The Free and Hanseatic city of Hamburg was a sudden and unexpected entrant on our list of travel destinations this year. And what a fantastic trip it turned out to be!
In spring this year, we got lucky with flight ticket deals and seized the opportunity to spend a few days in Hamburg. This large German port city on the River Elbe revealed a world of cargo ships and cruise ferries, old warehouses and modern districts, picturesque lakes and verdant parks.
Landungsbrücken, Ships Galore
For first impressions of Hamburg, head to Landungsbrücken, the perfect place to watch the world go by. Ferries to distant lands and cargo ships from across the seas vie for attention at the harbor here. Take a promenade along the river Elbe, gaze at boats of all sizes, grab a bite to eat, and say “Hello Hamburg!”
The Tunnel below the Elbe (From Landungsbrücken to Steinwerder)
Ready for an exciting walk?
The old Elbe tunnel is open to pedestrians! From Landungsbrücken, you can walk under the wide river and cross over to Steinwerder. It was a fascinating experience for us. Junior, excited to jog under the Elbe, had numerous questions about the construction of the tunnel.
On the other side, at Steinwerder, enjoy the pretty sights of the Hamburg skyline and harbor across the river.
A Ferry Ride (From Landungsbrücken to Finkenwerder)
I am fascinated by harbors and could spend many an hour watching the action at a port. If you have the time, hop on to the HVV ferry line 62 from Landungsbrücken to Finkenwerder for an enjoyable (and inexpensive) ride along the harbor. At Finkenwerder, we grabbed a coffee and then relaxed at a tranquil spot before embarking on the return journey.
And that, dear readers, was just a curtain-raiser. There’s much more to see and do in Hamburg, as we discovered. Stay tuned for more recommendations! 🙂
Useful Links:
Tourist Information: http://english.hamburg.de/tourist-information/
Public Transport: http://www.hvv.de/en/index.php
Related Posts on FunderfulWorld:
A Holiday in Hamburg: Family Fun!
A Holiday in Hamburg: Stroll, Wander, Discover