Photo of Hamburg

About Hamburg

Dubbed ‘the gateway to the world’ by its own coat of arms, Hamburg is reputedly the wealthiest city in Germany. A booming shipping and media centre, this cosmopolitan metropole has been a melting pot for centuries. Brilliant for business travellers, culture aficionados and late-night partygoers, its amongst the top destinations in the country for a short break. Hip and lively, the best places to stay in Hamburg reflect the character of the city itself — what more could you ask for?

This has to be one of the coolest cities in the world. Beautiful heritage buildings sit side by side with sleek modern constructions, cultural hotspots abound and the food-and-drink scene is off the charts. Explore the old town on foot for a sense of historic Hamburg, with well-preserved red-brick buildings lining the waterways, and towering steeples rising up into blue skies. St Nikolai Church was once the tallest building the world and is well worth visiting (it contains a very moving war memorial, which includes even the most recent conflicts), as are the striking Rathaus and Kunsthalle — complete with an underground passage. Experience innovative architecture whilst catching a show at the stunning Elbphilarmonie, or delve into the city’s past on the imposing ‘museum mile’. But this city is not just about the buildings it's a very green place too. And one of the jewels in its crown is the stunning Lake Alster, which sits right beside the old town. Take a boat trip around its shores and get a great feel for even more of this stunning city, or hire a windsurf, paddle board or boat and take to the waves yourself.

Come evening, amble around the regenerated warehouse district — Speicherstadt (which holds UNESCO World Heritage status) — to pop into trendy bars, boutiques and eateries. This is also the site of some of the best places to stay in Hamburg. Keen shoppers will adore the weekly St Pauli Nachtmarkt, held each Wednesday, whilst late-night partygoers should gather at the popular Fischmarket. For scenic strolls, promenade along the tree-lined banks of the River Elbe, linking this formidable city to the sea and the world beyond.

The Best Places to Stay in Hamburg

For Luxury

  • The Fontenay oozes contemporary glamour, with swish rooms and suites clad in warm golden and soft blue tones. Private balconies boast beautiful views over the trees and Lake Alster beyond. With Michelin-starred dining and a sensational spa, you'll be hard-pressed to leave. Fabulous.
  • Fairmont Vier Jahreszeiten is the perfect choice for those dreaming of timeless grandeur. Set in the heart of the city, this impressive property houses lavish guest rooms with sash windows, upholstered headboards atop big beds and marble bathrooms. The double-Michelin-starred Haerlin restaurant is the highlight of an altogether spoiling stay.
  • Hotel Atlantic promises five-star opulence. A grand dame of a hotel with an imposing white-painted façade and green roof visible from across the water, this palatial property has long welcomed the city's luxury travellers. Expect elegant contemporary and classic guest rooms and suites, along with a sumptuous spa, private cinema and gourmet cuisine. Exceptional.

For a Design Hotel

  • East Hotel, set in a former iron foundry, fuses the best of East and West through understated, thoughtful design and a harmonious palette of red, white and soft greens. Jordan Mozer-designed interiors are superb, Yakshi's Bar is a delight, and the Mandarin Body & Soul spa is ideal for soothing weary travellers. There's a cinema and cool late-night scene, too.
  • SIDE has a well-deserved reputation as one of the livelest spots in the city. Sleek, modern design includes rounded seating areas in cream and orange, plus big red bathtubs. There's an extensive spa for unwinding after lively nights at the bar and restaurant. A favourite for design-minded partygoers.
  • Gastwerk Hotel has been transformed from a red-brick 1896-built industrial construction to a modern, loft-style hotel by design duo Iwan Schwethelm and Sybille von Heyden. Soft lighting creates a warm, cocoon-like atmosphere in rooms with exposed brick walls, steel, polished wood and concrete. A cutting edge ode to this city of contrasts.

For River Views

  • Louis C Jacob Hotel is an elegant property on the banks of the Elbe. Expect classic guest rooms with big beds, cosy armchairs and river views, as well as a fabulous Michelin-starred Jacob's restaurant with glittering chandeliers and a sense of timeless charm. The bar is another highlight.
  • Strandhotel Blankenese, a sleek design-focused hotel, also overlooks the river. Contemporary spaces are decorated in rich purple and terracotta hues, with bold wallpapers and crips white linens. Gather at the riverview terrace for tea and cake throughout the day. A cool spot in a heritage building.
  • The George is a chic, British-inspired hotel on the banks of the Elbe. Interiors have patterned wallpapers, inviting leather chairs and prints of British icons. There's a popular Mediterranean restaurant, a soothing spa and a lovely roof terrace. A quirky choice.
  • Zollenspieker Fährhaus is a stylish riverside spot on the edge of the city. Pick this place for the modern interiors and the sense of space, if you're looking to retreat to quieter climes after a day in Hamburg. The restaurant specialises in fresh seafood and regional dishes, and barge trips can be organised by the friendly team.

For an Old Town Gem

  • Sir Nikolai is a fabulous four-star hotel in Hamburg's charming Altstadt district. Think original artwork, vintage rugs, polished marble bathrooms and quirky design touches in rooms filled with character. A splendid city stay, complete with Japanese-influenced grills at Izakaya restaurant and cracking cocktails served by the fire in the library. Gorgeous.
  • Henri Hotel, the popular brand's first creation, is a stylish old town spot, with spacious rooms featuring bold patterns, retro furniture and modern bathrooms. Gather in the cosy lounge for breakfasts and head out to explore historic Hamburg on foot before unwinding with soothing treatments at the rooftop spa in the late afternoon. Cool yet understated.
  • 25 Hours Altes Hafenamt sits just across the water from the old town, in the regenerated HafenCity district. Rooms have an industrial feel, with high ceilings, and a grey, dusky pink and faded teal colour scheme; shared spaces feel more pared back. Devour delicious Middle Eastern food at Neni, and borrow bicycles to zip around at your own pace.

For Families

  • Hotel Boston HH has long been a favourite of business travellers for its sleek interiors and downtown location. It's also a wonderful choice for familiy holidays, however, with big family rooms and two-bedroom apartments for those seeking their own kitchen and living areas. Pick this place for the modern feel and appealingly central setting.
  • Hotel Volksschule is a converted red-brick school building near the city centre. Modern rooms boast big windows, modern bathrooms and a pared-back charcoal and red palette. Twin rooms are ideal for kids, as are big buffet breakfasts and bicycles. Kayaking on the canals will delight families with older children.
  • Landhaus Flottbeck, in Hamburg's serene western suburbs, is a great choice for families. Interiors range from cosy cottage style to sleek Scandi-inspired design, and there's a great gourmet restaurant and bar onsite. Borrow bicycles to zip around town as a family, or enjoy exploring the many nearby parks. Elegant and relaxed, yet also pet and child-friendly.

For Great Value

  • Hadley's B&B has individually decorated rooms with parquet flooring, modern art and quirky touches. The best spaces feature mezzanines and reading nooks. Shared bathrooms keep rates appealingly affordable, and this is a good choice for groups of friends, families or sociable solo travellers. Expect hearty breakfasts at the cafe.
  • 25 Hours Hafencity, housed in a former shipping yard, has an industrial, maritime theme. Expect clean lines, lots of polished wood and elements of the old shipyard incorporated into communal spaces. Bunk rooms are very affordable, and guests can congregate in the relaxed living areas, meeting rooms, restaurant, bar and sauna. Hip yet unpretentious.
  • Fritz im Pyjama is a small boutique hotel in central Hamburg. Airy rooms feature bold wallpapers behind cosy beds, and big sash windows welcoming lots of light. The atmospheric lounge is ideal for drinks before wandering out to the restaurants and bars of lively Schanze. A well-priced little hotel.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Hamburg-Fuhlsbüttel Airport, and hop aboad a bus, train or taxi to the heart of the city. For those arriving by rail, Hamburg has five major train stations — Hauptbahnhof (central station), Altona, Dammtor, Harburg, Bergedorf — and great connections across Europe.
  • The city is well-connected by public transport, but the wider region is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car and explore beyond the boundaries of the town.
  • Visit during the summer months, with temperatures averaging around 23°C between May and early September. You'll find fewer crowds and great hotel deals outside the school holidays in spring and autumn.

STILL NOT SURE?

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Best Hotels in Hamburg

  • Hadley's B&B Hamburg 3 rooms from £67

    Local exploring  -  A homely base, well located next to the underground giving one easy access to the city.
    Great walks  -  Wander through the nearby Sternschanzenpark and admire the pretty Water Tower.
    Full of character
    Boutique

    A boutique BnB well located for accessing Hamburg. Individually styled rooms all feature parquet flooring, modern art and sitting rooms, but note, shared bathrooms. The best have a small wooden staircase leading to a mezzanine sleeping space. The cafe serves an indulgent breakfast. A homely stay. See More

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  • 25 Hours Hafencity Hamburg 170 rooms from £98

    City Style
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Sights nearby  -  Well located for major sights.
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A high design boutique hotel in a former shipping yard. Maritime themes dominate the bedrooms and living areas with designer shipyard debris. Cosy living and meeting areas, a good restaurant, bar and sauna. Hip, but not over the top. See More

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  • Fritz im Pyjama Hamburg 17 rooms from £112

    City Style  -  A chic boutique hotel in the popular Schanze area, with bright airy rooms boasting parquet floors and bold wallpaper.
    Boutique
    Pet friendlyParking

    A small boutique hotel in central Hamburg. Chic rooms with lively wallpaper, large sash windows, crisps linen and wondrously contemporary bathrooms. A vibrant spot with an atmospheric lounge ideal for unwinding with a drink, within walking distance to Hamburg's shopping and nightlife area. Fabulous. See More

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  • Zollenspieker Fährhaus Hamburg 61 rooms from £114

    Local exploring  -  Explore Hamburg town, or ask the hotel to organise barge trips up towards the stunning Zollenspieker Nature Reserve.
    Sights nearby  -  Anyone with an interest in history should visit Reinbek Castle, eight miles away.
    Great walks  -  Make the most of the beautiful walking through the Zollenspieker Nature Reserve.
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    SpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    A stylish riverside hotel on the outskirts of Hamburg. The modern rooms are chic and spacious with views out over the river Elbe. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious fish specialities as well as regional delicacies. A calm, quiet place to retreat to after a day in the metropolitan Hamburg. See More

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  • Landhaus Flottbeck Hamburg 26 rooms from £116

    Total relaxation  -  This serene boutique hotel features luxurious rooms, a cosy restaurant, and a tranquil garden, ensuring a peaceful retreat
    Other Activities  -  Discover the charming Elbe River on a traditional barge cruise, offering picturesque views of Hamburg's scenic waterfront
    Local exploring  -  Enjoy a day trip to the historic Gross Flottbek district, rich in Scandinavian heritage and charming local architecture
    Cycling  -  Take advantage of the hotel's complimentary bike rentals to explore nearby trails and the beautiful German countryside
    RestaurantPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    An elegant and grown-up hotel in Hamburg's serene western suburbs featuring rooms ranging from cosy cottage to sleek Scandinavian designs. Guests can make the most of the facilities with its gourmet restaurant and vibey bar. Perfect for a tranquil retreat with easy access to city adventures. See More

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  • Gastwerk Hotel Hamburg 141 rooms from £116

    City Style  -  A trendy design hotel in a converted gasworks, boasting exposed brick and high design furniture.
    Local markets  -  Get up early and visit the Hamburg Fish Market, well worth the early rise.
    Sights nearby  -  Admire the St. Micheaelis, a landmark of the city.
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Frommers, Michelin Travel, Tablet, Design Hotels

    Pure design in the midst of impressive architecture. Bare brick walls, sloping beams, floor to ceiling windows, and ochre tones give it a trendy loft-style character to this former gasworks. Even the restaurant, conference rooms and spa maintain sleek design. Impressive city style from head to toe. See More

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  • SIDE Hamburg 178 rooms from £125

    Bar  -  Top night spot.
    City Style
    Foodies
    Restaurant  -  (m)eatery restaurant serves steaks from Argentina, USA and Europe.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, CN Traveller

    One of the more lively spots in Hamburg. Cool contemporary design, popular restaurant and bar, extensive spa. Spacious rooms and suites with lots of natural light and all the modern gadgetry. A young persons spot with lots of nightlife. See More

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  • The George, Hamburg Hamburg 125 rooms from £134

    Views  -  Stunning views over the Elbe.
    City Style
    Roof terrace
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    A very chic English themed hotel on the banks of the Elbe with spectacular river views. Interiors have patterned wallpapers, shabby chic leather chairs, English icons in print. Contemporary rooms and suites have private balconies and all the mod cons. Excellent restaurant, bar and spa too. See More

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  • Henri Hotel Hamburg 65 rooms from £134

    City Style  -  Offering stylish rooms and suites in a very central location.
    Local exploring  -  Ideally placed to explore the city by foot.
    Spa
    Air conditioningSpaParkingNo pets

    A stylish hotel in the centre of Hamburg and the original in the HENRI collection. Spacious rooms feature bold patterns, retro furniture and contemporary bathrooms. A cosy lounge and kitchen serves breakfast, snacks and drinks and there's a rooftop spa too. Ideally located to explore the city. See More

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  • Hotel Volksschule Hamburg 100 rooms from £135

    Local exploring  -  Well located just a three minute walk from the underground and 4km from the city centre.
    Kayaking  -  Kayak through the canal networks, a great way to explore the city in an eco friendly fashion.
    Sailing  -  Take a boat cruise from the harbour, to check out the fish market and view the city scape.
    Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to the St. Michael’s Church and admire the view from the top.
    ParkingNo pets

    A converted school situated close to the city centre. Contemporary design throughout; rooms boast warehouse-style windows, modern art and exposed brickwork. A lively bar is the ideal spot for an evening drink. Great transport links for city exploring. A trendy urban choice. See More

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  • 25 Hours Altes Hafenamt Hamburg 49 rooms from £135

    Short break  -  Located less than 7 miles from Hamburg airport, ideal for weekend trips away
    Local exploring  -  25 Hours Altes Hafenamt is the ideal base from which to get to know Hamburg
    Great walks  -  Wander along Jungfernstieg boulevard or simply meander around the city's streets soaking in its atmosphere
    Sights nearby  -  Spend a day at the Heide Park amusement park or check out the Miniatur Wonderuland
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    25 Hours Altes Hafenamt is located in Hamburg's HafenCity district. This newly renovated spot offers boutique, individually decorated rooms and stylish common areas mixing exposed brick walls with plush furnishings. Splendid Middle Eastern food served up at the Neni restaurant. A superb city stay! See More

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  • Louis C Jacob Hotel Hamburg 85 rooms from £137

    Foodies  -  Michelin starred Jacob's restaurant.
    Views  -  Wonderful views over the Elbe River
    Sights nearby  -  Kultursalon CARLS at the Elbe Philharmonic Hall.
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    RestaurantPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, CN Traveller

    A haven of old world charm for food lovers. The hotel oozes the tradition and character of Hamburg throughout its Michelin restaurant and bar of vintage classics. Contemporary rooms and suites have lots of natural light, parquet floors and classic furniture. A real gem. See More

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  • Strandhotel Blankenese Hamburg (Blankenese) 15 rooms from £139

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located, right on the banks of the Elbe, perfect for accessing the city
    Great walks  -  Stroll through Blankeneseer Treppenviertel and admire the lines of Art Nouveau palace and former fisherman's houses
    Boutique
    Full of character
    Pet friendlyParking

    An owner-managed design hotel boasting an excellent central location in historic Hamburg. Spacious rooms are contemporary and elegant with rich hues, sink-into beds, chandeliers and boldly patterned wallpaper. An ambient lounge serves tea and cake throughout the day and there's a river view terrace. See More

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  • Hotel Boston HH Hamburg 46 rooms from £143

    City Style  -  Right in the heart of Hamburg, perfect for exploring the local sights
    Sights nearby  -  Only a few minutes from the Theatre Neue Flora and Holsten brewery
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantPet friendlyParking
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    Located in downtown Hamburg yet just five minutes from the beach, this is the perfect spot for a bit of city exploration. Sleek and contemporary, with open-plan bathrooms, Hotel Boston is popular for both business or pleasure. Be sure to try out the fully equipped gym and its spa. See More

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  • Sir Nikolai Hamburg 94 rooms from £143

    City Style  -  Sitting on Hamburg’s Nikolaifleet waterfront Sir Nikolai is a creatively curated show of vintage furnishings and modern art
    Foodies  -  Fantastic Japanese-influenced grills in Izakaya restaurant, with stylsh design features such as a retractable glass ceiling
    Great walks  -  Wander around the innovative HafenCity district or walk along the Hungfernstieg boulevard
    Sights nearby  -  Go visit Miniatur Wonderland or Hamburg Dungeon
    SpaRestaurantNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Design Hotels, Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

    The 4* Sir Nikolai is centrally located in Hamburg's Altstadt district. The vibrant interiors boast original artworks, vintage rugs and polished marble. Boutique rooms with quirky furnishings. Relax with a cocktail in the library by the fireplace! A splendid city stay. See More

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  • Hotel Atlantic Hamburg 245 rooms from £149

    Wellbeing
    5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.
    Spa breaks
    Foodies
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParking

    Five Star opulence worthy of its appearance in one of James Bond's adventures. Grand Hotel on the waterfront. Palatial in size and atmosphere. Rooms and suites, contemporary and some more traditionally elegant, with all the modern gadgetry. Restaurants, huge spa, bar etc. For the luxury traveller. See More

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  • East Hotel Hamburg 127 rooms from £172

    City Style  -  A hip hotel in the heart of Hamburg's St. Pauli district.
    Sights nearby  -  Walk down to the harbour and visit St. Michael's Church.
    Sailing  -  Take a boat tour of Hamburg's harbour.
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Frommers, Kiwi Collection, Michelin Travel, Design Hotels

    A trendy design hotel championing East and West. Fantastic facilities include a cinema, spa, and a lively nightlife spot. Everything from the restaurant to the rooms oozes modern eclecticism. An ultra stylish city spot. See More

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  • Hotel Wedina Hamburg 60 rooms from £195

    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy a romantic retreat with a cosy room in a colour-themed house, breakfast from a local baker, and the scenic garden
    Writing a novel  -  Immerse yourself in literary inspiration with rooms themed around over 300 contemporary writers and a house library
    Cycling  -  Rent a bicycle from the hotel and enjoy a scenic ride around the serene Outer Alster Lake
    Great walks  -  Stroll through the lush Planten un Blomen park, featuring beautiful botanical gardens
    GardenPet friendlyParking

    This distinctive 4-star hotel in Hamburg's St. Georg district is a haven for literature lovers. With rooms themed around red, blue, green, and yellow, each with unique literary decor, the ambience is charming and cultured. Guests can expect a fresh breakfast buffet, and a cosy house library. See More

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  • Fairmont Vier Jahreszeiten Hamburg 156 rooms from £210

    Local exploring  -  Boasting a perfectly central location; ideal for exploring the city by foot.
    City Style  -  Grand and historical, a slice of luxury in the city centre.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Rathaus, a splendid town hall dating back to 1897.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantParkingNo pets

    A grand and luxurious property set in the heart of the city. Spacious rooms have a light contemporary colour palate and feature sash windows and indulgent bathrooms. Offering a number of restaurants including the double-Michelin-starred Haerlin. A historic property and spoiling stay. See More

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  • The Fontenay Hamburg (Rothenbaum) 130 rooms from £278

    Foodies  -  Foodies will love the exceptional two Michelin starred Lakeside restaurant with its sensational food and epic views
    Local exploring  -  Beautifully located overlooking Lake Alster, yet just a short 15 minute stroll from the historic centre of Hamburg
    Spa breaks  -  The Fontenay Spa is made for relaxation with sauna, treatment rooms, indoor/outdoor pool and roof terrace solarium
    Views  -  Many of the rooms have balconies with superb views over Lake Alster
    SpaRestaurantViewsParking

    A stunning contemporary hotel overlooking Lake Alster. Architecturally beautiful exteriors and interiors set the scene at this luxury property with its subtle colour schemes, and stunning views from private balconies. Michelin starred dining and a top notch spa complete the picture. Superb! See More

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