Fascinating how a serious city such as Hamburg should loan its name to a delicious fast food! Or did it? Well, there is evidence that the local "frikadelle" (meat patty) did originate here and was imported to America where now it is served in a bun. Today, Hamburg is Germany's second biggest city and one of Europe's most affluent, largely due to its media and industrial interests. Boasting more bridges than any other city in the world, every stream, river and canal is criss crossed. Hamburg was a member of the medieval Hanseatic League and continues its successful commercial career in one of the world's largest harbours. Birthplace of the composer Johannes Brahms, the city's musical heritage is huge and spans classical, modern, opera, popular musicals and heavy metal. Street festivals are common and carnival like celebrations are regular events. Residents in Hamburg obviously like to boogie! City landmarks include a visit to the Old Warehouse District which can be a rather picturesque trip when viewed by canal boat or a stroll on the harbour promenade. The infamous Reeperbahn in the St Pauli quarter is home to Europe's largest Red Light District and is choc full of brothels, bars and nightclubs - an absolute must on the sightseeing calendar. Hamburg has many excellent museums too and even the Zoo is worth a look as it was the first to showcase animals in natural enclosures without bars. However, it is still the Port of Hamburg which is the most significant economic contributor to the city's wealth and makes Hamburg such an important city in Germany. As a city break destination, Hamburg is a worthy contender.