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Hamburg Travel Resources

Hamburg Travel Resources

Hamburg Germany Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • HVV App

    The official app for Hamburg's public transport system. It comprises real-time schedules, route planning, delay notifications, and mobile ticket purchasing. A must-have for getting around.

  • Google Maps Or apple maps

    For general navigation, finding points of interest, and identifying nearby amenities. Download offline maps for use without an internet connection.

  • DeepL/Google Translate

    For language assistance. These apps translate menus, signs, and aid basic conversations.

  • Booking.com/Airbnb

    For dealing with accommodation reservations and locating last-minute lodging.

  • HappyCow

    For specific dietary needs (e.g., vegan/vegetarian), this app locates suitable restaurants.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

  • Hamburg-tourism.de

    The official tourism authority website for Hamburg. It has broad information on attractions, events, accommodation, and urban excursions.

  • Hvv.de

    The authorized site for Hamburg's public transport system, with detailed information on routes, fares, and access.

  • Elbphilharmonie.de

    The official online portal for the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, for concert schedules, ticket information, and Plaza visit details.

  • Miniatur-wunderland.de

    The authorized site for Miniatur Wunderland, for booking tickets and checking operating hours.

  • Bahn.de / flixbus.com

    The official website for Db (German railways), for train travel within Germany and Europe. Flixbus.com is for long-distance bus travel.

Social Media and Digital Content

Social Media Accounts to Follow

Follow official Hamburg tourism channels on platforms like Instagram and Facebook for visual inspiration, event updates, and travel tips. Search for local cultural institutions and event organizers.

Podcasts and Digital Content

Search for podcasts about German culture, travel experiences in Hamburg, or specific historical aspects of the city. Many travel bloggers and vloggers also make content about Hamburg.

Further Reading & Exploration

Deepen your connection with Hamburg before, during, or following your trip.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks and Maps

  • Look for guidebooks from reputable publishers like Lp, A Popular series of travel guidebooks, or A Well-known american travel writer and tv host (if found for Hamburg/Northern Germany). These often have comprehensive maps, itineraries, and practical advice.
  • Obtain free city maps from tourist information centers, hotels, or the airport upon arrival. These aid quick orientation.

Books About the Destination History, Culture, Fiction

  • "Hamburg: A History" by Michael North: A broad overview of the city's past.
  • Fiction: Look for crime novels or contemporary fiction set in Hamburg for a different view of the city'its vibe and local life.
  • Cultural Books: Books on Hanseatic history or North German traditions enrich your understanding of Hamburg's unique identity.

Local Publications

Hamburg Magazin

  • Often online and in print.
  • Covers local events.
  • Dining and heritage highlights.

Local Newspapers

  • Newspapers like "Hamburger Abendblatt".
  • Current news.
  • Event listings.

Tourist Information Brochures

  • Free at information centers.
  • Detailed city insights.
  • Attraction guides.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers and Contacts

Police

  • 110
  • For immediate police assistance.

Fire/Ambulance

  • 112
  • For medical emergencies.
  • For fire services.

Non-Emergency Medical On-Call Service

  • 116117 (Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst)
  • For medical advice or a doctor's visit outside regular office hours.
  • When it is not a life-threatening emergency.

Hospital and Clinic Locations

Major Hospitals

  • Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE): A large academic medical center.
  • Asklepios Klinik Barmbek: Another prominent hospital.
  • Albertinen Krankenhaus: A well-regarded hospital.

Less Severe Issues

  • For more affordable severe issues, local pharmacies (Apotheken) can offer advice.
  • They also stock over-the-counter remedies.
  • Hamburg has high-quality hospitals.

Embassy and Consulate Information

US Consulate General in Hamburg

  • If you are an US citizen, this is your main point of details for contacting embassy services.

Other Countries

  • Most other countries' embassies are in Berlin.
  • Check if your country has a consulate in Hamburg, or take note of the contact details for your embassy in Berlin.
  • Keep these numbers handy.

Lost Document Procedures

Steps to Take

  1. File a Police Report: Report the loss or theft to the local police (110 for non-emergency reporting, or visit a police station). Obtain a copy of the report.
  2. Get In Touch with your embassy or consulate: Immediately reach out to your country's's embassy or consulate. They will guide you through the process of obtaining an emergency travel document or a new passport.
  3. Notify Travel Providers: Inform your airline, hotel, and travel insurance company.

Preventative Measures

  1. Keep digital copies of all documents on your phone and cloud storage.
  2. Store physical documents securely.
  3. Carry only essential documents when exploring.
  4. Avoid keeping all documents in one place.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Low Risk

Hamburg faces a not very risky of major natural disasters.

Official Advisories

In case of severe weather (e.g., winter storms) or other hazards, follow local news and official advisories (e.g., via radio, local websites, or public announcements).

Emergency Response

The city has robust emergency response systems ready.

Important Document Safeguard

Keep a digital copy of all important documents (passport, visa, insurance, flight tickets) on your phone and in cloud storage. This acts as a contingency in case physical documents are lost.

Further Reading & Exploration

Media and Arts

Documentaries and Films

  • Port of Hamburg

    Search for documentaries about the Port of Hamburg or the building of the Elbphilharmonie.

  • German History

    Explore broader German history documentaries that include Hamburg's role.

  • Films Set in Hamburg

    Films set in Hamburg can offer a cinematic perspective.

Music and Art to Experience

  • The Beatles

    Learn about The Beatles' early career in Hamburg's St. Pauli district. Listen to their early recordings.

  • Classical Music

    Explore works by composers connected to Hamburg.

  • Local Artists

    Research local art galleries and music venues to find contemporary Hamburg artists.

Online Communities and Language Learning

Online Communities

Engage with online communities like TripAdvisor forums or Reddit's r/Hamburg or r/Germany. These platforms offer opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and obtain tips from other travelers and locals.

Language Learning Resources

Use apps like Duolingo, Babbel, or Memrise to learn basic German phrases and vocabulary. Even a little effort has an impact in your interactions.

Local Publications

See if there are any magazines or newspapers upon arrival for current events, exhibitions, and restaurant guides. These offer timely insights into Hamburg's cultural landscape.

Digital Safety Tips

Securing Your Devices

  • Enable strong passwords or biometric locks on all devices.
  • Keep your operating systems and apps updated.
  • Back up your information to a secure cloud service.
  • Use two-factor authentication where possible.

Online Behavior

  • Be careful with public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Avoid accessing sensitive accounts (banking, email) on unsecured networks.
  • Do not click on suspicious links or accessible attachments from unknown senders.
  • Limit sharing real-time location on platforms like facebook and instagram.

Medical Preparedness

Travel Insurance

  • Confirm your travel insurance policy covers overseas medical expenses.
  • Keep a copy of your insurance details readily available.
  • Be aware of the emergency contact number for your insurer.

Health Essentials

  • Pack a small first-aid kit for minor injuries.
  • Carry any prescribed drugs with a doctor's note.
  • Protect yourself from the sun, especially during summer months.
  • Stay hydrated, particularly when discovering on foot.

Essential Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a key consideration. For comprehensive coverage, consider World Nomads, a trusted provider for travelers seeking peace of mind.