Hamburg is Germany’s second largest
city and has the world’s third busiest port behind New
York City and London. Hamburg has long been a free city-state
governed by business rather then politics. The city grew up
as a key port town. Historically, Hamburg dominated shipping
throughout the Baltic and North Seas as part of the Hanseatic
League. Hamburg’s
port is still a vital part of the economy. However, many
new industries have rose to prominence in Hamburg. Today,
Hamburg is the media and entertainment capital of Germany.
Hamburg beats to a far different drum then fun-loving Munich.
The northern city is far more refined, sophisticated, and
wealthy. More German millionaires live in Hamburg then any
Quick References
Hamburg Hotels Online hotel reservations and reviews
Shopping Find out where to go shopping
Restaurants Where to go for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks
Attractions Info about the top tourist attractions
Hamburg Tours Tours for individuals and groups
other city. After WW II, the
city was left in ruins. With the exception of St. Nikolai
church, little was left standing in the city’s center.
What stands today is a modernized replica of the prewar Hamburg.
Much of Hamburg’s downtown is covered by water making
it one of the most distinguished cities in Europe. Lake Alster
and smaller Lake Binnalster sit beside one another in the
city’s center divided only by a dam on which a roadway
was constructed. The lakes have a silver lining of department
stores, luxurious hotels, and fine restaurants. The view from
the waterfront yields a superb view of the city’s skyline.
During the warm months, sailboats glide by on soft breezes.
Pedestrian walkways and bicycle lanes surround the lakes.
You can take some time out from your morning stroll and enjoy
a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes along the way.
Hamburg has a widespread assortment of nightlife ranging
from the upscale wine bars around Lake Alster to lively pubs
in amongst the St.
Pauli District. Hamburg’s infamous red light district
located in the St. Pauli District continues to earn its reputation
has as Germany’s “Sin City”. In particular,
the main strip called the Reeperbahn is packed with sex shops,
exotic art museums, and brothel houses. On the weekends the
district is filled with young people partaking in social gatherings
and enjoying the extravagant entertainment.
