Visiting Hamburg In Winter

Make no mistake, Hamburg in winter is cold, but this doesn’t mean the city is in hibernation. With plenty to see and do during the coldest months of the year, you’re set to enjoy a fairy tale experience in this magical German city. Find out how to make the most of your stay in Hamburg in winter with our guide.

The Best Things To Do In Hamburg In Winter

Winter brings a special atmosphere to the city, and the best way to enjoy it is to get out there and get busy. Here are our favourite Hamburg winter activities.

Visit the Blankenese Christmas Market

While many of Hamburg’s famous Christmas markets close shortly before or after 25^th December, the Blankenese Christmas Market continues into January. Stroll through the cosy Christmas market in this quaint neighbourhood and enjoy mulled wine, eggnog, sausages, crepes, and other treats. If the kids are with you, treat them to a session on the ice rink and a ride on the historic carousel.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve Hamburg style

Also known as Silvester, New Year’s Eve is night of parties and fireworks. Ring out the old year and welcome the new at one of the many events happening around the city. You’ll find special dinners, gala events, live music and entertainment, club and disco parties, party boats, and much more.

Enjoy an evening walk in the UNESCO World Heritage Speicherstadt District

This famous old warehouse district takes on a unique feel during winter, when ice floes glide past in the river, fog envelops the red brick buildings, and the houses and special buildings are illuminated in the evenings.

Spend time in the Tropical House

Enjoy the surreal experience of wandering among tropical plants in a huge greenhouse on a cold and frosty day in Hamburg in winter. Head to the Planten un Blomen botanical garden, which also features areas dedicated to plants from the tropics, subtropics, deserts, and more.

Cultural Activities to Do In Hamburgh In Winter

Looking for cultural activities to keep you busy in Hamburg in winter? Here are a few to get you started.

Immerse yourself in art at the Kunsthalle

Take a stroll through 800 years of art and see works by the old masters as well as some of contemporary and modern art’s leading lights at the Kunsthalle Hamburg. Refuel with a hot drink in Das Liebermann, the museum’s café.

Watch a performance at Elbphilharmonie

Seeing a show, performance, or concert at the state-of-the-art Elbphilharmonie is undoubtedly one of the best Hamburg winter activities. The prestigious venue has a superb and varied line-up for January and February. While there, head up to the viewing platform for 360-degree views of the city.

Celebrate cinema at the Savoy

The Savoy Cinema at Steindamm 54 is dedicated to presenting films as the filmmakers intended and boasts a programme that includes the latest cinematic highlights, classics from genres such as drama, fantasy, horror, and sci-fi, as well as live theatre broadcasts.

Indoor Activities In Hamburg

Are you looking for indoor activities to do in Hamburg? From museums to art galleries, here is a list of the best indoor activities to do in Hamburg:

Visit Chocoversum by Hachezo

For a unique experience during Hamburg in winter, head to the Chocolate Museum, Chocoversum by Hachez. This 90-minute journey through chocolate-making invites you to sample a range of chocolates while learning about the art of chocolate production. One of the best places to visit in Germany in winter, it’s ideal for families and chocolate lovers alike.

Hamburg’s Art Mile

Immerse yourself in culture along Hamburg’s Art Mile, a must-see during places to visit in Germany in winter for art enthusiasts. The Art Mile features renowned exhibition spaces for contemporary art, classic works, and photography, perfect for those wanting to experience Germany’s rich artistic heritage on a chilly winter day.

Take A Look At The International Maritime Museum

Discover maritime history at Hamburg’s impressive International Maritime Museum, a highlight of Hamburg in winter. With 9 exhibition decks, this is among the best places to visit in Germany in winter. It is recommended to start at the top and work your way down to see the world's largest private collection of maritime treasures. 

Find more fun indoor activities to do in Hamburg here!

Winter Activities For Couples

If you’re travelling to Hamburg in winter with someone special, you’ll love these activities for couples.

Take an evening city lights barge cruise

See the city lights, the illuminated harbour, and other attractions from a unique vantage point. Take an evening city lights barge cruise from the harbour.

Warm up and relax at Holthusenbad

Escape the cold weather by soaking in a thermal bath or enjoying a steam bath, sauna, or aroma bath at Holthusenbad  in the city’s Eppendorf district. This gorgeous facility also has a relaxation area and a winter garden.

Take a craft beer tour of Hamburg

Hamburg has a thriving craft beer scene, and the best way to sample its many offerings is to take a craft beer tour of the city. Walking tours are among the most popular, as they include entrance and tastings at local breweries as well as a wealth of information about Germany’s long tradition of beer brewing.

Activities For Families And Children

Are you holidaying in Hamburg with your family or with children? Make fun-filled memories with these family-friendly Hamburg winter activities.

Go ice skating outdoors

Warm up with one of the best Hamburg winter activities. Head to EisArena Hamburg at Planten Un Blomen, where you’ll find an outdoor ice rink the size of three ice hockey rinks, as well as a restaurant, a café, and live DJs and concerts. Until the beginning of March.

Enjoy an enchanting winter walk

Get up close with the beauty of winter in nature on one or more Hamburg winter walks. There are several popular routes you can follow in and around the city. The best walks are through the Treppenviertel to the Elbstrand, around the Außenalster, through the Stadtpark, in Duvenstedter Brook, and in the Harburg mountains south of the city.

Visit Miniatur Wunderland

Visiting Miniatur Wunderland is one of many families’ and children’s favourite Hamburg winter activities. You’ll be amazed by the amount of detail included in the world’s largest model railway.

Where are the best places to visit in Germany in Winter near Hamburg?

For a winter getaway near Hamburg, Lübeck, Bremen, and the Lüneburg Heath offer excellent options. Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage city, charms with its medieval architecture and famous Christmas market, making it one of the best places to visit in Germany in winter. Bremen is another historic town with a vibrant Christmas atmosphere and cultural landmarks. If you're looking for nature, the Lüneburg Heath transforms into a peaceful, snowy landscape perfect for winter hikes and relaxation. These destinations provide a perfect blend of culture, history, and winter scenery, all within a short distance from Hamburg.

Lübeck

Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrated for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Holstentor gate and charming old town streets. It was once the leading city of the Hanseatic League, and this history is reflected in its impressive Gothic buildings and historical museums. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque old town and the beautiful Lübeck Cathedral. Lübeck is accessible by train from Hamburg or other major cities. The Lübeck Airport offers additional travel options, with bus connections to the city centre.

Bremen

Bremen is a charming Hanseatic city known for its picturesque old town, historic marketplace, and the iconic Bremen Town Musicians statue. Key attractions include the UNESCO-listed Bremen Roland statue and the historic Bremen Cathedral. The city’s vibrant cultural scene and maritime heritage make it a popular destination. Bremen is well-connected by train, with direct services from major cities like Hamburg and Berlin. Bremen Airport also provides convenient connections, with trams and buses linking the airport to the city centre.

Lüneburg Heath

The Lüneburg Heath, or Lüneburger Heide, is renowned for its expansive heathland, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. This region is a paradise for nature lovers, offering scenic hiking trails, cycling routes, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The area is especially beautiful in late summer when the heathland blooms with purple heather. It is accessible from Hamburg by regional trains and buses. Visitors can also reach the heath by car, which allows for exploring the scenic countryside at a relaxed pace.

Make Memories In Hamburg In Winter

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Hamburg in winter, one of the best places to visit in Germany during the colder months. Located near the bustling HafenCity and only a short stroll from landmarks like the Elbphilharmonie and Speicherstadt, Fraser Suites Hamburg offers both elegance and convenience, perfect for exploring the city’s winter charm.

After a day of experiencing Hamburg's Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, or the festive lights at Jungfernstieg, return to the warmth of our luxurious suites. With modern amenities, including kitchenettes, plush bedding, and spacious living areas, you’ll find a true retreat from the winter chill. Whether you're in Hamburg for sightseeing or enjoying one of the many seasonal events, Fraser Suites Hamburg provides the perfect sanctuary.

On-site facilities such as our restaurant, bar, and 24/7 gym offer everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, our meeting rooms and high-speed Wi-Fi ensure seamless productivity if you're combining work and leisure on your visit to Hamburg.

Fraser Suites Hamburg is your ideal base for discovering one of the best places to visit in Germany in winter. Book directly through our website for exclusive offers and the best rates as you embark on your winter getaway in Hamburg.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Hamburg nice at Christmas?

Hamburg in winter is magical, especially at Christmas, with festive markets, twinkling lights, and seasonal events throughout the city. It’s one of the best places to visit in Germany in winter for a charming holiday atmosphere and unique Christmas experiences. 

Is Hamburg cold in winter?

Yes, Hamburg is cold in winter. January, with an average high-temperature of 2.8°C (37°F) and an average low-temperature of -0.4°C (31.3°F), is the city’s coldest month. February is much the same with the average high temperature being a chilly 3.8°C (38.8°F).

Where to go in Hamburg in winter?

There are many places to go in Hamburg in winter. The city boasts a number of galleries and museums, theatres and cinemas, restaurants and cafes, bars and clubs, and an array of seasonal attractions.

Does Hamburg get snow?

Yes, Hamburg occasionally gets snow in winter, creating picturesque scenes across the city’s parks and historic sites. Although snowfall varies, winter weather adds a delightful touch to Hamburg, making it one of the charming places to visit in Germany in winter.