Planning where to stay in Hamburg? This local’s guide reveals the 5 best neighborhoods in Hamburg for 2024, from the historic Altstadt to the trendy HafenCity. As Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg offers diverse accommodation options for every budget and travel style.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Hamburg 🔝
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Atlantic Hamburg
- ✨ 5-Star: Le Méridien Hamburg
- 🏨 4-Star: Holiday Inn Hamburg HafenCity
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hampton By Hilton Hamburg City Center
- 💸 Cheap: Prizeotel Hamburg-City
- 🏢 Apartment: CAB20 Apartment Hotel
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: The Westin Hamburg
- 🏩 For Couples: Fairmont Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten
Whether you’re seeking harbor views in HafenCity, nightlife around the Reeperbahn, or cultural experiences in Sternschanze, each district has its unique charm. Our comprehensive guide covers:
– Best areas for first-time visitors
– Top hotels in each neighborhood
– Local tips on transportation
– Nearby attractions and activities
– Safety considerations
– Price ranges for accommodations
From luxury hotels overlooking the Elbe River to budget-friendly hostels in St. Pauli, we’ll help you find the perfect base for exploring Hamburg’s attractions, restaurants, and vibrant culture.
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Hamburg 📋
- 👀 For the first time: City Center
- 🚢 For harbor views: HafenCity
- 🌈 For LGBTQ+ travelers: St. Georg
- 🍸 For nightlife: St. Pauli & Reeperbahn
- 🎭 For culture and dining: Sternschanze & Karolinenviertel
1. Hamburg City Center: Historic Heart & Perfect for First-Time Visitors 👀
🏙️ City’s core: Hamburg’s city center, comprised of the Altstadt (Old Town) and Neustadt districts, is the perfect place to stay for those looking to explore the heart of the city. This area offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to boutique properties, all within walking distance of major attractions, shopping, and dining.
🔝 Top sights and activities:
- City Hall: A stunning neo-Renaissance building with a clock tower and a viewing platform offering panoramic views of the city.
- St. Nikolai Memorial: A historic church and memorial dedicated to the victims of the Allied bombing during World War II.
- Alster Lakes: A pair of artificial bodies of water that serve as a popular recreational area for locals and visitors alike.
- Hamburg Central Station: A grand train station with a modern design and a shopping mall.
- Miniatur Wunderland: The world’s largest model railway exhibit, featuring miniature replicas of cities like Hamburg, Berlin, and Amsterdam.
Reasons to stay in Hamburg’s city center:
📍 Central location with easy access to public transportation, including Hamburg Central Station.
🏙️ Major attractions: Close to the city popular attractions like Hamburg City Hall, St. Nikolai Memorial, and the Alster Lakes.
🍴 Variety of dining: Wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area.
🛍️ Shopping: Excellent shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques to department stores.
🚶♂️ Explore: Ideal base for exploring the city on foot or by public transport.
Where to Stay in City Center? 🏩
Expensive hotels in Hamburg
- Hotel Atlantic Hamburg, Autograph Collection – luxurious 5-star hotel with spacious rooms and suites with flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms. It features a spa with an indoor pool, a private cinema, restaurants, and a bar, all while overlooking the Außenalster Lake.
- Le Méridien Hamburg – boasting an Art Nouveau design, this 5-star property provides modern rooms and suites, an indoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center. Its prime location near Hamburg Central Station makes it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers.
- The Fontenay – situated on the shores of the Alster Lake, this architectural marvel offers a rooftop spa with an indoor/outdoor pool and stunning city views. The hotel has received the Designhotel des Jahres award for 2023 and 2024, recognizing its exceptional design and high-quality materials.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Hotel Hafen Hamburg – 3-star hotel with comfortable rooms and friendly service at an excellent value. You can enjoy free Wi-Fi and a 24-hour front desk, making it a convenient choice for budget-conscious travelers.
- Prizeotel Hamburg-St.Pauli – with its trendy and modern design, this affordable hotel features compact but well-appointed rooms. Its location puts guests close to the city’s nightlife and attractions.
- Hampton By Hilton Hamburg City Center – reliable 3-star hotel from the Hilton brand provides clean and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. You can take advantage of the central location, friendly staff, and amenities like a fitness center.
2. HafenCity Hamburg: Modern Waterfront District with Harbor Views 🚢
🌉 Waterfront chic: HafenCity, Hamburg’s modern waterfront district, is one of the coolest places to stay in the city. This newly developed area is located along the River Elbe, just south of the city center of Hamburg, and offers a unique blend of contemporary architecture, cultural attractions, and stunning views of the harbor.
🔝 Top sights and activities:
- Elbphilharmonie: A stunning concert hall with a unique glass facade, offering world-class performances and breathtaking views of the harbor.
- International Maritime Museum: A museum dedicated to maritime history, featuring exhibits on ships, navigation, and the history of seafaring.
- Speicherstadt: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district is home to warehouses and other buildings made of red brick and is a popular tourist attraction.
- Miniatur Wunderland: The world’s largest model railway exhibit, featuring miniature replicas of cities like Hamburg, Berlin, and Amsterdam.
Reasons to stay in HafenCity:
🏨 Modern digs: Modern accommodation options with great views of the city and harbor.
🎻 Cultural hub: Close proximity to popular attractions like the Elbphilharmonie concert hall and the International Maritime Museum.
☕ Hip hangouts: Trendy restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area.
🚊 City access: Easy access to the city center via public transportation.
🆕 Contemporary vibe: Perfect place for travelers looking for a more contemporary experience in Hamburg.
Where to Stay in HafenCity? 🏩
Best hotels in HafenCity
- The Westin Hamburg – a 4-star hotel with modern accommodations, floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic city views. It features an indoor pool, a spa, and a fitness center, providing guests with a luxurious and rejuvenating experience.
- Holiday Inn Hamburg HafenCity – a contemporary 4-star hotel situated in the heart of HafenCity, boasting a prime location near attractions and public transportation. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, making it an excellent choice for both business and leisure travelers.
- 25hours Hotel Altes Hafenamt – a unique 4-star hotel housed in a former maritime building, blending historical charm with modern design. It features a rooftop sauna, a restaurant with a terrace, and a lobby bar, providing guests with a memorable and authentic Hamburg experience.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- 25hours Hotel HafenCity – a 3-star hotel with comfortable accommodations and a unique design inspired by the maritime heritage of Hamburg. It features a restaurant, a bar, and a sauna, providing guests with a trendy and affordable stay.
- Pierdrei Hotel HafenCity Hamburg – a 3-star hotel situated in the heart of HafenCity, offering modern and well-appointed rooms with views of the harbor or the city. It features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center, making it an excellent value-for-money option for travelers.
- JUFA Hotel Hamburg HafenCity – a 3-star hotel located in the HafenCity district, providing comfortable and affordable accommodations for families and groups. It offers a restaurant, a bar, and a playground for children, making it a convenient and budget-friendly choice for those visiting Hamburg.
3. St. Georg Hamburg: Vibrant District & LGBTQ+ Hub 🌈
🌈 Inclusive vibe: St. Georg, located just north of Hamburg’s city center, is a diverse neighborhood known for its lively nightlife, excellent dining options, and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere. This place makes it an ideal base for exploring the city, with access to public transportation and many of Hamburg’s top attractions.
🔝 Top sights and activities:
- Traditional Ship Port Sandtorkai: A historic port area where you can find traditional ships and maritime history
- Speicherstadt: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district is home to warehouses and other buildings made of red brick and is a popular tourist attraction.
- Treffpunkt Elbphilharmonieführung Sightseeing Kontor: A meeting point for Elbphilharmonie concert hall tours.
- Viewpoint Elphi: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
- Flood protection bridge at Sandtorkai: A bridge designed to protect the city from floods.
- Magellan Terraces: A terrace area with a view of the city and the harbor.
- HafenCity Aussichtspunkt: A viewpoint in HafenCity offering views of the harbor and the city.
Reasons to stay in St. Georg:
🌍 Central spot: Central location, within walking distance of Hamburg Central Station and the city center.
🏡 Stay options: Diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to boutique hotels.
🍹 Nightlife hub: Vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
🍽️ Culinary delights: Excellent dining options, including international cuisine and local favorites.
🏳️🌈 Welcoming area: LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood with a welcoming atmosphere.
Where to Stay in St. Georg? 🏩
Best hotels in St. Georg
- Reichshof Hotel Hamburg – 4-star hotel located opposite the main train station, combining historical charm with modern amenities. Reopened in 2015, it offers stylish accommodations, three on-site restaurants, and a prime location for both business and leisure travelers.
- Le Méridien Hamburg – 4-star design hotel situated directly on the Alster Lake, boasting spectacular city views. It features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and the Heritage Restaurant & Bar on the 9th floor, serving international cuisine with panoramic vistas.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Stay Boardinghouse – 3-star hotel providing modern and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. It offers a convenient location near the city center and public transportation, making it an excellent value-for-money option for both business and leisure travelers.
- CAB20 Apartment Hotel – 3-star aparthotel offering self-catering accommodations with fully equipped kitchens. It provides a homely atmosphere and a range of amenities, including a fitness center and a sauna, making it a suitable choice for extended stays or families.
- Außenalster Hotel – 3-star hotel located in the heart of Hamburg, overlooking the picturesque Außenalster Lake. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, providing guests with a convenient and affordable stay in a great location.
4. St. Pauli & Reeperbahn: Hamburg’s Famous Entertainment Quarter 💃🏻
🎭 Edgy nightlife: Located west of Hamburg’s city center, St. Pauli is an edgy neighborhood known for its legendary nightlife, alternative culture, and the infamous Reeperbahn, Hamburg’s red light district. This district of Hamburg is perfect for travelers looking to stay in the city’s wild side and immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere.
🔝 Top sights and activities:
- Beatlemania: Visit the Beatles-Platz, a square dedicated to the iconic band who started their career in Hamburg’s clubs
- Theater district: Catch a show at one of St. Pauli’s many theaters, such as the St. Pauli Theater or the Imperial Theater
- Harbor views: Take a stroll along the Elbe River and enjoy the views of Hamburg’s bustling port
- Beer gardens: Relax with a cold brew at one of the neighborhood’s many beer gardens, like the Spielbudenplatz or the Hamburger Berg
- Dom fair: Experience the Hamburger Dom, Northern Germany’s biggest fair, held three times a year in St. Pauli
- Street art: Admire the colorful street art and graffiti that adorn many of St. Pauli’s buildings, reflecting the area’s alternative vibe
Reasons to stay here:
🍻 Lively scene: Vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
🔴 Infamous strip: Home to the famous Reeperbahn, known for its adult entertainment and neon-lit streets.
🛌 Varied stays: Diverse range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to boutique hotels.
🚢 Nearby sights: Close proximity to popular attractions like the Millerntor Stadium.
🚊 Central access: Near to the city center via public transportation.
Where to Stay in St. Pauli & Reeperbahn? 🏩
Best expensive hotels
- NH Collection Hamburg City – modern 4-star hotel located just 300 meters from the CCH Exhibition Center. It offers spacious rooms with hypoallergenic bedding, free high-speed WiFi, and excellent public transport connections. The hotel features a bright breakfast lounge and provides a complimentary ironing service.
- ARCOTEL Onyx Hamburg – stylish 4-star hotel with quiet rooms and chic furniture, free WiFi, and window seats. You can enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast at the on-site Bar Wiener Café, and the hotel’s central location puts popular sights like the Speicherstadt and Port of Hamburg within easy reach.
- east Hotel Hamburg – 4-star Superior design hotel in the heart of the district, offering a large rooftop spa and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi. It features striking design with soothing colors and stylish rooms with king-size beds, laptop safes, and free Sky TV. The hotel also has a restaurant, two lounges, and Yakshi’s bar.
Best cheap/moderate hotels
- IntercityHotel Hamburg Dammtor-Messe – 4-star hotel conveniently located next to the CCH Congress Center and just 600 meters from Dammtor Train Station. It offers air-conditioned rooms with contemporary furnishings, satellite TV, minibars, and private bathrooms. The hotel also features a 24-hour front desk, a bar, and a snack bar.
- St. Joseph Hostel – budget hotel offering basic accommodations with shared or private bathrooms. It features a bar, a terrace, and a common room, making it a suitable choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a social atmosphere.
- EAZZ Accommodation Hamburg – budget-friendly hotel providing simple yet comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. Its convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring the lively nightlife and attractions of the area.
Best Hostels
- Hansehof Hamburg – 3-star hotel situated in the heart of Hamburg, offering modern and comfortable rooms with free WiFi. It features a restaurant, a bar, and a sauna, providing guests with a range of amenities at an affordable price.
- North-Hotel – stylish hotel that offers bright rooms with contemporary decor, free WiFi, and modern bathrooms. The hotel’s prime location puts guests within walking distance of numerous shops, bars, cafés, and restaurants.
- Superbude Hotel Hostel – unique hybrid of a hotel and hostel, offers a range of room types to suit different budgets. A popular choice among young travelers seeking a fun and affordable stay.
5. Sternschanze & Karolinenviertel: Hamburg’s Trendy Cultural District 🎭
🎨 Artsy vibes: Sternschanze and Karolinenviertel, located north of St. Pauli, are two of Hamburg’s trendiest and most bohemian neighborhoods. Known for their alternative culture, street art, and eclectic dining and shopping options, these areas are perfect for travelers looking to experience the city’s creative and unconventional side.
🔝 Top sights and activities:
- Schanzenpark: Relax in the Schanzenpark, a popular green space with a weekly farmers market and outdoor events
- Rote Flora: Visit the Rote Flora, a former theater turned cultural center and symbol of Hamburg’s alternative scene
- Unique shopping: Browse the many independent boutiques, vintage shops, and record stores that line the streets of Sternschanze and Karolinenviertel
- Cozy cafes: Enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the area’s many cozy cafes and restaurants in the area, which often feature organic and locally-sourced ingredients
- Festivals and events: Attend one of the neighborhoods’ many festivals and events, such as the annual Schanzenfest or the weekly Flohschanze flea market
Reasons to stay in Sternschanze & Karolinenviertel:
🌇 Hip hangouts: Trendy, bohemian atmosphere with a vibrant arts and culture scene.
🛍️ Unique shops: Numerous indie boutiques, vintage shops, and art galleries.
🍽️ Diverse dining: Diverse range of dining options, from vegan cafes to international restaurants.
🎡 Top attractions: Close proximity to popular attractions like the Schanzenpark and the Rote Flora.
🚇 Easy access: Near to the city center and other parts of Hamburg via public transportation.
Where to Stay in Sternschanze & Karolinenviertel? 🏩
- Mövenpick Hotel Hamburg is a 4-star hotel offering a unique atmosphere with careful staff and clean, beautiful accommodations. It features a restaurant serving local, international, and European cuisine in a family-friendly, modern, and romantic ambiance, catering to various dietary preferences like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.
- August The Boardinghouse is an excellent accommodation located in the heart of the Sternschanze district. It offers apartments with fully equipped kitchens, dining areas, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms. You can enjoy a garden, a terrace, and a balcony, providing a peaceful retreat.
Best Areas & Hotels in Hamburg on a Map 🗺
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FAQs about Visiting Hamburg ❔
What is the best area to live in Hamburg?
Some of the best residential areas to live in Hamburg include Eppendorf, Winterhude, Hohenfelde, Ottensen and parts of Eimsbüttel – offering a good mix of amenities, green spaces and accessibility.
Where to avoid in Hamburg?
Areas that are generally advised to avoid, especially at night, include parts of St. Georg around the train station, the Reeperbahn in St. Pauli (red light district), and some isolated areas like Veddel and Wilhelmsburg.
What is the famous district in Hamburg?
The most famous district in Hamburg is St. Pauli, known for the iconic Reeperbahn street with its nightlife, bars, clubs and red light establishments.
What is the most beautiful neighborhood in Hamburg?
Some of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Hamburg are the Altstadt (Old Town) with its historic architecture, the modern HafenCity district along the waterfront, and the affluent Blankenese area along the Elbe river.
Where do the rich people live in Hamburg?
The wealthiest areas where rich people tend to live in Hamburg include Blankenese, Nienstedten, Harvestehude, and parts of Eppendorf and Rotherbaum.
