Constantly travelling for work and living out of a suitcase can be gruelling stuff, it’s certainly not as glamorous as some people may think and a lot of the time, you find yourself craving your own bed and the simple things like a home cooked dinner with all of your loved ones.
My husband and I travel a LOT for work and although at times it can be exhausting, we perk ourselves back up by reminding each other it’s a privilege to be in the position we’re in and it’s not something to take for granted (which is very easy to do when you're jetlagged and missing home!). Before I met my husband, he’d spent nearly two decades travelling the world for work and to some fascinating places too. But all these years later, he admits he rarely got to see any of it because he was always in and out in the blink of an eye and never in a position to steal a day to himself before catching the next flight home.
These days we make a concerted effort to see cities rather than just pass through them, even if it’s just a few hours in the afternoon before our evening flight. With a bit of pre-research, some local recommendations and a strong coffee (to keep the energy levels healthy) it’s actually quite amazing how much you can squeeze in!
Here’s how we got to know Hamburg in 24 hours in the warmer months…
1. SHOPPING – inner city
If it’s shopping you want to do, don’t be tempted to go to the usual malls and large retailers, especially if you’re in Hamburg on a sunny day! Behind Alsterhaus (one of the major department stores) is a little area exploding with character and charm plus the streets are lined with everything you can think of from high end designer stores to local boutiques. It’s definitely a far more enriching experience and everything is so close together you don’t need to walk for miles.
2. GHOSTS & WAREHOUSES - Hamburg Speicherstadt
A short stroll from the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is not only the first district in Hamburg, but also the largest warehouse district in the world where the buildings stand on timber-pile foundations. Built from 1883 – 1927 Speicherstadt is draped in history and magnificent to the eye. Originally constructed as a free zone to transfer goods without paying customs, the buildings are now used as warehouses and there’s even fun ghost tours for the kids.
3. COFFEE & WAFFLE at Speicherstadt Kaffeerösterei
Once you’ve walked up and down the old docks of Speicherstadt, you’ll probably be ready to rest the legs and enjoy some refreshments… this place is the perfect spot! The coffee is tasty and roasted on site (you can watch them working away from your table) and the waffles… oh the waffles!!! Don’t miss the opportunity to have a classic freshly baked German waffle, without a doubt it’s the best waffle I’ve ever had in my life!
4. THE SYMBOL OF HAMBURG – St. Michaels Church
There’s always something majestic about stepping into a grand church and St Michael’s of Hamburg is no exception. As the most famous church in the city, St Michael’s is a landmark of Hamburg and considered to be one of the finest baroque-style ecclesiastical buildings in Germany. If you’re in the mood to climb 453 steps to the top of the bell tower, you can also take in some breathtaking panoramic views across Hamburg & the harbour.
5. FERRY FABULOUS – Hamburg Landungsbrücken/ St. Pauli Piers
This was way more fun than we thought it would be – we loved it. It definitely beats taking a taxi or train because you can take in so much more of the city as you cruise along the water and it provides a totally different perspective of Hamburg. Of course in the colder months you may want to assess just how brave you are to being enjoy the scenery from the outside decks though.
6. THE HOME OF FISCHBROTCHEN - Nuggi's Elbkat, Anleger Neumühlen
A Fischbrötchen is basically a non-glamourous fish sandwich which tastes a lot better than it looks - they are a culinary megatrend in Germany! The classic is a combination of fresh herring or smoked salmon served on a fresh bread roll with a few basic accompaniments like onions, pickles, remoulade and sauce. This little stall (which is an easy hop on the ferry) claims to be the home of the fischbrotchen and has a reputation about Hamburg for being one of the best in the whole city. I just loved that you would never have guessed as much by looking at it… it’s one of those hidden gems celebrated by locals and 'people in the know' making it a special little cultural experience away from the usual tourist tracks.
7. BEACH AND BEERS - Blankenese
Blankenese is one of the most picturesque areas of Hamburg. This old fishing village on the Elbe lies in a valley between two ridges which run straight down to the river. Charming homes run up and down the ridges and little city beaches run along the waters edge. On pretty weekends (especially in the warmer months) the winding streets are buzzing with locals enjoying the local restaurants and relaxed, beachy vibe.
8. DOCKSIDE DINING – Coast By East
This beautifully decked out restaurant is a Hamburg hotspot and for good reason. The vibe is cool, the cocktails delicious and the food lives up to your expectation. Despite serving an extensive Asian fusion menu of meats, seafood and vegie options, it was the sushi dishes that I couldn't; get enough of.
Happy travelling!
Sx