Are two days in Hamburg enough to do it justice? It deserves a lot more, but here's how to see it in a weekend.
Hamburg in 48 hours? It can be done! We're talking about one of the biggest cities in the EU of course, but if - as often happens - all you have is a weekend, then here are some useful tips.
Hamburg in two days is a big challenge, but if you organise your time and decide what to see in advance, then it's possible.
We thought we'd suggest an itinerary, to make your life easier, or at least give you some inspiration ... ready? Let's go!
DAY 1 IN HAMBURG
Park Planten un Blomen
The Botanical Garden in Hamburg is best visited in spring, when the park is alive with fountains and evening water shows - and the tea room is open. It's also the place to see the largest Japanese garden in Europe.
Rathausmarkt
Rathausmarkt, the main city square overlooking Hamburg town hall, is also called Red Square. That's nothing to do with Moscow - it's because of the bricks used to lay the square.
Rathaus
Rathaus is the German name for the town hall, which is home to Parliament and the Senate. The building is impressive, with an elegant frontage that dominates the whole square. The building stretches for 111 metres across the square, dominated by the central tower which reaches up 112 metres towards the sky.
Reeperbahn
This is the Red Light District of Hamburg, with strip clubs and brothels. But it's also so much more. The area is full of pubs, bars with live music and plenty of narrow streets in which to explore the vibrant night life.
DAY 2 IN HAMBURG
The church of Saint Nicholas
The building dates back 800 years, but only the bell tower remains - a result of bombing during World War II. Today, the tower stands as a memorial to the war.
Lake Alster
This artificial lake is a source of great pride for the residents of Hamburg; it's the ideal place to relax, walk and play sports.
Alter Elbpark - Bismarck Monument
Inside the Alter Elbpark is a monument to Otto von Bismarck. During the war, the base of the statue was used as an air-raid shelter.
Church of Saint Michael
This is a beautiful Lutheran church, built for Protestant worshippers. Not only is it the largest church in the city, but its 52 metre bell tower is one of the highest in Europe.
Hamburger Kunsthalle
If you like art, you can't miss this museum devoted to ancient, modern and contemporary art. It's definitely a place where you could spend a lot of time.
So, if you're looking for a hostel for two days in Hamburg, you can do your research here!