Hamburg 6 Day Itinerary

Hamburg: A 6-Day Itinerary

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Generator Hostel Hamburg, The Circus Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Hafen Hamburg, Motel One Hamburg-Alster
  • Luxury: Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten, The Louis Hotel

Transportation:

  • Public Transport: Hamburg has an excellent public transport system. Purchase a “Hamburg CARD” for unlimited travel on buses, trains, and ferries within the city limits.
  • Walking & Cycling: Hamburg is a very walkable city, especially the HafenCity and Altstadt (Old Town) areas. Bike rentals are readily available.

Things to Know:

  • Language: German is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Euro (€)

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Heart

  • Morning: Arrive at Hamburg Airport (HAM) and take public transport to your accommodation. Settle in and grab lunch at Fischbrötchen Imbiss near the harbor for a classic Hamburg fish sandwich.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Altstadt (Old Town), visit the impressive St. Michaelis Church (Michel), and wander through the narrow streets lined with historical buildings.

  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Brauhaus Joh. Albrecht, a traditional German brewery restaurant with hearty meals and local beer.

Day 2: Harbor Views & Maritime History

  • Morning: Take a ferry to the Landungsbrücken (landing bridges) for stunning harbor views. Visit the International Maritime Museum Hamburg to learn about the city’s seafaring history.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Speicherstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its unique red brick warehouses.
  • Evening: Dine at Restaurant Zum alten Mädchen, offering fresh seafood and stunning Elbe River views.

Day 3: Art & Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Kunsthalle Hamburg, home to an extensive collection of European art from medieval times to the present.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Hamburg Museum for insights into the city’s history, culture, and social life.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg’s iconic concert hall with breathtaking architecture.

Day 4: Green Escapes & Shopping

  • Morning: Relax in the beautiful Planten un Blomen, a sprawling park with gardens, fountains, and a Japanese garden.
  • Afternoon: Indulge in some retail therapy on the bustling Jungfernstieg, Hamburg’s elegant shopping street.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Altes Mädchen, known for its creative German cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Day 5: Day Trip to Lübeck

  • Morning: Take a train from Hamburg to Lübeck, a charming Hanseatic city with a UNESCO-listed Old Town.

  • Afternoon: Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the impressive Holstentor (city gate), and climb St. Peter’s Church for panoramic views.

  • Evening: Return to Hamburg and enjoy dinner at Goldene Hand, serving traditional German dishes in a historic setting.

Day 6: Farewell & Souvenirs

  • Morning: Visit the Hamburg Fish Market (on Sundays only) for a lively atmosphere, fresh seafood, and souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final lunch at Cafe Paris, known for its delicious pastries and coffee. Pick up some last-minute souvenirs at the Mercado, Hamburg’s largest indoor market.
  • Evening: Depart from Hamburg Airport (HAM).

Tips:

  • Hamburg CARD: Purchase this card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.

  • Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour to learn about the city’s history and highlights.

  • Cycle: Rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace.

  • Try Currywurst: This Berlin-style sausage with curry ketchup is a Hamburg staple.

Enjoy your trip to Hamburg!