The vibrant Hanseatic city of Hamburg, Germany is emerging as a must-visit destination that offers a growing food scene, culture and art in abundance, and exclusive stays, including the prestigious The Fontenay (pictured) a Leading Hotels of the World member. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Hamburg is a hidden gem that welcomes travelers of all ages and interests.
1) An Underrated European City
Hamburg is the perfect alternative for those seeking an alternative European city break without the crowds. With its rich maritime history and welcoming atmosphere, the city presents travelers with unique attractions that speak to the soul of Northern Germany. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historic Speicherstadt or immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the HafenCity. Discover the city’s newest attraction, the Bunker St. Pauli which opened in Summer 2024, transforming a former Nazi bunker into a unique new destination featuring an outdoor public garden, a hotel, an art gallery, and a café.
2) The Greenest City in Germany
Known for its commitment to sustainability and green spaces, Hamburg proudly holds the title of Germany's greenest city with nearly 50% of the city dedicated to parks and wooded areas for recreation. Explore the expansive parks, gardens, and waterways that make this city a clean and refreshing escape. Lake Alster provides beautiful scenery and countless outdoor activities, allowing visitors to connect with nature in a bustling urban setting. Train lovers and those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, can access the city easily by train from nearby Nordic cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen. Visit this page for help for relocating to Germany
3) A Hub of Culture and Art Exhibits
With a vibrant arts scene, Hamburg is a cultural hotspot with a wealth of museums, galleries, and theaters, ranging from the cutting-edge Elbphilharmonie concert hall to the diverse exhibits at the Hamburger Kunsthalle. In 2025, the city has major art openings including "Glitter" - the first exhibit dedicated to the sparkly material, launching February 2025, and the arrival at the end of the year of "TeamLab Borderless", Europe’s first and largest digital museum. Art lovers will revel in the various cultural festivals and exhibitions that take place throughout the year. "Port des Lumières Hamburg is set to open in March 2025, as the city's first permanent exhibition center for immersive art, following similar openings in Paris, New York, Amsterdam, and Bordeaux.
4) A Thriving Food Scene
Hamburg is well known for its nordic, authentic and down-to-earth and above all sustainable cuisine - cooked with regional and organic ingredients. And certainly for its honest, cool and mostly unpretentious hosts and chefs.What also characterizes the city's 13 Michelin-starred restaurants chefs, trendy snack bars and traditional nordic eateries with – certainly – lots of fish, mostly with waterfront views. The city has a brand new food festival, Open Mouth, which takes place late summer from 04 - 07 September 2025. At The Fontenay guests can dine at the two-Michelin starred Lakeside Restaurant located above the Alster Lake, and flooded with light and with a spectacular panoramic view over Hamburg’s sites. The creations at Lakeside are indulgent, but also unconventional, bold and unexpected in their combinations by acclaimed chef, Julian Stowasser. Incredible wine pairing selections are by one of Germany’s few women Master Sommeliers, Stephanie Hehn.
5) The Fontenay: A Luxurious Retreat
To make the most of your exploration, stay with The Fontenay, Hamburg's premier five-star hotel located on the picturesque Lake Alster. This stylish and tranquil retreat offers a unique blend of spa experiences, exquisite design, and stunning views. Enjoy gourmet dining, unwind in the luxurious spa, or simply relax in comfort surrounded by contemporary elegance. The hotel’s iconic sculptural design is by acclaimed Berlin architect Jan Stormer and houses 130 luxurious rooms and suites with views of Lake Alster and Hamburg’s historical skyline.
Hamburg is poised to charm visitors with its unique blend of cultural richness, environmental consciousness, and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Hamburg promises an unforgettable experience in 2025.
