The Miniatur Wunderland (MIWULA) in Hamburg is well known among model train enthusiast, Hamburg tourists and kids. Located in the old warehouse quarter of the harbor meanwhile stretching  over three floors (the layout actually occupies two) this model train exhibition is one of the biggest on earth- maybe the biggest of all. Size matters but it is also the high level of detail that fascinate the crowds for 15 years.

Whenever I am in Hamburg, I check out MIWULA in order to see their latest section as the team constantly works on new parts. It seems that there is still quite some work ahead because it is said that the final stage will be reached sometimes in the 2020s. So I hopped on a S-Bahn in Altenbeken and switched to a more comfy ICE seat in Hannover soon to arrive in Hamburg. I was excited to see the recently opened “Bella Italia” section- and was impressed. Since the MIWULA team started building the layout in 2000 on an already very skillful level, craftsmanship and model building has even improved with every new part. Also, I have the impression that the goals shifted slightly towards more realistic modeling. As an example, the early stages of the layout (imaginary city of Knuffingen) features rather steep switches (Märklin) with switch machines visible attached, while newer areas use 2 rail systems, gentler switches and hidden motors. Also it looks to me that the oldest parts are showing signs of intense use. The main line across the older parts of MIWULA was out of operation with especially the catenary in bad shape.

Anyways, the crowd is excited and the trains are only a part of the show. Numerous little scenes draw the visitors in and I would be rich if I would have gotten a penny for every “Guck mal!” Of course I focussed on the Italian section this time but I spend quite some time revisiting the other parts as well because there is always something to discover that has been missed at previous visits.

If I we’re you…

…I would definitely stop by at the Miniatur Wunderland when in Hamburg or Northern Germany.

• Reserve a ticket and come early (or after 4:00 pm). MIWULA is the top tourist attraction around and it can get very busy during the day. They open at 8:00 and the first two hours of the day are my favorite time to start my visit.
• Check special offers and tours.
• Don’t come hungry. You will be there for a while and although there is a restaurant area, spend your time with the layout (and safe your money for the beer hall later on)
• Take your time, especially if it is your first visit. Just to get an overall impression can easily take 2-3 hours.
• Bring the family! Kids love this place. There are so many things to see and there is a lot of action, not jut trains. Did I mention the full functioning airport as well as the regular nightfall?
• Use public transportation! Parking is limited and a ride on the S-Bahn or elevated Subway along the harbor is fun. Baumwall station is only five minutes to walk.