The Best 7 Bars in Hamburg

This modern bar is situated on the 20th floor of the gleaming glass tower of the Empire Riverside Hotel. Floor to ceiling windows and a long bar give you a breathtaking view of the city, waterfront and harbor (even the bathrooms offer panoramic views). This is a shining example of "new St. Pauli".

Address: Empire Riverside Hotel, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 97, 20359 Hamburg
Phone: 49 (40) 31119 - 70 470
Prices: Cocktails 11.50 euro
Hours: 6:00 p.m. – 2:00 / 3:00 a.m.
Dress Code: smart casual

This classic bar, located in the Hotel Kempinski on the bank of the Alster Lake, seems to have come straight out of a 1930s Hollywood movie. Its original Art Deco interiors, barmen dressed to the nines, and the light tunes of a piano player set the mood for a classy night.

The Hotel Kempinski is where celebrities stay when they are in Hamburg, so keep your eyes and ears open; Phil Collins once surprised guests of the Atlantic Bar with an impromptu concert.

You can choose from over 200 cocktails, but the classics are what they are known for. If you miss the days of smoke and booze, visitors can enjoy fine cigars in the exclusive Smokers’ Lounge.

Address: An der Alster 72-79, 20099 Hamburg
Phone: 49 40 2888 862
Prices: Cocktails 9 euro +
Hours: 8:00 p.m. – midnight (weekends have extended hours)
Dress Code: Smart Casual

This popular bar feels just like hanging at home with friends. The name translates to "three-room apartment" and the decor is deliberately worn and welcoming.

Though it may resemble your Onkle Karl's apartment with bedroom, living room and kitchenette, this is a youthful spot. Better than your best friend's house, it comes complete with foosball table, playstation and a gnome for a mascot.

Address: Talstraße 22, 20359 Hamburg
Phone: 49 160 90361519
Prices: Beers 4 euros; Cocktail specials 9-10 euros
Hours: 10:00 til late
Dress Code: casual

Like a locals Hard Rock Café, this Hamburg-centric bar is all about the music. On the corner of the Reeperbahn, rare guitars and band posters cover the wall and a drum kit sits proudly in the center.

This is a labor of love for former musician Hugo Egon Balder and his business partner, Uli Salm, likes to take down one of his guitars on the weekend and lead impromptu jam sessions. The music is alive in Hamburg.

Address: Millerntorplatz 1, 20359 Hamburg
Phone: 49 40 3179 2116
Prices: Beers 3.50 - 4.40 euros; shots 2.80 euros
Hours: 11:30 am til late
Dress Code: casual

Fresh from its latest renovation, once upon a time BernsteinBar was a brothel. Today it gives off more of a 70s vibe with earthy tones and cozy banquette couches. Delicious cocktails, wine and local Astra beer are all on offer.

Address: Bernstorffstr. 103, 22767 Hamburg
Phone: 040/181 60 560
Prices: Cocktail specials 9-10 euros
Hours: 10:00 til late
Dress Code: casual

Located in the vaulted basement of the Rathaus (town hall), this bar is part of an elegant restaurant but the setting is worth stopping for a drink. Pillars separate the dining area from the bar and service is top-notch.

Address: Bernstorffstr. 103, 22767 Hamburg
Phone: 49 040 – 70 38 33 99
Prices: Cocktail specials 9-10 Euros
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 11:30 am to 23:30 pm
Dress Code: smart casual

After all the nostalgia, Dripbar is all about progression. It has been called the most creative bar in Hamburg with its unusual drinks and even more interesting processes.

Dripbar utilizes a slow-drip process, similar to trendy cold brew coffee. Try the Salty Peanut Old Fashioned which has rum drip trough peanuts for up to 72 hours. Also on the menu is cold drip coffee and classic cocktails.  

Address: Antonistraße 4, 20359 Hamburg
Prices: Cocktails 9 - 13 euro
Hours: 6:00 pm til late
Dress Code: smart casual