Hamburg Attractions

Hamburg Pictures

Where do you start in a city packed with so much to see and do? We suggest you wander the streets to take in the impressive architecture, waters and atmosphere. Beginning at the Rathausmarkt the beautiful town hall will catch your eye. Destroyed in the great fire of 1842 it was been rebuilt in the splendor of the neo-Renaissance style in 1887 and forms a focal point for the city. Running alongside the square are the Alsterarkaden (Arcades) which form an elegant passage of shops and quaint cafes. Moving along to Jungfernstieg which borders the southern end of the Binnenalster (inner basin) this bustling street is a continuation of the sophistication of the arcades. Further around the Binnenalster you also come across imposing office blocks and the world-famous Four Seasons Hotel (Vier Jahreszeiten).

There remains a fierce debate amongst the locals as to which stretch of water is the more impressive; the banks of the River Elbe viewed from the wealthy Elbchausee, or the Aussenalster (Outer Basin) which has a circumference of around 7km and is home to boats, cafes and grand houses. We suggest you try both!

You can’t possibly visit Hamburg without experiencing the Reeperbahn (known locally as the Kiez). Although this is infamous due to the red life district, it is the nightlife and lively atmosphere which dominate rather than any real sleaze. Hans-Albers Platz is a small square surrounded by a variety of lovely pubs/bars and is the perfect starting point on a night out!