The elegant Alsterarkaden
Visitors who stroll along the quays of the Kleine Alster will certainly notice the Alsterarkaden. These elegant white arcades along the water evoke a touch of Venetian elegance. These stylish shopping arcades are the showpiece of downtown Hamburg. Browse the shop windows of exclusive designers or grab a table at a patio on the water and watch the elegant, well-heeled shoppers.
Surprising artwork
The arcades are a historic treasure which stand out in the modern city of Hamburg. Their special design was the work of Alexis de Chateauneuf, one of the most important urban planners in Hamburg after the Great Fire of 1842. The Mediterranean flair of the shopping arcades is no coincidence; Chateauneuf designed the Alsterarkaden in an Italian style, emphasising symmetry and circular shapes. Between the shopping arcades and the Neuer Wall shopping street lies the Mellin Passage, the oldest and smallest shopping arcade in Hamburg. Here you will find luxurious pharmacies, authentic book stores and elegant purse shops. In 1989 there was a fire in one of the shops and the building was subsequently torn down. During the restoration, workers made an amazing discovery: beautiful art deco ceiling frescos and stained-glass windows were found behind the rubble. Today these have been completely restored and can be admired once again.
Sweet temptations
The Alsterarkaden are located in the heart of Hamburg, only a 5-minute walk from the Jungfernstieg subway station. Follow the Kleine Alster to the Rathausmarkt for the most beautiful view of the charming white arcades on the water. Then go across the street to marvel at the shining watches, expensive hats and elegant purses and shoes. For a tasty souvenir visit Godiva Chocolatier – the chocolate creations are impossible to resist. For more sweet temptations continue to the Arkaden-Café and choose from the overwhelming selection of cakes and pastries. Sample a creamy Käsekuchen or a moist Apfelstrudel.
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Arts & Culture
Hamburg is known as a Mecca for entertainment and with 40 theatres and concert halls it certainly measures up to cities like London and New York. Visit one of the spectacular musicals or treat yourself to a bold cabaret performance. Prefer something classic? Watch an opera or ballet at one of the elegant concert halls – there is no excuse to be bored in Hamburg at night.
Family fun
Hamburg has been endowed with parks, public gardens and playgrounds – there are almost too many to mention. These green oases of Hamburg have one thing in common: they are beautifully maintained and equipped with modern playgrounds so that children can safely play and have fun. From the vast Stadtpark in the north to the play islands in the south, take the whole family on an adventure in Hamburg’s playgrounds.
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