Attractions
Sights in Hamburg
Highlights around the SIDE Design Hotel
From the banks of the Alster to the modern HafenCity district with its brick buildings and the bustling city centre with its famous sights, Hamburg has many highlights to offer. From the SIDE Design Hotel, you are right in the heart of the action, close to the most iconic attractions, yet still able to enjoy some peace and quiet after an intense day. It's the perfect place to discover the city at your own pace. We will show you the most beautiful sights to see during your visit to Hamburg.
Hamburg's most famous attractions
1. Elbphilharmonie – where music meets harbour views
Standing in front of the Elbphilharmonie, it's easy to see why it has become a landmark. The wave-like roof reflects the water and the glass facade captures the sky. On the plaza, you can hear a soft murmur of harbour sounds and city noises. This is especially true in the early evening, when the lights come on and the water turns darker, and the place reveals its own tranquillity. As well as concerts, it is also definitely worth taking a guided tour here.
2. Speicherstadt – Hamburg's impressive brick ensemble
Walking through Speicherstadt, you will experience a unique European quarter with long rows of historic warehouses and narrow waterways with bridges that offer a quick change of perspective. Despite its size, the quarter seems surprisingly quiet, and the silence between the tall facades is particularly striking. The appearance of the buildings changes depending on the time of day: soft light in the morning, clear edges at midday and windows reflected in the water in the evening. A visit is particularly worthwhile if you plan to visit the Miniatur Wunderland too – the world's largest model railway has many surprises in store for visitors of all ages.
3. Harbour & Landungsbrücken – fish rolls and boat tours
At the Landungsbrücken, Hamburg presents itself as many imagine it: large ships, seagulls screeching and water splashing. It is a place of constant movement, yet there are also moments when you can simply lean on the railing and observe the hustle and bustle. The scale of the harbour is best appreciated on a tour – container bridges, shipyards, jetties and narrow access roads. After a harbour tour, treat yourself to a fish sandwich or enjoy the sunset.
4. Reeperbahn & St. Pauli – nightlife and quaint pubs
St. Pauli is much more than just the Reeperbahn, which is famous for its nightlife and glamorous atmosphere. Small theatres and music clubs nestle between simple bars and long-established pubs. Many streets seem unremarkable during the day, but come to life in the evening. Visitors experience Hamburg's creative yet edgy side here – and usually have one more anecdote to tell the next morning.
5. Alster & Park – Hamburgs Natur- und Ruheorte
Around the Alster, the city seems more open. Wide paths, lush greenery and the waterfront offer an immediate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Joggers run their laps, families relax on the shore and benches have been deliberately placed in many locations to offer good views. No less central is Hamburg's most popular park: Planten un Blomen offers water features, greenhouses, and quiet corners, as well as sound walks and cultural events in the teahouse or in the park.
6. Jungfernstieg & City Hall – Architecture, shopping and water views
Jungfernstieg is one of those places where Hamburg's elegance is palpable. Its wide promenades and white arcades offer a direct view of the Binnenalster, making it an ideal place to take a short break between sightseeing tours. Just behind the water is Hamburg City Hall, one of the city's most impressive buildings. The inner courtyard is open to the public and well worth a visit. There are also plenty of passages and small side streets nearby, where you will find boutiques, cafés and access to the Alsterarkade. If you like architecture and urban flair, this is the place for you.
7. Kunsthalle, Kunstmeile & Maritime Museum – culture in many forms
The Hamburger Kunsthalle is one of Germany's most important museums, offering a blend of classical, modern and contemporary art. Several of the 'Kunstmeile' (art mile) museums are within walking distance, including the Bucerius Kunst Forum, the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe and the Deichtorhallen Hamburg in the city centre. Fans of shipping will be in their element at the International Maritime Museum in the Speicherstadt district. Here, you can see ship models, old nautical charts and uniforms dating back over 3,000 years. A ship handling simulator adds to the fun.
Activities in Hamburg
Whether you're looking for indoor fun, outdoor adventures, restaurants or shopping tips, we can show you the best activities in Hamburg to round off your day perfectly.
Central location of the SIDE Design Hotel – the city within walking distance
Many of Hamburg's city centre attractions are within walking distance of the SIDE Design Hotel. The Alster is only a few minutes away, as are Jungfernstieg and the Kunstmeile with its arcades and water views. The underground takes you directly to the Elbphilharmonie, Hamburg's main railway station or HafenCity in just a few stops. Hamburg Dammtor railway station is only an 8-minute walk away. This leaves you plenty of time to explore the city at your leisure.