Hamburg, or, to give it its full title, the “Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg”, is Germany’s second-largest city. Located around one of the most important ports in Europe, it is a vibrant cultural centre with a rich and fascinating history, built on international maritime trade.
Ever since its 9th-century beginnings as a riverside settlement, the River Elbe has defined Hamburg’s identity. Lying just 100 kilometres from the North Sea, it has earned the title of Gateway to the World. Many visitors flock to the Hamburg Harbour to admire the vast ships and commercial yards that have been the city’s lifeblood. Climb aboard the Cap San Diego, a former cargo ship, now a floating museum, or head to the International Maritime Museum to learn all about this aspect of history.
Wander around the nearby Speicherstadt and New Docklands areas to see how the 19th-century warehouses are being renovated and transformed. Currently part of the largest urban regeneration project, these districts are now home to modern residences, excellent restaurants and exclusive boutiques. Don’t miss out on the local tradition of an early-morning visit to the Sunday Fish Market – the perfect opportunity to sample local delicacies in a bustling, social atmosphere.
For an alternative, and more gruesome, view of the city’s past, nothing beats a trip to the thrilling Hamburg Dungeon. You’ll be treated to spectacular visions of the darkest eras in centuries past – this is definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Hamburg also has a thriving arts scene. Visit the world-renowned Hamburger Kunsthalle to admire major artwork from the past seven hundred years, or head to the Deichtorhallen for cutting-edge contemporary art and photography.
There are also plenty of entertainment options for families. Admire elephants and lions, penguins and polar bears at the Hagenbeck Zoo, or head to the Miniatur Wunderland (Miniature Wonderland) to see the world recreated on a very small scale, complete with working trains, ships and cars.
Whether you want to immerse yourself in the urban cityscape, with fascinating architectural innovation replacing the areas devastated in World War II, or relax in the many parks and open spaces, such as the Japanese Garden or Stadtpark, jump aboard the excellent U-Bahn and S-Bahn public transport networks and the whole city is waiting for you.
