Hamburg Germany Travel Guide
I recently had the opportunity to explore Hamburg, Germany. which is a city that doesn't get the attention it deserves, in my opinion. It's the second-largest city in the country, right after Berlin. Now, don't get me wrong, if you've been to Berlin, you know it has its charm. But to me, Hamburg has a unique prettiness to it, and it's packed with just as much to offer. However, I'll be upfront with you; Hamburg can be a tad pricier than its big brother, Berlin.
Now, before I dive into the nitty-gritty of my Hamburg adventure, let me clarify something. This trip wasn't sponsored, and there were no freebies involved. I saved up for it, and I paid for every bit of it. But hey, when those sponsors and freebies start rolling in, you'll be the first to know.
I'm a laid-back traveler. I live for good food and drinks. If you're into that kind of travel vibe, then stick around because I've got some tasty tips for you.
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How to get around Hamburg?
Getting around Hamburg was an adventure in itself. We relied heavily on the metro, mainly because the places we wanted to explore were somewhat spread out. Of course, I'm all for a good walk, and we did plenty of that too.
Here's the deal with the metro: it can be a bit confusing when you're just starting out. The metro map is divided into zones and you'll want to make sure you buy a ticket that covers your specific route. I guess what I'm saying is that the ticket should match the zone you're headed to. Even though they didn't check our tickets during our trip, word on the street is that the fine for not having a valid one is pretty hefty. So do yourself a favor and spend a few extra euros to make sure you're in the clear.
Now, if you're traveling with more than just your fabulous self, consider grabbing a group ticket. That's what we did every time we hopped on the metro. And if you're planning on staying in Hamburg for an extended period, it might be worthwhile to download the metro app and explore some package deals.
Speaking of euros, here's a ballpark figure for you: tickets cost us around 3 to 4 euros, depending on the zone we were traveling to. So, budget accordingly.
Where to Stay in Hamburg?
During our stay in Hamburg, we found ourselves in the vibrant neighborhood of Karolinenviertel. Interestingly, this choice wasn't our initial plan; we had to book this Airbnb last-minute due to a hiccup with our original reservation. As it turned out, fate had a way of surprising us, because this last-minute change led us to an even better spot.
Karolinenviertel was a gem of a location. Our Airbnb came with a balcony and an upstairs terrace, adding that extra flair to our experience. Stepping outside, we were greeted by a bustling neighborhood filled with charming restaurants and unique shops. If I ever find myself in Hamburg again, this is exactly where I'd want to stay. And let's not forget about our fantastic hosts, who truly made the difference!
Now, for the nitty-gritty details: the accommodation was cozy, offering one bedroom and one bathroom. A real lifesaver, though, was the washing machine and drying rack they provided. For me, having access to laundry facilities in an Airbnb is an absolute must.
As for the cost, it came to around $200 per night.
Where to eat in Hamburg?
Ratsherrn DAS LOKAL - Bismarckstraße 60, 20259 Hamburg, Germany
We stumbled upon Rattstern DAS LOKAL, a charming brewery restaurant in Hamburg that combines traditional German cuisine with a wide selection of in-house beers. A must-try here is their flight of beers, a delightful way to sample various brews in one go. The interior exudes a vintage charm reminiscent of the 1920s. During my visit, I opted for the vegan currywurst paired with the beer flight, and it exceeded my expectations. Even if you're not a vegan, you'll find tempting options here. Don't forget to make reservations if you plan to include this spot in your dining itinerary.
Schumis Hummus Deli - Marktstraße 127, 20357 Hamburg, Germany
Although it wasn't our initial choice, Schumis Hummus Deli pleasantly surprised us after a day of sightseeing. Hummus may not sound particularly exciting, but this place served up some truly delicious dishes. I devoured my meal so quickly that I didn't even have time to film it! The owner was incredibly kind, adding to the overall positive experience. If you're in the vicinity and seeking a quick, tasty bite, give this place a chance.
Marend Tiroler Kuchen - Feldstraße 29, 20357 Hamburg, Germany
For those in search of more traditional fare, Marend Tiroler Kuche, an Austrian restaurant, is a solid choice. I ordered the ravioli accompanied by a glass of chardonnay, resulting in a satisfying dinner. My only wish was for a bit more sauce—I'm a self-proclaimed sauce enthusiast. If you share my love for sauces, don't hesitate to request extra. And for dessert lovers, be sure to explore their tempting dessert options. Marend Tiroler Kuche is also a great option for groups; just remember to book ahead.
Golden Kebab - Tibarg 34, 22459 Hamburg, Germany
Golden Kebab offered us an extensive menu and an authentic local atmosphere. I tried their #60, which resembled a flatbread pizza, while my husband opted for the Doner Kebab. What made this experience exceptional was the warmth and hospitality of the owners. During our meal, we sampled a Rhubarb-flavored soda, a delightful local treat, and received a complimentary serving of black tea after our meal. It's these personal touches that make dining experiences memorable.
Jill - Bartelsstraße 12, 20357 Hamburg, Germany
If you're looking to kick off your evening in style, Jill is the place to be. This Neapolitan-style pizza joint boasts a wood oven and an inviting interior, along with a highly sought-after outdoor courtyard. Their pizzas and drinks were a pure delight. I highly recommend trying the Capra pizza, the Ziege salad, and Jill's Spritz Cocktail. On my next visit, I'll be sure to make reservations for the courtyard to complete the experience.
Where to get coffee in Hamburg?
Lollo Rossa Bioladen - Marktstraße 119, 20357 Hamburg, Germany
Nestled close to our Airbnb was Lollo Rossa Bioladen, a small organic grocery store that turned out to be a hidden gem for coffee enthusiasts. Not only did they stock organic goodies, but they also served up delightful coffee and pastries. This became our morning ritual spot, and trust me, their pastries were a hit. I may or may not have indulged in three pain au chocolates here. As for the cost, it's worth every penny for a taste of morning bliss.
Nord Coast Coffee - Deichstraße 9, 20459 Hamburg, Germany
For a dose of high-quality coffee, we ventured to Nord Coast Coffee, a renowned coffee roastery. This spot offers a generous space with plenty of seating, making it an ideal place to study, read, or simply chill. Don't overlook their food offerings, which are equally tempting. My choice here was a latte, and it didn't disappoint. While it's hard to put a price on the atmosphere, I can assure you that the quality matches the cost.
Verlan Cafe - Marktstraße 102, 20357 Hamburg, Germany
Verlan Cafe is a charming coffee shop with a bohemian vibe that truly captivated me. What adds to its unique charm is that it doubles as a jewelry store, creating a captivating aesthetic. Here, you can savor a delicious coffee while browsing for a one-of-a-kind gift to take home. During my visit, I opted for their flat white, which came with a cute biscotti cookie on the side. Don't miss the opportunity to snap Instagram-worthy photos in their lovely outdoor seating area. As for the cost, it's a small price to pay for the experience.
Die Kleine Konditorei - Osterstr. 176, 20255 Hamburg Germany
While Die Kleine Konditorei is primarily a bakery, it also offers takeaway coffee, making it a perfect stop for those who appreciate both caffeine and baked delights. Their array of baked goods and cakes will leave you absolutely mesmerized. Be prepared for a bit of a wait; long lines are often a sign of deliciousness, and this place certainly lives up to the hype.
Where to go out in Hamburg?
St Pauli - Reeperbahn
Hamburg's nightlife often gets overshadowed by Berlin, but let me tell you, it's poppin'. If you're up for a night out in Hamburg, the neighborhood of St. Pauli is where you want to be. Here, you'll find the famous party street known as Reeperbahn, often referred to as the "sinful mile." This street is the epicenter of bars and clubs, and there's even a side street with a strict "no women allowed" policy. Unless you're up for some unexpected water and drink showers, I'd say it's best for the gents to venture there. Walking down Reeperbahn is an experience in itself; it's wild and takes party streets to a whole new level.
Freudenhaus - Hein-Hoyer-Straße 7-9, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
Looking for a more laid-back vibe? Freudenhaus has you covered. This bar boasts a nautical-themed atmosphere, making it perfect for groups who want to enjoy a night out while actually holding a conversation—yeah, us millennials appreciate that from time to time! While we sipped on some beers, it's worth noting that they're also known for their whiskey selection. You can choose to kick off your night here or wind it down, depending on your mood and the flow of the evening.
Sorgenbrecher - Hamburger Berg 23, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
If you're into the grunge scene, Sorgenbrecher is a must-visit. This narrow, grunge-style bar pumps out loud music, most likely rock (but honestly, I was a bit tipsy by the time I got there). We went for Astra beer while soaking in the atmosphere. Don't miss the cool pinball machine tucked away in the corner—it adds to the overall fun vibe of this place.
Fun Side Note - Astra Beer
Here's a quirky tidbit about Astra beer: while it might be considered a cool import beer in the States, in Hamburg, it's like their version of Pabst Blue Ribbon, but even better, some would argue. The logo, with its anchor and heart, represents sailors visiting the women of the night. Yep, let your imagination fill in the gaps. Essentially, it's the cheap hipster beer of choice over there, adding a unique flavor to the nightlife.
Things to do in Hamburg
Catch a Concert at Feldstraße
Feldstraße isn't your typical event space; it's a repurposed landmark with a fascinating history. Once a WWII bunker, it has transformed into a venue that hosts concerts, sometimes even multiple ones simultaneously. During our time in Hamburg, we had a blast catching a concert here featuring the Wombats. Keep an eye out online for cool shows to attend. A word of caution, though—it can get incredibly crowded, shoulder to shoulder. If that's not your idea of fun, then a concert here might not be your cup of tea. But there's something pretty awesome about experiencing live music in an old bunker.
Visit the Opera House
At a certain point in our adventures, I admit I was feeling a bit touristed out, so I just strolled past the Opera House. However, even if you decide not to go inside, you can still head up and enjoy the view. It's a chance to soak in a bit of cultural splendor without diving into a full-on tour.
Take a Canal Boat Tour
For a more relaxed way to explore Hamburg, consider hopping on a canal boat tour. Here are a few pointers from my experience: arrive early to secure your preferred seating, bring headphones as the tour might be in German (so you can tune in for English translation), and be prepared for the duration—ours was a soothing 2.5-hour journey, so don't embark if you're exhausted. Definitely stock up on snacks, and on the bright side, you can purchase some beers from the captain on board. Alternatively, if you're feeling adventurous, you can rent paddle boats, a popular choice around the canals.
Farmers Markets
While on our way to meet family, we stumbled upon a rather extensive farmers market. If I had more time, I would have fully embraced it, but I'm sharing this gem with you so you can make the most of it. This market was a treasure trove for thrifters, featuring jewelry, clothing, and home decor. If you're into that scene, it's definitely worth a visit.
Exploration on Foot or Bike
Exploring Hamburg by foot or bike is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the city's history and culture. You can rent bikes here (although, they might not have Donkey Bikes like in Berlin, as I mentioned in my Berlin video). As you wander, you'll encounter intriguing landmarks like St. Nikolai, an old church partially destroyed during WWII. Keep an eye out for tiles on the ground with names; they commemorate Jewish people taken from their homes and tragically killed during the war.
While walking, you might also come across a unique tradition—seeing a young man sweeping bottle caps in a square. This signifies that he's 30 and unmarried. If you happen to be a 30-year-old unmarried woman, well, you're tasked with cleaning doorknobs.
Lastly, take a leisurely stroll around the port area and appreciate the numerous bridges that Hamburg is famous for—over 2,300 of them!
Hamburg, a city with its own distinct charm and character, has truly amazed us during our visit. From the bustling Reeperbahn to the serene canal boat tours, this city offers a wide range of experiences for every traveler. Whether you're seeking vibrant nightlife, cultural exploration, or simply a leisurely stroll through history, Hamburg has it all.
But wait, there's more to our Hamburg adventure than what you've read here! I invite you to dive deeper into our journey by checking out my Hamburg vlog on my YouTube channel. You'll get an even closer look at the sights, sounds, and flavors of this amazing city.
My YouTube channel is full of other travel videos that might just inspire your next adventure - including Europe, Mexico, and Asia.
Thank you for reading!
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