Hamburg with Autistic Children

Hamburg, Germany’s vibrant port city, offers numerous family-friendly attractions, making it an excellent destination for families with autistic children. Here’s how to plan your visit to ensure a memorable and accommodating experience.

Getting To Hamburg

Hamburg is accessible via Hamburg Airport (Flughafen Hamburg). Direct flights are available from many international destinations. Consider the most comfortable mode of transport for your child, and plan for breaks during the journey.

Hamburg offers several convenient options for traveling from Hamburg Airport to the city centre:

• S-Bahn (S1 Line): The S1 train line connects Hamburg Airport directly to the city centre. Trains run every 10 minutes, and the journey takes about 25 minutes to reach Hamburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station).
• Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal and offer a direct route to the city centre. The trip typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate at the airport, providing flexibility for travel.
• Airport Shuttle Services: Private shuttle services can be booked in advance for a convenient and personalized transfer. You can book a private car in advance here.
• Public Bus: Buses, such as the 274 and 292 lines, connect the airport to various parts of Hamburg.

We went with the train, it was easy to get tickets from the ticket machine and the train station was an easy walk from the airport arrivals in Hamburg.

Where to Stay

Choose accommodations that offer quiet environments and easy access to outdoor spaces. Many hotels in Hamburg are family-friendly and can accommodate specific needs. Consider self-catering options for more flexibility.

We did not stay overnight in Hamburg, we did go to the airport and sort of hung out there until our flight home early the next morning. Because of this, I do not have a personal recommendation on where to stay in Hamburg with autistic children.

Family-Friendly Activities

Miniatur Wunderland

Explore the world’s largest model railway exhibition, which offers detailed and engaging displays that can captivate children’s attention. We attempted to go here but the timeslots had sold out so fast we couldn’t get in in the time we were in the city – gutted!

Hagenbeck Zoo

Visit this well-maintained zoo, which offers a variety of animals and a serene environment. Early visits are less crowded.

Planten un Blomen Park

A beautiful park with playgrounds, botanical gardens, and water features, providing a peaceful retreat in the city.

Available to book in advance on GetYourGuide here.

Hamburg Dungeon

An interactive and educational experience that explores Hamburg’s history. Ensure your child is comfortable with the setting.

You can book your ticket online via GetYourGuide here.

International Maritime Museum

Discover the rich maritime history of Hamburg with engaging exhibits and interactive displays.

Book your visit online with GetYourGuide here.

Alster Lakes

Take a boat tour or enjoy a picnic by the Alster Lakes. The calm waters and scenic views can be very soothing.

Consider booking a cruise on Alster Lakes or try a private gondola ride on the lake.

Dialog im Dunkeln

An innovative museum that offers an experience in complete darkness, guided by visually impaired guides. This can be an eye-opening and unique experience.

Jenischpark

A large park with open spaces, walking trails, and playgrounds, ideal for a leisurely day outdoors.

Rickmer Rickmers

Explore this historic ship museum located in the harbour, offering insights into maritime history and life at sea.

Book online with GetYourGuide here.

Planetarium Hamburg

Enjoy a visit to the planetarium with its engaging and educational shows about space and astronomy.

See some highlights from our time in Hamburg here.

Our Favourite Sensory-Friendly Activity in Hamburg

Museum Of Illusions Hamburg

Although we did not get to go the Museum of Illusions in Hamburg, we visited the one in Brussels and it was by far one of my kids’ favourite things to do – ever! They would absolutely have chosen this as the top experience in Hamburg.

Getting Around Hamburg with Autistic Children

We took the train in from the airport in Hamburg to the city. That was an interesting experience with people playing live music on the train! After that, we only walked around until it was time to go back to the airport when we used the train again.

Is Hamburg Autism-Friendly?

Hamburg, Germany’s second-largest city, is known for its rich cultural scene, maritime heritage, and progressive social policies. When it comes to autism-friendliness, Hamburg has made significant strides, although like most cities, there is still room for improvement.

Things That Make Hamburg Stand Out

• Hamburg’s public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries, is generally accessible and continues to improve in terms of accommodating passengers with special needs. The city’s public transport authority, HVV, provides information on accessible routes and services.
• Miniatur Wunderland: This popular attraction, known for its detailed model railway, offers sensory-friendly times for visitors with autism. The quieter environment and the ability to move through the exhibit at your own pace make it a good option.
• Hagenbeck Zoo: The zoo provides wide open spaces and various quiet areas, making it a suitable spot for families with children on the autism spectrum. Visiting during off-peak hours is recommended to avoid crowds.
• Elbphilharmonie: This iconic concert hall offers special programs and events for visitors with sensory sensitivities. It’s advisable to check their schedule for sensory-friendly performances.
• Parks and Green Spaces: Hamburg has numerous parks, like Planten un Blomen, which offer peaceful environments that can be more accommodating for individuals with autism. These spaces provide a break from the city’s noise and crowds.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Plan Ahead: Research each location and contact them to discuss any special accommodations your child might need.
• Sensory Tools: Bring along sensory tools and comfort items that help manage sensory needs, such as noise-cancelling headphones, sensory toys, and a sensory toolkit.
• Clear Communication: Ensure that everyone involved in the trip understands the needs and preferences of the neurodiverse individual. Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and enhance the travel experience. Consider using PECS or an AAC. We have a free pack of travel PECS available for download. I will update this space soon with Hamburg and Germany PECS cards for you to download.
• Safety: Consider getting an autism card for your child, or even better – use our emergency passport for medical information and important contacts. Our absolute must have safety item for travelling with an autistic child is a TinyTags wristband or tag that can be tapped or scanned by a mobile phone – giving the person who tapped it all of the information they need to get your child back to you. TinyTags also feature a location alert to help you find your child.

Hamburg offers a wealth of family-friendly activities that cater to the needs of children with autism. From interactive museums to serene parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and create lasting memories in this beautiful and vibrant city.

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