Berlin and Munich are great travel destinations, but for a more laidback, off-the-beaten-path German experience, visit the northern city of Hamburg, the country’s second-largest city with a distinctive personality unlike any other city in Germany.
Hamburg prides itself on its maritime history. Located on a river connecting the city to the nearby North Sea, Hamburg has been a significant trading hub since 1189 and is today one of the busiest ports in Europe. Its maritime culture also makes it one of the best destinations for fresh seafood in Germany. Grab a fisch brotchen (fish sandwich) at any market in the city for only a couple of dollars.
Maritime Museum © Peter Lovás | Dreamstime
Art lovers can enjoy more than seven centuries of art, from medieval to modern, at the city’s renowned Kunsthalle, a Renaissance-style museum built in 1869. Ticket prices are around $12 and the experience is well worth the price for art enthusiasts. The Maritime Museum celebrates the region’s history as a trading and shipping hub and Spicy’s Spice Market is a great way to learn about the spice trade. Both can be experienced for less than $10.
Hamburg is also a great city to experience outdoors. With several parks, outdoor spaces, lakes and the Elbe River, visitors can enjoy bike rides, kayaking and boat rides at nearby Alster Lake, or relax on the banks of the river. Visit the old botanical garden and the largest Japanese garden in Europe, free of charge, or spend some time in the city’s outdoor beer gardens.
Planten un Blomen Park © Sergey Dzyuba | Dreamstime
Grab a beer for a dollar or two in the Schanzenviertal neighborhood, authentic comfort pub food at Frau Moller and some of the city’s best seafood at Bruecke and Karo Fisch.
Getting around Hamburg is easy and affordable, with an extensive public transportation system including subways, buses and ferries. The city also has a great bike share program called StadtRAD, and the city is bike friendly. Car sharing is another great option if you prefer to drive.
Read This Next
Hamburg Off The Beaten Track
Top Trends
Dec 4, 2014All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Mar 26, 2025Have the Ultimate Solo Travel Adventure at This Belize Resort
With 40 percent of women expressing interest in solo travel, Alaia Belize welcomes solo female travelers like no other. This resort offers an immersive experience into local Caribbean culture while offering luxury amenities for ultimate relaxation.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Mar 26, 2025Popular Las Vegas Resort Debuts New Pool
Okay, we get it. A new pool complex? What’s so special about that? Well, the newly reimagined GO Pool complex at Flamingo Las Vegas is far from your average resort pool.
Technology
Mar 25, 2025Leave Hotel Video Reviews on New Platform
Love sharing your opinions on the hotels you visit throughout your travels, but not really one to write up lengthy reviews? Prefer more of a visual medium, but don’t really want to go through the trouble of creating your own YouTube channel?
Sponsored Content
Unveiling Europe’s Treasures with AmaWaterways River Cruises
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with AmaWaterways, recognized as Best River Cruise Line by Cruise Critic. What sets AmaWaterways apart is its commitment to offering you the luxury of more. With up to eight daily included excursion options, you have the freedom to tailor your journey to your interests. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast or an architecture aficionado, there's something for everyone on the meticulously crafted itineraries. You will also be treated to a range of exquisitely prepared meals in the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, unlimited wine and beer during lunch and dinner, an array of complimentary host-led fitness classes, and so much more.
Hotel
Mar 25, 2025Take a Luxury Easter Getaway at Vakkaru Maldives
Celebrate Easter in the Maldives at Vakkaru Maldives. This luxury property features holiday offerings for guests of all ages, plus a special Early Booker Offer.
ShareThis