The 10 Best Bars in Hamburg’s Old Town

Mary Jane Dempsey

Hamburg is one of Germany’ biggest and coolest cities, so it makes sense that it has a nightlife scene to match. After spending the day at different museums or soaking up sunshine by the port, end the evening at one of Hamberg’s hottest bars in Old Town. Offering everything from absinthe to old-school cocktail lounges, there is something for everyone.

Moscow mule

1. Luba Luft

Bar, German, Wine, Beer, Cocktails

Luba Luft
© Kira Garmashova / Shutterstock
If you are looking for speakeasy-style in a smokey, dark atmosphere with comfortable sofas and good company, Luba Luft is just the place. The bar staff know their stuff and the cocktails they create are top-notch. From authentic Moscow Mules (in copper mugs, of course), to a zinging whiskey sour, everything is mixed to perfection. It can get a bit crowded, but there’s usually a corner you can call your own.

Opening hours: Tues – Thurs 8pm – 1am; Fri – Sat 8pm – 3am

Christiansen’s Fine Drinks and Cocktails

Summer or winter, Christiansen’s is the place to be in the Old Town. The pub-style venue has a huge menu of international cocktails, both in its bar and for clientele sitting outside. The list is pretty much endless and covers all of the classics, plus some more inventive concoctions. If you still can’t find something you fancy, the staff are more than happy to whip something up based on your preferences.

Opening hours: Mon – Thurs 8pm – 3am; Fri 8pm – 4am; Sat 8pm – 5am

Christiansen’s Fine Drinks and Cocktails, Pinnasberg 60, 20359 Hamburg, Germany, +49 40 3172863

Cocktails

2. Goldfischglass

Bar, German, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

it might seem an unusual name, but Goldfischglas is an accurate description of this quirky venue. The bar has been crafted with a shallow water tank, home to several small fish. It’s a bit of a gimmick, but the bar has good enough drinks and atmosphere to make up for it. There’s a large menu of standard and mixed drinks and the crowd is always fun. It tends to get packed, especially on the weekends, so be sure to get there early if you want a good spot.

Opening hours: 12pm – 4am

3. Le Lion de Paris

Bar, French, German, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

A little slice of Paris in Hamburg. Drawing on the speakeasy trend, this secret spot require a little role playing to get through the door. Ring the bell and wait for the doorman. It’s worth the charade, behind the entrance lies a French-style saloon, complete with velvet walls and jazz, transporting drinkers to Paris’s glamorous Bell Epoque period. The drinks don;t come cheap, but they are well-made and there’s an interesting selection.

Opening hours: Mon – Sat 6pm – 3am; Sun 6pm – 1am

4. Klimperkiste

Bar, Pub, Pub Grub, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

Klimperkiste
Image courtesy of M&V Bar
If you are looking for a quiet place to sip your pint, check out Klimperkiste, a quaint pub offering local beers and well-made cocktails. Staff is friendly and the clientele is a mixed bag of tourists and locals. The ambiance is low-key and cool, a relaxed place to end your day.

Opening hours: Mon – Wed 4pm – 4am; Thurs – Fri 4pm – 6am; Sat 3pm – 6am; Sun 3pm – 4am

5. M&V Bar

Bar, Gay Bar, LGBTQ Bar, Pub Grub, Wine, Cocktails, Beer

One oft he best LGBT bars in Hamburg, M&V Bar extends a warm welcome to everyone, inviting them in to enjoy well-mixed drinks and a friendly atmosphere. Locals rave about the martinis, shaken every night by handsome bartenders who know what they are doing. In the summer, take advantage of the outdoor seating area.

Opening hours: 5pm – 2am

6. Old Mac Donald

Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan

Old MacDonald, Hamburg
© Old MacDonald American Diner & Sportsbar/Facebook
Though Hamburg may be far from the USA, Old Mac Donald is a quintessential American sports bar tucked in Old Town. Decorated with memorabilia imported from the States, this bar is perfect for Americans looking for a taste of home while visiting Germany. The menu is simple but effective – good beer and a selection of burgers, ranging from small to an all-American king-sized.

Opening hours: Contact venue

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