Is Hamburg safe to visit right now? (September 2026)

Travel advisories for Germany

What the advice says

• The US State Department rates Germany at Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, a country-level advisory that does not single out Hamburg specifically.
• The UK Foreign Office notes a high threat of terrorism in Germany, citing incidents such as the 2026 vehicle attack in Berlin, the 2024 Solingen knife attack, and the 2019 Hanau shootings.
• Crime levels in Germany are described as similar to the UK, though pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur in crowded places such as train stations and public gatherings.
• Travelers should avoid leaving bags unattended and stay alert in busy tourist areas, especially at airports and railway stations.
• Only exchange currency at banks, ATMs, or official exchange offices, and check change carefully since counterfeit currency has led to arrests.
• Carrying identification is not legally required, but police can escort visitors to retrieve a passport if none is shown; solo travelers should still keep some form of ID accessible and use normal caution after dark.