower for stunning views of the city and harbor. After lunch, head to the Reeperbahn, Hamburg’s lively entertainment district, and visit its many bars, clubs, and theaters.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Hamburg
If you have some extra days to explore Northern Germany, consider visiting the nearby cities of Bremen and Hanover. Bremen is just an hour away by train and is known for its charming old town and great beer. Hanover is a little further away, but worth the journey, with its impressive Royal Gardens of Herrenhausen and world-class museums. Both cities are easily accessible by train from Hamburg.
