Top Rated Attractions in Hamburg

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.

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.

Covering an area of 148 hectares (365 acres), the Stadtpark - or City Park - is the city's second-biggest park and a magnet for joggers, cyclists and sunbathers during warm summers. The lake here is a great place for a swim (temperature permitting), while sports enthusiasts may find themselves being asked to join in a game of football with the locals. The southern part of the park contains a garden for the blind, while a fantastic Planetarium is located in the north-western section. On balmy summer nights films and concerts - often featuring the biggest names in the music industry - take place on the open-air stage that is the City Park Freilichtbühne; an experience not to be missed by visitors touring Hamburg in the summer.

Spread across 50 hectares (123.55 acres), Wildpark Schwarze Berge opened its doors in 1969 and ever since has been a popular haunt among families and animal lovers alike. This wildlife park enclosed by Harburg Mountains is the habitat of over a 100 species and thousand animals from across Europe. These include wild and domesticated animals as well. Explore the parkland on a train or check out the enclosures of the wildcat, brown bear, European wolf and lynx. Interact with the animals at the petting enclosures or feed animals. Don't miss the air show to get a glimpse of majestic bird taking flight or have some fun at the adventure playground. Or check out the talented craftsmen at the Kunsthandwerkerhalle and buy some unique craft items. You can also picnic or camp within the wild park. Feeling famished with all this activity? Then head to the on-site restaurant for a much needed, replenishing meal.