Hamburg, Germany Attractions

Alsterarkadin

After huge fires swept across the Hamburg waterfront in 1842, the city carved out a section along the river and rebuilt the area as a series of arcades. Inspired by the architecture of Venice, the Alsterarkaden is a favorite spot for locals and visitors to relax. There are a number of cafes, many with outdoor seating with prime views of the Rathaus across the river, along with a collection of shops. Some of these shops are located in what has become the oldest shopping mall in Hamburg, the Mellin Passage. At night, the Alsterarkaden is bathed in light from wrought iron lamps.