Top 5 Reasons To Visit Hamburg Over Berlin
1.
It’s the gateway to the world
Seated on the River Elbe between the North and Baltic seas, Hamburg is proud of its medieval history as a Free City and a key member of the Hanseatic League. The city was an important port of departure for immigrants to the New World, and its trade routes still stretch across the globe. Hamburg is, and always has been, a worldly, cosmopolitan, and diverse city with much to offer to its citizens and guests.
2.
Hamburg harbour at dusk
View across Hamburg’s historic harbour | Unsplash
It’s built on water
Not only is Hamburg close to two seas, it also has three rivers – Elbe, Alster, and Bille – as well as numerous waterways and canals. Don’t waste time and money on slow cruises on Berlin’s River Spree – enjoy the North Sea winds on the gorgeous Elbe and see for yourself why Hamburg is called the ‘Venice of the North’. But be warned, this lovely description is not entirely accurate: Hamburg has six times as many bridges as Venice, more than any other city in the world.
3.
It has a centre and it’s beautiful
Berlin is known for its diverse districts, each one trendier than the next, but it’s missing something Hamburg has: a single-core, heart-of-the-city downtown. Wrapped around picturesque Lake Alster, Hamburg’s city centre is a home to countless architectural gems and a bustling shopping district wrapped into one. Here you can stroll through shopping arcades, admire the City Hall, stop for a coffee and cake with a view, or take a canal boat tour to see sailing boats and lavish villas along the Alster’s shore.
4.
Hamburg city centre
View across Lake Alster | Pixabay
It is a shopper’s paradise
Hamburg is Germany’s wealthiest city and the perfect place for some retail therapy. Sure, Berlin has great shopping streets and countless quaint boutiques, but by the time you’ve identified which part of Berlin has what you’re looking for, in Hamburg you’ll already be resting your feet drinking a coffee with a view of the Alster, shopping bags at your feet. From shopping centres to small handicraft stores, luxury brands to flea markets, in Hamburg you will find something for every aesthetic and budget.
5.
Its food comes straight from the source
Hamburg’s close proximity to rivers and the sea always ensures a supply of fresh fish and seafood. The Altes Land orchards south of the city comprise the largest fruit-growing region in Central Europe. Furthermore, Hamburg has centuries of experience handling luxury wares such as coffee, tea, and exotic spices straight from the ship. Skip Berlin’s curry sausages and Turkish döner, and sample the fresh Hamburg cuisine in one of the city’s high quality restaurants.
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