m_kingdom2 returns from Hamburg
Mar 4th, 2005, 12:47 PM
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I don't think Hamburg is so much about must see's, but more about enjoying a comfortable city by the water, nice restaurants, various neighborhoods with different ambiance. Actually the Hafen boat tour is interesting, my daughter also enjoyed seeing Lion King where the audience is picked up by the Lion King boat across the water. It's in German so you may miss the jokes but your sister can translate. My wife likes shopping along Moenckebergstrasse, Neuer Wall and along the Binnenalster. My kids are totally impressed by the best looking Burger King on earth on Moenckebergstrasse. I like Hamburg for the large number of very good restaurants from French, Italian, Bavarian and Austrian too many to mention here, but I can spell them out later if you want to. We've been there 3 times so we've tried a good number of them. I would recommend going to Bremen or Lubeck if you have time. you can use the day regional pass( 20 euros?) for the MET train to Bremen or the slower regional train to Luebeck.
The train ride between Copenhagen & Hamburg is quite unique as the train got on a big multilevel ferry with shops,restaurant and view of the Baltic Sea. Once you arrive in southern Denmark, the train will roll through a series of islands dotted with small towns. I believe one good value hotel with a unique ambiance is in the Nyhaven area(Copenhagen). I can't remember the name exactly as I didn't stay there but I believe it's "Hotel 57" (it has a website). Have a great vacation!
The train ride between Copenhagen & Hamburg is quite unique as the train got on a big multilevel ferry with shops,restaurant and view of the Baltic Sea. Once you arrive in southern Denmark, the train will roll through a series of islands dotted with small towns. I believe one good value hotel with a unique ambiance is in the Nyhaven area(Copenhagen). I can't remember the name exactly as I didn't stay there but I believe it's "Hotel 57" (it has a website). Have a great vacation!
Mar 4th, 2005, 01:16 PM
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msjuice,
Copenhagen isn't a long trip (about an hour by plane).
I will add a few sights and activities here but allow me a general remark first:
Although Hamburg features a couple of Museums that are worth taking a look at, it is pretty much of an outdoor city IMO.
While it is the second largest city in Germany, it is not that densely populated and there are countless parks and canals making the city very green and very much geared towards water. In fact, we inhabitants consider sitting outdoors only complete when there is some contemplative water around somewhere.
Apart from that, Hamburg is continuously re- inventing itself, partly due to necessities of commerce and trade from which the city has drawn its wealth. Keep in mind, that this is one of the wealthiest areas in the EU. However, this has caused many buildings that might have been worthwhile to preserve to be torn down, on the other hand, there are still gorgeous residential Art Deco areas to be found along with majestic buildings lining the Alster Lake shores and some stunning new architecture in the developing areas of Hafen City and along the river Elbe in Oevelgoenne and Neumuehlen.
By saying this, I don't want to rain on your parade at all, but this isn't exactly the best time of year for outdoor activities. Especially as we are currently facing an unusually cold weather with even some snow - far from winter paradise, though, as snow is usually pretty muddy here.
Don't let this get you down, though. This is still one of Germany's nicest cities and to me there is hardly an alternative in Germany that I would really like to live in.
Here are a few ideas of sights to see:
<b> Tour of the port:</b> The city's main source of income is the port, which is booming and recently has risen to rival Rotterdam as one of this continent's main trading posts. Unlike in most other cities I know, the port is an integral part of downtown and quite worth a sightseeing tour. Small and large vessels for tours leave from Landungsbruecken, which is a stop of S-Bahn and U-Bahn trains, too. I think it is best to board one of the small boats called "Barkassen", as these will take you on a tour through the channels of the historic "Speicherstadt" (warehouse district), where in old brick buildings spices, tea, coffee and carpets are being stored, but which also is a big development area much like the Docklands in London.
<b>St. Michael's church:</b> St. Michael ("Michel"
is Hamburg's landmark church. It is located not far from Landungsbruecken overlooking the city and the river. A fantastic view can be enjoyed once you have climbed the numerous steps of its spire (small fee). Its interior is understatedly elegant and thus reflecting this city's mentality. You might be lucky and find that the organ is being played, which is quite impressive.
<b> Krameramtsgasse: </b> This small alley is basically the only one that survived the big fire more than a hundred years ago. It consists of small buildings reflecting street life and living in the old days. It is only steps from St. Michael and a bit tricky to find. Look for an alley just to the left of a restaurant called "Krameramtsstuben" a little bit below the back side of the church.
<b> City Hall: </b> City Hall is a pretty impressive structure on Rathausmarkt (U-Bahn stop) right in the center of town behind the Inner- Alster Lake. Tours are available, though I am not sure how frequently.
<b> Reeperbahn: </b> Hamburg's famous red-light district is worth a look at, whether you approve of it or not. Formerly a long alley where ropes for ships were being manufactured, it became one of the most notorious red-light districts catering to the sailors from all over the world arriving in Hamburg's port. While the area is still pretty grimy, past efforts of revitalizing the area have been pretty successful resulting in the Reeperbahn and its surroundings becoming the center of Hamburg's nightlife with clubs, a Musical Theatre, cabarets (Schmidt's and Schmidt's Tivoli) and countless bars blending in with traditional brothels and topless bars. While pretty unimpressive during daytime, it gains attraction once night and darkness have settled in.
<b> Blankenese:</b> A hilly suburb down the river, this picturesque neighborhood encourages a walk through steep alleys bordering small and beautiful houses, all overlooking the River Elbe and the majestic ocean-going vessels.
<b> Hagenbeck's Zoo:</b> This is one of Germany's first zoos and is still among its prime. Privately owned and operated, Hagenbeck is famous for being the first zoo in Germany to having introduced a presentation of animals in surroundings resembling their native conditions.
<b> Museums: </b>
<b> Kunsthalle </b> is located right next to Central Station and displays numerous paintings by this world's biggest name painters. It has a modern addition dedicated to modern art of all kinds.
<b> Bucerius Kunstforum </b> is located on City Hall Square (Rathausmarkt) in the ground floor and basement of the HypoVereinsbank building next to the canal and thus reflecting the intertwined relationships of business and art in the city. It is a small venue housing varying high quality exhibitions.
<b> Museum for Hamburg's History <b> is located near Reeperbahn and features a collection documenting the changing history and independence of Hamburg throughout the ages.
<b> Miniatur- Wunderland: </b> Miniature- Wonderland is a pretty new introduction to the Museum scene consisting of one of the world's largest model railroad facilities. There are about 7 km of rails and about 3.500 waggons all operating in lovingly modelled sceneries with houses, cars, small figures etc.! It is a fun place for the young at heart and offers a lot of enjoyment with its gorgeous attention to detail. It is located in the Speicherstadt warehouse district, not far from the headquarters of the "Spiegel" magazine headquarters (sort of the German TIME magazine) on Ost-West-Str.
<b> Hamburg Dungeon </b> is located right next to Miniatur- Wunderland, also housed in one of the red brick buildings of the Speicherstadt. It is an interactive museum dealing with Hamburg's past of the 17th century and likely to send some shivers down your spine.
<b> Barlach Haus: <b> Located in a vast park in the residential area of Klein Flottbek close to Blankenese, the Barlach Haus mansion displays the sculptures of famous North German sculptor Ernst Barlach and is definitely worth a visit.
<b> Other points of interest: </b>
<b> Alster Lakes: </b> The Inner- and Outer- Alster Lakes are acutally not lakes but part of the small Alster River that has been dammed up. Located smack dab in the center of the city, they are one of the city's main venues for recreation. I strongly recommend a leisurely stroll along the posh neighborhoods of its Western shore. There are several Consulates General here, the U.S. one among them. It is easily identifiable as a stately white mansion that's heavily guarded by German Police. In fact the street passing it has been closed for traffic ever since 9/11 - very happy about that...
There are usually small white ferries that can be boarded in order to get you from one end to the other departing e.g. from Jungfernstieg (S-Bahn and U-Bahn stop) on pretty scenic tours of the widely spread canals. Due to the weather they are likely to be out of operation, though.
<b> Elbchaussee: </b> This is one of Hamburg's main arteries connecting the city center with the ritzy neighborhoods along the River Elbe. Wonderful old mansions along with some nice views of the container port and the River can be spotted along its meandering way out to Blankenese.
<b> Strandweg in Oevelgoenne: </b> Strandweg is a small pedestrian walkway in Oevelgoenne down by the River Elbe and lined with pretty neat old Captain's houses. It is best accessible by ferry from Landungsbruecken. These ferries are included in a day pass of Hamburg's public transport system called HVV. Strandweg invites for a leisurely stroll along the River - you can reach the Teufelsbrueck berth within about an hour. Café Engel is serving some nice coffee (or mulled wine) right on the berth. You can cross over by ferry to Finkenwerder, change ships there and make it back on a scenic route to Oevelgoenne or further on to Landungsbruecken close to city center. Again, these ferries are included in a HVV daypass.
<b> Fischmarkt: </b> The famous fish market is held Sundays starting at around 5 a.m., so get up early. It is located down by the river, not far from Reeperbahn and does not only feature fish stalls, but in fact produce and other items of all varieties at bargain prices. Usually some Jazz Music and beer is available at Fischauktionshalle (Fish Auction Hall).
<b> Ohlsdorf Cemetery: </b> This cemetery is one of the world's largest and without wanting to appear morbid, it is quite a spectacular park in the best of British landscaping traditions and thus of a high recreational value. No fun activities like rollerblading allowed, though, for respect of the dead.
<b> AOL Arena/ Color Line Arena: </b> For those interested in sports, the AOL Arena (formerly known as Volksparkstadion) is probably the second best football (soccer) stadium in Germany (behind Gelsenkirchen's Arena auf Schalke, and possibly behind Munich's new Allianz- Arena, which has to be completed, though) and home of Germany's only football team to always having played in the highest league, HSV (now you know from where I took my screen name). There is a museum of the club's history and players' practice sessions can be observed on weekday mornings or afternoons (check with the local press).
HSV is currently on the rise, this weekend they are playing Leverkusen and in two weeks there is the classic against Dortmund.
Right across the street, Color Line Arena is the second largest indoor sports arena of Germany (behind the Koeln Arena in Cologne) and also hosts international concerts. Train stop for both is Stellingen, from where it is a 10 minute walk in the park (which can be nerve-wrecking). On playing days, shuttle buses operate, but are almost always packed.
</b></b></b></b>
Copenhagen isn't a long trip (about an hour by plane).
I will add a few sights and activities here but allow me a general remark first:
Although Hamburg features a couple of Museums that are worth taking a look at, it is pretty much of an outdoor city IMO.
While it is the second largest city in Germany, it is not that densely populated and there are countless parks and canals making the city very green and very much geared towards water. In fact, we inhabitants consider sitting outdoors only complete when there is some contemplative water around somewhere.
Apart from that, Hamburg is continuously re- inventing itself, partly due to necessities of commerce and trade from which the city has drawn its wealth. Keep in mind, that this is one of the wealthiest areas in the EU. However, this has caused many buildings that might have been worthwhile to preserve to be torn down, on the other hand, there are still gorgeous residential Art Deco areas to be found along with majestic buildings lining the Alster Lake shores and some stunning new architecture in the developing areas of Hafen City and along the river Elbe in Oevelgoenne and Neumuehlen.
By saying this, I don't want to rain on your parade at all, but this isn't exactly the best time of year for outdoor activities. Especially as we are currently facing an unusually cold weather with even some snow - far from winter paradise, though, as snow is usually pretty muddy here.
Don't let this get you down, though. This is still one of Germany's nicest cities and to me there is hardly an alternative in Germany that I would really like to live in.
Here are a few ideas of sights to see:
<b> Tour of the port:</b> The city's main source of income is the port, which is booming and recently has risen to rival Rotterdam as one of this continent's main trading posts. Unlike in most other cities I know, the port is an integral part of downtown and quite worth a sightseeing tour. Small and large vessels for tours leave from Landungsbruecken, which is a stop of S-Bahn and U-Bahn trains, too. I think it is best to board one of the small boats called "Barkassen", as these will take you on a tour through the channels of the historic "Speicherstadt" (warehouse district), where in old brick buildings spices, tea, coffee and carpets are being stored, but which also is a big development area much like the Docklands in London.
<b>St. Michael's church:</b> St. Michael ("Michel"
is Hamburg's landmark church. It is located not far from Landungsbruecken overlooking the city and the river. A fantastic view can be enjoyed once you have climbed the numerous steps of its spire (small fee). Its interior is understatedly elegant and thus reflecting this city's mentality. You might be lucky and find that the organ is being played, which is quite impressive.<b> Krameramtsgasse: </b> This small alley is basically the only one that survived the big fire more than a hundred years ago. It consists of small buildings reflecting street life and living in the old days. It is only steps from St. Michael and a bit tricky to find. Look for an alley just to the left of a restaurant called "Krameramtsstuben" a little bit below the back side of the church.
<b> City Hall: </b> City Hall is a pretty impressive structure on Rathausmarkt (U-Bahn stop) right in the center of town behind the Inner- Alster Lake. Tours are available, though I am not sure how frequently.
<b> Reeperbahn: </b> Hamburg's famous red-light district is worth a look at, whether you approve of it or not. Formerly a long alley where ropes for ships were being manufactured, it became one of the most notorious red-light districts catering to the sailors from all over the world arriving in Hamburg's port. While the area is still pretty grimy, past efforts of revitalizing the area have been pretty successful resulting in the Reeperbahn and its surroundings becoming the center of Hamburg's nightlife with clubs, a Musical Theatre, cabarets (Schmidt's and Schmidt's Tivoli) and countless bars blending in with traditional brothels and topless bars. While pretty unimpressive during daytime, it gains attraction once night and darkness have settled in.
<b> Blankenese:</b> A hilly suburb down the river, this picturesque neighborhood encourages a walk through steep alleys bordering small and beautiful houses, all overlooking the River Elbe and the majestic ocean-going vessels.
<b> Hagenbeck's Zoo:</b> This is one of Germany's first zoos and is still among its prime. Privately owned and operated, Hagenbeck is famous for being the first zoo in Germany to having introduced a presentation of animals in surroundings resembling their native conditions.
<b> Museums: </b>
<b> Kunsthalle </b> is located right next to Central Station and displays numerous paintings by this world's biggest name painters. It has a modern addition dedicated to modern art of all kinds.
<b> Bucerius Kunstforum </b> is located on City Hall Square (Rathausmarkt) in the ground floor and basement of the HypoVereinsbank building next to the canal and thus reflecting the intertwined relationships of business and art in the city. It is a small venue housing varying high quality exhibitions.
<b> Museum for Hamburg's History <b> is located near Reeperbahn and features a collection documenting the changing history and independence of Hamburg throughout the ages.
<b> Miniatur- Wunderland: </b> Miniature- Wonderland is a pretty new introduction to the Museum scene consisting of one of the world's largest model railroad facilities. There are about 7 km of rails and about 3.500 waggons all operating in lovingly modelled sceneries with houses, cars, small figures etc.! It is a fun place for the young at heart and offers a lot of enjoyment with its gorgeous attention to detail. It is located in the Speicherstadt warehouse district, not far from the headquarters of the "Spiegel" magazine headquarters (sort of the German TIME magazine) on Ost-West-Str.
<b> Hamburg Dungeon </b> is located right next to Miniatur- Wunderland, also housed in one of the red brick buildings of the Speicherstadt. It is an interactive museum dealing with Hamburg's past of the 17th century and likely to send some shivers down your spine.
<b> Barlach Haus: <b> Located in a vast park in the residential area of Klein Flottbek close to Blankenese, the Barlach Haus mansion displays the sculptures of famous North German sculptor Ernst Barlach and is definitely worth a visit.
<b> Other points of interest: </b>
<b> Alster Lakes: </b> The Inner- and Outer- Alster Lakes are acutally not lakes but part of the small Alster River that has been dammed up. Located smack dab in the center of the city, they are one of the city's main venues for recreation. I strongly recommend a leisurely stroll along the posh neighborhoods of its Western shore. There are several Consulates General here, the U.S. one among them. It is easily identifiable as a stately white mansion that's heavily guarded by German Police. In fact the street passing it has been closed for traffic ever since 9/11 - very happy about that...
There are usually small white ferries that can be boarded in order to get you from one end to the other departing e.g. from Jungfernstieg (S-Bahn and U-Bahn stop) on pretty scenic tours of the widely spread canals. Due to the weather they are likely to be out of operation, though.
<b> Elbchaussee: </b> This is one of Hamburg's main arteries connecting the city center with the ritzy neighborhoods along the River Elbe. Wonderful old mansions along with some nice views of the container port and the River can be spotted along its meandering way out to Blankenese.
<b> Strandweg in Oevelgoenne: </b> Strandweg is a small pedestrian walkway in Oevelgoenne down by the River Elbe and lined with pretty neat old Captain's houses. It is best accessible by ferry from Landungsbruecken. These ferries are included in a day pass of Hamburg's public transport system called HVV. Strandweg invites for a leisurely stroll along the River - you can reach the Teufelsbrueck berth within about an hour. Café Engel is serving some nice coffee (or mulled wine) right on the berth. You can cross over by ferry to Finkenwerder, change ships there and make it back on a scenic route to Oevelgoenne or further on to Landungsbruecken close to city center. Again, these ferries are included in a HVV daypass.
<b> Fischmarkt: </b> The famous fish market is held Sundays starting at around 5 a.m., so get up early. It is located down by the river, not far from Reeperbahn and does not only feature fish stalls, but in fact produce and other items of all varieties at bargain prices. Usually some Jazz Music and beer is available at Fischauktionshalle (Fish Auction Hall).
<b> Ohlsdorf Cemetery: </b> This cemetery is one of the world's largest and without wanting to appear morbid, it is quite a spectacular park in the best of British landscaping traditions and thus of a high recreational value. No fun activities like rollerblading allowed, though, for respect of the dead.
<b> AOL Arena/ Color Line Arena: </b> For those interested in sports, the AOL Arena (formerly known as Volksparkstadion) is probably the second best football (soccer) stadium in Germany (behind Gelsenkirchen's Arena auf Schalke, and possibly behind Munich's new Allianz- Arena, which has to be completed, though) and home of Germany's only football team to always having played in the highest league, HSV (now you know from where I took my screen name). There is a museum of the club's history and players' practice sessions can be observed on weekday mornings or afternoons (check with the local press).
HSV is currently on the rise, this weekend they are playing Leverkusen and in two weeks there is the classic against Dortmund.
Right across the street, Color Line Arena is the second largest indoor sports arena of Germany (behind the Koeln Arena in Cologne) and also hosts international concerts. Train stop for both is Stellingen, from where it is a 10 minute walk in the park (which can be nerve-wrecking). On playing days, shuttle buses operate, but are almost always packed.
</b></b></b></b>
Mar 4th, 2005, 01:25 PM
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Sorry for all the bold- must have omitted to "unbold" at one time...
For <b> Shopping </b>, Hamburg offers some of Germany's finest opportunities. High- end stores are located in the area South of the Inner- Alster along <i> Neuer Wall St. </i> and <i> Jungfernstieg </i>, which is currently under construction.
There are also several shopping arcades in this part of the city in order to facilitate shopping during rainy days (which are frequent, although the amount of rainfall in contrast to the ever popular cliché is not higher than anywhere else in Germany).
Big deparment stores (Karstadt, Kaufhof, H&M) are located on <i> Moenckebergstr. </i>, not far from the above mentioned streets in the direction of Central Station.
Fine shopping can also be found along <i> Eppendorfer Baum </i> and Eppendorfer Landstr. streets in Hamburg's popular neighborhood of Eppendorf near the Western shore of the Outer Alster Lake.
Should you be interested in sophisticated interior design, <b> Stilwerk </b> is a shpping mall dedicated to the finest names and located right behind the fish market by the river. There is a ferry stop right opposite, which can easily be accessed from Landungsbruecken.
For evenings out:
<b> Hamburger Staatsoper: </b> The opera is located on Stephansplatz (U-Bahn stop) right in the center of town. Whereas it does not draw the big names in opera currently, it still plays host for performances of young aspiring singers. It is also the venue of the Hamburg ballet, which offers worldclass performances under the guidance of American John Neumeier.
<b> Lion King Musical: </b> The Lion King Musical has been playing for a couple of years in a theatre right in the middle of the port, overlooking the city center. It is best accessed through a short ferry ride from Landungsbruecken.
Apart from that, the tribute to Abba Mamma Mia Musical and Dance of the Vampire Musical are also playing.
Should you require suggestions for restaurants and bars, do post and I'll try to come up with a few suggestions.
Enjoy your trip
hsv
For <b> Shopping </b>, Hamburg offers some of Germany's finest opportunities. High- end stores are located in the area South of the Inner- Alster along <i> Neuer Wall St. </i> and <i> Jungfernstieg </i>, which is currently under construction.
There are also several shopping arcades in this part of the city in order to facilitate shopping during rainy days (which are frequent, although the amount of rainfall in contrast to the ever popular cliché is not higher than anywhere else in Germany).
Big deparment stores (Karstadt, Kaufhof, H&M) are located on <i> Moenckebergstr. </i>, not far from the above mentioned streets in the direction of Central Station.
Fine shopping can also be found along <i> Eppendorfer Baum </i> and Eppendorfer Landstr. streets in Hamburg's popular neighborhood of Eppendorf near the Western shore of the Outer Alster Lake.
Should you be interested in sophisticated interior design, <b> Stilwerk </b> is a shpping mall dedicated to the finest names and located right behind the fish market by the river. There is a ferry stop right opposite, which can easily be accessed from Landungsbruecken.
For evenings out:
<b> Hamburger Staatsoper: </b> The opera is located on Stephansplatz (U-Bahn stop) right in the center of town. Whereas it does not draw the big names in opera currently, it still plays host for performances of young aspiring singers. It is also the venue of the Hamburg ballet, which offers worldclass performances under the guidance of American John Neumeier.
<b> Lion King Musical: </b> The Lion King Musical has been playing for a couple of years in a theatre right in the middle of the port, overlooking the city center. It is best accessed through a short ferry ride from Landungsbruecken.
Apart from that, the tribute to Abba Mamma Mia Musical and Dance of the Vampire Musical are also playing.
Should you require suggestions for restaurants and bars, do post and I'll try to come up with a few suggestions.
Enjoy your trip
hsv
Mar 4th, 2005, 03:51 PM
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How expensive and difficult is it to get good soccer tickets in Germany? I enjoyed watching Bayern slaughtered Freiburg on TV a few days ago. It's more fun to watch the german major league soccer as it is a couple of steps above our american MLS, Major League Soccer that is! Both my kids play soccer for a few years so they would enjoy watching it live if it's not too expensive.
Mar 4th, 2005, 11:08 PM
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DAX,
football (
) tickets are not that hard to obtain usually. In preparation of the World Championships 2006 taking place here, almost all cities or their clubs have built new stadiums with sufficient capacity (and great atmosphere).
A normal Bundesliga game will set you back around € 25.- for the cheapest seats (at least here in Hamburg in its phenomenal AOL Arena). If HSV is playing a top team, this might be € 35.-. IMO this category (at least here) is absolutely sufficient as the stands are very steep and therefore provide good views for everyone. Better categories start from around € 40.- to € 80.-, I believe.
You can purchase tickets in advance through most theater ticket agencies in the respective city or the culbs themselves. Should you be in Hamburg, they have their own city store in Schmiedestr., close to St. Petri Church and City Hall, running parallel to Moenckebergstr.
You could also buy online at:
http://www.hsv.de/index.php?id=9431
As I notice that evidently you keep travelling to Berlin and Hamburg, I'd suggest you go see a match in the latter, as Berlin's Olympia Stadium has been remodelled, but it's still not a pure football stadium, meaning they have a running track there circling the pitch, which in turn moves spectators quite a bit away from the game, which again does not improve the atmosphere. This is definitely better here. The only more attractive stadium currently might be Arena auf Schalke in Gelsenkirchen. And Bayern's new Allianz Arena in Munich should be impressive, but has not yet been completed (and who likes Bayern Munich anyway ?;-) ).
football (
) tickets are not that hard to obtain usually. In preparation of the World Championships 2006 taking place here, almost all cities or their clubs have built new stadiums with sufficient capacity (and great atmosphere).A normal Bundesliga game will set you back around € 25.- for the cheapest seats (at least here in Hamburg in its phenomenal AOL Arena). If HSV is playing a top team, this might be € 35.-. IMO this category (at least here) is absolutely sufficient as the stands are very steep and therefore provide good views for everyone. Better categories start from around € 40.- to € 80.-, I believe.
You can purchase tickets in advance through most theater ticket agencies in the respective city or the culbs themselves. Should you be in Hamburg, they have their own city store in Schmiedestr., close to St. Petri Church and City Hall, running parallel to Moenckebergstr.
You could also buy online at:
http://www.hsv.de/index.php?id=9431
As I notice that evidently you keep travelling to Berlin and Hamburg, I'd suggest you go see a match in the latter, as Berlin's Olympia Stadium has been remodelled, but it's still not a pure football stadium, meaning they have a running track there circling the pitch, which in turn moves spectators quite a bit away from the game, which again does not improve the atmosphere. This is definitely better here. The only more attractive stadium currently might be Arena auf Schalke in Gelsenkirchen. And Bayern's new Allianz Arena in Munich should be impressive, but has not yet been completed (and who likes Bayern Munich anyway ?;-) ).
Mar 7th, 2005, 05:35 AM
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Hi HSV-
Thanks so much for all of your helpful tips! This is an amazing synopsis of the city! I know the weather right now has been pretty dreary, and it's not an ideal time to visit, but with vacation schedules and fares being low, it was too good to pass up! Besides,with good company and plenty to do, I am sure we won't let the weather stop us. I have already packed an umbrella and plenty of woolens!
I am definitely going to St. Michel's church, and the Kunsthalle. I have also printed out your other suggestions to get addresses and work on a suggested itinerary on the plane, depending on what my sis wants to do- she's been to the zoo like 5 times with all our relatives visiting her, so we will come up with some new sights and see the other important things too!
I was so surprised that there wasn't a separate Hamburg guide when I went to a couple of different bookstores,but, with what you say about it being an "outdoor" city that now makes sense.
Anyway, I leave in 2 days, I can't believe it!
Thanks again!
Thanks so much for all of your helpful tips! This is an amazing synopsis of the city! I know the weather right now has been pretty dreary, and it's not an ideal time to visit, but with vacation schedules and fares being low, it was too good to pass up! Besides,with good company and plenty to do, I am sure we won't let the weather stop us. I have already packed an umbrella and plenty of woolens!
I am definitely going to St. Michel's church, and the Kunsthalle. I have also printed out your other suggestions to get addresses and work on a suggested itinerary on the plane, depending on what my sis wants to do- she's been to the zoo like 5 times with all our relatives visiting her, so we will come up with some new sights and see the other important things too!
I was so surprised that there wasn't a separate Hamburg guide when I went to a couple of different bookstores,but, with what you say about it being an "outdoor" city that now makes sense.
Anyway, I leave in 2 days, I can't believe it!
Thanks again!
Mar 7th, 2005, 06:12 PM
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Thanks again HSV, as always you're a great resource. It's too bad that my immediate trip is to Switzerland instead of Germany, but I'll keep your tips for future trips.
In 3 weeks we're planning to watch the Swiss national team play in Zurich and perhaps even in Paris. I'm just a bit concerned with how low the temperature will be inside an open air stadium in the evening for my 12 year old daughter. Hopefully the weather will warm up quickly.
In 3 weeks we're planning to watch the Swiss national team play in Zurich and perhaps even in Paris. I'm just a bit concerned with how low the temperature will be inside an open air stadium in the evening for my 12 year old daughter. Hopefully the weather will warm up quickly.
Mar 7th, 2005, 09:22 PM
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DAX,
make sure you stay warm. Apart from a couple of days out in the field during my compulsory army service, I cannot recall any time I froze more than when attending a football match during winter.
I recently saw two matches and I wore two pullovers, two jackets, jeans and some golf rain-gear pants and it was still not exactly warm. Make sure to bring a cushion, although I know that this makes me sound like a whimp, but those plastic seats really do get cold these days.
make sure you stay warm. Apart from a couple of days out in the field during my compulsory army service, I cannot recall any time I froze more than when attending a football match during winter.
I recently saw two matches and I wore two pullovers, two jackets, jeans and some golf rain-gear pants and it was still not exactly warm. Make sure to bring a cushion, although I know that this makes me sound like a whimp, but those plastic seats really do get cold these days.
Mar 7th, 2005, 09:29 PM
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msjuice,
you're very welcome!
I don't know whether you require any tips for eating out, as I have a compilation, which I have posted here before already, I will bring them to your attention:
<b> Breakfast:</b> Should you not have breakfast included in your room rate and should you not want to enjoy breakfast at your hotel of choice, you might try these places:
<b>Literaturhaus Café: </b> Located in the Uhlenhorst district on Schwanenwik No.38, this café is housed in a stylish art deco mansion serving as a venue for performances and readings of authors and poems. Although the Outer Alster Lake is right opposite the street, there is no view of it. But you are seated in a ballroom like environment under lofty ceilings. Service can be surly at times, but they have a nice selection of breakfast items and their raw-milk cheese selection is legendary among the town's affcionados.
<b>La Caffeteria:</b> Located in Abendrothsweg, a stylish residential street in Eppendorf district, this place is housed on the ground floor of a grand art deco mansion at Abendrothsweg No. 54. They open at ten in the morning and feature five different breakfast offers all day long.
<b>Die Roesterei:</b> This Viennese Kaffeehaus style café is located on the first floor of the Levantehaus shopping arcade on Moenckebergstrasse. It is big and bustling but offers coffees and teas from different regions of the world, with the coffee beans being roasted by themselves. Also good if you want a rest after shopping or exploring town.
<b>Café Lindtner:</b> This wonderfully old fashioned café features a selection of breakfasts as well as some of Hamburg's best cakes in the afternoon. It is located in the shopping district of Hamburg Eppendorf on Eppendorfer Landstrasse No. 88.
you're very welcome!
I don't know whether you require any tips for eating out, as I have a compilation, which I have posted here before already, I will bring them to your attention:
<b> Breakfast:</b> Should you not have breakfast included in your room rate and should you not want to enjoy breakfast at your hotel of choice, you might try these places:
<b>Literaturhaus Café: </b> Located in the Uhlenhorst district on Schwanenwik No.38, this café is housed in a stylish art deco mansion serving as a venue for performances and readings of authors and poems. Although the Outer Alster Lake is right opposite the street, there is no view of it. But you are seated in a ballroom like environment under lofty ceilings. Service can be surly at times, but they have a nice selection of breakfast items and their raw-milk cheese selection is legendary among the town's affcionados.
<b>La Caffeteria:</b> Located in Abendrothsweg, a stylish residential street in Eppendorf district, this place is housed on the ground floor of a grand art deco mansion at Abendrothsweg No. 54. They open at ten in the morning and feature five different breakfast offers all day long.
<b>Die Roesterei:</b> This Viennese Kaffeehaus style café is located on the first floor of the Levantehaus shopping arcade on Moenckebergstrasse. It is big and bustling but offers coffees and teas from different regions of the world, with the coffee beans being roasted by themselves. Also good if you want a rest after shopping or exploring town.
<b>Café Lindtner:</b> This wonderfully old fashioned café features a selection of breakfasts as well as some of Hamburg's best cakes in the afternoon. It is located in the shopping district of Hamburg Eppendorf on Eppendorfer Landstrasse No. 88.
Mar 7th, 2005, 09:35 PM
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<b>Lunch:</b>
<b>Bratwurst stalls on Moenckebergstr.:</b> Hamburg's best grilled sausages can be had from the two stalls opposite each other on Moenckebergstr. in the city center, neighboring C&A department store and Goertz shoe store (do NOT confuse it with the one at the entrance to Karstadt opposite St. Petri church!). A delicious Thueringer style bratwurst labelled Moe- Wurst or a Schinkenwurst with a bun will set you back € 2.10. A Currywurst will retail at about € 2.50.
<b>Vapiano:</b> This stylish luncheon eatery decorated by Milano based designer Matteo Thun has revolutionized downtown's lunch habits. A stylish crowd gathers here to enjoy on- site freshly prepared pasta with made to order sauces. The place is self-service and you watch the chef prepare your dishes. Afterwards you can lounge on a couple of sofas at the bar in the entrance area and enjoy some freshly brewed espresso. A meal will set you back around € 5.-. They are located next to the Hamburg Renaissance Hotel on Hohe Bleichen Street.
<b>Donna e Nonna:</b> Same concept as Vapiano. Located on Rothenbaumchaussee, a stylish street connecting center of town with the nicely upscale shopping area of Eppendorf. Accessible by U-Bahn Hallerstr.
<b>Café Paris:</b> This authentically French bistro is a nice stop close to City Hall, located at Rathausstrasse No.4. The French owners prepare nice lunches and reasonably priced daily luncheon specials along with a great atmosphere to which the beautiful antique tiles along the walls contribute greatly. A main course will cost you around € 9.-. This is also a great place to people watch, as it is always packed. It is also popular for dinner, you might want to make reservation before, though, to secure a table. Telephone Number is 040- 32 52 77 77. Dinner prices might be slightly higher, but should not exceed € 15.- for a main course.
<b>Cha Cha:</b> This brand new place in Hamburger Hof shopping arcade is accessed from Grosse Bleichen street in the city center. They prepare Thai food freshly and quickly. It is a non-smoking zone, which is as rare as refreshing in Germany. A meal will cost around € 6.-.
<b>Fischerhaus:</b> A list of Hamburg's luncheon locations would not be complete without Fischerhaus. This is a rustic eatery down by the port located at Fischmarkt No.14. It has two levels. A rustic ground floor that sports a 1950s/60s interior that is pretty ugly and has not been changed much over the decades (it is clean, though) and a modern upstairs. The upstairs section features views of the docks of Blohm & Voss shipyards and the River in front of it. However, I suppose you will find the locals sitting in the traditional downstairs section. The food is nothing spectacular (especially the side dishes), but the fish is fresh and portions are large. In general, this is where I go if I want to enjoy a decent plaice fried in bacon and topped with bacon and butter ("Scholle Finkenwerder style), a classic Hamburg dish originating on the former Fisherman's island of Finkenwerder a bit down the river. You need to drink a beer along with it. This might be the most expensive lunch place I have recommended here with main courses at around € 14.-. I would not recommend this place for dinner, though, as I don't think the atmosphere is worth it.
<b>Café Engel:</b> Café Engel (Café Angel) is located on the ferry berth of Teufelsbrueck (Devil's bridge) right in the River Elbe in the suburb of Nienstedten, close to Blankenese.
It is best accessed by ferry. You would have to take a ferry departing at either Landungsbruecken, Fischmarkt or Neumuehlen/Oevelgoenne in the direction of Finkenwerder. Here you need to change boats and cross over to Teufelsbrueck. Ferries are included in a daypass of the public transport system. The ride is pleasant and sort of something short of a tour of the port. From Café Engel you can take a bus back into town or keep on strolling down the river or back up via Strandweg to Neumuehlen (1 hour walk). The Café features a small menu with very decently prepared foods as its proprietor is a star decorated chef owning the Tafelhaus Restaurant in Neumuehlen, close to Bar Savanh. The Café is also nice to just enjoy some coffee or beer on its terrace.
It is also open for dinner and a meal will set you back around € 15.- to 17.-.
<b>Bratwurst stalls on Moenckebergstr.:</b> Hamburg's best grilled sausages can be had from the two stalls opposite each other on Moenckebergstr. in the city center, neighboring C&A department store and Goertz shoe store (do NOT confuse it with the one at the entrance to Karstadt opposite St. Petri church!). A delicious Thueringer style bratwurst labelled Moe- Wurst or a Schinkenwurst with a bun will set you back € 2.10. A Currywurst will retail at about € 2.50.
<b>Vapiano:</b> This stylish luncheon eatery decorated by Milano based designer Matteo Thun has revolutionized downtown's lunch habits. A stylish crowd gathers here to enjoy on- site freshly prepared pasta with made to order sauces. The place is self-service and you watch the chef prepare your dishes. Afterwards you can lounge on a couple of sofas at the bar in the entrance area and enjoy some freshly brewed espresso. A meal will set you back around € 5.-. They are located next to the Hamburg Renaissance Hotel on Hohe Bleichen Street.
<b>Donna e Nonna:</b> Same concept as Vapiano. Located on Rothenbaumchaussee, a stylish street connecting center of town with the nicely upscale shopping area of Eppendorf. Accessible by U-Bahn Hallerstr.
<b>Café Paris:</b> This authentically French bistro is a nice stop close to City Hall, located at Rathausstrasse No.4. The French owners prepare nice lunches and reasonably priced daily luncheon specials along with a great atmosphere to which the beautiful antique tiles along the walls contribute greatly. A main course will cost you around € 9.-. This is also a great place to people watch, as it is always packed. It is also popular for dinner, you might want to make reservation before, though, to secure a table. Telephone Number is 040- 32 52 77 77. Dinner prices might be slightly higher, but should not exceed € 15.- for a main course.
<b>Cha Cha:</b> This brand new place in Hamburger Hof shopping arcade is accessed from Grosse Bleichen street in the city center. They prepare Thai food freshly and quickly. It is a non-smoking zone, which is as rare as refreshing in Germany. A meal will cost around € 6.-.
<b>Fischerhaus:</b> A list of Hamburg's luncheon locations would not be complete without Fischerhaus. This is a rustic eatery down by the port located at Fischmarkt No.14. It has two levels. A rustic ground floor that sports a 1950s/60s interior that is pretty ugly and has not been changed much over the decades (it is clean, though) and a modern upstairs. The upstairs section features views of the docks of Blohm & Voss shipyards and the River in front of it. However, I suppose you will find the locals sitting in the traditional downstairs section. The food is nothing spectacular (especially the side dishes), but the fish is fresh and portions are large. In general, this is where I go if I want to enjoy a decent plaice fried in bacon and topped with bacon and butter ("Scholle Finkenwerder style), a classic Hamburg dish originating on the former Fisherman's island of Finkenwerder a bit down the river. You need to drink a beer along with it. This might be the most expensive lunch place I have recommended here with main courses at around € 14.-. I would not recommend this place for dinner, though, as I don't think the atmosphere is worth it.
<b>Café Engel:</b> Café Engel (Café Angel) is located on the ferry berth of Teufelsbrueck (Devil's bridge) right in the River Elbe in the suburb of Nienstedten, close to Blankenese.
It is best accessed by ferry. You would have to take a ferry departing at either Landungsbruecken, Fischmarkt or Neumuehlen/Oevelgoenne in the direction of Finkenwerder. Here you need to change boats and cross over to Teufelsbrueck. Ferries are included in a daypass of the public transport system. The ride is pleasant and sort of something short of a tour of the port. From Café Engel you can take a bus back into town or keep on strolling down the river or back up via Strandweg to Neumuehlen (1 hour walk). The Café features a small menu with very decently prepared foods as its proprietor is a star decorated chef owning the Tafelhaus Restaurant in Neumuehlen, close to Bar Savanh. The Café is also nice to just enjoy some coffee or beer on its terrace.
It is also open for dinner and a meal will set you back around € 15.- to 17.-.
Mar 7th, 2005, 09:40 PM
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<b>Dinner:</b>
While Hamburg features the highest density of star- decorated restaurants in Germany, most of these places are pretty expensive, although probably worth it. The following ones are not overly expensive, but make for an enjoyable dining experience. There are more upscale (but still relaxed ones like Stocker and more casual ones like Elbe). Maybe you'll find something appealing to you:
<b>Stocker:</b> I have been raving about Austrian TV- chef Manfred Stocker's restaurant here on Fodors and I will keep doing so. While not inexpensive, this place is not overly expensive and offers excellent value and food of impeccable quality in a relaxed atmosphere. The style of cuisine is mixed: While they offer a couple of classically Austrian dishes, such as Tafelspitz (which I highly recommend) served with an appetizer soup, hash browns, creamy spinach, and a light chive sauce at around € 17.-, they also feature locally and French influenced classic cuisine. Their sumptuous desserts are to die for, and the wine-list extensive (I recommend a Gruener Veltliner white wine from Kremstal at around € 27.- a bottle). They are located in Altona, not far from the train station, at Max- Brauer- Allee No. 80, neighboring the Theater for Children. This is a place for a special occasion and my absolute favorite currently.
Telephone No. is 040- 38 61 50 56.
<b>Das Weisse Haus:</b> Germany's young cooking star and TV- chef Tim Maelzer, somewhat reminiscent of Jamie Oliver (with whom he used to work in London), is your host in this small captain's home opposite the Neumuehlen/ Oevelgoenne ferry stop and the Museum Harbor. The cuisine is creative and sort of wild at times, but always immaculately prepared at this young and fun place. They don't offer a menu, but will ask you what you dislike. They will then prepare a three course dinner catering to your wishes. On Monday nights guests decide on how much they are willing to pay. Otherwise, a meal of three courses will set you back approximately € 30.-. The address is Neumuehlen No. 50, and Telephone Number is 040- 390 90 16. Call ahead for reservations. On weekend nights it's hard to get a table. Sunday lunch often consists of a pot- roast followed by freshly baked cakes, which can be quite delicious.
<b>Elbe 76:</b> This casual but stylish place in Hamburg's inner city residential neighborhood of Hoheluft is easily overlooked and located in the basement of an old apartment home at Bismarckstrasse 76. Thus its name is slightly peculiar, as it is quite a distance from the Elbe River contributing to its name. They have an extremely popular bar in the front, where they also serve the best Pizze in town IMHO. Try a Rucola/ Parma Ham one for a steep € 11.-. It's worth it. They have perfectly chilled Jever Pilsner beer on tap. Also, they sport a restaurant section in the back, which isn't bad, but I prefer to stay in the bar in the front. For some reason undisclosed to me, they only serve daily special Pizze in the restaurant section. As it's often packed, you might want to call ahead for reservations: 040- 40 02 35.
<b>Bottega Lentini:</b> Located on Eppendorfer Weg in Eppendorf. Unfortunately, I don't know the street number, but it is just a few steps from the well known pub called "Legendaer" on the corner of Lehmweg. This is a casual Italian place seating most patrons on bar stools. The food is good, the atmosphere casual and it makes for a nice start into the evening, especially, if you want to visit the hip bar Bereuther close by and described below. A main course of Pasta or Pizza will cost somewhat around € 8.-, meat or fish dishes might sell for € 13.-.
<b>Fischmarkt:</b> This seafood place is not located on Fischmarkt fish market, as its name would suggest (with Elbe 76 located far away from Elbe, this seems to be a confusing trend here, I realize), but located a few steps down from St. Michael's church and a few steps from the port and Baumwall train stop on Ditmar- Koel- Strasse at the corner of Neustädter Neuer Weg. They don't have a view, but will present you an impressive collection of their catch of the day, which will be prepared according to your preferences in their show style kitchen. Have a glass of beer along with it, or try the dry German Riesling from Schloss Vollrads in the Rheingau region. Food is not inexpensive with a main course at around € 16.- to € 20.-, but served in a nice and relaxed ambiance and it's overall worth it.
While Hamburg features the highest density of star- decorated restaurants in Germany, most of these places are pretty expensive, although probably worth it. The following ones are not overly expensive, but make for an enjoyable dining experience. There are more upscale (but still relaxed ones like Stocker and more casual ones like Elbe). Maybe you'll find something appealing to you:
<b>Stocker:</b> I have been raving about Austrian TV- chef Manfred Stocker's restaurant here on Fodors and I will keep doing so. While not inexpensive, this place is not overly expensive and offers excellent value and food of impeccable quality in a relaxed atmosphere. The style of cuisine is mixed: While they offer a couple of classically Austrian dishes, such as Tafelspitz (which I highly recommend) served with an appetizer soup, hash browns, creamy spinach, and a light chive sauce at around € 17.-, they also feature locally and French influenced classic cuisine. Their sumptuous desserts are to die for, and the wine-list extensive (I recommend a Gruener Veltliner white wine from Kremstal at around € 27.- a bottle). They are located in Altona, not far from the train station, at Max- Brauer- Allee No. 80, neighboring the Theater for Children. This is a place for a special occasion and my absolute favorite currently.
Telephone No. is 040- 38 61 50 56.
<b>Das Weisse Haus:</b> Germany's young cooking star and TV- chef Tim Maelzer, somewhat reminiscent of Jamie Oliver (with whom he used to work in London), is your host in this small captain's home opposite the Neumuehlen/ Oevelgoenne ferry stop and the Museum Harbor. The cuisine is creative and sort of wild at times, but always immaculately prepared at this young and fun place. They don't offer a menu, but will ask you what you dislike. They will then prepare a three course dinner catering to your wishes. On Monday nights guests decide on how much they are willing to pay. Otherwise, a meal of three courses will set you back approximately € 30.-. The address is Neumuehlen No. 50, and Telephone Number is 040- 390 90 16. Call ahead for reservations. On weekend nights it's hard to get a table. Sunday lunch often consists of a pot- roast followed by freshly baked cakes, which can be quite delicious.
<b>Elbe 76:</b> This casual but stylish place in Hamburg's inner city residential neighborhood of Hoheluft is easily overlooked and located in the basement of an old apartment home at Bismarckstrasse 76. Thus its name is slightly peculiar, as it is quite a distance from the Elbe River contributing to its name. They have an extremely popular bar in the front, where they also serve the best Pizze in town IMHO. Try a Rucola/ Parma Ham one for a steep € 11.-. It's worth it. They have perfectly chilled Jever Pilsner beer on tap. Also, they sport a restaurant section in the back, which isn't bad, but I prefer to stay in the bar in the front. For some reason undisclosed to me, they only serve daily special Pizze in the restaurant section. As it's often packed, you might want to call ahead for reservations: 040- 40 02 35.
<b>Bottega Lentini:</b> Located on Eppendorfer Weg in Eppendorf. Unfortunately, I don't know the street number, but it is just a few steps from the well known pub called "Legendaer" on the corner of Lehmweg. This is a casual Italian place seating most patrons on bar stools. The food is good, the atmosphere casual and it makes for a nice start into the evening, especially, if you want to visit the hip bar Bereuther close by and described below. A main course of Pasta or Pizza will cost somewhat around € 8.-, meat or fish dishes might sell for € 13.-.
<b>Fischmarkt:</b> This seafood place is not located on Fischmarkt fish market, as its name would suggest (with Elbe 76 located far away from Elbe, this seems to be a confusing trend here, I realize), but located a few steps down from St. Michael's church and a few steps from the port and Baumwall train stop on Ditmar- Koel- Strasse at the corner of Neustädter Neuer Weg. They don't have a view, but will present you an impressive collection of their catch of the day, which will be prepared according to your preferences in their show style kitchen. Have a glass of beer along with it, or try the dry German Riesling from Schloss Vollrads in the Rheingau region. Food is not inexpensive with a main course at around € 16.- to € 20.-, but served in a nice and relaxed ambiance and it's overall worth it.
Mar 8th, 2005, 08:35 AM
#34
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Thanks for all these wonderful restaurants, I can't wait to eat an authentic bratwurst, mmm with some fabulous mustard.
I am a little nervous about the weather. It;s snowing over in NYC, how is it in Hamburg?
I am a little nervous about the weather. It;s snowing over in NYC, how is it in Hamburg?
Mar 8th, 2005, 09:17 AM
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msjuice,
the weather is unusually cold for the season. For the first time in years we've had some snow that stayed (well, just a tiny little bit, but still). It got a little bit warmer today causing most of it to melt, but temperatures are still only in the low 30ies F/ 0 degrees Centigrade.
Don't want to ruin it for you, but the mustard at the bratwurst stalls is usually just mediocre IMO, but some good stuff is certainly available in the stores.
the weather is unusually cold for the season. For the first time in years we've had some snow that stayed (well, just a tiny little bit, but still). It got a little bit warmer today causing most of it to melt, but temperatures are still only in the low 30ies F/ 0 degrees Centigrade.
Don't want to ruin it for you, but the mustard at the bratwurst stalls is usually just mediocre IMO, but some good stuff is certainly available in the stores.
Mar 8th, 2005, 09:25 AM
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Here are a few tips for bars in case you want to top off your days on town with a nice after- dinner drink:
<b>Bar Savanh:</b> Located on the ground floor of hip Indochine Restaurant and part of the new business and residential district lining the River Elbe in Neumuehlen, this chic bar is facing the container port, illuminated attractively at nights. They also feature some of Hamburg's best mixed drinks which can be enjoyed lounging on black leather sofas. The address is Neumuehlen No. 11. This place is just a short cab ride from Stocker's restaurant (5 min.), should you decide to have dinner there.
<b>Bar Au Quai:</b> This lounge style bar is just two minutes by car from Bar Savanh. It also faces the river and features a great terrace equipped with gas heaters atop the River Elbe (the terrace being closed at this time of year, though). Good drinks which are not over-pretentiously decorated, but concentrate on the ingredients. Chilly music. Address is Grosse Elbstrasse 145 b-d.
<b>Ciu's Bar:</b> Located on Ballindamm 14/15 overlooking the Inner- Alster Lake in the center of town, Ciu's offers one of the best equipped whiskey selections of the city. The list of drinks is thick as a book and the quality of drinks is immaculate.
<b>Bereuther:</b> Located in Eppendorf on Klosterallee No. 100, corner of Lehmweg, this is one of the in- places among the city's jeunesse d'aurée. The barkeeper's performance juggling with bottles and glasses while mixing decent quality drinks is impressive. Although featuring a doorman, this place is surprisingly friendly and has less of an attitude than you might come to expect. It is packed especially on Thursday nights.
<b>Hefner: </b>This window-less bar and lounge is a seventies- design classic located roughly between the University district of Rotherbaum and Schanzenviertel on Beim Schlump No.15. Drinks are strong and the selection focuses on classics. It is a relaxed place in general that is seldom overly packed, but still well visited and provides for a good drink in a good atmosphere at nights.
<b>Mandalay:</b> Located in the trendy (and a bit grimy) Schanzenviertel district at Neuer Pferdemarkt, this place is ideal to have a couple of drinks and dance a bit to house beats before moving on to venture into Hamburg's red-light district along Reeperbahn, which is just a short cab ride away, or 10 minutes on foot.
<b>Tower Bar:</b> Popular among tourists (and among them only, I believe), Tower Bar in the Hotel Hafen Hamburg at Seewartenstr. No.9, only a stone's throw from Reeperbahn, features decent drinks. Its main attraction, though is its unbeatable views over the magnificently illuminated port on one side and large portions of the city on the other side.
<b>Bar Savanh:</b> Located on the ground floor of hip Indochine Restaurant and part of the new business and residential district lining the River Elbe in Neumuehlen, this chic bar is facing the container port, illuminated attractively at nights. They also feature some of Hamburg's best mixed drinks which can be enjoyed lounging on black leather sofas. The address is Neumuehlen No. 11. This place is just a short cab ride from Stocker's restaurant (5 min.), should you decide to have dinner there.
<b>Bar Au Quai:</b> This lounge style bar is just two minutes by car from Bar Savanh. It also faces the river and features a great terrace equipped with gas heaters atop the River Elbe (the terrace being closed at this time of year, though). Good drinks which are not over-pretentiously decorated, but concentrate on the ingredients. Chilly music. Address is Grosse Elbstrasse 145 b-d.
<b>Ciu's Bar:</b> Located on Ballindamm 14/15 overlooking the Inner- Alster Lake in the center of town, Ciu's offers one of the best equipped whiskey selections of the city. The list of drinks is thick as a book and the quality of drinks is immaculate.
<b>Bereuther:</b> Located in Eppendorf on Klosterallee No. 100, corner of Lehmweg, this is one of the in- places among the city's jeunesse d'aurée. The barkeeper's performance juggling with bottles and glasses while mixing decent quality drinks is impressive. Although featuring a doorman, this place is surprisingly friendly and has less of an attitude than you might come to expect. It is packed especially on Thursday nights.
<b>Hefner: </b>This window-less bar and lounge is a seventies- design classic located roughly between the University district of Rotherbaum and Schanzenviertel on Beim Schlump No.15. Drinks are strong and the selection focuses on classics. It is a relaxed place in general that is seldom overly packed, but still well visited and provides for a good drink in a good atmosphere at nights.
<b>Mandalay:</b> Located in the trendy (and a bit grimy) Schanzenviertel district at Neuer Pferdemarkt, this place is ideal to have a couple of drinks and dance a bit to house beats before moving on to venture into Hamburg's red-light district along Reeperbahn, which is just a short cab ride away, or 10 minutes on foot.
<b>Tower Bar:</b> Popular among tourists (and among them only, I believe), Tower Bar in the Hotel Hafen Hamburg at Seewartenstr. No.9, only a stone's throw from Reeperbahn, features decent drinks. Its main attraction, though is its unbeatable views over the magnificently illuminated port on one side and large portions of the city on the other side.
Mar 8th, 2005, 09:28 AM
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If you can spare a day, you might want to venture out of town for a short excursion:
<b>Luebeck </b> is a must-visit IMHO. It is a medieval city located approximately 40 miles North of Hamburg with a very well preserved Old Town. It once was the capital of the medieval trade organization called Hanse, which free cities throughout Europe associated themselves with. The wealth accumulated in those days is still visible in the ancient traders' mansions. The Holstentor City Gate forming the entrance to the city surrounded by the rivers Trave and Wakenitz when entering from the direction of the Central Station used to be printed on the backside of the 50- Deutsch-Mark-Bills and today houses a somewhat spooky Museum of Torture.
A must visit and well deserved stop after exploring the city is Café Niederegger. It is home of the world's most famous marzipan sweets, which has been manufactured for decades after a secret family recipe.
Lunch can be had at restaurant Schiffergesellschaft, which offers local food in traditional surroundings and is well frequented by tourists.
<b>Luebeck </b> is a must-visit IMHO. It is a medieval city located approximately 40 miles North of Hamburg with a very well preserved Old Town. It once was the capital of the medieval trade organization called Hanse, which free cities throughout Europe associated themselves with. The wealth accumulated in those days is still visible in the ancient traders' mansions. The Holstentor City Gate forming the entrance to the city surrounded by the rivers Trave and Wakenitz when entering from the direction of the Central Station used to be printed on the backside of the 50- Deutsch-Mark-Bills and today houses a somewhat spooky Museum of Torture.
A must visit and well deserved stop after exploring the city is Café Niederegger. It is home of the world's most famous marzipan sweets, which has been manufactured for decades after a secret family recipe.
Lunch can be had at restaurant Schiffergesellschaft, which offers local food in traditional surroundings and is well frequented by tourists.
Mar 8th, 2005, 09:35 AM
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Finally, I will add a few aspects of miscellaneous character and a word of caution:
In general I believe you will find this city very liberal – be it in a sexual context with the well visited red-light- district as well as politically and with regards to different styles and cultures of living. About the only thing this city's inhabitants are traditionally conservative about is finance. Apart from that, respect for the different is what is being taught first and considered most important by most of the people here.
After all this has always been a free city that has hardly bowed to any ruling power, which until today is displayed e.g. when the mayor welcomes visiting heads of state. Even the visiting President of the Federal Republic of Germany will only be greeted from the upper step of City Hall's stairway with the mayor standing one step above of his visitor. Within the city's traditionalist elite it is also considered to be unacceptable to wear any medals awarded to people from the Federal Republic of Germany – and even accepting them is questionable. All this along with a mentality that is governed by a sense of understatement and a certain reservation to strangers (which, once overcome can result in true and reliable friendships) has caused Hamburg inhabitants to widely being considered as arrogant. I hope you won't experience the city as that.
For what it is, just as any cosmopolitan city, Hamburg has some areas that are best to be avoided or which require to walk the streets with caution.
This goes especially for the neighborhoods on the Northern side of Central Station (exit Kirchenallee and tunnels leading to subway line U2). St. Georg, as this area is called, is a multicultural neighborhood that also has attracted large portions of the city's gay population and as such has become somewhat thriving. Lange Reihe Street here is a good example and offers quite a few pleasant bars and restaurants and is pretty safe. However, streets to the North and East of Lange Reihe in the direction of Steindamm should be avoided. They are still home to a lot of drug addicts (with a central drug ambulance being located in the Wuestenrot- building behind the Museum for Arts and Crafts) and cheap brothels. Beware – especially do not pass onto the area of Hansaplatz here!
Also a hub of drug dealers is the small Park called "Sternschanzenpark" to the right once you exit train stop Sternschanze. This is fairly close to the hip and alternative neighborhood of Schanzenviertel, so beware here, too.
Also be on your guard should you visit Reeperbahn! Do not necessarily pass the street called Hamburger Berg with its sleazy bars and pubs, where a lot of criminals reside. Although there is a large presence of Police on Reeperbahn (marked and unmarked), a few months ago there were stabbings of rivalling gangs that are easy to get involved with. Should you be offended by the sight of hookers, avoid Davidstrasse next to the Burger King outfit opposite the famous Police Station called "Davidswache" and Hans- Albers- Platz square bordering Reeperbahn.
Connecting Hans-Albers-Platz with Davidstr. there is a fenced alley called Herbertstrasse. It is easily identifiable by the cigarette advertisement of West which reads in German: "The best part about temptation is to give in". This is a street lined with whore houses displaying the prostitutes behind glass windows. It is an attraction in itself, just to pass through and access is prohibited for minors. But: Being a woman it is sort of socially unacceptable to pass through that street. It is a tradition that passing females will be poured some dubious liquids on by the prostitutes from upper-floor windows!
In general I believe you will find this city very liberal – be it in a sexual context with the well visited red-light- district as well as politically and with regards to different styles and cultures of living. About the only thing this city's inhabitants are traditionally conservative about is finance. Apart from that, respect for the different is what is being taught first and considered most important by most of the people here.
After all this has always been a free city that has hardly bowed to any ruling power, which until today is displayed e.g. when the mayor welcomes visiting heads of state. Even the visiting President of the Federal Republic of Germany will only be greeted from the upper step of City Hall's stairway with the mayor standing one step above of his visitor. Within the city's traditionalist elite it is also considered to be unacceptable to wear any medals awarded to people from the Federal Republic of Germany – and even accepting them is questionable. All this along with a mentality that is governed by a sense of understatement and a certain reservation to strangers (which, once overcome can result in true and reliable friendships) has caused Hamburg inhabitants to widely being considered as arrogant. I hope you won't experience the city as that.
For what it is, just as any cosmopolitan city, Hamburg has some areas that are best to be avoided or which require to walk the streets with caution.
This goes especially for the neighborhoods on the Northern side of Central Station (exit Kirchenallee and tunnels leading to subway line U2). St. Georg, as this area is called, is a multicultural neighborhood that also has attracted large portions of the city's gay population and as such has become somewhat thriving. Lange Reihe Street here is a good example and offers quite a few pleasant bars and restaurants and is pretty safe. However, streets to the North and East of Lange Reihe in the direction of Steindamm should be avoided. They are still home to a lot of drug addicts (with a central drug ambulance being located in the Wuestenrot- building behind the Museum for Arts and Crafts) and cheap brothels. Beware – especially do not pass onto the area of Hansaplatz here!
Also a hub of drug dealers is the small Park called "Sternschanzenpark" to the right once you exit train stop Sternschanze. This is fairly close to the hip and alternative neighborhood of Schanzenviertel, so beware here, too.
Also be on your guard should you visit Reeperbahn! Do not necessarily pass the street called Hamburger Berg with its sleazy bars and pubs, where a lot of criminals reside. Although there is a large presence of Police on Reeperbahn (marked and unmarked), a few months ago there were stabbings of rivalling gangs that are easy to get involved with. Should you be offended by the sight of hookers, avoid Davidstrasse next to the Burger King outfit opposite the famous Police Station called "Davidswache" and Hans- Albers- Platz square bordering Reeperbahn.
Connecting Hans-Albers-Platz with Davidstr. there is a fenced alley called Herbertstrasse. It is easily identifiable by the cigarette advertisement of West which reads in German: "The best part about temptation is to give in". This is a street lined with whore houses displaying the prostitutes behind glass windows. It is an attraction in itself, just to pass through and access is prohibited for minors. But: Being a woman it is sort of socially unacceptable to pass through that street. It is a tradition that passing females will be poured some dubious liquids on by the prostitutes from upper-floor windows!
Mar 8th, 2005, 10:06 AM
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Just one more, before wearing you out:
Should you decide to really splurge on dinner,
<b>Jacobs Restaurant </b> at the Hotel Louis C. Jacob jumps to mind. Thomas Martin being the chef there is preparing for his second Michelin Guide star. Prices are indeed steep. The ambiance is classic and service formal but friendly. One of Germany's best sommeliers takes care of probably the most extensive wine list in the city. They are located in Blankenese, a suburb on the River Elbe and overlook the River. Address is Elbchaussee No.401-.404.
And regarding Copenhagen: I believe the hotel DAX suggested by Nyhavn might be 71 Nyhavn. It is a former warehouse and rooms are on the small side but cosy. It overlooks the water and offers indeed a very nice ambiance.
http://www.71nyhavnhotel.com/
Should you decide to really splurge on dinner,
<b>Jacobs Restaurant </b> at the Hotel Louis C. Jacob jumps to mind. Thomas Martin being the chef there is preparing for his second Michelin Guide star. Prices are indeed steep. The ambiance is classic and service formal but friendly. One of Germany's best sommeliers takes care of probably the most extensive wine list in the city. They are located in Blankenese, a suburb on the River Elbe and overlook the River. Address is Elbchaussee No.401-.404.
And regarding Copenhagen: I believe the hotel DAX suggested by Nyhavn might be 71 Nyhavn. It is a former warehouse and rooms are on the small side but cosy. It overlooks the water and offers indeed a very nice ambiance.
http://www.71nyhavnhotel.com/
