Elbphilharmonie
The Elbphilharmonie is a cultural hub and since its opening on January 11, 2017, The Elbphilharmonie has become the new emblem of Hamburg. It’s located on the eastern tip of the HafenCity and is a striking combination of old and new as it incorporates a historic warehouse (Kaispeicher A) as its base, topped with a modern glass structure. As a testament to modern architecture and cultural ambition the Elbphilharmonie is attracting music lovers and tourists from around the world.
Speicherstadt
This impressive complex of warehouses was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 together with the Kontorhaus district. The Speicherstadt is known for its red-brick Gothic Revival architecture, featuring picturesque gables, turrets, and bridges and is one of the city’s most iconic areas. These exceptional buildings, combined with a network of canals (known as „Fleete“) and bridges that criss-cross the Speicherstadt, give it a unique charm. There are also numerous cafés, restaurants and museums in the immediate vicinity.
Hafen
The harbour of Hamburg, known as the „Gateway to the World,“ is one of the largest and most important seaports in Europe. The harbour of Hamburg is a dynamic and vital component of the city’s identity and economy, playing a pivotal role in international trade and logistics while also serving as a key tourist and cultural destination. The harbour’s history dates back to the 12th century when it was officially founded in 1189 by Emperor Frederick I (Barbarossa), who granted Hamburg the privilege of customs-free trade along the Lower Elbe. Throughout the centuries, the port has been central to Hamburg’s development as a major trade and commercial hub. Harbour tours are a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to see the bustling port operations, historic warehouses of the Speicherstadt, and modern HafenCity from the water. The Landungsbrücken area serves as a starting point for many of these tours.
Landungsbrücken
The Landungsbrücken are Hamburg’s most famous water station. From here you can start one of the numerous harbour tours, eat one of the popular fish sandwiches or just relax with a coffee or ice cream and enjoy the view of Hamburg’s harbour or watch the ships, from small ferries to large cruise liners, as they arrive and depart. Overall, the Landungsbrücken are not only a functional transport hub but also a cultural and historical landmark that captures the maritime spirit of Hamburg.
Bilder: Landungsbrücken Hamburg Hafen – hamburg.de
The Hamburg Town Hall (Rathaus)
The government of Germany’s second largest city meets in this imposing sandstone building in the heart of Hamburg. However, the Hamburg Town Hall is not only an administrative center but also a magnificent historical and architectural landmark that reflects the city’s pride and heritage. But not only the elaborate outer facade of the building is impressive. To gain insights on the inside, you can take part in an exclusive guided tour through the rooms and meeting rooms. The Rathausmarkt (Town Hall Square) in front of the building is a popular gathering place and hosts various events, including Christmas markets and public festivals.
Michel – St. Michael’s Church
St. Michael’s Church, better known as the Michel is one of Hamburg’s most famous landmarks and a significant architectural and historical site. The „Church of the Poor“ has been one of Hamburg’s landmarks for centuries. The original church was completed in 1669, but it has been rebuilt multiple times due to destruction by lightning and fire. The current structure, completed in 1786, is the third incarnation of the church. The Michel is one of the most beautiful baroque churches in northern Germany and impresses with its magnificent interior. An ascent to the top of its tower is worthwhile: from here you have the best view of the harbour, the Elbphilharmonie and the Alster.
Michel Hamburg – St. Michaelis Kirche Hamburg – hamburg.de
What you should have seen – Hamburg’s most beautiful sights (hamburg-travel.com)