Hamburg is a port city in Germany. It’s located on the Elbe River, about 50 miles (80.47 km) northeast of Berlin. The city is a wonderful place to visit. It has a great mix of old and new, so you can soak up the history and culture, but also enjoy some of Europe’s best shopping and nightlife.
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of things to see and do for free in Hamburg. We’ve put together the best spots for you to get the most out of the city without breaking the bank. All you need to do is meet Germany’s requirements, then you’re ready to hit Hamburg and explore its many sights.
Learn History at the Port of Hamburg
Hamburg is one of the most important ports in Europe. It has more than 68 miles (110 km) of navigable waterways and is the largest seaport in the country.
Hamburg is a city of seafaring traditions, and it is no surprise that the Hamburg Port Authority has been a player in the city’s history since its founding. The port management contributes to the success of the commercial and industrial companies, as well as high-quality services for tourists. There are still plenty of ways to experience Hamburg’s waterways. There are tons of parks along the river that have great views of the city – and some even have trails that go around it.
View the Architecture of Hamburg City Hall
When you visit Hamburg, you can’t miss the city hall. This is a great place to visit if you are looking for some culture and history. The building is home to the city’s mayor and other important officials, including members of its parliament. The hall also hosts events such as concerts, lectures, and parties.
Hamburg City Hall is a beautiful building with a history that dates back to 1886. Hamburg Town Hall is a magnificent example of German architecture, and it’s one of the most photographed buildings in Germany.
See the Futuristic HafenCity
HafenCity is one of Hamburg’s most popular districts, and it contains a mix of old and new architecture. You’ll find everything from cobblestone streets to modern high-rises. The neighborhood is one of the largest urban development projects in Europe and has been designed to be sustainable, environmentally friendly, and innovative.
One of the highlights of HafenCity is the Elbphilharmonie concert hall – popularly named by locals as Elphi. The hall is the city’s newest landmark, with 3 impressive concert halls, a hotel, apartments, and a plaza.
The Iconic St Michaeliskirche
St Michaeliskirche, locally called Michel, is one of the most well-known churches in Germany. It’s located on the banks of the river Elbe and is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The 18th century church is the largest in Hamburg, featuring 2,500 seats, 5 organs, and a crypt. A number of famous people are buried here, including composers Johann Mattheson and Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach.
The church is dedicated to the Archangel Michael, who appears in the form of a large bronze statue above the portal. The towering Baroque spire of the building is another iconic part of the architecture, which stands out majestically in Hamburg’s skyline.
Get Some Nature at Planten un Blomen
Planten un Blomen Park is a beautiful place to go if you want to relax, take a walk, and enjoy nature. Better yet, the park is open year round with no admission fee. The park is divided into different areas with different themes such as: English garden, Japanese garden, rose garden and herb garden plus much more.
If you stay around until the evening, you’ll get to see the spectacular fountain show known as Wasserspiele. Between April and August, the show starts at 10pm, and 9pm in September.
Wander Through the Alter Elbtunnel
The Alter Elbtunnel is also known as “the old tunnel” because it was built before modern bridges and tunnels were constructed, making it an important part of Hamburg’s history.
The tunnel is a masterpiece of engineering, connecting the city of Hamburg with the river Elbe and its port. It was built in 1911 as part of a larger project to modernize the city’s infrastructure and make it more competitive with other ports in Europe. The route is now closed to vehicle traffic and has since become a tourist attraction, with people visiting it to take in the view of the river or just explore its unique architecture.
Explore Treppenviertel Blankenese
Treppenviertel Blankenese is a charming residential area in Hamburg. It is located in the northern part of the city, just south of the Elbe river.
Treppenviertel Blankenese has a historic feel, as it dates back to the 17th century, when it was first built as a residential area for wealthy merchants. Today, this quiet neighborhood has become one of Hamburg’s most desirable places to live. Take a walk around the quaint winding streets and admire the views of the river from the hills that surround the area.