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Are you planning to travel to Germany very soon but don't know where to go yet? Let's put aside the very touristy cities like Berlin or Munich for a moment. This time, opt for "the Belle of the North", which is none other than the city of Hamburg located in the north of the country. This is Germany's first port, this cultural metropolis by the water stands out for its maritime heritage, its greenery, and its history that we'll have the opportunity to discuss by presenting some of its typical monuments. In this ranking, discover the reasons that will convince you that visiting Hamburg is a wonderful initiative! Do you want to enrich your general culture, to enjoy what the city has to offer? Play sports? Eat well? Ryo is here for you!

What to do in Hamburg?
1. Visit the Port
Category: €€/Cultural/Unusual
Description: This is no ordinary port, it is classified among the most important in all of Europe and is particularly immense. It constitutes a culminating point for the city of Hamburg since it serves as a notable gateway to German-speaking countries, Scandinavia, and all of Eastern Europe, which has few maritime outlets. The visit is worth it, in fact many travelers have baptized this unusual place "the Port of the World", because in a way, it finds itself to be the center and it's from it that a good part of Germany's trade flows. Evening is the best time to go there, because the bright sun's rays gently caress the boats, which gives an absolutely breathtaking result. Of course, we advise you to visit it by boat: by sailing directly on the water, you'll be able to get close enough to the cruise ships and the huge container ships in transit. How can we tell you that you'll feel very small...
2. Stroll through downtown and taste a Rollmops

Category: €€/Cultural/Gastronomic
Description: Previously, we told you about the port located in the North Sea, and well, what would you say about going into town to eat a delicious dish straight from this same gigantic body of water? Rollmops is a typical dish from the city of Hamburg. Amusing to look at, and similar to a big sushi, except that the fish replaces the rice while serving as the "wrapper" to put the food in. A good marinated white herring, there's nothing better! During your day, you can visit the city center with your family, and indulge in a few well-deserved hours of shopping. After all, you have to treat yourself, and bring back souvenirs from your stay, which you can keep for life. In your journey, don't miss stopping at "Altstadt", the historic center which is full of old churches from all eras combined and whose charm makes Hamburg's world fame.
3. Opt for a mountain bike circuit

Category: €€/Cultural/Sports
Description: Vacations, yes! Sports, too! A mountain bike visit would be perfect to help you discover the city. Because not only does it not pollute, but in addition, you can practice a sports activity with your family, while delighting in the landscapes and monuments to see, which we see "too quickly" by car. The mountain bike is easy to use, a real pleasure, and not tiring (it's not like you're going on a mountain course, with lots of climbs, don't worry). You'll thus have the opportunity to enjoy the city's fresh wind, while drawing your camera as soon as you have the chance to cross a gem to capture in a snapshot. In the city of Hamburg, there are several circuits that all pass in front of a multitude of important places, historical sites and fabulous attractions (which are sometimes impossible to cross by car). With reasonable prices, let yourself be tempted by a fun bike ride.
4. Saint Michael Church

Category: €€/Cultural
Description: The one nicknamed "Der Michel" is part of the city's five Lutheran churches, a real jewel. This is the largest church in all of Hamburg, containing almost 2,500 seats! When you enter, you'll immediately be struck by the electric atmosphere that emanates from this place, so special, with baroque inspirations: inside, you can admire a sumptuous white decor, where sunlight enters to illuminate the immense rooms. With a central part 27 meters high, and 132 meters for its high tower, you'll have to climb the 453 steps that separate you from it before reaching the summit. Believe us, the breathtaking view of the city of Hamburg is well worth it, plan a few liters of water nonetheless! Where to find Saint Michael Church? Go to "Englische Planke" street. It's open from May to June every day from 9am to 8pm, and from November to April from 10am to 6pm. Sunday hours are 12:30pm to 8pm all year round.
5. The Botanical Garden

Category: €€/Cultural
Description: Let Mother Nature take back her rights! If you didn't know it yet, the city of Hamburg is known as "Germany's largest garden". Thus, it's a bit like entering an open-air museum: everywhere you'll discover greenery; pretty shrubs; large trees to shelter in during rainy periods; colorful flowers that open and reveal themselves to the world when spring comes... A magnificent spectacle. If there's one place where nature reigns in this city, it's the botanical garden located in the "Ohnhorststrasse 18" district. Extending over nearly 25 hectares, this is the perfect mix between city and nature. Families love to spend an afternoon in this universe filled with shimmering and soothing colors: there are no more comforting activities than walking in the small streets of this immense place, while winding along canals and gardens. During a short break, take time to sit on a bench, or stop on a bridge over a splendid lake, to better contemplate this spectacle that unfolds before you.
6. The Emigration Museum

Category: €€/Cultural
Description: The one that Germans call "BallinStadt" is undoubtedly THE museum where you'll have to stop if you're ever passing through Hamburg. Why? With its history dating from the 19th century, it was above all an emigration station at that time. Today, the establishment is open to the public, and is located at "Veddeler Bogen". This will be an opportunity for you to discover how and why certain people left Europe in hope of a better life. With an exhibition surface extending over more than 2,500 m², it's a whole story that we retrace over four periods concerning emigration, as well as immigration. Open from 10am to 4:30pm from November to February, and from 10am to 6pm from March to October, we advise you to go there in the morning, there are fewer people. If you're a history buff and want to better understand why the world has become what it is today, no doubt, you're in the right place!