🌞 5 Unmissable Things to Do in Hamburg This June (2025)
Visiting Hamburg in June is a real treat. The city is buzzing with energy, the weather is (usually!) on its best behavior, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you’re heading here this summer, here are 5 experiences I’d absolutely recommend from a visitor’s point of view:
1. 🎬 Discover Hidden Gems at the Short Film Festival
If you’re into film, the Hamburg International Short Film Festival (June 3–9) is a must. I stumbled across it by chance and ended up watching some incredibly creative and moving short films. There are screenings in cool venues all over the city, and the atmosphere is laid-back and fun. Even if you’re not a film buff, it’s a great way to experience local culture.
2. 🌆 Take in the View from the Elbphilharmonie Plaza
You can’t come to Hamburg without visiting the Elbphilharmonie. The building is stunning, but what really blew me away was the view from the Plaza. It’s free to enter (though you may need to book a time slot), and you’ll get amazing 360° views over the harbor and the city rooftops. Tip: go in the evening for golden hour—magical!
3. 🎉 Join the Fun at Altonale
If you’re in town from mid-June onward, don’t miss Altonale (starting June 17). It’s a local arts and culture festival in the Altona district with live music, food stalls, pop-up performances, and just a really relaxed vibe. I ended up spending an entire afternoon there by accident. Perfect for wandering and soaking up the local energy.
4. 🛍️ Sunday Morning at the Fischmarkt
I’m not a morning person, but the Fischmarkt on Sundays is worth the early wake-up. From 5 AM (yes, really), it’s full of local color—fishmongers shouting deals, live music, flowers, fruit, and bratwurst galore. It’s lively, quirky, and very Hamburg. Grab a coffee and soak it all in down by the water.
5. 🎵 Nighttime Water-Light Concerts in the Park
After a long day of sightseeing, head to Planten un Blomen park and catch one of the evening water-light concerts. They start at 10 PM, and it’s just lovely—music, fountains, and lights dancing together in the middle of a calm, green oasis in the city. Bring a blanket and enjoy it like the locals do.
Final Tip: June is a great time to explore Hamburg on foot—so consider joining a walking tour to get your bearings and hear the stories behind the sights (Moin Hamburg Tours has some great ones 😉).
Enjoy your trip, and bring layers—this is still Northern Germany after all!