Hamburg is one of the most livable cities in Europe. It has been described as the gateway to the world – and that is what Hamburg is really all about. Living in this beautiful city in the North of Germany and the heart of Europe is an experience you won't forget. Come and get to know the "Pearl of the North"!
The city is both modern and young, but also proud of its long history, tradition and Hanseatic heritage. Hamburg is Germany's second largest city and a designated city-state. Almost 1.8 million people call it their home – and yet it's still small enough that you don't feel like you are lost in a huge anonymous metropolis.
With its large port, Hamburg is a transport hub and thus exudes an international air. Here you'll meet people from all over the world. The city is a popular tourist destination for both international and domestic tourists. It is known for several musical shows and theaters, as well as concert halls such as the Elbphilharmonie. With the Alster, the Elbe River and the many canals that meander through the city, Hamburg has a maritime flair and offers many natural retreats.
Highlights
It is by far not an easy task to point out the "highlights" of the outstanding city of Hamburg and we could go on and on about them. Of course there are many things worth seeing when you are here. Nonetheless, we still want to give you a quick overview as an appetizer:
Alster
In the middle of the city, the lake (which actually starts as a small river in the north of Hamburg) named Alster shapes the urban landscape of Hamburg. It is very popular with joggers, strollers, sailors, rowers and – well, basically everyone.
Culture
Hamburg has a variety of different theaters, cabarets and musical shows to offer. For example, the Thalia Theater and the Deutsche Schauspielhaus (German playhouse) are two of the most renowned theatres in Germany. With the Elbphilharmonie and the Laeiszhalle, lovers of classical music will also be satisfied. As a "musical metropolis" Hamburg is proud of many shows such as the Lion King.
Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie is Hamburg's newest sight. Opened in January 2017, its unique architecture attracts a lot of people from all over the world. Three concert halls as well as apartments, a hotel and a restaurant are located within the exceptional building. A visit of the plaza offers a 360° view of the city and harbor – and it's free!
Fish Market
The legendary fish market is a must-see for early birds as well as night owls. Every Sunday morning starting at 5 am (in the winter at 7 am) it lures around 70.000 visitors. Fish, fruits, flowers, souvenirs – you can find almost everything at the fish market, which first opened in 1703. Many visitors only come to enjoy an early morning fish sandwich – one of Hamburg's well-known delicacies.
Green Hamburg
Hamburg is a very green city. Especially the "Stadtpark" (city park), the "Planten un Blomen" park and the areas all around the Alster are really nice retreats for stressed townies. From 1 May until 30 September people can enjoy the Wasserlichtkonzerte (translated Water Light Concerts) in "Planten un Blomen", a beautiful show with music and water next to the small lake in the middle of the park.
Harbor and "Landungsbrücken"
The harbor is one of the most popular places when coming to Hamburg for the first time. It's the "biggest sight" in the city and offers a great view over the Elbe and many ships. At the "Landungsbrücken" many harbor boat trips and ferries tempt visitors to go for a quick tour.
Jungfernstieg
At the southern end of the Alster the Jungfernstieg is situated. This historic promenade is the central hub of Hamburg. Both locals and tourists enjoy the panorama and the many shops and cafés.
Michel
"Michel" is the nickname for St. Michaelis church, which has been a landmark of Hamburg for centuries. For a small fee visitors can go to the observation deck where they have a fantastic view over the city, the harbor and the Elbe river. Visiting the church itself is free.
Museums
The Hamburger Kunsthalle, the Deichtorhallen, the Miniatur Wunderland and the Dialog im Dunkeln are just four examples of the many interesting museums in Hamburg.
Nightlife
Hamburg is not only known for its cultural diversity, but also for its shimmering nightlife. The party scene in Hamburg is unique. You can find every style of music, many clubs have neither entrance fees nor closing hours, and on weekends the trains run all night – what more could you wish for?
Schanzen and Karo District
The districts "Schanze" and "Karolinenviertel" are especially popular with students. There are many nice little stores, restaurants, bars and cafés and during the summer evenings the streets are always crowded with people having a drink or vegan ice cream and talking to each other.
Shopping
Bargain hunters, lovers of fine fashion, or fashion victims in search of the "latest thing" – Hamburg's many shopping possibilities satisfy them all. There are huge malls as well as neat shopping districts or hip flea markets. Hamburg has got a little something for everyone!
Speicherstadt and HafenCity
Since 2015, the old "warehouse city" next to the harbor is a UNESCO world cultural heritage. It is part of the ultra-modern HafenCity, Hamburg's newest district that unites the past and modern age in a unique symbiosis. It is a favorite with lovers of architecture and offers shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as a beautiful waterfront boardwalk.
St. Pauli and Reeperbahn
St. Pauli is probably Hamburg's most famous district and the Reeperbahn lies right at its core. The "Kiez", as it's called, is and remains Hamburg's number one entertainment quarter. The attractions range from cabaret to techno to a vast red light district.
Town Hall
The town hall ("Rathaus") of Hamburg is one of the most beautiful architectural highlights of the city. Built in 1847, it is a very stately building situated in the heart of Hamburg.
"Treppenviertel" in Blankenese
In this beautiful part of Hamburg imposing villas and picturesque cottages nestle on the steep slopes towards the beach of the river Elbe. Just under 5,000 steps lead pedestrians through the entire district – always with a great view over the Elbe.
Zoo
Hagenbecks Tierpark has been one of the city's best-loved attractions for more than 100 years. Over 1,850 animals from 210 different species can be seen here. The facility is listed as a protected monument and is open throughout the whole year.