Hostels in Hamburg State

Hamburg is one of the sixteen states, or Bundeslander, of Germany. It is considered a city-state, and prior to the unification of Germany in 1871 it was a fully sovereign state. The capital of the state is the city by the same name, which is also the largest city. Hamburg borders the other German states of Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony.

Hamburg’s international airport, Flughafen Hamburg, is 8.5km from the city. You can also get to Hamburg via high speed train from any other German or European city. It is not necessary to have your own car as trains, buses, and ferries can get you to most destinations

Budget hostel accommodation can be found in the city. Look for the words “jugend,” “herberge,” or “jugendherberge,” as those translate directly to “youth,” “hostel,” and “youth hostel.” The backpacker scene in Hamburg is big, so expect to see a good number of hostels. Away from Hamburg central, consider a guesthouse (“gasthaus”) or bed and breakfast, as backpacker accommodation in small towns is rare.

Once you have your accommodation sorted, explore Hamburg! The state’s roots are in the early 2nd century, on a rocky outcrop between the Rivers Alster and Elbe. In the 9th century, it became a Bishopric and then merged with Bremen. It was invaded by the Vikings and then given status as a free state by the Holy Roman Empire. Hamburg then became an important port on the North and Baltic Seas via the River Elbe. After the dissolution of the Roman Empire, Hamburg became a free state and one of the most important Hanseatic League seats.

Some highlights in Hamburg include the Church of St Nicholas, which at one time was the tallest building in the world, the canals, the Stadtpark, or Central Park, and the botanical gardens. The Port of Hamburg is quickly becoming one of the most largest deep-sea ports in the region, and worth seeing. Do as the locals do, and head to Landungsbrucken to catch a ferry across the river to the Elbe beaches and see the port from sea level. Outdoor enthusiasts should consider hiring a canoe or kayak to explore the city’s waterways. The rivers meander through the parks, which offer nice nature walks, and into the lakes near the city. Whatever you choose to do in Hamburg, you will enjoy it!

Handwritten by local expert for Hamburg State hostels Jakob Lombardi