Go for a stroll in Hamburg’s Old Town (Altstadt) to get a sense of the city’s history. See restored 18th-century homes along the Deichstrasse and charming old churches such as Saint Petri. The center of the Old Town is the Rathaus, or city hall, located on the old market square.
Hamburg's Old Town is a lovely neighborhood to explore on foot. Climb over bridges crossing canals, visit parks, see fine examples of the city’s architecture, and discover the relaxing cafés and elegant shopping arcades of Alsterarkaden. Streets lead off the main square to the warehouse district of Speicherstadt on the river. This neighborhood is a popular destination for city tours, including walking tours and the hop-on hop-off bus.
Old Town is located on the right bank of the Alsterfleet canal, opposite the new town. It is easily accessible by public transportation; take the U-Bahn to the Rathaus station. Most visitors arrive on foot or as part of a guided tour; parking is limited.
The most popular season to visit Hamburg is during the summer months. Travelers looking to avoid the crowds might want to plan a trip for the shoulder season in spring or fall. While temperatures in winter are cold, many travelers arrive in Hamburg to see its Christmas Market and go shopping.
While exploring the Old Town, there are several landmarks worth seeking out. In addition to City Hall and the Chamber of Commerce, check out the St. Nikolai War Memorial, the historic Hopfenmarkt, and Saint Catherine’s Church.