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Layover Ideas Hamburg Airport HAM

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Top 5 Layover Ideas for Hamburg Airport

If you find yourself with a long layover at Hamburg Airport (HAM), don't fret. There are plenty of ways to pass the time both inside and outside the airport. Here are the top 5 layover ideas that you can consider:

1. Explore the Airport

Hamburg Airport is one of the busiest airports in Germany and is filled with many amenities. From a wide range of shops selling everything from luxury goods to local souvenirs, to an array of restaurants and cafes where you can sample German cuisine or grab a quick bite, the airport itself offers plenty of diversions for a few hours.

2. Visit the Airport Model Exhibition

Located inside the airport is the Airport Model Exhibition, a miniature model of the airport that showcases the intricate workings of the airport operations. It's a fascinating spectacle, especially for aviation enthusiasts.

3. Relax at the Airport Lounge

For a more relaxing layover, consider spending some time at the Airport Lounge. With comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a selection of refreshments, it's a great place to unwind and recharge before your next flight.

4. Take a City Tour

If your layover is longer than a few hours, consider taking a city tour. Hamburg is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. Many tour companies offer short tours that can be customized to fit your layover time. From the historic Speicherstadt, the largest warehouse district in the world, to the stunning Elbphilharmonie concert hall, there's plenty to see in this vibrant city.

5. Visit the Miniatur Wunderland

Just a short trip from the airport is the Miniatur Wunderland, the world's largest model railway. It's a must-see for anyone, not just train enthusiasts. With detailed models of different parts of the world, from the Swiss Alps to the American West, it's a fascinating place to spend a few hours.

Helpful Tips & Resources

Need help navigating your way through an unfamiliar airport? Look no further than iFly.com for expert tips and advice. Here are some helpful tips to help you travel stress-free through HAM Airport:

  • Don't let heavy bags slow you down! Make use of our airport's complimentary baggage carts, available for all travelers in the baggage claim area.
  • If you have some time before your departure, relax, grab a bite at one of HAM's restaurants, peruse the shops, or jump on the free internet and surf galore!
  • If you are flying in business or first class (or are a member), check out where the airline club lounges are located.
  • Once you have passed through security, you can use the airport map to find your gate, as well as the various restaurants and shops that are available on your route.
  • Surf to your heart's content. Jump on Hamburg airport's internet (free!)
  • For those (dreaded) early-morning flights, consider one of the airport hotels on or near HAM to spend the night prior to your flight. In many cases your parking for the trip's duration is free!
  • Have a flight arriving and want a fast way to get to your destination? Here are a few taxi and limo airport service providers that service the airport.

Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If you have a longer layover of 12 to 48 hours, consider venturing beyond the airport to explore some of the nearby attractions. Hamburg and its surrounding areas have a lot to offer and can be easily accessed from the airport. Here are some ideas:

1. Discover the Historic City of Lübeck

Just an hour's drive from Hamburg Airport is the city of Lübeck, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Gothic architecture and marzipan sweets. Spend a day exploring its charming old town, visiting the famous Holstentor gate, and tasting the local cuisine.

2. Enjoy Nature at the Lüneburg Heath

If you are a nature lover, the Lüneburg Heath is a must-visit. About an hour's drive from the airport, this natural park offers beautiful heathlands, forests, and picturesque villages. It's a perfect place for hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.

3. Visit the Hanseatic City of Bremen

About an hour and a half away by train, Bremen is another charming Hanseatic city worth exploring. Its town square, the Bremen Market Square, is one of the most beautiful in Europe, and its historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Explore the Kiel Canal

For those interested in maritime activities, the Kiel Canal, one of the world's busiest artificial waterways, is less than an hour's drive away. Here, you can watch ships of all sizes navigate the canal, or enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along its banks.

5. Take a Ferry to Heligoland

If you have a full day to spare, consider taking a ferry to Heligoland, Germany's only deep-sea island. Located about three hours from Hamburg by ferry, Heligoland offers stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and duty-free shopping.

Updated on: November 22, 2023