A Weekend In Hamburg – The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

No trip to Germany is complete without spending a weekend in Hamburg. This famous port city is one of the best travel destinations in Europe.

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of Hamburg – a city that effortlessly blends history, modernity, and endless possibilities for exploration. Nestled just a stone’s throw away from bustling Berlin, a weekend in Hamburg offers a refreshing retreat for those seeking to unwind and recharge. This three-day itinerary includes everything you need to know about visiting this captivating city. From its iconic landmarks like the towering Elbphilharmonie to its hidden gems tucked away in charming neighborhoods, Hamburg promises an unforgettable weekend filled with culture, cuisine, and endless adventures.

In this guide, I’ll delve into the best time to take a weekend trip to Hamburg. In addition, I’ll provide you with a general overview of the various districts. Since Hamburg is full of activities, from historical buildings and districts to new and hip neighborhoods, this will help you figure out where to base yourself for the weekend. Getting to Hamburg is a breeze since the city offers an efficient transportation network connecting you from near and far. You can get to the city by train, plane, bus, or car, and I will outline all of these possibilities below!

In the following sections, I’ll dive into a comprehensive three-day itinerary highlighting the must-see attractions, delicious dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that Hamburg has to offer. I hope that this guide will convince you that spending a weekend in Hamburg is always a good idea! 

FAQs about a Weekend in Hamburg

Is 2 days enough in Hamburg?

Technically two days in Hamburg is enough. While two days in Hamburg can give you a taste of what the city has to offer, it may feel a bit rushed if you want to explore everything in depth. However, with careful planning and prioritizing key attractions, you can certainly have a fulfilling experience in two days. In the itinerary outlined below, you should be able to fit all of the attractions into two (long) days. If you have the time, I would personally recommend spending at least 2.5 -3 days in Hamburg

Is Hamburg nicer than Berlin?

Comparing Hamburg to Berlin in terms of which city is “nicer” is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Both cities offer unique experiences and attractions. Hamburg is known for its maritime charm, scenic waterfront, and lively neighborhoods, while Berlin boasts a rich history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse cultural offerings. Ultimately, whether Hamburg is “nicer” than Berlin depends on what you’re looking for in a city.

With that said, as someone who has lived in Berlin I did find Hamburg to be a nicer city. It reminded me a lot of Berlin, with a historical quarter reminiscent of Mitte, and a hip and fun area reminding me of Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain. Overall, I would say Hamburg is a prettier and cleaner version of Berlin, but both cities have their charm. 

Is Hamburg a walkable city?

Hamburg is generally a walkable city, especially in its central areas and along the waterfront. Many of the city’s main attractions, shopping streets, and dining options are within walking distance of each other. Additionally, Hamburg features extensive public transportation options, including buses, trains, and ferries, making it easy to navigate the city even if you prefer not to walk long distances.

This post is all about how to spend a weekend in Hamburg.

How to get to Hamburg

Since Hamburg is one of the largest and most well-known cities in Germany, getting here is fairly easy. There are lots of ways to get to the city based on your chosen mode of transportation. Below I will outline the directions for getting to Hamburg by car, train, bus, and plane. The directions will be from Berlin, the capital city of Germany.

By car:

Embarking on a road trip from Berlin to Hamburg offers the freedom to explore at your own pace. Begin your journey by hitting the A24 highway, heading northwest towards Hamburg. As you traverse approximately 280 kilometers (about 174 miles) of scenic landscapes, you’ll have the flexibility to stop and discover charming towns along the way. Simply follow the signs for Hamburg, and before you know it, you’ll arrive at your destination. You should expect the drive to last around 2 hours and 45 minutes but it will heavily depend on the traffic. 

By train:

If you are seeking a relaxed and efficient journey, the train presents an excellent option. From Berlin Hauptbahnhof, catch one of the frequent trains bound for Hamburg Hauptbahnhof. Look out for trains such as the ICE (InterCity Express) or IC (InterCity) for a swift ride. The most frequent trains running include the ICE508, ICE1004, and ICE708. You should expect ticket prices to cost anywhere between 50 – 100 euros each way per person depending on how far in advance you order them.

The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the train type. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the smooth ride as you glide through the picturesque German countryside, arriving in Hamburg refreshed and ready to explore.

By Bus:

As you read above, train tickets for the high-speed trains can be pretty expensive in Germany. If you are looking to get to Hamburg on a budget, then I highly recommend catching the FlixBus! Prices are much cheaper and start at around 25 euros per person. The journey will last a little longer; anywhere between 3-4 hours based on the time and route that you choose. The journey won’t be the most comfortable but the FlixBus does the job well and it’s a great way to save some money. 

By Plane:

Did you know that there is an airport in Hamburg? If you are visiting from outside Germany, you should consider flying directly to the city. Upon landing at Hamburg Airport, choose from various transportation options to reach the city center. Whether you opt for a taxi for a swift journey, the S-Bahn S1 line for convenience, or a budget-friendly bus service, you’ll soon find yourself immersed in the excitement of Hamburg, ready to embark on your next adventure.

When it comes to public transportation, you can take the train from the airport directly to Hamburg City Hall. The journey lasts around 32 minutes and will cost around 3-4 euros. Alternatively, you can also take bus number 606 which will take 42 minutes and cost around 2-4 euros. 

Where to stay in Hamburg

Before providing you with recommendations on where to stay I will quickly give a recap of some of the most popular districts in Hamburg. I think that it’s important to base yourself in the district that has the most attractions that you would be interested in since it can save a lot of time and money on transport. However, with that said it will of course also depend on budget and what you prefer to do in the evenings so below are some of the most popular accommodation areas in Hamburg. 

St. Pauli:

Nestled along the banks of the Elbe River, St. Pauli is a vibrant neighborhood renowned for its eclectic mix of entertainment and culture. Home to the famous Reeperbahn, known as Hamburg’s red-light district, this area pulsates with energy day and night. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of bars, clubs, and theaters, or explore the alternative side of St. Pauli with its quirky shops and street art. The neighborhood also offers scenic views of the harbor and easy access to attractions such as the Landungsbrücken piers and the historic Fish Market.

Sternschanze:

Sternschanze, often referred to as Schanzenviertel, is a trendy and dynamic district known for its artistic flair and bohemian charm. Here, colorful graffiti adorns the walls of historic buildings, and bustling streets are lined with indie boutiques, cozy cafes, and hip bars. Visitors can soak up the creative atmosphere, browse through vintage stores, or unwind in one of the area’s many green spaces, such as the scenic Planten un Blomen park. With its diverse culinary scene and vibrant nightlife, Sternschanze offers an authentic taste of Hamburg’s contemporary culture.

HafenCity:

As one of Europe’s largest urban development projects, HafenCity stands as a modern marvel on the banks of the Elbe River. This waterfront district boasts striking contemporary architecture, including the iconic Elbphilharmonie concert hall, and offers a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural spaces. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque promenades, explore innovative museums like the International Maritime Museum, or indulge in waterfront dining with views of the bustling harbor. With its blend of innovation and heritage, HafenCity provides a glimpse into Hamburg’s future while honoring its maritime past.

Hamburg-Neustadt:

Hamburg-Neustadt, or simply Neustadt, is a bustling district located in the heart of Hamburg. This central neighborhood is characterized by its historic buildings, bustling shopping streets, and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Rathaus (City Hall), the elegant shopping boulevard of Jungfernstieg, and the picturesque Binnenalster Lake. Neustadt also offers a diverse culinary landscape, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit every taste. With its central location and proximity to major landmarks, Hamburg-Neustadt provides an ideal base for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the city’s rich history and vibrant urban life.

Altstadt (Old Town):

Steeped in history and charm, Hamburg’s Altstadt, or Old Town, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and cultural landmarks. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings, visit historic churches such as St. Michael’s Church (Michel), and marvel at the iconic Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse district in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Altstadt also offers opportunities for shopping, dining, and exploring local markets, such as the bustling Fischmarkt. With its timeless beauty and rich heritage, the Altstadt invites visitors to step back in time and experience the magic of Hamburg’s storied past.

Where to stay for a weekend in Hamburg:

For travelers drawn to Hamburg’s nightlife and entertainment scene, St. Pauli offers a lively base with easy access to the Reeperbahn and other attractions. Those seeking a more eclectic and artistic atmosphere may prefer Sternschanze, while architecture enthusiasts and cultural explorers will find HafenCity’s modern skyline and museums captivating. 

If you are looking for a centrally located stay with quick access to Hamburg’s highlights then Neustadt is the perfect base. Its lively streets and cultural sites offer a vibrant backdrop, ensuring convenience and excitement. Alternatively, travelers desiring a historic ambiance can opt for the Altstadt, where they can wander through charming streets, admire iconic landmarks, and immerse themselves in the city’s rich heritage.

Ultimately, the best place to stay in Hamburg depends on individual preferences and interests, ensuring a memorable experience tailored to each traveler’s desires.

When to spend a weekend in Hamburg

The best time to spend a weekend in Hamburg largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience. However, generally speaking, the city is vibrant and lively throughout the year, offering something for every season:

Spring (March to May):

Springtime in Hamburg brings blooming flowers, milder temperatures, and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring outdoor attractions such as parks, gardens, and waterfront promenades. The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals during this time, including the Hamburger DOM funfair and the Harbor Birthday celebration.

Summer (June to August):

Hamburg truly comes alive in the summer months, with an abundance of outdoor activities, festivals, and events. Visitors can enjoy boat tours along the Alster Lake, relax in beach bars along the Elbe River, and attend open-air concerts and performances in parks and squares. The longer days and warmer temperatures create a lively and energetic atmosphere throughout the city.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn in Hamburg brings crisp air, colorful foliage, and a sense of coziness to the city. It’s an excellent time to explore indoor attractions such as museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as sample seasonal culinary delights at local restaurants and cafes. Visitors can also enjoy leisurely walks along the city’s picturesque canals and waterways, taking in the beauty of the changing seasons.

Winter (December to February):

While winters in Hamburg can be cold and rainy, the city takes on a magical charm during the holiday season. Visitors can wander through Christmas markets, sip mulled wine and marvel at festive decorations adorning the streets and squares. Indoor attractions such as the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the Miniatur Wunderland model railway offer cozy retreats from the winter chill, making it a delightful time to experience Hamburg’s cultural scene.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Hamburg for a weekend getaway depends on your personal preferences, whether you prefer warm weather for outdoor activities or the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Hamburg promises a memorable experience with its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and picturesque surroundings.

How to spend a weekend in Hamburg – the perfect 3-day itinerary

Below I will go into a detailed itinerary for how to spend a weekend in Hamburg, including all of the must-see spots and some of my favorite local finds! If you want a list of the best things to do in Hamburg then you can also check out my blog post on that below. 

Read More: 11 Best Things To Do in Hamburg

The itinerary is based on the assumption that you come for a weekend trip. Feel free to adjust the activities as you see fit to work around your timetable. 

• Day 1 – Arrival and Alster Lake
• Day 2 – The Old (UNESCO heritage sites) and New (artists districts)
• Day 3 – Cozy Activities and Departure

Day 1 – Friday (Arrival and Alster Lake)

Morning:

To maximize your time in Hamburg, plan to arrive on Friday during the morning hours. Then spend the morning arriving at your accommodation and checking in. Make sure to take care of any urgent matters quickly upon your arrival. If you plan to grab some groceries for the weekend or need to go to the drugstore, then do that now as well. That way you won’t have stress in the evening and can go with the flow. Trust me – it is such a relief to take care of these things before you start exploring 😅.

Afternoon:

Once you are ready to explore then head out to check out Jungfernsteig and Alster Lake! Jungfernstieg is the area right below the Binnenalster (smaller lake) in the city center. A must-visit building in the area is the Rathaus (city hall), as it is one of the most beautiful city halls I have come across. It is possible to take a guided tour inside the building for 5€ per adult. While we did not take the tour, if you are interested here is the link with all of the information. Other than the city hall, Jungfernstieg is the central area where most shops are located. Overall, this area is a must for tourists as it is the city center of Hamburg. 

Then, continue to walk up along Alster Lake walking up on the eastern side of the lake. I highly recommend walking on this side for several reasons. First of all, the views of the city skyline on the other side will be better and you will even get a glimpse of the Hamburg TV tower. In addition, there are lots of really cute bars and restaurants on the lake that you may want to stop at or admire for a while. One of these cafes is called Seehaus Hamburg and it looks absolutely gorgeous. 

As you make your way up to the northern end of the lake, make sure to locate “Monkey Beach“. Monkey Beach is a great hangout spot among locals and tourists alike. It’s the perfect spot to sit and unwind in the late afternoon hours, although it’s quite a popular spot so expect a small crowd. The blue building on top sells Poke Bowls, while you can find cocktails and beers on the terrace below.

The terrace overlooks a side canal where many kayaks and paddle boats pass by, making it a great place to relax and people-watch. If you are only going to stop at one canal bar then make sure that it’s this one!  

Evening: 

After a cozy stop at Monkey Beach, make your way around Alster Lake and walk to Altes Madchen. This is where I recommend you to eat dinner, although you are free to sit somewhere else if you prefer. You can also head back to your accommodation to make dinner if you want to stay on a budget. 

Altes Madchen is a must-visit restaurant in Hamburg. It boasts a huge selection of craft beers (both their own and also local breweries) as well as great food. Known as the inspiration for the hamburger, you cannot visit this city without claiming you have “eaten a hamburger in Hamburg”. They have a great selection of hamburgers in Altes Madchen and even a really good vegan version. Come for dinner time for the best experience, and make sure to reserve a spot in advance, otherwise, you might not find a table upon arrival. 

Day 2 – Saturday (The Old and New)

Morning: 

Wake up bright and early on Saturday and head to one of the most popular spots in the city: Speicherstadt. This is one of those spots that are so iconic, that you simply cannot claim to have visited Hamburg without checking it out. Therefore, it deserves some attention if you’re coming for a weekend in Hamburg.

It can get quite crowded here throughout the day so I recommend coming before the others for the best experience. This area is the largest warehouse ensemble in the world and was named a UNESCO heritage site in 2015. While this area is mostly toured for its picturesque buildings, it also has many activities to explore. Make sure you stop by Poggenmühle Brücke for a view of the iconic WasserSchloss restaurant. 

Besides pretty buildings, this neighborhood is full of attractions from a miniature wonderland to a specialty coffee roastery. In addition, there are several museums explaining the history of this warehouse ensemble, as well as a customs museum exploring the history of smuggling here. You can find all of the activities in Speicherstadt here. 

Afternoon:

Spend your afternoon wandering around the hip and trendy neighborhoods of Hamburg as a contrast to your morning activities. These regions are a must-see on a weekend in Hamburg, regardless of age. 

Gangviertel:

There are several stops around various “artist” districts so start by making your way to Gangviertel from Speicherstadt. Gangviertel is located in the city center, not far from Jungferstieg. In 2009 it was about to be demolished and locals saved the area and converted it into a creative space open to everyone. Here you can find different exhibitions and bars, with many activities changing seasonally. Click here to find more information on their official website. 

Karolinenviertel:

Once you are done, continue walking for around 20 minutes to reach Karolinenviertel. Every Saturday Karolinenviertel hosts a market from 8 am to 4 pm. If you happen to visit on the weekend make sure to check it out! The rules of the market are that no new items are allowed, so come and browse through a variety of second-hand items. You can find goods ranging from clothes and jewelry to books and furniture. Even if thrift shopping is not your cup of tea, you should still come and sit on the steps overlooking the market to enjoy the atmosphere. 

Schanzenviertel: 

After spending some time wandering Gangviertel and Karolinenviertel, head to the last stop on the artist district route – Schanzenviertel. This area is perfect for finding a cozy bar and enjoying an afternoon beer. 

Schanzenviertel which is also known as Sternschanze is probably the trendiest quarter in Hamburg. This area is home to beautiful boutiques, lots of second-hand stores, and trendy bars. While this area is known for its shopping and night scene, it is also full of street art and graffiti.

If you’re looking for hole-in-the-wall bars, and second-hand shops I recommend taking a stroll along Schanzenstraße. In addition, there are some great restaurants along this street. If you are looking for street art, make sure to check out Rosenhof and Schulterblatt Straße. On a warm sunny day, Schulterblatt is also a nice place to sit for a beer. Make sure to also check out Flora Park right across the street, a skate park covered in graffiti, with a climbing wall near the back. 

Evening:

The plan for tonight is to see the sunset from the terrace of the famous Elbphilharmonie. On your way there, make sure to take a stroll along Jan Fedder Promenade. The promenade offers gorgeous views over the water and there are usually street artists that perform here. This is the perfect way to combine a visit to the iconic walkway with a trip to one of the most beautiful opera buildings I have ever seen. Visiting the Elbphilharmonie is one of the must-see highlights when spending a weekend in Hamburg. 

The Elbphilharmonie is a beautiful opera building overlooking the sea. While concerts here can be very costly, you can visit the building for free! The plaza offers the best view over the harbor and city skyline and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Hamburg. Even though we did not visit the TV tower, I can guarantee you the Elbphilharmonie will offer a better view thanks to its location. 

Pro Tip: You can reserve time slots for a visit here on their website, however, DON’T DO THAT as you will have to pay for the reservation. Simply show up at one of the ticket offices outside and get a free entrance to the terrace. 

If you are a fan of beautiful architecture, you can book a 90-minute tour of the interior and concert halls. Click here to find a tour that suits you. 

The plaza overlooking the city is open from 10:00 am until 00:00 am, so I recommend arriving around sunset for the best experience. 

Day 3 – Sunday (Cozy Activities and Departure)

Morning:

No weekend activity is complete without a Sunday morning brunch! I would recommend finding a spot near the Winterhude neighborhood as the following activities will be in this area. While we visited we had brunch in the cutest vegan cafe, however, it has unfortunately closed down. The good news is that if you are vegan, or just enjoy good vegan food, then another vegan cafe has opened in its place. The new spot is called Café Neo and it looks super cozy!

After you finish your food, consider taking a stroll around Winterhude. It’s such a pretty area in Hamburg, and also where you can find the more luxurious villas located by the canals. 

Early Afternoon:

Before heading back into the city center, you must experience one of the absolute best things to do in Hamburg. I have saved this activity for your last day as it’s the perfect way to relax if the weather is good. If you haven’t guessed already, then I am sending you to rent a paddle boat to explore Alster Lake and the winding canals of Hamburg.

There are a few possibilities for activities on the lake, such as renting kayaks, paddle boards, and paddle boats. Most of these rental places are open from April to early October, however, we found one that opened already in late March when we visited. I recommend renting a boat just north of Alster Lake. This is because the prettiest canals and neighborhoods are in the Winterhude area. If you visit during the summer, make sure to stop at Cafe Canal, offering drive-through coffee for paddlers. 

We rented our boat from Supper Club, which can fit up to 4 people and rates run at around 20€ per hour. Here is a link to their website with prices and rental options. The Supper Club is also a nice place to relax with a drink on a side canal, so consider visiting them even if you don’t want a boat. Renting a paddle boat was my favorite activity in Hamburg so make sure you don’t skip it!

Late Afternoon:

Depending on how much time you have left of your weekend in Hamburg, I recommend finishing your itinerary with one of the options below. 

Harbour Tour:

If exploring the small canals at your own pace is less your style, there are other ways to explore Hamburg from the water. First, there are large tours exploring the outskirts of the city and the larger canals leaving from Landungsbrücken station. The tours operate daily in English at noon from April to October. While I find these boat rides to be a bit too touristy, it is a good option for those looking for English commentary on board. In addition, this tour explores Hafen City and Speicherstadt. 

On the other hand, there are also daily tours of Alster Lake if you want something a little more intimate. The tour company offers many options, including a basic round trip as well as tours throughout Speicherstadt. In addition, there is a tour where the boat goes to the smaller canals around the northern area of the lake. If you are traveling as a large group, I recommend taking this tour as an alternative to renting your own paddle boat. 

For both options, you can expect the adult price to be around 20-25€ and tours to last between 1-2 hours. Here is all of the information for the Harbor tours. If you are interested in the smaller lake tours here is all of the information for those. 

Blankenese:

Unfortunately, I did not have time for this, but if you find yourself with some extra time consider visiting Blankenese. You can easily reach this old fisherman’s village via the water bus. Blankenese is home to the most luxurious villas in the area perched on a small hill overlooking the water. Consider coming out here to roam around this beautiful area. 

Evening:

Depending on how you have planned your weekend trip to Hamburg, spend the evening packing up and heading back home. If you think that the weekend itinerary outlined above is a little too packed, then perhaps consider planning on staying an extra night in Hamburg. This is such a beautiful city that I am sure you will find lots of other cool spots to explore, should you choose to stay longer. 

That concludes my weekend in Hamburg guide! I fell in love with this gorgeous port city when we visited, and have been dreaming of going back ever since. While Hamburg is a popular travel destination in Germany, many travelers forget that you can easily combine it with more spots in Germany to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the country. If you have any questions regarding a trip to Hamburg, then make sure to leave them in the comments below. 

This post was all about a Weekend in Hamburg – the Perfect 3-Day Itinerary.