A fun, vibrant city that often gets lost in the Berlin-Munich shuffle in Germany, Hamburg holds many distinctions within Europe. A foremost port city, second only to Rotterdam in Europe and ninth in the world, Hamburg also has more inhabitants than any other non-capital city on the continent, with 1.8 million.

Statistics aside, Hamburgers are a fortunate lot indeed. As a former member of the medieval Hanseatic League, Hamburg still holds veritable city-state status in Germany and as a result, has a surfeit of history and lore to share with visitors. A diverse and strident cultural hub, the Elbe river city is abuzz with activity and sights throughout the year.

The waterfront area that incorporates the behemoth port of Hamburg is major draw in the city. The port comprises 12% of Hamburg, a testament to how important the city is to commercial transportation in Europe. The waterfront contains museums, restaurants and of course, immense sea vessels.

Planten un Blomen is the main park in Hamburg for busy residents who come for recreation, relaxation and to enjoy landscaped gardens, light and fountain displays.

The Kunsthalle in Hamburg is two museums in one, with an impressive underground tunnel to ferry visitors from one to the other. A modern museum of contemporary art is a wonderful contrast to the austere and original museum, a showcase for art and sculpture that span ancient Greece to the 20th century.

The Krameramtswohnungen represent the best in 17th century half-timbered architecture. The former homes for widows of business owners, donations by the Guild of Small Shopkeepers, line a narrow alley below St. Michaeliskirche. Well worth the effort, the unique buildings now contain boutiques and restaurants.

Hamburg's city hall, or Rathaus, is one of the most impressive in Europe. The lavish palace contains several grand vestibules and ornate details throughout. Although the available tour only covers a small section, a visit to city hall also affords visitors with an opportunity to stroll the Alsterarkaden. Just north of the Rathaus, the Renaissance-style walkway is a great Hamburg spot to shop and people-watch at a canal-side café.

Hamburg's nightlife is notorious around Europe. The city has a notable red light district, with an abundance of strip clubs and bars. The music scene is lively, with local and international bands on regular rotation.

The DOM Market is a gigantic fair held throughout the month of March. With games, rides, food stalls and fireworks, the carnival atmosphere draws up to 3 million visitors.

The No Mercy Heavy Metal Festival in April proves why the music genre is so popular in Germany, with a full slate of international head-bangers.

The Fleetinsel Festival is a major cultural event in the city, held on the beautiful waterway between the Elbe and Alster Lake over 10 days in July.

The Alster Fair in September draws on the scenic backdrop of the lake to offer a diverse assortment of theatrical, dance and musical performances.

A northern situation within Germany brings cold and snowy winters to Hamburg, with wide variations in temperature in the summer months.

• Winter (November to February) -2-7°C

• Spring (March to April) 0-12°C

• Summer (May to August) 7-21°C

• Fall (September to October) 6-18°C