Harbor City Hamburg – Why You Shouldn’t Miss Germany’s Maritime Treasure
Oktoberfest season is over, but that doesn’t mean you need to wait until next year to visit Germany!
There is so much more to explore in Germany and today’s post is introducing Hamburg, which is the best proof why you should allocate some more time to Germany for your next European vacation.
Hamburg – a beautiful harbor town. Photo CC by LuxTonnerre
Due to its world-central port by the Elbe, Hamburg has a long merchant history.
You can experience Hamburg’s unique harbor charm every day when smelling the crisp sea air, but it’s most obvious when you visit the famous Sunday fish market, listen to the seagulls and have a chat with the proud local merchants.
Even after fishing hours Hamburg never loses its vibe. The city offers something for everyone: extensive shopping opportunities, great local and international cuisine, distinct architecture, boat tours and art galleries.
More active travelers can have a swim right in the city or use the same lake during winter for some world class ice-skating.
Though make sure to save up some energy for the nightlife!
The Reeperbahn is a legendary party street with drink prices dangerously starting at 99 cents, while more upscale or laid-back locations are waiting in many other corners of the city like the Schanzenviertel and are perfect to call it a day with an Alster (beer+lemonade).
Hamburg can also be a great base for day trips throughout the region, and there is a LOT to discover; you could fill two whole weeks just taking day trips in the surrounds here!
Watch this video to get into the Hamburg-vibe and get ready to explore it yourself:
Germany is celebrating 25 years of re-unification and all travelers are welcome to upload their impressions with #germany25reunified.
So don’t forget to share your shots when you pay Hamburg a visit!
For more inspiration for your Germany trip click here to see more videos.
11 Comments
I love Germany, but so far have only been to Berlin and Munich, Hamburg is definitely on my List. Plus doesn’t it have a ton of “beach bars” by the port? I so want to go to them!
I’ve heard so many great things about Germany but haven’t gotten the opportunity to explore the actual country. Big on my list is Hamburg…preferably during Octoberfest though! Haha ;-)
“Big on my list is Hamburg…preferably during Octoberfest though!”
Am afraid wrong part of the country for that. While we have the odd event in Hamburg celebrating the Oktoberfest you will not find such thing as in Munich here.
Hi Megan,
The images are beyond amazing. Haven’t been to Germany yet but Hamburg may need to make the list. Actually, I think the folks we’re house sitting for here in Fiji are from the town.
Happy to tweet this.
Ryan
Indeed, Megan, here’s my 30 seconds worth on Hamburg: http://hapaglloydcruises.wordpress.com/2011/06/28/things-to-do-in-hamburg-headquarters-of-hapag-lloyd-cruises/
Good timing! I’m off there for NYE this year!
I LOOOOVE Hamburg! Spent 5 days there in April this year and fell in love with the place. The Reeperbahn and St Pauli are so much more than seedy bars and strip clubs, the place has a great history, it was my favourite part of Hamburg!
Germany is really high on our list of places to visit! Hamburg looks like a lot of fun–we will definitely have to keep it in mind! Thanks for all the great tips!
Germany is definitely on my radar and I’m sure I will get there sometime! Thank you for the awesome tips!
I stumbled upon your post via Twitter. Thanks for the travel inspiration. Hamburg is on our list too and we hope to visit the harbour city next year.
Just read that you are travelling since 2007, that’s cool. We are also on the road since 2007 too.
Safe travels,
Reni
Hamburg is definitely one of the best cities in Germany, there is so much to offer and a long weekend might just not be enough.
I’d strongly recommend Dialogue in the Dark and taking a Free hamburg walking tour as well.