Hamburg might not be Germany’s most obvious tourist hotspot, but it has a gritty, creative energy that makes it unforgettable. From second-hand markets to the Elbphilharmonie and unexpected Beatles history, here’s how I spent a few magical days in this vibrant port city.
✈️ Getting Around Hamburg
If you’re flying in, the airport is well connected to the city center. You can easily reach downtown using a combination of the S-Bahn and U-Bahn systems. These are Hamburg’s suburban and metro trains respectively — the S-Bahn tends to run above ground and services outer areas, while the U-Bahn mostly runs underground and covers more central zones. Expect a 30–45 minute ride into town.
💡 Tip: Download the hvv app to buy public transport tickets. A day ticket (~€7) gives you unlimited rides across buses, U-Bahn, and S-Bahn. Single tickets cost around €2.40.
🗓️ Day 1: Bunkers, Views & Turkish Baked Potatoes
🌆 Explore Sternschanze & the Feldstraße Bunker
Kick off your trip in the Sternschanze neighborhood, a graffiti-filled district full of character. Climb to the top of the Feldstraße Bunker — it’s free, though there’s no elevator. Don’t bring food or even empty bottles, or you’ll be asked to leave them outside. The views? Totally worth the hike.
🛍️ Flohmarkt Flohschanze & Vintage Shopping
If it’s a Sunday, stroll through Flohmarkt Flohschanze, a sprawling second-hand market offering everything from antiques to bikes and Pokémon cards. Around here, explore vintage shops like HUMANA, PicknWeight, and 2nd Fit.
🍽️ Foodie Finds
Lunch: Restaurant Variable offers traditional German cuisine with vegetarian and vegan twists in a charming setting (photo).
Dinner: Grab a Kumpir (Turkish stuffed baked potato) from Kumpir König, a local favourite.
Alt Option: Try LOKMAM KOZ, a cozy Turkish restaurant—book ahead, it’s often packed.
🗓️ Day 2: Harbour Sights, Brunch & Miniature Worlds
🕍☕ St. Nikolai Memorial & Brunch
Start your day at the haunting St. Nikolai Memorial, a former church left in ruins after WWII bombings. It’s a sobering but essential piece of Hamburg’s history.
Treat yourself at Nord Coast Coffee Roastery—known for impeccable coffee and a great brunch menu.
🌊 Walk the Harbour
Stroll along the Elbe, grab a fish sandwich at Brücke 10, and soak in the maritime vibes.
⛴️ Boat Tour Tip: Instead of a pricey tour, hop on a public ferry (included in your day ticket!) from Landungsbrücken for scenic water views.
🚶♂️ Cross the Elbe Underground
Visit the Alter Elbtunnel, an old tunnel workers once used to reach the docks. You can walk or bike under the river and feel like a local.
🎶 Elbphilharmonie & Miniatur Wunderland
Elbphilharmonie: You can access the observation platform for free, but reserve your ticket online or grab one at the box office to skip lines.
Miniatur Wunderland: A must-see for all ages. At around €20 per ticket, you’ll easily spend 2–3 hours mesmerized by this massive miniature world packed with delightful details.
🗓️ Day 3: Shopping, Vegan Food & the Beatles’ Secret History
🛍️ Alster, Hanseviertel & Shopping Galore
Take a relaxed walk along the Alsterfontäne and enjoy a coffee at a lakeside terrace. Wander through the elegant Alsterarkaden and pop into the Hanseviertel shopping center — stylish and great for rainy days. Nearby, don’t miss the Zalando outlet, full of great deals.
🌱 Lunch at Greentable Vegan Restaurant
Just a short walk from the Rathaus, this is a hidden gem for plant-based food lovers. Go for multiple small plates and taste everything!
🎸 St. Pauli, Beatles-Platz & Reeperbahn
Wrap up your trip in St. Pauli, Hamburg’s infamous party district. At Beatles-Platz, learn how the Fab Four got their start in the clubs of Reeperbahn.
Did you know the Beatles first performed in Kaiserkeller, opening for Rory Storm and the Hurricanes? That’s how they met Ringo Starr, who’d later leave Rory’s band to join them.
🎵 Tip: Kaiserkeller is still around — stop by and check out the legendary poster outside showing the Beatles as a supporting act.
🍸 Bonus Recommendations
For Drinks:
- Clockers – A stylish speakeasy-like bar perfect for cocktails.
For More Food:
- Haus5 Restaurant – Cozy German food with great veggie options.
- Mili’s Café – Delicious brunch spot.
- Loving Hut – Asian-inspired vegan fare.
- Rabowls – Healthy, colorful bowls.
- Erdapfel Hamburg – Veggie baked potato heaven.
- Vincent Vegan – A top pick for fast-casual vegan comfort food.
Hamburg’s charm lies in its contrasts — industrial harbours meet lush lakesides, street art stands next to war memorials, and humble vintage markets hide gems. Whether you’re here for the culture, food, or just wandering, the city won’t disappoint.
The Secret Street 
Leave a comment