Willkommen in Hamburg! – a city guide for the 1stt leg of the 7s Championship Series
Are you ready for the 2026 Rugby Europe Championship 7s Series? The season is about to start, with Hamburg hosting the 1st leg of the Series, and for those thinking about travelling to this historic city, we offer a guide to better help you find your footing.
And what better way to do it than asking for advice from Ben Ellermann, who’s not only a local but also a German international?
Ben, thank you for sharing a bit of your time to help us with this Hamburg city guide! So, for someone who has never been in Hamburg, what’s the first place they must go? And why?
Ben Ellermann. Well, it depends on who I’m speaking to, but for me, the Elbe is the first thing that pops into my mind. It is a beautiful river that flows through Hamburg, and the riverbed is drenched in history for several reasons. There are several great spots to enjoy the river view, but I would like to highlight two: the Elbphilharmonie, one of the most interesting buildings to visit while staying in Hamburg; and Altona, a quieter place to enjoy the view.
Then you have beautiful, distinct districts, like the Schanze district, which is very culturally rich. Hamburg is packed with great places to go.
And what about rugby? What secrets lie inside Hamburg? What clubs can and should we visit?
BE. We have a few clubs, like HSV Hamburg Rugby Club and St. Pauli, that also have several other sports, like football, handball, basketball, and rugby. All of the clubs share the same training facility, the Stadtpark, located in the middle of the city. It also has an artificial pitch, which is great for rugby, as it allows us to practice and play year-round, even in tough conditions.
Can we have refreshments at those rugby clubs? And what are some of the best sports bars in the city?
BE. All the clubs share a clubhouse, which is a great place to socialise and get to know our rugby community. They aren’t full-fledged bars, but you will have a good time in them. They normally open at 12 pm. However, if you want to go to a sports bar, you should go to Paddy’s Bar! In each district, you will find a sports bar that will welcome you with open arms.
As we have the bars and rugby stuff sorted out, what local food should we taste once we step into Hamburg?
BE. The north of Hamburg is very well known for something called matjesbrötchen. It is hard to describe, but it’s like a soft bread with a bit of crunch. If you want to have one of the good ones, you have to go to the fish market. But Hamburg has a very diverse food scene, so you can have whatever your heart desires.
What are some of the coolest spots to take a couple of pictures?
BE. The best spot for an incredible selfie is in the river. You can go for a boat tour, and while going down the river, you can take some spectacular photos. Just go to the city harbour and go for it. While you are riding the boat, you will pass close to the König der Löwen, the Lion King theatre. It is a marvellous piece of scenery to be in your photo.
With all these amazing suggestions, we forgot to ask you something crucial for first-time tourists: is it easy to get to where the Hamburg 7s will take place?
BE. From the airport, you can take a train, metro or a bus, and it is roughly 20/30 minutes. While the stadium isn’t near the city centre, we have an incredible transport system that can get you in and out of the city in less than 20 minutes. If you come for the rugby, you need to experience the city and savour the amazing different cultures that inhabit Hamburg. Easy, simple and practical!
Advice for first-time fans/players who are going to Split? Easy ways to get around, etc.
BE. Be open to the culture and be open minded, those are my two bits of advice. Hamburg is a warm city that embraces its guests. We are very friendly and try to help any visitor around. And, my last advice, or maybe request, is: bring your best rugby spirit!
Now, we know that Hamburg has quite an exciting nightlife scene. Care to share the best places for someone who wants to enjoy it?
BE. The Reeperbahn. It has everything you are looking for. From attractions to bars, to fun times, it is one of the most interesting parts of Hamburg.
Now, two key items our 7s athletes need to pack in their suitcases when they head to Hamburg!
BE. Oh, that’s easy. An umbrella; also take long-sleeved clothes. The weather has changed a lot in Hamburg, and even in July, we can have rain, lots of wind, and cold. Well, at least you don’t need sunscreen!
How would you break down Hamburg into three words?
BE. Ambitious, culturally rich and ‘pearl’. Let me explain the last one. There’s a saying in Germany that goes ‘Hamburg meine perle’ which pretty much sums up what Hamburg is: a beautiful city that holds so much promise.
So, are rugby fans ready to adventure themselves with Germany’s pearl and enjoy the riches and joys of Hamburg while they await the Rugby Europe 7s Championship Series to begin?
Be sure to buy your tickets and take part in one of the most exciting 7s competitions in the world that will kick off on the 3rd of July!
By Francisco Isaac
