Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city after Berlin and one of the country’s key hubs for media and industry. The second-largest port in all of Europe, Hamburg is the ninth largest port city in the world. But don’t be put off by these ‘seconds’; Hamburg is at the front line of energy and dynamism.

As a guest onboard our luxury MSC cruise ship you will experience this exciting metropolis right from the moment your ship docks in the state-of-the-art cruise liner terminal. Perhaps not the most obvious holiday destination, Hamburg nevertheless makes for a worthwhile stopover during your Northern Europe cruise vacation.

Head for the Aldstadt (old city) with its unique architecture and attractive canals. You may like to visit Michaelis Church, the most significant Baroque church structure in Northern Germany boasting an impressive 132 metre-high tower. Children are well-catered for in this city: an essential outing is to Hagenbeck Zoo, complete with giraffes, elephants, monkeys and tigers all in an open, natural setting.

If you’re seeking true stillness in the city, head to Hamburg’s botanical gardens, the ‘Planten un Blomen’ with its parks, tropical greenhouse and the largest Japanese garden in Europe – a real treat for garden-lovers. For other great day trip ideas further afield, be sure to consult our programme of excursion packages, which offer the best deals on local sights and attractions.

Finally, a word about burgers… the hamburger apparently did not originate in this city, but the world’s favorite fast food is named after this German town!