2-Day Adventure & Sightseeing Trip with Friends in Hamburg

Hamburg, Germany

2 days

Townhall and Alster river at spring
Bridge and architecture of Speicherstadt
The Elbphilharmonie building in HafenCity
Cherry blossom tree by the Alster lake
Warehouses of the Speicherstadt

About Hamburg, Germany

Experience the vibrant city of Hamburg, Germany, a maritime metropolis known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and lively cultural scene. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt, the world's largest warehouse district, and the futuristic Elbphilharmonie concert hall. Stroll along the bustling harbor, visit the famous Reeperbahn nightlife district, or relax in the beautiful Planten un Blomen park. Enjoy a boat tour on the Alster Lake and savor local delicacies at the historic Fischmarkt. With world-class museums, shopping, and dining, Hamburg offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, Hamburg has something for everyone.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic and Modern Sides of Hamburg

Morning

Start your day by exploring the historic Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse district in the world where buildings stand on timber-pile foundations. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a unique blend of historical and modern architecture.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch in a local eatery in the HafenCity district. Try some of the local delicacies like Currywurst or Labskaus.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a boat tour of the city's impressive harbor, one of the busiest in the world. You'll get to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its maritime history.

Dinner

For dinner, head to the Schanzenviertel district, known for its diverse food scene. Here, you can find everything from German to Asian cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Reeperbahn, Hamburg's famous entertainment and red-light district. It's home to a variety of bars, clubs, and theaters, offering something for everyone.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the Altona district, where you can explore the Fish Market, the Altonaer Balkon park with its stunning views of the Elbe river, and the Altonaer Museum.

Lunch

Have lunch in one of the local restaurants in the Ottensen neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and a great selection of eateries.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Planten un Blomen park. Don't miss the Japanese Garden, one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and the Water light concerts at the park's lake.

Dinner

For your final dinner in Hamburg, head to the Karolinenviertel district. This area is known for its vibrant street art scene and a variety of restaurants serving international cuisine.

Evening

Finish your Hamburg adventure with a visit to the Sternschanze district. This area is known for its lively nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs where you can enjoy a drink and dance the night away.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Speicherstadt

1
Speicherstadt

The largest warehouse district in the world, featuring unique red-brick Gothic architecture.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
Reeperbahn

2
Reeperbahn

Hamburg's famous entertainment and red-light district, featuring a wide range of bars, clubs, restaurants, and theaters.

Attractions
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Fish Market

3
Fish Market

A traditional market where visitors can buy fresh fish, fruits, flowers, and more, while enjoying live music and local food.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Altonaer Balkon

4
Altonaer Balkon

A park offering panoramic views of the Elbe river and the port of Hamburg.

Parks
Landmarks
Altonaer Museum

5
Altonaer Museum

A museum showcasing the cultural history of the Altona district and the northern Germany.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Japanese Garden

6
Japanese Garden

A beautifully designed garden in the Planten un Blomen park, reflecting Japanese landscape art.

Parks
Gardens
Water light concerts

7
Water light concerts

A unique spectacle of water, light, and music in the Planten un Blomen park.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Hamburg Harbor

8
Hamburg Harbor

One of the busiest ports in Europe, offering boat tours and stunning views.

Attractions
Tours
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fischbrötchen

Fischbrötchen

A popular street food in Hamburg, Fischbrötchen is a sandwich made with fish, onions, pickles, and remoulade sauce. It reflects the city's close relationship with the sea.

Franzbrötchen

Franzbrötchen

Franzbrötchen is a sweet, cinnamon-flavored pastry that is a local favorite in Hamburg. It's a testament to the city's love for baked goods.

Labskaus

Labskaus

A traditional sailor's dish, Labskaus is made from corned beef, onions, and potatoes, served with pickled beetroot and herring. It's a hearty meal that showcases Hamburg's maritime history.

Aalsuppe

Despite its name, which translates to 'eel soup', Aalsuppe is usually made without eel. It's a hearty soup with a variety of ingredients, reflecting the city's diverse food culture.

Hamburger Pannfisch

A traditional Hamburg dish, Hamburger Pannfisch is made from leftover fish fried with onions and potatoes. It's a delicious example of the city's sustainable cooking practices.

Birnen, Bohnen und Speck

Birnen, Bohnen und Speck

This dish, whose name translates to 'pears, beans, and bacon', is a traditional North German meal. It's a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors that is typical of Hamburg's cuisine.

Rote Grütze

Rote Grütze

Rote Grütze is a popular dessert in Hamburg, made from red berries and served with cream or vanilla sauce. It's a sweet treat that showcases the region's fresh produce.

Hamburg Alsterwasser

Named after the Alster Lake in Hamburg, Alsterwasser is a refreshing beer mixed with lemonade. It's a popular drink in the city, especially during the summer.

Hamburger Schnaps

Hamburger Schnaps is a strong, clear spirit that is often enjoyed after a meal. It's a testament to Hamburg's vibrant nightlife and drinking culture.

Hamburger Schokolade

Hamburger Schokolade is a rich, creamy hot chocolate that is a local favorite in Hamburg. It's a comforting drink that reflects the city's love for sweet treats.

Currywurst

Currywurst

Currywurst is a popular street food in Hamburg, made from pork sausage topped with curry ketchup. It's a spicy, savory snack that is loved by locals and tourists alike.

Krabbenbrötchen

Krabbenbrötchen is a shrimp sandwich that is a popular snack in Hamburg. It's a delicious example of the city's seafood culture.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hamburg, Germany is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically May through September. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant and warm, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events during these months, adding to the overall tourist experience. However, if you're interested in visiting Christmas markets, late November to December would be the ideal time.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 6

Sat

Epiphany (regional holiday)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

March 31

Sun

Easter Sunday (regional holiday)

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday

May 1

Wed

May Day

May 9

Thu

Ascension Day

May 19

Sun

Whit Sunday (regional holiday)

May 20

Mon

Whit Monday

May 30

Thu

Corpus Christi (regional holiday)

August 8

Thu

Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria)

August 15

Thu

Assumption of Mary (regional holiday)

September 20

Fri

German World Children's Day (Thuringia)

October 3

Thu

Day of German Unity

October 31

Thu

Reformation Day (regional holiday)

November 1

Fri

All Saints' Day (regional holiday)

November 20

Wed

Repentance Day (Saxony)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Hamburg has an extensive public transportation system consisting of buses, trains, and ferries. The Hamburg Card offers unlimited travel on public transportation and discounts at various attractions.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hamburg. These services offer a convenient way to get around the city, especially if you're not familiar with the public transportation system.

Hamburg is a very bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike rental services. It's a great way to explore the city at your own pace.

Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to visit areas outside of Hamburg. However, parking can be difficult and expensive in the city center.

Taxis are readily available in Hamburg and can be hailed on the street, at taxi stands, or booked via phone or app. They offer a convenient, though often more expensive, mode of transport.

Many of Hamburg's attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in areas like the Altstadt (Old Town) and Speicherstadt (Warehouse District). Walking is a great way to explore the city and take in the sights.

Hamburg's public transportation system includes ferry services along the Elbe River. These ferries offer a unique way to see the city and can be a convenient way to reach certain destinations.

Hamburg is well-connected by train to other German cities and European destinations. Within the city, the S-Bahn (suburban train) and U-Bahn (underground train) networks are efficient ways to get around.

Buses are a part of Hamburg's public transportation system and they cover routes that are not served by trains. Night buses are also available when the trains stop running.

Electric scooters are available for rent throughout the city. They offer a fun and quick way to get around, especially for short distances.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Hamburg, Germany as a first time visitor

1

Hamburg is Germany's second-largest city, so be prepared for a bustling urban environment.

2

The city is known for its unpredictable weather, so pack a variety of clothing suitable for both warm and cold temperatures.

3

Hamburg is a very bike-friendly city, with numerous bike rental stations and dedicated bike lanes.

4

The city's public transportation system is efficient and extensive, including buses, trains, and ferries.

5

Hamburg is a port city, so seafood is a staple in local cuisine. Don't miss out on trying some fresh fish dishes.

6

The city is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

7

Most people in Hamburg speak English, but learning a few basic German phrases can be helpful.

8

The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.

9

Hamburg is a green city with many parks and open spaces, perfect for relaxing or picnicking.

10

The city is also known for its architecture, with a mix of historic and modern buildings.

11

Tipping is customary in Hamburg. It's common to round up the bill or tip around 10% in restaurants.

12

Hamburg has a large shopping scene, from high-end boutiques to vintage shops and markets.

13

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with many areas only accessible by foot.

14

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash as some smaller establishments may not accept cards.

15

Smoking is banned in public places in Hamburg, but there are designated smoking areas.

16

Hamburg has a strong coffee culture, with many local coffee shops and roasteries.

17

The city is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

18

Hamburg's tap water is safe to drink and of high quality.

19

The city has a strong commitment to sustainability, with many eco-friendly initiatives and options.

20

Hamburg has a rich history and culture, so consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the city's past and present.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Hallo

ha-lo

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Auf Wiedersehen

owf vee-der-zayn

Saying goodbye

Please

Bitte

bit-te

Making a request

Thank you

Danke

dahn-ke

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Ja

ya

Agreeing or confirming

No

Nein

nine

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

ent-shool-dee-goong

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ich verstehe nicht

ish fer-shtay-uh nikht

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Sprechen Sie Englisch?

shprek-en zee eng-lish

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm sorry

Es tut mir leid

es toot meer lite

Apologizing

Where is...?

Wo ist...?

vo ist

Asking for directions

Bathroom

Toilette

toi-let-te

Looking for a bathroom

Help

Hilfe

hil-fe

In case of emergency

Food

Essen

ess-en

Looking for a place to eat

Water

Wasser

vas-ser

Asking for water

Beer

Bier

beer

Ordering a beer

Wine

Wein

vine

Ordering wine

Check, please

Die Rechnung, bitte

dee reck-noong bit-te

Asking for the bill

How much does it cost?

Wie viel kostet das?

vee feel kos-tet das

Asking for the price

Good night

Gute Nacht

goo-te nakht

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Jeans

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sweater or jacket

  • Pajamas

  • Scarf, gloves and hat (if winter)

  • Raincoat or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel-sized first aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash and coins

  • Health insurance card

  • Travel itinerary

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Travel adapter for plugs

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Books or magazines

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Travel guide and map

Weather Conditions

Hamburg, Germany, experiences a temperate seasonal climate, with moderate to heavy rainfall throughout the year. Here are some weather-related guidance and tips for your visit: 1. Layer Up: Hamburg's weather can be quite unpredictable. It's always a good idea to dress in layers, so you can adjust to the changing conditions. 2. Rain Gear: Given the city's high precipitation levels, carrying an umbrella or a waterproof jacket is advisable. 3. Winter Visits: If you're visiting in winter, temperatures can drop to 32°F (0°C), so pack warm clothing, including hats, scarves, and gloves. 4. Summer Visits: Summers are generally mild, with temperatures around 72°F (22°C). However, it can occasionally get hotter, so pack some light clothing as well. 5. Footwear: Regardless of the season, comfortable and waterproof shoes are recommended due to the city's cobblestone streets and unpredictable weather. 6. Sun Protection: Despite the city's often cloudy weather, the sun can be strong when it does appear. Don't forget to pack sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. 7. Windy Weather: Hamburg can be quite windy, especially near the harbor. A windproof jacket can be a good addition to your luggage. Remember, the weather can change quickly in Hamburg, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast regularly during your stay. Enjoy your visit!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

5° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Hamburg, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's also a relatively dry month, with occasional snowfall.

February

6° / -1°

February is still quite cold, with temperatures slightly higher than January. Snowfall is less likely, but still possible.

March

11° / 1°

March sees the start of spring, with temperatures beginning to rise. However, it can still be quite chilly, especially in the early part of the month.

April

15° / 4°

April is a relatively mild month, with temperatures continuing to rise. Rainfall is more common, so be prepared for wet weather.

May

20° / 8°

May is a pleasant month to visit Hamburg, with temperatures often reaching 20 degrees Celsius. It's also one of the sunniest months of the year.

June

23° / 11°

June marks the start of summer, with warm temperatures and long days. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.

July

25° / 13°

July is the warmest month in Hamburg, with temperatures often reaching 25 degrees Celsius. It's a popular time for tourists, so expect the city to be busy.

August

24° / 13°

August is another warm month, although temperatures can be slightly lower than July. It's also one of the wettest months of the year, so pack an umbrella.

September

20° / 10°

September sees the start of autumn, with temperatures beginning to drop. However, it's still a pleasant time to visit, with fewer tourists and plenty of events.

October

15° / 6°

October can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dropping to single digits. It's also a relatively wet month, so be prepared for rain.

November

10° / 3°

November is a cold month, with temperatures often dropping below 10 degrees Celsius. It's also one of the darkest months of the year, with short days and long nights.

December

6° / 0°

December is a festive month in Hamburg, with Christmas markets and holiday events. However, it's also one of the coldest months, so pack warm clothing.

Did you know?

Did you know that Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany, after Berlin?

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