Top Sights

There is plenty to discover in Hamburg: the Port of Hamburg is one of the most important ports in Europe. Between 8,000 and 13,000 seagoing vessels call at the harbor each year. The port itself, as well as numerous museum ships, can be visited. One of the most beautiful sights is the Speicherstadt in the heart of Hamburg. Its striking buildings are among the city’s most popular photo motifs. Harbor cruises usually depart from the Landungsbrücken, a floating pier about 700 meters long. The Hamburg City Hall, built of granite and sandstone, is also an impressive sight. Green oases for relaxation in the city include the Stadtpark, the Outer Alster, the Elbe beach, and the Planten un Blomen park.

Culture & Events

One of Hamburg’s newest and most impressive landmarks is the Elbphilharmonie. The building combines unique architecture and music and offers an extraordinary venue for musical performances. Works spanning 700 years of history can be viewed at the Hamburger Kunsthalle. A classic in Hamburg is the musical The Lion King, which has been attracting audiences for over 18 years. Every Sunday, the famous fish market takes place at the Port of Hamburg.

Cuisine

Hamburg’s proximity to the harbor is reflected in its cuisine. Fish sandwiches are especially popular, for example with Bismarck herring, herb matjes, or North Sea shrimp. Hamburg’s national dish is Labskaus, made from potatoes and cured meat. It is traditionally served with a fried egg, onions, matjes herring, and beetroot. Those with a sweet tooth will find plenty to enjoy in Hamburg’s bakeries. A traditional treat is the Franzbrötchen with cinnamon and sugar, though versions with chocolate or apples are also baked.