12Hamburg

This ancient, wealthy city on the Elbe traces it roots back to the Hanseatic League, a federation of cities and towns formed in the 12th century, and beyond.

By day you can tour its magnificent port, explore its history in restored quarters and discover shops selling goods you didn’t think were sold. By night, some of Europe’s best music clubs pull in visitors, and diversions for virtually every other taste are plentiful as well.

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