Hamburg Travel Guide

Hamburg is truly a world-class city, playing a key role in both international trade and international politics. But for the traveler out for fun, the city's economic and political might is less important than the rich attractions it offers: Museums, architecture, parks, and diverse opportunities for shopping and entertainment. Hamburg, the second largest city in Germany, simply has it all.

Sights

In the City Center, take a guided tour of the Rathaus, the city hall, and marvel at its opulence and glory. The Harbour Area is home to many attractions including The Hamburg Dungeon with its spine-chilling presentations and The Minatur Wunderland, the largest model railway in the world and one of the most successful permanent exhibitions in Northern Germany. Museums worth checking out include the Museum fur Hamburgische Geschichte, the Museum fur Volkerkunde and the Museum fur Kunst und Gewerbe. Stroll around Alster Lake or walk the dome-shaped entry hall of the Alter Elbtunnel. For something a little more off-beat, head to Reeperbahn, one of the most famous red light districts in all of Europe, replete with sex shops, bars and brothels. Ironically, you might also want to check out the Baroque-style St. Joseph Church that lies right in the heart of this infamous strip.

Restaurants

You won't find traditional American hamburgers here, but you'll certainly get your fill of bratwurst, aalsuppe and pinkelwurst in the many restaurants along the historic Old Town. Most of the eateries can be found along the Bleichen Canal. The Altona and Ovelgonne riverfronts have five-star dining spots for those with the most discriminating tastes. More restaurants, bistros and bars can be found along the St. Georg district and, of course, the Reeperbahn red-light district.

Shopping

Many of the department stores and boutiques can be found in the city center. West of the Rathaus you can find expensive boutiques. Near it, the Europa Passage shopping mall is a popular destination. The shopping arcades along Monckebergstrasse have designer clothing boutiques and jewelry stores. Other shopping opportunities can be had at The Nuer Wall area and the Hanseviertel shopping arcade, which is packed with shops selling everything from clothes to porcelain to perfume.

Where to Go in Hamburg