May - September: This time of the year is peak season in Hamburg when temperatures are ideal. The chances of rain are slightly higher than in summer.

October- December: Fall is also a good time to visit but it starts to get chilly so pack accordingly. Tourist crowds begin to thin during this time but surge again during Oktoberfest and Christmas.

January-April: The weather is freezing during this time and tourism is usually at the lowest. You’ll find major discounts on hotels and airfare during this time.

By Foot: This is usually the best way to get around Hamburg as most of the popular attractions are located very close to each other. 

The Bahns: The well-organized public transportation system, which includes the S-Bahn (suburban train), the U-Bahn (city subway), the A-Bahn (a farther-reaching suburban train) and the R-Bahn (a regional train) is convenient and easy to get around. 

Bus: Buses are a very convenient way to get around the city. Zentral Omnibus Bahnhof is the main bus station located right next to the main train station.

Ferry: Hamburg has many rivers, lakes and canals which makes ferries a common and convenient mode of transportation for tourists and travellers.

Taxi and Car: Rent a car or hail a taxi if you’re looking for a private mode of transport but remember they will be on the pricier side. 

• Visit Elbphilharmonie which is Hamburg’s tallest inhabited building at more than 100 metres.
• Explore St. Pauli, the red-light district of Hamburg which is a highlight of the city.
• Discover  Miniatur Wunderland which is a moving miniature world filling a whole warehouse.
• Go on a harbour boat tour to see the harbour and waterside districts.
• Visit the International Maritime Museum and explore the museums’ cache of maritime artefacts.

• Carry plenty of cash because like other cities in Germany, Hamburg has many establishments that do not accept card payments.
• Book your tickets to attractions and tours well in advance to ensure you avoid long queues and don’t miss out on major deals and discounts.
• Most shops are closed on Sunday so remember to stock up on essentials on Saturday.
• Between October and April remember to carry an umbrella or raincoat because the city is prone to rain.
• Explore the suburbs if you’re looking for some serenity away from the hustle and bustle of Hamburg city.

Fischbrötchen: This fish roll is typically made with pickled herring (bismarckhering) or soused herring (matjes), some onion, pickles and remoulade sauce.

Finkenwerder Scholle: This traditional fish dish is named after a district of Hamburg that used to be a fishing village. It is baked or pan-fried with bacon, onions and shrimp from the North Sea.

Labskaus:  This delicious Hamburg specialty is made from corned beef, mashed potatoes and onions, with pickled beetroot, pickled gherkin, herring and fried egg commonly served as sides.

Rote Grütze: This sweet treat is cooked from red summer berries and served with milk, vanilla sauce or ice cream. 

Apfelschorle: This crisp refreshing apple drink is best enjoyed during warmer months

Radler: Made with beer and lemon soda it is a delicious, refreshing drink. 

Weissbier: This is a classic Bavarian wheat ale that is top-fermented known for its mousse-like foam The typical notes include cloves, bananas, smoke, and occasionally even bubble gum.