We got a late start on our drive and so ended up coming into Hamburg after dark and pretty tired. Luckily however, we were checking into the Gastwerk Hotel , an architectural gem that combines industrial heritage with modern amenities.

Housed in a former gasworks factory, the hotel seamlessly merges history with contemporary design, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Your spacious room, designed with upcycled materials and minimalist decor, is the perfect retreat after a long day. Between the warm hospitality and the cozy atmosphere, we were ready to call the Gastwerk our sustainable hotel home away from home.

Before heading out for dinner, we popped into the hotel's Mangold Bar for a pre-dinner drink. The bar's chic ambiance and innovative cocktail menu made it an ideal spot to unwind. 

Mixologists Gordon or Nadine cheerfully will serve you everything from adventurous cocktails to perfected classics. At Gordon's recommendation, we decided to try their signature drink, the Mangold Martini. Prepared table side and served poured into a copper glass over iced sea stones from the Baltic Sea, this drink is an experience in itself. 

Whether or not Martinis is your go to, we recommend you head to Mangold Bar to toast to a day well spent, surrounded by the character and charm that define the Gastwerk experience through and through.

We kicked off our next morning at Ejrojito , a café that does more than serve fantastic coffee—it embodies a commitment to sustainability and community. Ejrojito sources its coffee beans directly from farmers through cooperatives, ensuring fresh beans at fair prices and creating a deeper connection between the growers and the café.

Patronized largely by locals, Ejrojito is a hub for sustainable living in the heart of Hamburg. Alongside their perfectly brewed coffee, they sell local products such as honey, milk, and flour, supporting Hamburg's regional producers.

With its cozy atmosphere and stocked shelves, Ejrojito feels like a gathering spot where every choice, from the croissants to the milk in your matcha, reflects a commitment to a greener future.

It's the perfect starting point for a day of exploration. From here, take a leisurely walk around the surrounding square, where old-world architecture meets modern urban charm — the perfect place to plan what comes next.

After a busy morning, we refueled at Shiso Burger, a stylish eatery that blends Asian flavors with classic burger fare. Known for their innovative take on a comfort food staple, Shiso Burger uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, offering vegetarian and vegan options alongside their signature beef and fish patties. 

Try the Teriyaki Burger, a juicy masterpiece dripping with a tangy glaze, or the Tofu Burger for a juicy, plant-based bite. The sleek, modern design of the restaurant complements its commitment to sustainability and creativity, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Hotdogs is a must visit, just for the atmosphere in itself. A smaller boutique with beautiful hand-picked styles from floor to ceiling. This is the place to go to scoop up your favorite brand's jeans, bombers or IT items. It's a must visit for people who enjoy street wear but they also have really cool items for children. Hotdogs is also located in a cool area of ​​Hamburg that is filled with cool boutiques.

Next, head to Vintage Revival, a boutique filled with carefully curated pre-loved items. With its eclectic mix of clothing, accessories and quirky decor, the store offers a glimpse into the city's creative spirit.

Started in 2020, this second hand store is not one of those where you look through piles of clothing to find your pick, every item in the store is carefully selected by the store managers from today's trends and fashion. 

Stilbruch Altona is a paradise for those who love a good scoop to your home. A warehouse filled with pre-loved furniture, hardware, design items and arts and crafts. Here you can bring home vintage mirrors, old analog cameras or unique ceramics. The prices are reasonable and there is truly something for everyone. As we were traveling by car (wink-wink) we luckily had space to pick out a few pieces to take home with us. 

Shop up an appetite for dinner and the get yourself to Cardamom Indian Restaurant, where bold spices and fresh ingredients combine to create an unforgettable meal. Cardamom is celebrated not only for its authentic Indian dishes but also for its commitment to sustainable practices, sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. We both agreed that this was the best Indian food we had had in years! From creamy butter chicken to perfectly spiced vegetarian curries, every bite is a testament to the restaurant's passion for flavor and quality.

Experience Hamburg from above at the baroque St. Michaelis Church. Don't worry about the steep walk up, an elevator will take you straight to the top for a beautiful view of Hamburg. St. Michaelis is also open in the evening, hosts events and even urges romantics to contact them if you're on the look out for a perfect location to propose to your partner.