Travel Guide Hamburg
Willkommen in Hamburg! Germany's second largest city and Europe's third largest port, prosperous Hamburg is both a vibrant metropolis and one of the 16 Länder that make up the German Federal Republic. Its prestigious past is evident as you walk through the city, a mosaic of Belle Époque bourgeois architecture and industrial harbor development, blossoming from its lively historic center. Its metropolitan dimensions and rather provincial lifestyle make it very appealing. The Hamburg travel guide will help you discover the many facets of this northern city, which is reminiscent of London or Amsterdam, to sail from the sumptuous banks of the Alster Park to the quays along the Elbe and its fish market, taking you to the largest red light district in Europe where pints of beer are served day and night, but also to the many excellent Hamburg museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts. Both merchant and artist, bourgeois and avant-garde, maritime and depraved, Hamburg has many surprises in store for those who visit it, gradually revealing its proud and singular character while distilling an infectious energy. A guided tour of Hamburg's monuments and its old town will allow you to immerse yourself in its past, especially during the Second World War. But this is not the only thing to do, Hamburg can be experienced and visited. It is a city where everything comes to life like its miniature museum; the miniatur-Wunderland. You will enjoy a walk around the artificial lake of Arstel to admire the beautiful residential areas, which are among the most popular. There are many parks and you feel safe walking through the streets. Hamburg is becoming more and more trendy. Indeed, the "Gateway to the World" manages to find a balance between the hectic activity of its port and the serenity of life in its heart. This German city is the ideal place for a city-trip with friends for a weekend! Moreover, it has been ranked the best city to party in according to a very serious study by Hostelworld. No wonder, because the inhabitants are known to be very friendly, the public transport system is efficient and the cost of living is cheaper when it comes to nightlife. The district of Sankt Pauli is known worldwide for its young and rocking spirit! If you want another reason to choose Hamburg as your next destination: its architectural audacity! Hamburg is a joyful combination of 19th century neo-gothic inspired facades and new buildings in a much more modern style. The Elbe Philharmonic is a perfect example. But also, in the center of Hamburg, its city hall, the Rathaus. This building built in the middle of the 19th century will impress you with its imposing façade. Visit the city through its alleys, and continue with the must-see sites. There are many tourist attractions if you know them. Your travel guide will be able to accompany you as well as the tourist offices.
What to visit Hamburg?
Suggested addresses Hamburg
When to go to Hamburg?
When to go to Hamburg? The Nordic city can be visited at any time of the year. Of course, the summer season is more pleasant, especially for walking and boat trips. Rainfall is about equal every month, but it is naturally colder in winter. Summer is therefore the best time to visit Hamburg (especially since the heat is rare). Advent, the pre-Christmas period, is like everywhere else in Germany a propitious time, due to the excitement that surrounds the city, which is marked by its Christmas markets. Autumn brings beautiful colours to the trees, and the arrival of spring in April makes the inhabitants particularly cheerful... a tourist visit at this time will make you fall under the charm of this region. Always remember to bring a map of the city, because it is huge. So when to go to Hamburg? All year round, with more favours for the summer. Indeed, your walks will be even more pleasant even if autumn brings a romantic touch. Prepare your stay in advance.
Weather at the moment
Hamburg's weather is oceanic and influenced by strong westerly sea winds, giving the city milder temperatures than its more continental hinterland: cooler in summer and warmer in winter. It rains often and not necessarily for long, the sky is often filled with gray clouds. Hamburg's average temperature is 17.4°C in the summer and 1.4°C in the middle of winter, with a few weeks of snow. Visiting the area in winter may seem unusual, but the big events will warm your heart.
In Hamburg, the cost of living is a little lower than in France. The prices of restaurants in Germany are particularly lower, while the price of petrol is roughly equivalent. On the accommodation side, you will find correct addresses at rather honest rates, taking care to book in advance. Your Hamburg guide will help you find accommodation addresses. If your budget allows it, it is possible to find an escort to guide you in the visit of the region. The interpreter guides know the best places to visit the surroundings. They propose to make you discover the region, especially the monuments on the heritage list, without forgetting a few anecdotes.
No visa is required to travel to Hamburg. As a member of the European Union and the Schengen area, Germany allows any EU citizen to stay or reside in the country without any restrictions. A valid identity document is sufficient. The French driving license is also valid on German soil. No particular administrative worries to go to this northern German city.
You will not be asked for any special vaccinations to travel to Hamburg. This part of Europe is absolutely not a risk area and does not have any particular epidemic. The hospital infrastructure is very well developed. As far as water is concerned, if it is drinkable in Hamburg it is always welcome to drink from bottles of mineral water.
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
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How to go to Hamburg? Our advice & tips
There are travel agencies specializing in this region of Germany that will be able to concoct for you a customized or thematic trip to discover the attractions of Hamburg. Note that by opting for this type of service, you can often benefit from advantageous offers combining transportation and accommodation.
You can easily get to Hamburg by train or by air. Please note that the price variation depends on the company used and, above all, on the reservation period. In order to get the best rates, it is essential to book well in advance. If you can, consider buying your tickets six months before departure! You can also travel to Hamburg with your own vehicle, as Germany's roads and highways are very well maintained.
Hamburg once had an efficient streetcar network, but it has been out of service for over... 100 years ago that it is no longer in service! To get around the city, you can use the four subway lines, the dense bus network and of course cabs. Walking is also a good idea, as is the use of a bicycle. These last two means of transportation are best for visiting the historical center of the city and other tourist sites. Occasionally, take a tour of the St. Pauli district, where you will find numerous street-art frescoes everywhere. You can find more details at the tourist information offices.
