Top Reasons to see Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg
If you are visiting Hamburg for the first time in Germany, then there is one specific attraction that you can’t absolutely miss. It is the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg. Located in the historic area in Speicherstadt warehouse district, the museum is a kind of treasure for anyone who loves the sea, naval history and ships of all kinds. So, whether you are just a casual traveller or a history enthusiast, this guide will help you through the highlights of this extraordinary museum and what you can do to make the most of it.
In case you need help getting a Germany Tourist Visa from UK, extra information will be included before the end of this blog.
What is the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg?
One of the largest maritime collections that is looked after by a private entity is the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg. It is currently housed in a warehouse built in the 19th century. The name of it was Warehouse 10 at that time. Now the museum showcases over 40,000 items and one million photographs, which are spread across nine floors. These floors are also known as decks. As you visit this place, you will be going on a journey through 3000 years of maritime history. Right from the ancient civilisations to modern container shops and their naval technology.
To be honest, this is not just any other museum. It is mindblowing example to show that how much humans have evolved to connect with the sea. For a first-time visitor, it’s like stepping into the pages of a nautical adventure.
Getting There: Location & Accessibility
The museum is located in the HafenCity district. Just a short walk away from the city centre is the museum. The exact address is:
Koreastraße 1, 20457 Hamburg, Germany
You can reach the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg easily by using public transport:
- U-Bahn: Take U4 to Uberseequartier
- Bus: Take lines 6 or 111
- On foot: If you can reach the main shopping district in Hamburg or Speicherstadt, then 15 minutes can take you to the museum
Note: The museum is completely wheelchair accessible with an elevator at every deck. Thus, the museum is friendly to all kinds of travellers.
Ticket Price Details
As per the information in 2025, here are the ticket prices:
- For adults, the price is around €18.00.
- Students, seniors, and the disabled can get in at a reduced rate for €13.00.
- For children aged between 6 to 17 years is €13.00
- For children under the age of 5, it is free.
- Small Family, as in 1 adult plus 2 children, will be €21.00.
- For a full family, such as 2 adults plus 3 children will be €38.00.
- For a special audio guide is an extra €3.50.
If you want to know more details, then we recommend that you check out the official website.
Top Things to See in the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg
We have a curated list of things that you must do during your first time visit:
The Legendary Model Ships
Start from the deck 1 and proceed towards deck 3 in the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg. You will get to three thousands of model ship. Everything from ancient Egyptian reed boats to modern cruise liners, everything is available on display. The craftsmanship is absolutely astounding. Check out the Queen Mary 2 with keen eyes, as the details something extraordinary.
Peter Tamm’s Personal Collection
Peter Tamm was a great naval enthusiast and a former publisher. This part of the museum was built to showcase the private collection of Peter Tamm. You will get to see the uniforms of those times, parts of the ship and nautical instruments that are very rare. It will truly inspire anyone to witness the passion behind the displays.
Interactive Navigation Simulators
As you proceed to deck 5, experience the simulated world of navigating a ship. This could be done by using the museum’s interactive bridge simulator. Some of the examples are about what it’s like to steer a vessel through Hamburg’s port or on a stormy sea. This is a major point of interest for both kids and adults alike.
Military and Naval History Exhibits
Next stop at deck 6 and 7, where you get to see the detailed information and highlights of naval warfare, uniforms and the evolution of military marine technology. Furthermore, there are some stunning collection of maritime paintings and documents that gives you a great historical insight into the European and world naval history.
The World’s Largest LEGO Ship
One of the most creative and fun features of the museum is the LEGO model of the Queen Mary 2. You will be surprised to know that the model ship is made from over 780,000 LEGO bricks. This is why the model is quite massive, around 8 meters long. It is a fascinating item that intrigues both kids and adults. You can even take portrait snaps standing in front of the model ship.
Polar Exploration and Research Vessels
Now comes the most important deck 8, that is dedicated to the brave souls who ventured into the Arctic and Antarctic. There are several maps, gear and stories of the early expeditions to the poles of Earth that are truly incredible.
Temporary Exhibitions and Events
The Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg always hosts exhibitions that mainly focus on maritime art, ships or historic events like the Titanic or World War II naval battles. You can check the details on the official website and mark your calendars before your visit. This way, you can see something unique.
Cafe and Gift Shop
It will take some time to finishing exploring all the decks, so you might want to take a break. Right on site there is Catch of the day cafe available where you can enjoy some refreshments and light meals while viewing the beautiful canal.
After that, visit the museum shop so that you can buy some ship-based souvenirs, books or any other nautical fashion items to take it back home.
Photography Tips for First Timers
Look out for the major photo spots so that you can take pics of it, and also for your family members standing in front of it. Some notable mentions are the giant globe right at the entrance. Then, as mentioned above, LEGO Queen Mary 2 is a must. Lastly, the rooftop views are stunning in their own way, so you have the opportunity to take a lot of pics.
Few sections in the museum will be dimly lit to protect the items. So adjust your camera settings accordingly. However, look out for signs where flash photography is not allowed.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- If you are history lover or ship enthusiast, then pan to keep at least 3 hours in hand for your visit.
- If you want to beat the crowds then arrive as early as possible. Weekends usually get a lot more crowded.
- You have the option to join an audio-guided tour, even with the availability with English options.
- There will be a lot of walking and climbing nine floors, so it’s logical to wear comfortable shoes.
- If it rains outside, then the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg is a perfect indoor attraction to visit.
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Is the Museum Family-Friendly?
Absolutely yes!! The Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg is an interesting and fantastic place for kids. This is because:
- Due to the presence of interactive games and ship simulators.
- Creative LEGO models and engaging visuals.
- Descriptions fit for kids to understand, which are available in both English and German.
- The family ticket options are also quite affordable.
Furthermore, there are children’s scavenger hunts and other seasonal activities, especially during the school holidays.
Why Travellers Love the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg
It is really an exceptional place that connects different people of all Ages and interests. Whether you are enthusiastic about art, or the engineering or the sheer will of putting efforts to explore at sea, the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg will sure leave a ever lasting impression.
In order to visit this place, you do not have to be a sailor to appreciate the museum’s scale, just feel like it’s an adventure when you have the opportunity to explore human history, which has the layer of sails, steel and stories of survival and adventure.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
- If you prefer a more relaxed and quiet place near you, then consider visiting the museum on weekdays.
- On rainy days, visiting the museum is a great indoor activity.
- During the winter season, the place is less crowded and the atmosphere is cosy.
- The summer season is also ideal if you visit the museum first, then go on exploring the surrounding HafenCity later.
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Final Thoughts
It should be clear by now that a visit to the Internationales Maritimes Museum Hamburg is a completely standout experience. This will enrich your travel experience in surprising ways. As you explore the vast and interactive displays, the stunning artefacts will make you feel that the museum is a must-visit attraction, especially if it is the first time in the city.
This is a place where all the ocean’s stories come alive.
FAQs
The museum remains open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. But sometimes timings change due to holiday hours, so check the official website beforehand.
We recommend that you try using public transportation. Still, if you need to take your vehicle, there is limited parking available in HafenCity. Apart from that, there are nearby garages like Uberseequartier where you can park your vehicle.
Yes, most of the exhibition descriptions are available both in German and English. If you take the option of an audio guide, then you can access multiple languages.
Yes, the museum is open the entire year. But it remains closed on certain public holidays. It’s best to check the online website before you plan to visit.
