Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany, its most important sea port and its largest foreign trading centre. Founded in about 811 during the reign of Charlemagne, Hamburg was one of the great Hanseatic cities and has maintained its prominence down the centuries until the present day as a meeting place for the world. This city on the Elbe river also has an elegant side, with palatial department stores along its boulevards, art centres, international musicals, exclusive shopping arcades and the famous St. Pauli entertainment district.

Hamburg's districts reflect every aspect of this elegant north German port with its rich history and cosmopolitan outlook, ranging from tranquil fishing villages via exclusive residential areas to the lively Reeperbahn.

A city like Hamburg offers endless possibilities for visitors, no matter what their interest, with a veritable kaleidoscope of attractions ranging from more than 50 museums and a host of venues for drama, concerts and musicals to a vast miniature railway and a chamber of horrors. Its magnificent buildings are testimony to the city's long and turbulent history. A boat tour of the harbour is a must.

Hamburg is a food lover's delight. Choose from dishes ranging from fresh fish in a harbourside restaurant to every kind of international speciality.