In her very own Hamburg Guide, TV host and model Sylvie Meis provides exclusive insights into her favorite places to relax, eat and do some shopping in her adopted home of northern Germany. As a long-time resident of Hamburg's Eppendorf district, she knows the city through and through and shares her insider tips for an unforgettable stay in the city, which not only is the official host city for the UEFA EURO 2024, but will also welcome the Dutch national football team for their first group match this summer.

From cozy cafés and first-class restaurants to trendy shopping tips - Sylvie reveals what else Hamburg has to offer besides its vibrant football life. Whether you're traveling for Team Oranje's eagerly awaited first group match or experiencing a possible quarter-final up close, the Hanseatic city is always worth a trip. So plan a few extra days to explore this thriving city and let Sylvie's insider tips inspire you!

Il Cantuccio

My favorite Italian restaurant around the corner is like a second home to me. Not only can I expect first-class Italian gourmet cuisine here, but also a cozy and elegant ambience. Il Cantuccio has become close friends over the years, which makes my visit a special experience every time. The extensive menu offers a variety of delicious dishes and the service is second to none.

Marsbar

Marsbar in Eppendorf has been one of my favorite restaurants in Hamburg for years, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere and fresh, seasonal dishes. The lunch menu changes daily. In summer, the terrace offers plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the sun. Even in winter, the former gatehouse has a great atmosphere thanks to the large window front.

GRILL

Each visit to the GRILL is a unique experience. The special setting is inspired by Hollywood glamor - with a cosy open fire and exotic plants that create a special backdrop. The menu offers a variety of seafood specialties such as oysters and lobster. This makes every visit a culinary highlight!

Henriks

The stylish and modern Henriks restaurant serves a mix of asian, mediterranean and regional cuisine. In summer, I like to sit on the patio. The service is very attentive and the atmosphere is relaxed - a place to feel good and enjoy. The open kitchen is a particular highlight.

geen caffeinbar

A little insider tip: geen caffeinbar is a cozy café in Eimsbüttel with excellent coffee, homemade snacks and cakes as well as delicious breakfasts with pancakes, Mediterranean bread and much more. The atmosphere in the café is very relaxed - a perfect place to relax with friends on the terrace in summer and catch up on the latest gossip.

The Morgenmuffel

The new hotspot in Eppendorf presents itself in a chic style and offers breakfast classics such as avocado bread as well as extraordinary dishes. As the name suggests, you can even have breakfast here in the late afternoon. My personal highlight is the Mimosa for a toast, combined with the Egg Benedict.

Little Amsterdam

Little Amsterdam is a lovely café right by the Isebek Canal that always reminds me of my home country, the Netherlands. Especially in summer, it's lively here after work with a selection of delicious drinks and sandwiches.

bar noir

The Bar noir is a very elegant bar in the Hotel Tortue with great music and exquisite cocktails in a timeless design. In particular, the terrace is an absolute highlight for me in summer. The atmosphere is very pleasant and inviting - for me, it's the perfect place to enjoy a nice evening with friends.

Bar Nikkei Nine

The bar at Nikkei Nine is located directly on the Binnenalster and is the heart of the restaurant. It offers exceptional cocktail creations, exquisite champagne and sake. The atmosphere is very special thanks to the sophisticated lighting concept and the cozy fireplace. The restaurant itself offers incredibly delicious japanese-peruvian cuisineand is definitely one of my favorite places.

Concerts in the Elbphilharmonie

Visiting a concert at the Elbphilharmonie is another highlight in Hamburg. There is a wide range of musical genres on the program - be it classical music, pop or jazz. The architecture of the building is also extremely impressive. Even without tickets for a concert, visitors can book a guided tour or visit the Plaza, from where they can enjoy a wonderful view over the Elbe and the harbor.

Planten un Blomen

As a fan of romantic experiences, I recommend the water light shows in Planten un Blomen to Hamburg residents as well as visitors. They take place daily at 10 pm on the lake in summer and are free of charge. The colorful water light concerts are artistic productions of music, light and water - the perfect place for a romantic picnic or an open-air experience for the whole family.

Alsterpark

Alsterpark is a special place for me, especially in spring when the flowers and cherry trees are in full bloom. It is one of the most magical locations in Hamburg. A walk along the Alster is simply wonderful, and the park has a beautiful pond with apicturesque bridge that adds to the idyllic ambience.

UZWEI

I love the chic UZWEI boutique in the Kaisergalerie. There is an exclusive selection of designer brands from the fashion, beauty, lifestyle and jewelry sectors. After shopping, you can enjoy macarons from Ladurée, champagne or a delicious bowl in the adjoining café.

Neuer Wall & Alsterhaus

Neuer Wall and Alsterhaus are definitely my top addresses for an exclusive shopping experience in Hamburg. Here you will find renowned international brands and boutiques offering a wide range of high-quality products. Neuer Wall not only impresses with its exquisite offerings, but also with its beautiful location along the Bleichen and Alsterfleet. The sophisticated atmosphere and charming architecture make shopping a special experience.

So, whether you're feeling the football fever of UEFA EURO 2024 or simply want to explore the Hanseatic city, there's something for everyone to discover here. Let my tips inspire you and experience Hamburg on your own. I promise you, it's worth it!