Home to a famously exotic nightlife centred on the Reeperbahn, Hamburg's shape has been forged by its role as a port city. Check out the dazzling Fish Market, soak up some culture at one of the many museums, or simply party down in St Pauli with its famous anarchist fans.

Fabulous Fish: Altona Fischmarkt
Held on Sunday from 4am, you might have to stay up all night to check out Hamburg's famous fish market. Being Germany, beer is the local tipple of choice and there is an incredible atmosphere as the locals vie for trade.

Historic Highlights: Museumshafen Övelgönne
This maritime museum traces Hamburg's historic links to the sea. If that's a little too straight for you, all those mariners have left Hamburg with more than one legacy - check out theErotic Art Museum, part of Europe's largest red light district.

Fascinating Football: FC St. Pauli
Not many football clubs have a transvestite chairman, but FC St Pauli is no ordinary club. With a skull and crossbones as their club crest, they have become a football phenomenon. Plying their trade in the third tier of German football hasn't stymied their fans - they claim to be the best supported team in Germany. Their stadium is well worth a tour.