HAMBURG TOURS
Nestled in the HafenCity quarter of the Hamburg-Mitte district, the Elbphilharmonie sits on the gorgeous Grasbrook peninsula of the Elbe River. Your tour starts at the Baumwall underground station, from where you can already feel the unique atmosphere and breathtaking charisma of the Elbphilharmonie. As you walk towards the incredible structure, you will get an opportunity to soak in the splendid sights in the ‘Grosser Grasbrook area, which has recently become the site of the largest urban redevelopment project in the entire continent. You might be able to spot some of the buildings and container ships from the old ‘Hamburg Free Port’ as well. Inside Elphi Plaza Take the curved escalator that connects the ground floor and the Plaza, an observation deck on the 8th floor of the brick section. From this vantage point, you will get an opportunity to gaze at the splendid city of Hamburg that stretches into the distance. Your guide will briefly explain the history of the concert hall and the old warehouse building below. You will learn about the various nuances of the Elbphilharmonie that make it one of the top venues in the world for concerts. Part of the Elbphilharmonie’s astounding brilliance is that the modern exterior hides the world’s most scrupulously designed interiors, especially the famed concert halls that are widely considered to be acoustically perfect. Upgrade your ticket to include a refreshing Störtebeker beer at the Störtebeker Taste & Shop, or French rolls and coffee.
Meet your tour guide at the Baumwall subway station. Once the group is ready, your guide will lead you by foot to the Elbphilharmonie for a thrilling one-hour tour. You’ll catch a glimpse of its glass facade appearing like a massive ship as it towers over the river. The tour includes a ride on the Tube, the world's longest curved escalator, allowing you to glance over the harbour from high above. After a tour of the building, your guide will lead you to the Plaza's terrace. From this vantage point, you can enjoy stunning views of Elbphilharmonie and Hamburg as the guide points out the vibrant Port of Hamburg, the landing bridges, the Michel and HafenCity. This tour guarantees great and insightful stories on Hamburg with amazing photo opportunities. Once you've explored the Elbphilharmonie, head to the next highlight of the day which is the harbour tour. The one-hour tour begins at St. Pauli Landungsbrücken. You get to pick the vessel of your choice between a traditional barge and a spacious salon ship, after which you’re off to get a taste of cruise air. From the historic and splendid red-brick warehouses of Speicherstadt to the architectural masterpieces of HafenCity, you will discover that this is a place where history meets modernity. A skipper on the board will provide live commentary as you pass the major attractions along the way, allowing you to grasp your surroundings more insightfully.
A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Speicherstadt is nothing short of educational. On this tour, you will learn about how it used to be a warehouse complex back in the day - the reason for its characteristic neo-gothic brick stones that you can see to this day. Then, take the futuristic Tube, an elevator that gives you spectacular 360-degree views over Hamburg's harbor and the city. The Tube will lead you into the Elbphilharmonie Plaza, which you will explore with your accompanying guide. Learn about the Elbphilharmonie's long history, including how it used to be a warehouse and how it took over 10 years to be revamped into the concert hall it is today. Experience the Gastronomic Delights of Hamburg Your 3-hour tour of Hamburg's prime attractions will be made even more exciting with visits to five select culinary stations in the city, where you can indulge in the taste of Hamburg delicacies.
Go on a guided tour of Hamburg’s party district, one of the liveliest and most vibrant places in Germany. With your local expert guide, explore the red light district and St. Pauli and discover the curiosities & paraphernalia on display. These objects might give you a glimpse of what goes on behind the locked doors of this part of town. Meet Dragqueen “Olivia” and spend time traversing through her favourite haunts in the district. Your guide will meanwhile regale you with anecdotes and insider information about the many social gatherings that you will pass, such as the musical and theater mile, Spielbudenplatz and Davidwache. Finally, you will go down the sinful party mile, where the night will have only just begun. Join in on the Endless Partying and Fun Hip music and crazy party goers can be seen all around at each of the locations. The atmosphere is guaranteed to be wild, and you are in for an unforgettable night in Hamburg! The charming party guide accompanying you will give you tips on how to get the most out of this experience. After your tour of the well-known cult pubs and hip-scene clubs in the area is finished, you can choose to spend the night at the location of your choice. Your guide will be happy to recommend the best clubs around for you if you let him know your tastes in music. You will have plenty of opportunities to make new friends in this lively and friendly environment. An unforgettable night in Hamburg awaits you, and there is no doubt that you will have experienced one of the greatest nights of your life!
Experience two of Hamburg's must-visit attractions, the Elbphilharmonie and the Hamburg Harbour, while saving time and money. Elbphilharmonie Plaza Guided Tour Your exploration begins at Baumwall subway station where you'll meet your guide. As you approach the Elbphilharmonie, look at its glass facade, resembling a giant wave about to crash onto the shore. Together, you'll delve into the Elbphilharmonie's story, a modern marvel nicknamed the "Elphi" by locals. Skip-the-line access whisks you past the crowds, and soon you'll be gliding up the world's longest curved escalator, offering a preview of the harbor panorama. Your guide will share details about the building's design and construction challenges, including the special vineyard-shaped acoustic features in the concert hall. Hamburg Harbor Cruise Set sail on a 1-hour cruise through the historic Hamburg harbor, the largest port in Germany. Choose between a comfortable passenger ship or a traditional barge. Both options offer excellent vantage points as you sail past the landmarks. You'll witness the scale of container terminals, a testament to Hamburg's role as a global trade hub. The red-brick warehouses lining the Speicherstadt canals, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into Hamburg's maritime history. See the Cap San Diego, a cargo ship that's now a museum. Your skipper's live commentary in German, with multilingual audio guides available, will bring the harbor's past and present-day operations to life.
About Hamburg
Hamburg, Germany’s gateway to the world, presents a harmonious blend of historic grandeur and contemporary vibrancy. This illustrious city, straddling the River Elbe, is famed for its majestic port, one of the busiest in Europe, which has shaped its culture and spirit. Hamburg's intricate tapestry weaves together a rich maritime history, distinguished architecture, and a forward-looking ethos. Here, the charm of the Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district and a UNESCO World Heritage site, meets cutting-edge attractions like the Elbphilharmonie, a concert hall symbolizing the city’s cultural crescendo. Hamburg’s allure doesn’t stop at its port or buildings; it extends to its verdant parks, waterways, and a nightlife scene that vibrates with energy in the famous Reeperbahn district. The city serves as a canvas showcasing a spectrum from historic to cosmopolitan, making it a must-visit for those who seek to immerse themselves in a destination where every street and waterway has a story to tell.
Travel Tips for Hamburg
Embarking on a journey to Hamburg offers an enriching experience, with a few practical tips ensuring a smooth adventure. First, acquaint yourself with the extensive public transportation system; the HVV offers buses, trains, and ferries covering every corner of the city, making a Hamburg Card, which offers unlimited travel and discounts, invaluable. Accommodation options are diverse, from luxury hotels by the Alster Lake to cozy hostels in St. Pauli, catering to every budget and taste. Dive into the local culture respectfully, understanding that Hamburgers pride themselves on their tolerance and open-mindedness, though a basic grasp of German phrases can be a bridge to heartfelt interactions. Remember, Hamburg’s weather can be unpredictable, so carry layers and an umbrella, ensuring the city’s charm can be enjoyed rain or shine.
Top Attractions in Hamburg
- Speicherstadt - The largest historic warehouse district in the world, its Gothic red-brick architecture is crisscrossed by canals, housing museums and cafes.
- Miniatur Wunderland - An enchanting model railway and miniature exhibition, featuring recreations of global scenes, it's a world of imagination and detail.
- Elbphilharmonie - Hamburg’s towering beacon of music, with its stunning architecture and superior acoustics, hosts world-class concerts.
- Planten un Blomen - A serene park in the heart of the city offering themed gardens, water light concerts, and ample green space for leisure.
- Reeperbahn - The vibrant nightlife hub of Hamburg, bustling with bars, clubs, and theaters, promising memorable nights.
Local Cuisine of Hamburg
Hamburg’s culinary scene tantalizes the taste buds with its rich diversity, reflecting its maritime heritage. Signature dishes include Fischbrötchen, a simple yet delicious herring sandwich, and Labskaus, a hearty sailor’s fare made of corned beef, potatoes, beetroot, and topped with a fried egg. Franzbrötchen, a cinnamon pastry, offers a sweet taste of Hamburg's local flavors. These dishes can be savored at traditional restaurants in the Speicherstadt or at modern eateries throughout the city, promising a gastronomic journey through taste and tradition.
Check all the food tours in Hamburg here: Click here
FAQs About Traveling in Hamburg
Spring through early autumn, from May to September, offers mild weather and a host of festivals, making it an ideal time for exploring Hamburg.
Hamburg is renowned for its significant port, historic Speicherstadt, the Reeperbahn nightlife district, and the Elbphilharmonie concert hall.
The areas around Alster Lake and the Speicherstadt offer central, scenic locations close to major attractions, suitable for first-time visitors.
Harbor cruises, walking tours of the Speicherstadt, and guided visits to the Elbphilharmonie are among the city's top experiences.
The picturesque towns of Lüneburg and Lübeck, as well as the serene Sylt Island in the North Sea, offer delightful getaways.
Visiting Miniatur Wunderland, exploring Hagenbeck Zoo, and enjoying boat tours are fun family activities.
Things to Do in Hamburg
- Discover the historic Speicherstadt, with its warehouses turned museums, by day or illuminated by night.
- Take a harbor cruise to explore Hamburg from the water, witnessing the bustling port and the Elbphilharmonie up close.
- Stroll along the Reeperbahn at night, experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural offerings.
- Relax in the Planten un Blomen park, enjoying the botanical gardens, water light concerts, and ice-skating in winter.
- Explore the city’s artistic side by visiting its numerous galleries and museums, such as the Hamburger Kunsthalle.
- Take a day trip to the nearby picturesque towns of Lüneburg or Lübeck for a glimpse into Northern Germany’s medieval past.