Top Rated Attractions in Hamburg

Established in 2018 and dedicated to the German rock legend Udo Lindenberg, Panik City was inaugurated by none other than Lindenberg himself. Apart from the several exhibition rooms, visitors can sing their hearts out at the recording studio. Thanks to the interesting artifacts and unique exhibition rooms, Panik City was declared as the winner of the ADAC Tourism Prize in 2019.

Seeing Hamburg from a bigger perspective, the Miniatur Wunderland is one of the most interesting attractions in the city. An elaborate set up of model railways, the Miniatur Wunderland is one of the largest attractions extant in the world. Boasting of global themes from Germany, Austria to America, the replicas of the wonderland are breathtaking, impressive and heartwarming at the same time. Out of the total floor space of 6,800 square meters (73,195 sq ft), the attractions occupy 1,490 square meters (16,038 sq ft). The replicas have been made with impeccable intricacy and detailing, matching exactly the actual attractions. Visitors can experience the nightlife of Las Vegas and the grandeur of Vatican all at the same time thanks to the spectacular replicas and models of Miniatur Wunderland.

The name 'Planten und Blomen' has its origins in the old Hamburg dialect for 'plants and flowers'. With a huge variety of trees, plants, flowers, a Japanese garden and an ice skating rink for winters, the park attracts thousands of visitors throughout the year. One of the major summertime attractions is the water, music and light show. This impressive display takes place on a regular basis attracting a decent crowd of tourists. There is also an adventure playground and numerous other activities to ensure that kids enjoy themselves amidst the scenic beauty that is Planten und Blomen.

Erected in 1897, this impressive Neo-Renaissance town hall is a symbol of Hamburg's wealth and autonomy. The striking turquoise roofs of the imposing edifice have become a defining landmark of Hamburg's skyline. Its magnificent north facade is dominated by a huge tower decorated with bronze statues of past German Emperors. The interior contains some 650 different rooms, of which the Bürgersaal, Kaisersaal and Turmsaal are the most opulent. The fantastic Große Festsaal, with its bronze and marble decor, is still used for celebrations and below the ground, 4,000 oak columns support the building. Hamburg Rathaus continues to operate in an official governmental capacity even today, incorporating the meeting rooms and office of the senate and the mayor respectively.

The Port of Hamburg, situated on River Elbe, is one of the largest ports of Germany. Founded in 1189 by Frederick I, it has been Central Europe’s main port for centuries. Considered Germany’s “Gateway to the World”, this is one of the busiest ports in Europe, with a history that is almost as old as Hamburg itself. The Port of Hamburg is one of Hamburg’s largest attractions, thanks to a variety of museum ships, bars, musical theaters and restaurants dotted across this massive port.

One of Hamburg's major landmarks, the Lutheran church of Saint Michael was originally built in the early 17th Century. It still stands today, though it has seen many reincarnations since the original church was built. The building was destroyed by lightning in 1661, which led to its baroque-inspired reconstruction in 1786. In 1906 the burnt down church was rebuilt and then was heavily damaged in both World War I and II. Constructed in the honor of Archangel Michael, the entrance of the church is ornamented with a spectacular statue depicting Archangel Michael's victory over the Devil. Despite its tumultuous history, the church's tower continues to offer incredible views of the city and still plays host to a 300-year-old tradition, whereby a trumpet player plays a hymn facing north, then south, then east and west.