Your guide to Hamburg / Things to do if you only have 24/48 hours in Hamburg
Only 24-48 hours in Hamburg
If your visit leaves you with only 24 to 48 hours in Hamburg, it's a good idea to make the most of your time. There is so much to do on every level, it's best to plan your time wisely. From history to culture, architecture to food, all of your favorites are well represented in this city.
Below is just a selection of the many places you could visit with a one- to two-day Hamburg itinerary.
Window Shop at Monckebergstrasse
Monckebergstrasse Shopping Street: Mönckebergstrasse, 20095 Hamburg
While Hamburg has many shopping areas, the largest in the city is Monckebergstrasse. Retail businesses, specialty boutiques and large shopping centers can all be found here, so every item you could ever need will be located near the vicinity of the main station and the Old City neighborhood.
Enjoy a Symphony at the Elphi
Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall: Johannes-Brahms-Platz, 20355 Hamburg
While you're in town, be sure to get tickets to a concert at the Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall. Considered one of the largest concert halls in the world, locals affectionately call it the "Elphi." It is also considered one of the most acoustically advanced of this building style, and it's a must-see when you're in Hamburg for a day or two.
Feel the Beach Vibes at StrandPauli
StandPauli: St. Pauli Hafenstr. 89 · 20359 Hamburg
With a friendly, island feel year-round, StrandPauli relaxes you with Caribbean-inspired palm fronds, wood decks and sand. Paired with shabby, mismatched furnishings and relaxed music, the combination creates the perfect environment for vacation and fun.
Rock out at Kaiserkeller
Kaiserkeller Club opened in 1959 and had a contract with the Beatles to play the venue early on in the group's career. This alternative rock club stays current to this day and offers a mix of music and bands throughout the year. The neighborhood is a fun night out, as it's known as the party mile, and is near to late-night restaurants and bars.
Stroll Through Planten un Blomen Park
Planten un Blomen Park: Klosterwall 8, 20095 Hamburg
Take time out of the itinerary for a peaceful stroll through Planten un Blomen Park. Visit the Mediterranean fig trees or stop at the Japanese teahouse for a quiet moment. Enjoy the herb gardens, manicured gardens and idyllic ponds. Connecting the Outer Alster lake and the Elbe River, this park is near to central Hamburg. Enjoy nature amid the city or grab an ice cream at one of the traveling food carts that frequent the park.
Appreciate the Architecture of Chilehaus
Chilehaus: Fischertwiete 2 · 20095 Hamburg
An example of the architecture of the 1920s, Chilehaus is a large, angular office building that rises 10 stories high. It is located in the Kontorhaus district and was one of the city's first high-rises. Chilehaus was built between 1922 and 1924 by architect Fritz Hoger and is a popular tourist stop, thanks to its unique appearance.
Grab a Bite to Eat at Bruecke 10
Bruecke 10: St. Pauli Landungsbrucken · 20359 Hamburg
In a port city, the best thing to eat is the fresh seafood. Bruecke 10 has elevated the fish sandwich to the best in town. With the freshest product from just downriver, it prepares the fish by hand. Sit by the river and enjoy your lunch before heading off to the next adventure in Hamburg.
Walk the Old Elbe Tunnel
Old Elbe Tunnel: St. Pauli-Landungsbruecken · 20359 Hamburg
The pedestrian and vehicle tunnel crossing beneath the Elbe River and connecting central Hamburg with the docks and shipyards on the south side of the river is the Old Elbe Tunnel. This 426-meter-long walkway features terra cotta moldings spaced along the walls. You can join a tour through the tunnel or stroll through on your own. Enjoy the artwork and a different view of the city from the south side of the tunnel.
Enjoy the Views at Landungsbruecken St. Pauli
Landungsbruecken St. Pauli: Helgoländer Allee, 20459 Hamburg
Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Hamburg are the Landungsbruecken Piers. Views of the Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, the Port of Hamburg and the warehouse district are beautiful. The piers also serve as a major transit hub so traffic is both tourist-driven and a source of local income. Access harbor tours or ferries from the same location.
Sip a Nightcap at Cafe Paris
Cafe Paris: Rathausstrasse 4 · 20095 Hamburg
During your evening in Hamburg, enjoy a drink at Cafe Paris or sit for a meal with your friends. You'll find classic French cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere at any time of day. This modern, contemporary restaurant has a butchery as well as a full menu. Enjoy steak tartare, French croissants, cold cuts and a traditional French menu.
Admire European Art at Kunsthalle
Kunsthalle Hamburg: Glockengießerwall 5, Hamburg, 20095
Kunsthalle Hamburg houses 700 years of European art history, dating from the Middle Ages to current times. This collection is one of few with such a wide range. The permanent collections consist of 14th-century North German paintings, paintings from Flemish, Dutch and Italian artists from the 16th and 17th centuries, 19th-century drawings and paintings from the French and Germans and international contemporary and modern art. Enjoy an afternoon of art appreciation and history before you find the Hamburg nightlife.
Start Your Day with Cafe Unter den Linden
Cafe Unter den Linden: Juliusstr. 16, 22769 Hamburg
Head over to Cafe Unter den Linden for amazing coffee and a lovely continental breakfast platter. Service is always pleasant whether you're in for breakfast or lunch, and the food is equally satisfying. Have a leisurely brunch with friends or read a book over a cup of tea.
Whether you're in Hamburg for work or play, these locations are great for any occasion. Have some of Hamburg's specialty meals, enjoy a concert, peruse a museum or just take a relaxing walk around the city. However you choose to spend your time, you will enjoy the architecture, culture and the people of Hamburg, even if your visit is limited to just 24 or 48 hours.