Spotlight on Hamburg

For some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe visit Hamburg, the major port city in Germany. Surrounded by canals with a modern maritime industrial vibe, it's a great place to hang out by the water and enjoy the many restaurants, cafes and bars.

At Christmas time there are over 20 markets from traditional to more frivolous, an over-18s only market at the Santa Pauli on the Reeperbahn, a Winter Pride market in the St Georg District and even one for dogs! Enjoy mulled wine, sweets including gingerbread and handicrafts at the market in front of Hamburg City Hall; look out for Santa Claus too, as he regularly hovers above the market in his sleigh.

Founded in 1189 and with its rich history in trade, the Port of Hamburg is the perfect place to find out more about maritime history.   Take a voyage of discovery across nine 'decks' at the impressive International Maritime Museum, in Hafencity. Meet pirates and find out how captains mastered navigation, take the wheel of a ship via a sailing simulator, and make contact with Hamburg's amazing nautical past!

While in this area, take a stroll around the UNESCO World Heritage-listed red brick architecture of Speicherstadt, ‘Warehouse City’.

Find out what life was like on a 19th-century sailing ship at the Museum Ship Rickmer Rickmers. Explore the life of the good ship, built in 1896, learn about its voyages, see what life was like on board, and channel your inner sailor!

For more land-based interests, visit Hamburg's Automuseum Prototyp and see racing cars, sports cars, and rare vintage models spanning 80 years, plus learn about the famous folks who rule the automotive world.

Art lovers can skip the line at the Hamburger Kunsthalle art museum, specialising in European painting dating back to the 14th century through to modern day.

There's plenty to see and do in Hamburg at any time of year but if you are looking for a winter weekend filled with the Christmas spirit then book your trip today!