Visiting the Hamburg DOM was one of the absolute highlights of my visit to Hamburg. Whether you’re a fan of rides or just looking for a different way to enjoy the city’s nightlife, this is the place to be. And if you’ve never experienced the joy of a travelling funfair, there’s no better place to start than the DOM!
Here’s all you need to know to get the most out of your trip to the DOM as well as some of my own tips and the history of this historic event.
The Hamburg DOM – Northern Germany’s Largest Fair
What you need to know
- When is the Hamburg DOM? The Hamburg DOM runs three times a year for 30 days. The Spring DOM typically runs from late March into April and Summer is late July into August. The Winter DOM which has a Christmas market feel is usually early November into December. Be sure to check the specific dates online.
- Where is the Hamburg DOM? The Hamburg DOM is located on Heiligengeistfeld (Holy Ghost Field) & is quite central within the city.
- What is the History of the Hamburg DOM? The DOM has an interesting history, starting out as a market. I’ve detailed it further in this post!
How to get there
There are several entrances to the Hamburg DOM. Two are located right by subway stations, you can’t miss them, making accessing the site easy, these are:
- Entrance A – St Paul Subway Station – U Bahn line U3
- Entrance G – Feldstrasse subway station – U Bahn line U3
Opening times
The Hamburg DOM opening times are as follows:
- Mon-Thur: 3 pm – 11 pm
- Fri-Sat: 3 pm – 12 am
- Sun: 2 pm – 11 pm
Be sure to check for any special opening times on the home page for the DOM, especially if you’re visiting over any holidays such as Easter.
Entry fee
The Hamburg DOM is completely free to enter. Payment is required to go on rides however every Wednesday is Family Day, offering discounts on rides and food for everyone.
My tips for visiting
- The fair is laid out in a large circular loop around 1.5 km long, I recommend doing a full lap and seeing everything there is before deciding on rides and food.
- If you want to make your visit to the Hamburg DOM cheaper head there on Wednesdays. Wednesday is Family Day and rides and stalls will offer discounts for everyone helping you to save some money.
- If you’re visiting with young children, you can get “Child finder” bracelets from the first stalls at each of the entrances. These bracelets are for your children to wear, and you can write your name and contact details on them in case you get separated.
- Be sure to stick around into the evening every Friday as there’s a big fireworks display that isn’t to be missed.
All about the Hamburg DOM
The Dom is an epic travelling Hamburg fun fair which takes place in Hamburg three times a year for around 30 days – spring, summer and winter. It’s the largest fair in northern Germany and has become incredibly popular, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Hamburg DOM history
While ‘Dom’ translates into English as Cathedral, it’s clear there are no religious festivities, so how did it all start? The Hamburg DOM dates back to 1329 when a market featuring sellers and showmen was held in Hamburg Cathedral. Initially disapproved by the Archbishop, the market faced a brief prohibition but was later allowed to continue, albeit only during bad weather. Following the Cathedral’s demolition in the early 1800s, the market relocated multiple times but retained its name. Finally, in 1893, it found its permanent home on Heiligengeistfeld, where it has evolved into the spectacle it is today.
Rides and attractions
Of course, the highlight of the Hamburg DOM is the rides. What exactly is on offer? Well, there are over 250 rides for you to enjoy, including ghost trains, roller coasters, log flumes, and even a virtual reality ride. The giant Ferris wheel steals the show, offering fantastic views of the city from the top, along with the nearby skyswing. There’s also plenty for children, as well as all the classics like bumper cars and a carousel. You’ll also find lots of amusement arcades as well as classic fairground games to keep you entertained.
Here are some noteworthy rides:
- Dr. Archibald – Master of Time: The first mobile VR ride, Dr. Archibald offers one of the most unique experiences at the DOM that you won’t want to miss. Riders travel a long wearing a VR headset travelling through different worlds to find Dr. Archibald. The ride lasts 7 minutes and features loads of special effects, you definitely get your money’s worth!
- HÖLLENBLITZ: Want to try out the largest mobile indoor rollercoaster in the world? Well, here it is! This thrilling ride takes you on a journey through the mines at speeds of up to 80km/h. For the ultimate experience, ride it in the evening when it’s dark to enjoy special effects and lasers at their best.
- Die Gesiter Fabrik (The Ghost Factory): The theming on this ghost train is incredible. It boasts an amazing set, complete with animatronics and live actors, who accompany you on your journey through the factory. What’s more, the ride is interactive. Grab a gun and aim for the targets along the way as you strive to achieve the highest score for your cart!
Food and drink
If rides aren’t your thing, don’t worry, the Hamburg DOM is full of great food and drink to enjoy. With approximately 60 food stalls and 40 stores dedicated to baked goods and sweets, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find everything from pizza to corn on the cob, tornado fries, currywurst, crepes, roaster almonds, BBQ and traditional Hamburg fish sandwiches. There are also several bars dotted around the fair with some hosting live music.
Summary
The DOM has to be one of Hamburg’s must-see attractions and I can’t recommend a visit enough. This is one of the best events I went to in the city and I’m not a big thrill seeker. Even if it’s just to hop between food stalls sampling local treats, you have to visit the Hamburg DOM!
