Berlin and Munich are great travel destinations, but for a more laidback, off-the-beaten-path German experience, visit the northern city of Hamburg, the country’s second-largest city with a distinctive personality unlike any other city in Germany.
Hamburg prides itself on its maritime history. Located on a river connecting the city to the nearby North Sea, Hamburg has been a significant trading hub since 1189 and is today one of the busiest ports in Europe. Its maritime culture also makes it one of the best destinations for fresh seafood in Germany. Grab a fisch brotchen (fish sandwich) at any market in the city for only a couple of dollars.
Maritime Museum © Peter Lovás | Dreamstime
Art lovers can enjoy more than seven centuries of art, from medieval to modern, at the city’s renowned Kunsthalle, a Renaissance-style museum built in 1869. Ticket prices are around $12 and the experience is well worth the price for art enthusiasts. The Maritime Museum celebrates the region’s history as a trading and shipping hub and Spicy’s Spice Market is a great way to learn about the spice trade. Both can be experienced for less than $10.
Hamburg is also a great city to experience outdoors. With several parks, outdoor spaces, lakes and the Elbe River, visitors can enjoy bike rides, kayaking and boat rides at nearby Alster Lake, or relax on the banks of the river. Visit the old botanical garden and the largest Japanese garden in Europe, free of charge, or spend some time in the city’s outdoor beer gardens.
Planten un Blomen Park © Sergey Dzyuba | Dreamstime
Grab a beer for a dollar or two in the Schanzenviertal neighborhood, authentic comfort pub food at Frau Moller and some of the city’s best seafood at Bruecke and Karo Fisch.
Getting around Hamburg is easy and affordable, with an extensive public transportation system including subways, buses and ferries. The city also has a great bike share program called StadtRAD, and the city is bike friendly. Car sharing is another great option if you prefer to drive.
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Hamburg Off The Beaten Track
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