Explore Local Hamburg: A Guide for the Inquisitive Traveler

You probably don’t need to be told that Hamburg has no shortage of cultural, architectural, and artistic attractions. However, once you’ve checked off the marquee spots, it’s time to go local and find out what makes the city—and its people—truly tick. With a little guidance from iBestTravel, plunge in and discover those great experiences that in-the-know Hamburgers would rather keep to themselves.

Eat Like a Local

As befits Hamburg’s cosmopolitan nature, the city’s food spectrum spans a United Nations of tastes and flavors. While locals happily devour ceviche, ramen, poke bowls, and other trendy eats, they’re also fierce fans of native dishes that have stood the test of time.

• The classic Hamburg quick-food fix is the Fischbrötchen (fish sandwich)—a white bread roll stuffed with pickled or brined herring, onion slivers, and remoulade sauce. You’ll find them everywhere, particularly at Brücke 10 down by the port, which serves some of the best in town.
• For those with a sweet tooth, look no further than the Franzbrötchen, a cinnamon-and-sugar-laced croissant-type roll. Home-grown mini-chain Franz & Friends offers an especially mouthwatering selection at several branches around town.
• Carnivores should try Currywurst, a pork sausage drenched in tangy tomato sauce and dusted with curry powder. Savor these plump wieners, for example, at the cult purveyor Imbiss bei Schorsch.

Chill Like a Local

Hamburg is a city shaped by water, but it also boasts a great amount of green space. An entire half-moon-shaped belt of parkland cradles the former western city ramparts from the Inner Alster Lake to the Elbe River. The largest and most beautiful park is Planten un Blomen, where locals enjoy a romantic rose garden, a tea ceremony in the Japanese garden, or a picnic near the Wasserspiele, a colorful fountain show. Beach bars are also popular chill zones.

While StrandPauli in St Pauli and Strandperle in Ovelgönne are well-known spots, locals prefer Entenwerder 1. This charming café on a floating pontoon near a riverside park in Rothenburgsort offers a picturesque setting from breakfast through the evening.

Party Like a Local

Ground zero for serious partying is undoubtedly St Pauli, also known as the ‘Kiez.’ Beyond the flashing neon signs, you’ll find locally adored venues that cater to sophisticated tastes. One prime example is the Skyline Bar 20up, which boasts breathtaking views from the 20th floor of the Empire Riverside Hotel. For something unique, visit the Chug Club, renowned for its creative tequila cocktails.

The vibrant music scene continues at various small clubs like Mojo, Golden Pudel Club, and Molotow. Additionally, immerse yourself in the annual Reeperbahn Festival, celebrated every September.

Shop Like a Local

Hamburg is a fabulous place to shop, offering more than just malls and chains. The main commercial retail strip, Mönckebergstrasse, connects the main train station with the Rathaus (town hall). For a more unique experience, explore neighborhoods like Karolinenviertel, Sternschanze, Ottensen, and St Pauli. Quaint side streets are lined with indie boutiques showcasing up-and-coming designers, sustainable fashion, and vintage clothing.

• On Saturdays, visit the Flohschanze flea market, a treasure trove of preloved items located around a former slaughterhouse.
• For fresh produce and delightful edibles, farmer’s markets are the go-to. The scenic Isemarkt operates every Tuesday and Friday, while the St Pauli Nachtmarkt on Wednesdays features food trucks and live music.

Cheer Like a Local

Many Hamburgers are devoted fans of the city’s football teams, especially FC St Pauli, known for its passionate fan base. The club, competing in Germany’s second division, thrives on its rebel ethos and rich traditions. In the stands, a permanent banner declares, ‘Kein Fussball den Faschisten’ (No Football for Fascists). Each game day, around 24,000 supporters fill the stands at Millerntor-Stadion, enjoying a unique atmosphere.

Regardless of the match schedule, explore this hallowed arena on a guided behind-the-scenes tour, which covers the locker rooms and the history of the venue. Cap off your experience with a visit to the legendary Jolly Roger pub for post-game festivities.