Don't we all long for the last beach holiday from time to time? Sand in our shoes, cool drinks in our hands and boundless light-heartedness? In Hamburg, StrandPauli promises an all-round carefree beach edition package just a few metres away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here you'll find everything your holiday heart desires. Directly on the Elbe, cosy deckchairs in the sand and delicious summer snacks invite you to relax. You can't get more beach feeling than this!

Anyone who knows the Außenalster in Hamburg will miss it in any other city. The surrounding parks and neighbouring sports facilities offer numerous opportunities for leisure and recreation. The path around the Außenalster is a popular running route for joggers, the inviting green spaces on the banks of the Alster tempt you to have an extensive picnic and the Alster itself attracts pedal boaters, stand-up paddlers and sailors to the water. There is much to see and discover on and around the Außenalster. And always in view: lots of water.

At the "Landungsbrücken", you can breathe in the harbour air and catch a glimpse of the container port opposite. From here, ocean liners from all over the world set out for their long voyages. The hustle and bustle of the harbour is a popular spectacle for sailors young and old, long-time Hamburg residents and visitors to the city. The feeling of boundless freedom comes free with a fish sandwich at the "Landungsbrücken".

Not in the mood for landlubbers? Would you rather go on board yourself? With HADAG's harbour ferries you can cruise through the Port of Hamburg and get up close to the large container ships. Line 62 is an affordable alternative to conventional harbour tours. The ferry departs from "Landungsbrücken" and travels down the Elbe past the fish auction hall, Dockland and Elbstrand.

Next stop: Övelgönne. The former fishing village on the Elbe cannot be missing from the list of Hamburg's most beautiful places along the waterfront. Övelgönne is a magnet for all who like being close to the water. From the historic museum harbour and fine restaurants to the wide "Elbstrand", there is a lot to discover in Övelgönne. On sunny days, it's worth visiting this dreamy little town with a beach towel in your luggage. Övelgönne is the ideal place to switch off and relax. The container port on the opposite bank of the Elbe provides variety.

Hamburg proves that a vibrant city life and quiet nature beaches need not be opposites. On the beach at Wittenbergen, you feel transported to the coasts of the North Sea and the Baltic Sea. The lighthouse of Wittenbergen completes the picture. This idyllic pearl promises rest and relaxation in nature. If you want to earn your time out first, you can start at the "Landungsbrücken" by bike and follow the Elbe downstream.

Entenwerder 1 is a popular meeting place for water seekers in Hamburg's east. The floating café island has quickly become a favourite meeting place for many Hamburgers. Not far from the Elbbrücken ("Elbe bridges"), the art of coffee is celebrated here in the afternoon. In the evening, there are cool drinks and homemade lemonades. The feel-good oasis, designed with great attention to detail, is a must for all Hamburg fans who want to get off the beaten track.

Future, present and past go hand in hand in Hamburg. This is also reflected in the Port of Hamburg. Beside historic buildings, HafenCity shines in the glory of modernity. Glass skyscrapers and striking office buildings adorn the future-oriented district. A real eye-catcher is the Marco Polo Tower. With its twelve floors, it is hard to miss. It is particularly beautiful here in the evening, when the setting sun is reflected in the water.

Wilhelmsburg is one of Hamburg's up-and-coming districts. When it comes to "beautiful watersides", the creative quarter has long been a pioneer. "Kaffeeliebe am Veringskanal" attracts visitors with a variety of cakes, hot coffee and water views. On sunny days, you can make yourself comfortable on the terrace directly on the canal. When the weather is bad, cosy sofas await guests inside.

Whenever Hamburg and water are mentioned, the Speicherstadt is a highlight. The historic warehouse complex at Hamburg's harbour is one of the city's landmarks. The unmistakable brick Gothic characterises the image of the Speicherstadt. The UNESCO World Heritage Site bears witness to Hamburg's maritime history. Romantics should not miss a night-time walk through the illuminated Speicherstadt.