Hamburg Hotels

Close your eyes and imagine a major western industrial port city, complete with warehouses in the city center. Not too appealing? Well, open your eyes and take a good look at Hamburg. Germany's second largest city is alive with a vibrant blend of commerce and culture, respect for the past and an eye toward the future, and a work ethic that still knows how to relax. The most important hotels in Hamburg are just a few blocks away from the business of the port as well as the enjoyment of the rest of the city.

You'll want to take a boat tour of the port and Speicherstadt (a series of brick storage facilities built around a series of canals). But don't stop there. The water continues in Hamburg. Over 40 mi/64 km of canals work their way into the city from the port - a constant reminder of source of economic life for this beautiful city. By the way, many of Hamburg's hotels offer river, canal or lake views.

Hamburg is also a cultural and artistic center. The cathedrals of St. Jacobi and St. Michael are spectacular examples of Baroque architecture; as is the unique Rathaus (city hall) with its dozens of supporting pillars. Take time to see the Old Masters at the Kunsthalle, one of the most important art museums in the country. There are also museums of living history as well as those that pay homage to the industry of the region.

Take time to stroll through Hamburg's famous fish market (which sells much more than fish). The Alster, a downtown lake, is another good place for a walk. The surrounding neighborhoods of Harvesterhude and Eppendorf have nice villas left undamaged from the war. You will find many places in Hamburg to shop: the antiques section in the Markthalle, another center near the Hauptbahnhof (main train station), and many upscale stores in the Gansemarkt area. But the biggest shopping street of them all is Monckebergstrasse, with more than 100 shops.

Like most German cities, Hamburg has a vibrant night scene. The principal area for Hamburg's clubs is the St. Pauli district. This is also the home of the famous Reeperbahn, one of the most notorious red-light districts in Europe. City officials have been busy cleaning up the area over the last few years and have even established some family arcades there.

Come to Hamburg and see why this industrial center is fast becoming one of Europe's more popular destinations!