Hamburg - elegance, culture and lifestyle
Germany’s second city comes out top, or near the top, in almost any wellbeing or economic indicator you can think of - it packs a pretty powerful punch, so to speak.
One of the most livable cities in the world it is also, by most yardsticks, Germany’s wealthiest, a legacy of its thriving activity as a major international port and free imperial city of the Hanseatic League.
Being surrounded by water and lakes it also boasts more bridges (2302 - yes, that's right, over 2,000) than the might of London, Venice and Amsterdam put together.
Also in this Destination
English: Gastronomy in Hamburg
Every Sunday in the early morning hours, night owls, tourists and early risers meet at the Hamburg Fish Market. Since 1703 there has been a traditional market where you can buy fish, fruit, vegetables, a variety of cheeses, clothes and furniture. At 9:30 AMthe market closes again and the hustle and bustle is over. After the busy morning, a delicious breakfast at a traditional pub or in a beautiful Hamburg café by the harbour is well worth it.
Hamburg - what to do
To the outside world, Hamburg is often associated with the hedonistic pursuits of St Pauli quarters and the seedy goings on of the Reeperbahn and port areas – a sort of sin city by the River Elbe.
That’s true enough – but the Germans themselves also look to Hamburg as a magnificent example of multiculturalism, creative dynamism and immense culture. This takes theatre and opera of the highest calibre to, of course, night spots where having a good time is the order of the day.
There is one standard where Hamburg sort of falls down on – don’t expect Mediterranean type weather! In fact the city is known for its light rain that can go on for quite a few days on end. But by goodness is it atmospheric.
So, take a tour of the city hall and the grand church St. Michaelis, the simply stunning architecture, old and new, visit the old “Speicherstadt” take a boat trip by the canal – and the night is all yours.