Hamburg is Germany's second-largest city, set on the Elbe River in the north of the country. It is a major port city, and its working harbor shapes much of what a visitor sees and feels here.
What the city offers
- The harbor: The bustling harbor is the heart of the city's identity, with ships, cargo and river traffic moving along the Elbe.
- Maritime history: The city's long connection with the sea runs through its streets, its waterfront and its everyday life.
- Nightlife: Hamburg is known for a lively nightlife district, one of the reasons many visitors come for an evening out.
Planning a visit
Hamburg suits travelers who enjoy a city with a strong sense of place and a working waterfront rather than a purely historic old town. Time spent by the water is well rewarded, as is an evening in the nightlife district. Because the city is large, it helps to pick a few areas to explore in depth rather than trying to cover everything in one day.
As a destination in northern Germany, Hamburg makes a natural stop for those who want to combine a city break with a look at the coast and the wider region. Whether it is the maritime character or the energy of its nightlife that draws you, the city rewards those who take the time to explore its harbor and its neighborhoods at an unhurried pace.
