48 eventful hours in Hamburg with Leonardo Hotels
The City Lovers at the NYX Hotel Hamburg provide their insider tips
Berlin, 3rd February 2025. The Hanseatic City of Hamburg boasts a fascinating diversity. Its historic sights, urban arts, lively food and restaurant scene and popular shopping venues offer every visitor an eclectic and rich experience. The six Leonardo Hotels in Hamburg are the perfect starting point for a weekend trip. Options include the trendy flair of the NYX Hotel Hamburg by Leonardo Hotels and the exclusive surroundings of The Nikolai Hotel Hamburg – Leonardo Limited Edition, which is located in a historic building and exudes stylish elegance.
Day 1 – historical landmarks, maritime charm and pulsating night life
Hamburg’s historic Warehouse District (“Speicherstadt”) has enjoyed UNESCO World Heritage Site status since 2015 and is the ideal first port of call for those seeking to explore the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. Attractions such as Miniatur Wunderland, the Speicherstadt Museum and the Hamburg Dungeon are all embedded within the area’s brick buildings and give captivating insights into the history of the city.
From here we proceed to the landing piers, the heart of the Port of Hamburg. After a walk along the bridges, it is worth exploring the Old Elbe Tunnel. Those reaching the end will be rewarded by panoramic views of the city’s skyline from the Steinwerder vantage point. The Old Elbe Tunnel is a technical masterpiece which dates back to 1911. It was the first structure of its kind anywhere in Europe and represents a nostalgic part of the history of Hamburg.
As evening approaches, round off a delightful day at one of the fish restaurants lining the Elbe. Those keen to sample Hamburg’s night life afterwards will not want to miss out on the iconic Pulverfass Cabaret on the Reeperbahn, which combines entertainment and extravagance and symbolises the cultural diversity of the city.
Day 2 – cultural gems, shopping sprees and modern art
Visitors who are in Hamburg over the weekend should not pass up the opportunity to check out the Altona Fish Market, which takes place on Sundays from 5:00 am to 9:30 am and from 7:00 am in the winter. The market’s hustle and bustle, multifarious stalls and maritime flair make it an unforgettable experience which justifies an early start to the day. A harbour tour or a boat trip on the Alster are both relaxing ways of discovering Hamburg from the water. The impressive Alster Fountain and the greenery of the river banks offer a relaxing environment and great photographic backdrops. Cultural enthusiasts will wish to head for the Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe (Museum of Art and Design), which hosts a dazzling collection of works of art, handicraft items and design objects.
Those more interested in shopping will find plenty to occupy them too. The Jungfernstieg is home to department stores, jewellers and flagship presences of major brands, but small boutiques and trendy concept stores can also be browsed in the Schanzenviertel District in particular. Hamburg’s numerous flea markets are frequently staged on Sundays and thus also provide a special shopping experience at weekends.
An afternoon urban adventure is available in the Hammerbrook District. The OZM Gallery, a centre of graffiti and street art, features an intriguing series of changing exhibitions by international artists. Café Entenwerder1, which offers a golden pavilion, a sophisticated atmosphere and magnificent views of the Elbe, is situated in the immediate vicinity.
First class accommodation for an unforgettable stay
The NYX Hotel Hamburg is more than just a place to spend the night. Its City Lovers, a selected group of employees, are passionate about Hamburg and are on hand to pass on their detailed local knowledge to guests. They regularly come up with exciting ideas for new and exclusive tours and popular spots to visit. Some of their hand-picked tips for a memorable 2-day stay in Hamburg are described here. The hotel itself has 236 rooms, including suites with water views, and amalgamates modern comfort with creative design. Its bar and restaurant serve up innovative drinks and impressive street food fusion cuisine, whilst an outdoor terrace right on the water’s edge provides an inviting setting in which to unwind. Thanks to its location in the dynamic Hammerbrook District, the NYX Hotel Hamburg is the perfect base from which to embark on journeys of discovery. The hotel’s own Clash Bar is a great space to relax at the end of an eventful day. Cool drinks and DJ vibes are part of the mix too.
The Nikolai Hotel Hamburg – Leonardo Limited Edition is aimed at travellers who are seeking out luxury and elegance. It offers an exclusive guest experience in a former typical “Kontorhaus” building right beside the Nikolai Fleet Canal. The hotel combines stylish design with excellent service. Its central location at the very heart of the city means that cultural highlights such as the Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall are easily accessible. Every one of the sleek and individually designed rooms delivers modern comfort at the very highest level. The hotel’s atrium features a retractable glass roof, and other facilities include a bar, a restaurant area and a spa. The Nikolai Hotel Hamburg – Leonardo Limited Edition offers a high-end environment in which guests can unwind in style at the end of a packed day.