More bridges than Vince and Amsterdam combined, the biggest Japanese garden in Europe, the largest miniature train set in the world. If that's not impressive and a good reason to visit Hamburg - Germany's so called Gateway to the World - than I really don't know what gets you up and going.

Hamburg's origin dates back to the 9th century. Situated on the banks of river Elbe, Hamburg went through some rough years, or rather some rough centuries. Raided and destroyed by the vikings, burned down by the poles, occupied by the danes and maltreated by the Black Death and the occasional devastating fire, Hamburg recovered from everything and grew to become what it is today. Germany's second largest city and home to around 1.8 million Hamburger (yes, people from Hamburg are called Hamburger) who take great pride in its mercantile background and its huge harbor (second in size only to the Rotterdam harbor).

What is the best time to visit Hamburg?

Well, let's be honest. Hamburg is not exactly famous for its great and sunny weather. If you wanna have some reasonable chances to witness the miracle of a blue sky over Hamburg, it is advisable to visit somewhere between May and September. Swing by in early May and you can enjoy the Hafengeburtstag, an annual celebration of Hamburg's heart, the harbor.

If it is only one day you can spend in Hamburg, try to make it a Sunday.