Hamburg

Hamburg is a city state that is open to the world. It has always played its own special political and cultural role, moving boldly forward while maintaining its traditions which reach back for centuries. Today it is Germany’s second largest city, with a population of 1.7 million people; it is a hub of commercial transport, a major international harbour, and a vibrant media and cultural centre. Its quality of life and international flair make it one of Germany’s most attractive destinations.
What are the first things that come to mind when you think of Hamburg? Probably the city's stunning location on the Elbe and Alster Rivers, the colourful activity in the St. Pauli entertainment district, musicals, a night at the theatre, the landmark St. Michael’s Church, or the busy atmosphere of the port. Hamburg is proud of its historic heritage reaching back 1200 years, and at the same time it is well known for its contemporary scene and its cultural offerings, and not least as a power house for development of new trends.
The official site of the Hamburg Tourist Board (HHT) gives you detailed information on local attractions, activities and events, with contacts and maps.
www.hamburg-tourismus.de
Event Notes

"In the heart of Europe – Europe in our hearts": Once again, this was the slogan for the 2007 Europe week in Hamburg, just as last year. Despite all the rational arguments, the ideals of a united Europe can only be realised if it can win not only people’s minds, but also their hearts. From 6 to 12 May 2007 the "Hamburg Europeans" was host to a variety of encounters with Europe. This started with the Europe Market on 5 May 2007, which mainly targeted young visitors.
There also will be four large international events in Hamburg during the first six months of the German presidency of the Council of the European Union: the 8th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on 28-29 May 2007 and three other conferences, on the topics of architecture, culture and infrastructure.
For more information about the planned events, visit our website www.europawoche.de or www.infopoint-europa.de.

From Friday 11 May to Sunday 13 May 2007, Hamburg celebrated the 818th HAFENGEBURTSTAG HAMBURG (Hamburg Port Birthday). The world's biggest port festival featured a host of attractions on the water, on land and in the air – with visits by some of the world's largest and most magnificent sailing vessels. Every year, the festivities in the port of Hamburg attract more than a million people. The highlights include the grand arrival and departure parades of the tall ships, historic ships, sailing and motor yachts and other vessels, the Dragon class regattas, the port illuminations on the Friday evening, the big fireworks display on the Saturday evening, and the unique Tug Ballet on the Saturday afternoon.
For further information and the programme, visit
www.hafengeburtstag.de




