A former cruise ship captain has revealed what he believes is one of the best destinations to visit in Europe. Nico Berg, who spent over two decades captaining cruise and freight ships, says Hamburg in Germany is a must-see for travellers.
Berg, who worked for German firm Aida, described sailing up the River Elbe into Hamburg's port as an unforgettable experience. Speaking to Wine Traveller, he said: “There’s nothing nicer than traveling up the Elbe in the morning and entering Hamburg Port.” He added that in summer, the sun rising behind the historic Hamburg Michel church creates an amazing view, and that the city always makes him feel like he is coming home.
Among his recommendations for visitors is a small barge tour through Speicherstadt, the historic warehouse district built between 1883 and 1927. This area, the world's largest industrial estate, features canals and now houses museums such as the Hamburg Dungeon and a model railway.
Other notable attractions include the St Pauli Elbe Tunnel, opened in 1911, which transports people and machinery 24 metres underground, and the historic fish market, which has operated every Sunday since 1703. The modern Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, opened in 2017, has already welcomed over two million visitors and offers a central meeting point with panoramic views from its glass facade.
