About Hamburg
Hamburg is an active city with a network of canals, lush parks, and rich cultural life. As the second largest city in Germany, Hamburg combines urban excitement with outdoor beauty and has a large international student body. As a multicultural city that is safe, it has plenty of student-friendly cafes, music venues, and cheap places to eat.
The city is home to a number of universities such as the University of Hamburg, Hamburg University of Technology, and HafenCity University, attracting students from abroad. The student experience in Hamburg is vibrant whether you are on a riverside path on the Elbe, trolling record shops in Sternschanze, or studying at a lakeside cafe near Alster. There are also many nearby cities, including Bremen, Lübeck, and Hanover that you can explore on a weekend trip.
Best Student Accommodation in Hamburg
At Alphaway, the most amazing Hamburg student accommodation welcomes you, from affordable shared rooms and ensuite student rooms in Hamburg to private student studio in Hamburg with quality amenities. All listings are verified, safe, and trusted by thousands of students, plus 24/7 support. You can find your ideal student accommodation in a few clicks.
Why Choose Hamburg for Higher Education
Hamburg is not just an academic center; it is a springboard for academic success. With its world-class universities, advanced tech and media industries, and incredibly high quality of life, Hamburg is a great place for students to find unparalleled academic success and professional opportunities. Not to mention, the diversity of its communities, globalized mindset, and rich urban experience make it attractive to students who value both education and life experiences.
Best Areas for Student Accommodation in Hamburg
Humburg offers students various calm and affordable neighborhoods. Here are some of the areas that are popular among students:
- Sternschanze: A neighborhood with an indie atmosphere, street art, and vibrant nightlife; near the University of Hamburg, tons of cafes and thrift stores.
- Eimsbüttel: A nice, quiet but central neighborhood with parks, student pubs, and a short commute to most of the universities.
- Georg: A lively and diverse area providing many affordable student living options on a budget in hamburg. Access to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof is easy.
- Altona: Good for students at HafenCity University, offers River views, lovely markets, and a well-connected public transport hub.
Different Types of Student Accommodation in Hamburg
- Private Student Accommodation (PBSA): PBSA refers to purpose-built student housing available in Hamburg- designed with your mind for comfort and community. There are three types of private student accommodation to choose from in Hamburg: ensuite, private studio, and shared studios. Everything comes with utilities covered and amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry rooms, lounges, gym and 24/7 security. PBSAs provide a safe, social, and convenient experience for both local and international students.
- University Halls: This is student accommodation that is operated by universities close to the university campus.
- Shared Apartments: shared student apartments in Hamburg are privately rented flats, where you live with other students. Private rented flats/places can help you to become very independent, but often you must sort your own bills, cleaning, and contract.
Cost of Living in Hamburg for International Students
The cost of living in Hamburg for students is very affordable. Here’s a breakdown of average monthly living expenses in Hamburg:
- Rent: €350-€750/month depending on location and room type. Purpose-built student housing in Hamburg usually includes bills.
- Groceries: €150-€200/month. Aldi, Lidl, and Rewe are popular among students.
- Travel: €30-€50/month with a student travel card.
- Dining Out: €8-€20 per meal. Try budget bites around Sternschanze or university canteens.
- Entertainment: €60-€100/month for cinemas, concerts, and nightlife.
Transportation in Hamburg
Getting around Hamburg is a breeze with its affordable and comfortable public transport options:
- U-Bahn & S-Bahn: Fast and reliable public transport, the U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (suburban trains) can take you nearly anywhere in the city you want to go. Most university campuses can be found near the U-Bahn or S-Bahn stations. Therefore, your daily commute will be a breeze!
- Buses: The bus service fills in the gaps where the trains do not reach and runs very late into the night, meaning getting around is safe and cheap, even if you try to squeeze that last class in just before the night kicks off.
- Regional trains: You can easily hop on a train with the regional trains. Very nice service, and you can do it trouble-free without breaking your budget
- Airports: Hamburg has the coolest airport. The U-Bahn gets you right to the airport (by the S1 line). It is extremely convenient for international students!
- Student travel passes: All registered students enrolled at Hamburg universities can get relatively cheap travel with monthly/semester travel passes that you can purchase!
Student Life in Hamburg
Expect your life to be filled with happening days at markets, cafes for great coffee, and study corners, and nights filled with the most exciting nightlife! Here’s everything to know about student life in Hamburg:
- Restaurants & Cafés: From vegan brunch spots to Turkish takeaways, the city has something for every palate.
- Student Clubs & Events: Join uni societies, language exchanges, or themed parties in student bars.
- Markets & Malls: Browse the Flohschanze flea market or shop at Europa Passage.
- Weekend Getaways: Easy train rides to Bremen, Lübeck, or even Denmark.
- Libraries & Study Spots: Enjoy study time at the State and University Library Hamburg or cozy up in cafes.
- Live Music & Art: Explore venues like Fabrik or stroll through Deichtorhallen art center.
Universities in Hamburg
- University of Hamburg: The largest university in the city, with solid programs in the humanities, natural sciences, and economics.
- Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH): Has world-class engineering and IT programs and a very strong emphasis on innovation.
- HafenCity University: Has a focus on architecture, urban planning, and civil engineering- perfect for those who create and build.
- Hamburg University of Applied Sciences: Very practice-oriented in areas like design, media, and social sciences.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
- University Scholarships: Universities in Hamburg, such as TUHH and HAW, will offer merit or need-based scholarships.
- DAAD Scholarships: Germany's leading funding organization for international students applying for master’s or PhD programs
- GCC Country Scholarships: Students from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf States can apply through their local embassies or education ministries.
- External Scholarships: International students can apply for opportunities such as Erasmus+, Heinrich Böll Foundation, or Konrad Adenauer Stiftung.
Tips for International Students
- Open a German Bank Account: Needed for rent payments and everyday transactions.
- Get a Local SIM: Providers like Vodafone and O2 offer student plans with data and calls.
- Learn Some German: Basic phrases go a long way in daily life and social settings.
- Plan Your Budget: Track expenses and find discounts through student cards or apps.
- Alphaway Support: From arrival assistance to essentials kits, we help you settle in Hamburg with ease.
Health & Safety Tips & Student Well-Being Resources
- Register with a Local GP: Access Germany’s healthcare system by enrolling with a general practitioner.
- Emergency Numbers: Save 112 for medical/fire and 110 for police on your phone.
- Safe Travel: Use public transport or rideshare apps after dark.
- Mental Health: Most universities offer free counselling, peer groups, and wellness programs.
