Where to stay in Hamburg

St. Pauli, famous for the Reeperbahn, is Hamburg's red-light district and nightlife hub, boasting many bars, clubs, and music venues. It's a haven for party-goers but can be noisy and intense for those seeking a quieter visit. The St. Pauli Football Club also drives a strong local culture with a fiercely loyal fan base. While the area has a gritty charm, some tourists might find certain parts a bit rough around the edges. It's not the most family-friendly area, but perfect for those looking to experience Hamburg's wild side.

Altstadt is Hamburg's historic heart, featuring key sights such as the magnificent City Hall and the evocative Deichstrasse. While steeped in history, the district is also commercially vibrant, offering various shopping opportunities and office buildings. However, the sense of an authentic living neighborhood might be missing here, as it can feel quite touristy and is quiet mainly after business hours. It's great for first-time visitors wanting to be in the thick of things with easy access to major attractions.

HafenCity is a modern waterfront development and Europe's largest inner-city development project, showcasing cutting-edge architecture like the Elbphilharmonie concert hall. This upscale area is clean and safe, with plenty of new apartments and office buildings. It boasts excellent public transport connections and is family-friendly. However, some argue that the district can feel somewhat soulless and lacks the traditional character of older neighborhoods. If you prefer ultra-modern environments and amenities, this is the place for you.

St. Georg is known for its cultural diversity and energetic atmosphere. Lively streets like Lange Reihe are dotted with eclectic cafés and shops. The proximity to the central train station makes it convenient for travelers, but some may find the area a bit too bustling or commercial. The LGBTQ+ scene is vibrant here with various bars and clubs, creating a welcoming environment. However, some streets can feel less safe at night so choose accommodations wisely. The area's lakeside green space, Alster, provides a lovely retreat from the urban surroundings.

Neustadt is a blend of historical and modern urban living, offering high-end shopping and attractions like the Elbphilharmonie. This area near the Alster lake and Elbe river is more upscale, with luxury boutiques and nice eateries. It's quieter compared to St. Pauli but can come with higher price tags for accommodations. The mix of tourists and locals gives Neustadt a genuine Hamburg vibe. Some might argue, however, that it lacks the characteristic edge of other parts of the city.

Sternschanze, or 'Schanze' as locals call it, is a trendy and hip area favored by students and creative types. It features a lively bar and café scene with numerous street art installations. The neighborhood's alternative and left-leaning culture is palpable. While generally safe, the area can become crowded and lively, especially on weekends. Property prices here can be relatively high, reflecting its desirability among the young and hip crowd. Not necessarily the quietest place, but it's perfect for those seeking an urban vibe and vibrant nightlife.

Altona-Altstadt has a more bohemian and alternative atmosphere, known for its artistic community and multicultural populace. The area is rich with independent shops and an organic market. While Altona Station provides good connectivity, the district is slightly removed from the city's central points, offering a neighborhood feel that some travelers adore and others find inconvenient. Visitors may encounter some gentrification-related friction. It's a great area for those interested in a laid-back vibe and local art and culture scenes.

Wilhelmsburg is an up-and-coming area on an island in the Elbe River, catering to a younger, trendy crowd. It has undergone significant development in recent years, including the International Building Exhibition. Though it offers some cool urban projects and green spaces like the Inselpark, it's still seen as more offbeat, and amenities can be spread out. Public transport access is improving but is not as convenient as in more central areas. Some might find the industrial parts less appealing, but it's a spot for those who like to explore emerging neighborhoods.