Hamburg is Germany’s second largest city, often called Germany’s Gateway to the World because of its large seaport. The impressive traditional warehouse buildings in the Speicherstadt make a fascinating contrast to the high-tech port facilities. Both can be admired extensively on the highly popular port sightseeing tours. Water is the leitmotif of the city, embracing it or weaving its way through it. The Binnenalster forms a picturesque artificial lake in the city centre whilst the Außenalster provides ample opportunities for water sports. Over 2,000 bridges cross the various Alster canals.

At least as varied as the scenery are the shopping opportunities at the many markets - most famous of all the fish market - and along the city’s elegant boulevards. Sights like the emblematic Michel, the famous baroque St Michael’s Church in the city centre or the richly decorated Renaissance Town Hall, not forgetting the city’s 50 museums, all extend an invitation to an unforgettable visit. Hamburg’s musical theatres attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, The Lion King being the latest crowd-puller.