An impressive labyrinth of canals, basins, quays and bridges, Hamburg's port is one of the foremost sea freight centres in the world, and – with its harbour tours, promenade and fish market – it is also the city's number one attraction.

Gateway to the world
The wide blue yonder, fresh sea breezes and the call of distant shores ... Hamburg's port was once the departure point for huge passenger ships destined for faraway lands. Impressive luxury cruise ships still dock here from time to time, but it is now better known as one of the world's leading see freight centres, and the bridge between continental Europe and overseas. Harbour tours start from the Landungsbrücken jetties, the arrival and departure points for Hamburg's waterways. A walk along the harbour promenade leads past fish stands and souvenir stalls to the two museum ships Cap San Diego and Rickmer Rickmers. At the end is the fish auction hall, where Hamburg's famous fish market takes place in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Hamburg has more than 50 museums offering an informative, fun and educational experience, from the Museum of Art and Craft to special exhibitions in the Bucerius Art Forum to the miniature railway wonderland in the warehouse district. From Ernst Barlach House to the Hamburg Dungeon, there is no limit to art in Hamburg.

The Hamburg Kunsthalle art gallery houses the city's largest art collection. Great entertainment is provided by world-famous musicals and at theatres such as Schmidt's TIVOLI (music and variety) and the St. Pauli Theatre (comedy and cabaret). The Hamburg State Opera House (opera and ballet), the National Theatre (Deutsches Schauspielhaus) and the Thalia theatre are all venues for world-class performances.