To delve further into the depths of Hamburg's past, first travel back to the year 810. This is the time of its discovery by Charlemagne. At the mouth of the Elbe River, this port's prime location helped aid the northern German merchant cities in their efforts to continue their shipping domination in the Baltic and North seas. Hamburg was very fortunate to have remained undisturbed by the Thirty Years War. In fact, Hamburg grew profusely as the years went on, and became one of the world's richest cities just up to the point of World War II. Today, Hamburg remains a leading port for carrying cargo.

Sadly, the Great Fire of 1842 almost burned down the entire old Hamburg. There is no need to worry, however, because Hamburg now has plenty to offer, all with its superb polish and class. There are plenty of places to explore here, for example, Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) buildings, the 14th century houses of Deichstrasse, and the Kontorhausviertel. These are some of the oldest places to visit in beautiful Hamburg.

Visit Hamburg and delight yourself with its many canals while walking along a fraction of the 1,000 bridges here. Take pictures of the sunset's reflection upon the water as the swans swim merrily by. Take a look at the most popular view of the five churches and the Rathaus that create the most fascinating skyline. Hamburg will not disappoint as a city that simply defines the grand charm of Europe!