HOME > Featured City > Germany/Hamburg-City Profile

Located in Northwestern Germany on the banks of the lower Elbe River, Hamburg is a vibrant city and the home of Germany's largest port. Currently northern Germany's largest city, Hamburg occupied a leading position in the Hanseatic League during the middle ages with the opening of its port in 1189. Although the city prospered as the seat of the local diocese during the 800's, due to one-third of the town being burned to the ground during a great fire, World War II, and expansion of the port, much of the city's architectural history has been lost. Currently however, walking through the city you'll see many important buildings and streets being carefully restored, recalling a look of the past. From the peculiar atmosphere overflowing with a sense of journey near the waterfront to the resort-like mood of the Alster lakes, as well as the intersection of tradition and new culture, you'll find it all in Hamburg. ※What was the Hanseatic League? An alliance of free cities formed to protect the profits of trade and commerce, and under the direct control of the Holy Roman Emperor. Between the airport and the city, direct airport express buses to the central station run on 15- to 20-minute intervals and are extremely convenient. The central station can be reached by shuttle bus, U-Bahn (subway) or S-Bahn (light rail), and you can use the HamburgCard multi pass for all of these, offering a great value. Bus #110 (labeled “Airport Express“) makes round trips to Ohlsdorf U- & S-Bahn Station every 10 minutes. With connections, Ohlsdorf Station to Hamburg Central Station takes approximately 40 minutes. As S- and U-Bahn lines are placed throughout Hamburg, they're immensely convenient. Passengers can freely transfer between lines and one fare covers the cost of using both as well. Although all of the city's major tourist spots are concentrated within the range of a 1Euro ticket, there are many lines, so it's best to make sure of your route ahead of time. Highly recommended for first time travelers to Hamburg. Offered as either a Tageskarte single-day ticket or Mehrtageskarte three-day ticket, the HamburgCard is valid for one adult and up to three children 14 or under. Additionally, the Gruppenkarte group card can be used for five individuals of any age. For 30 or under, the Hamburg Power-Pass can provide discounts on admission to movies and clubs in addition to what the HamburgCard offers.