Hamburg is not the favorite city of many Germans for nothing – and it also enjoys great international popularity. No wonder: the Hanseatic city boasts a lively scene of gastronomy, culture and art. Whether it’s new, trendy food spots, exciting leisure activities such as escape rooms or idyllic swimming spots for the summer – it never gets boring here. Just sometimes a little expensive. But if you want to give your wallet a break in between, you don’t have to miss out on culture. We’ll show you 5 free museums where you can discover impressive art from a wide range of themes.
1. the Zoological Museum
The Zoological Museum is part of the Museum der Natur Hamburg and the Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change (LIB). With over 10 million collection objects, it is one of the most important zoological collections in Germany. With free admission, you can discover the fascinating diversity of the animal world – from detailed animal specimens to impressive whale skeletons, including sperm whales, minke whales, killer whales and pilot whales.
📌 Bundesstraße 52, 20146 Hamburg
2. the Geological-Palaeontological Museum
Another exciting part of the Museum der Natur Hamburg is the Geological-Palaeontological Museum. Here you can experience fascinating insights into the development of the earth and the origin of life. History and natural history meet impressive finds – from dinosaur fossils and amber insects to prehistoric horses and more. Admission is completely free here too – so what are you waiting for? Ideal for a trip with family, friends or colleagues. Embark on a fascinating journey through millions of years of the Earth’s history!
📌 Bundesstraße 55, 20146 Hamburg
3. museum harbor Övelgönne
Maritime history is of course a must in the Hanseatic city! The Övelgönne Museum Harbour is a living open-air museum right on the Elbe, where you can discover an impressive collection of historic ships and watercraft. Over 20 lovingly restored ships are part of the collection – including highlights such as the lightship Elbe 3, the steam tug Tiger and the steam launch Otto Lauffer. In the floating visitor center on a historic pontoon, you can learn more about the history of the port, the individual ships and the dedicated work of the association.
📌 Neumühlen ferry terminal, 22763 Hamburg
4. the Mineralogical Museum
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of minerals, gemstones and meteorites! As part of the Museum der Natur Hamburg, the Mineralogical Museum presents an impressive selection of around 1,500 carefully curated exhibits. On display are precious classics such as gold, silver and diamonds, but also rare highlights – including one of the largest antimonite crystal groups in the world. Staged in artistically illuminated display cases, the view of these natural beauties is a special experience.
📌 Grindelallee 48, 20146 Hamburg
5th Affenfaust Gallery Hamburg
Free museums don’t have to be dusty – modern and urban art also has its place! Since 2012, the Affenfaust Galerie in Hamburg has been showing works by both up-and-coming and established artists. The variety is impressive: from painting and sculpture to installations, performance and video art. With its openness to new forms of expression, the gallery offers an exciting, varied art experience. Not only is it the largest privately run gallery in Hamburg – it is also completely free for you to visit!
📌 Jean-Dolidier-Weg 75, 21039 Hamburg