One of the best perks of studying in Bremen is the Semester Ticket. More than just your daily pass for trams and buses, the ticket also covers regional trains to several cities — including Hamburg. With no extra cost, a day trip or even a weekend getaway to one of Germany’s most vibrant cities becomes easy and affordable.
The Bremen Semester Ticket allows you to take Regionalbahn (RB) and Regional Express (RE) trains directly from Bremen Hauptbahnhof to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and trains run regularly throughout the day. It’s important to remember that long-distance trains like the ICE (InterCity Express) and IC (InterCity) are not included in your semester ticket, so you should only use the RE or RB trains.
The easiest way to plan your trip is by using the DB Navigator app or the Deutsche Bahn website. When searching for your route, make sure to filter for "Local Transport Only (Nur Nahverkehr)" to avoid accidentally boarding a train your ticket doesn’t cover. You don’t need a seat reservation for regional trains — just hop on with your student ID and semester ticket, as ticket inspections happen often.
Once you arrive at Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, the city is ready to be explored. One of the most iconic places to start is the Speicherstadt, the world’s largest warehouse district, known for its beautiful red-brick buildings, canals, and bridges. Right next to it is HafenCity, a modern area with impressive architecture, where you can visit the Elbphilharmonie. Going up to the Elbphilharmonie Plaza offers stunning views of Hamburg’s harbor.
A walk along the Landungsbrücken is a must. This area is the heart of Hamburg’s harbor life, full of boats, ferries, and seafood stalls. Don’t leave without trying a classic Fischbrötchen — a fresh fish sandwich that Hamburg is famous for. If you want to see the harbour from the water, hop on public ferry line 62. It’s included in Hamburg’s local transport and offers beautiful views without the cost of a tourist boat tour.
For a green escape, visit Planten un Blomen park, perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic. If you’re lucky to be there in summer, the water-light concerts in the evening are magical and free. Another must-see is the Miniatur Wunderland, home to the world’s largest model railway and incredibly detailed miniature worlds — it’s fun and impressive no matter your age.
The St. Pauli district and the Reeperbahn are also worth exploring. Known for nightlife and entertainment, the area is filled with theatres, clubs, street art, and unique local shops. Even if you’re not into partying, walking around St. Pauli gives you a feel for Hamburg’s alternative and creative side.
No visit to Hamburg is complete without tasting its local flavour’s. Besides the Fischbrötchen, grab a Franzbrötchen, a sweet cinnamon pastry that’s perfect with coffee from one of Hamburg’s cozy cafés.
With your Bremen Semester Ticket, Hamburg is easily within reach. Whether you’re into sightseeing, food, or just exploring a new city, Hamburg has something to offer. So, pack your bag, check the train schedule, and enjoy a perfect student-friendly getaway.
