Hamburg Travel Guide
Travel guide to Hamburg, Germany with comprehensive information about events, shopping, and major Hamburg sporting events to help you enjoy your visit more.
Hamburg Overview
Hamburg, with its port bringing commerce into the country, is the second largest city in Germany. The port has long been of significance to the area, with three rivers meeting here, the Elbe, the Alster and the Bille, creating a natural centre for water based transportation. This formed the basis for the city and has generated significant revenue for it. Now, however, with the steady decline in sea travel, it needs to find new opportunities, and is developing well in the service industries, particularly media. It is not an issue that needs to be addressed overnight, since the port is still very active, but one that does need a longer term view, which is what is happening here.
Hamburg has a history dating back to the 9th century, although its more modern history seems to be how the city is viewed. One of its most famous attributes is that of being the place where the Beatles learned their trade in the 60's. They regularly played at The Star Club, close to the Reeperbahn, and developed their skills and stagecraft in an unforgiving environment.
The Reeperbahn is another modern aspect of Hamburg culture that defines the city. It is a noted red light district, offering clubs, bars, shops and "companionship" for all who want it. There is a lot more to the area actually, with some great clubs and bars here.
The FIFA World Cup will be held in Germany in 2006, with Hamburg playing host to a number of games in the worlds largest and most important football tournament.
Top Hamburg Attractions
In addition to a fantastic night life, with many clubs and bars highlighting new music and performers, there are a number of excellent museums and galleries where some of the older cultural icons can be found. In addition are some outstanding parks. They form a major part of the city's personality and offer a relaxing alternative to the usual city vibe.
Shopping in Hamburg
Hamburg provides a great range of shops, catering for all tastes and budgets. The main shopping area is Monckebergstrasse in the centre of the city. Here all the main brands can be found in a modern shopping area that is easy to get around and also provides many places for refreshment along the way.
Hamburg Sporting Events
Football is extremely popular in Hamburg, with Hamburger SV and FC St Pauli the two teams representing the city. Hamburger are the main side, with the claim of being the only team in Germany to have played in the top division of the Bundesliga every season since it began in 1963. The World Cup will be played in part here in 2006, reflecting the strength of the game here.
