Hamburg

The second largest city in Germany ( 2nd to Berlin), Hamburg a.k.a. Venice of the north, abounds with water and bridges. It is for many visitors the most beautiful of the " Big 3" ( Berlin, Hamburg and Muenich ). Bordered by the Elbe river and built around the Alster lake, it's easy to love this historic port city.

The Top 10 Sights in Hamburg:

1) Hamburg's Harbor
This is the Nr.1 Attraction for most visitors. A roundrip steam boat tour is a must and don't forget to visit the museum ship "Cape Anaconda".

2) Historic Merchant buildings - Speicherstadt
This part of Hamburg's harbor has been a historical landmark since 1991. It's the world's largest merchant storage complex. There is so much to see here. You can visit the German customs museum, the spice museum, or the world's largest model train museum.
3) Hamburg's Red Light District - Reeperbahn
The Reeperbahn is Hamburg's amusement and red light district. You'll find many bars, nightclubs and discos here. Beware: while walking around this neighborhood you may run into the " Herbert Street" it is for men only !

4) Hamburg's Town Hall
A spectacular building in downtown Hamburg. This townhall features the architectural style of the Italian and northern German renaissance. Don't miss the striking "Hygieia" fountain in the central courtyard.
5) Hamburg's Fish Market
Every Sunday from 5:00 am you can visit the famous Hamburger fish market, hier you will find live animals, vegetables, art, and ofcoarse very fresh fish !

6) The Hamburg Dungeon
The Hamburg Dungeon is an exhibit somewhere between a haunted mansion and a museum, Hamburg's tumultuous history is reenacted by local actors. This can also be found in the " Speicherstadt " the historic merchant area.

7) The " Michel " Hamburg's largest church The " Michel " was built at the highest point of Hamburg's harbor and has at least a million visitors per year. This church has Germany's largest tower clock and offers a great view if you are willing and able to climb a lot of stairs.
8) The Old Elbe River Tunnel Also known as the Elbtunnel, this is a piece of city history. Opened in 1911 this tunnel is 426 meters below the Elbe river. Many movies were filmed here. You can explore this tunnel on foot or by car - either way an unforgettable experience !
9) The " Jungfernstieg " Centrally located by the Binnen Alster, Hamburg's lake. This is Hamburg's main promenade and shopping mile. You'll find many expensive presents and restaurants here.
10) The Wax Museum Hamburg's wax museum is 125 years old and should not be missed. You can see 130 wax figures. This museum is enjoyable for all ages and can be found on the " Reeperbahn " in the St. Pauli neighborhood.