Learn all about the maritime history of Germany's “Gateway to the World”, the country's biggest port.

Hamburg Harbour is home to one of the biggest ports in Europe, and has been a central part of the identity and commercial life of its city for centuries. If you want an insight into Hamburg’s history and development down through the years, this is a must-visit destination. The area around the harbour also has plenty of places to enjoy a relaxing beer by the waterside.

The harbour is 100 kilometres from the North Sea, at a branching of the mighty River Elbe which is particularly suitable for docking. Having been Central Europe's main shipping hub for centuries, this is a fascinating place to learn about the significance of the port.

Take the train to Landungsbrücken (the landing stages) in the St Pauli quarter of the city. Some of the best places to find out more about the changes throughout the years are the museum ships tied up here. Included in their number is the excellent Cap San Diego, an elegant white ship from the middle of the last century which was used to transport goods to South America.

For a chance to get a sense of the past, take in the sights and see how Hamburg has grown over time, take a guided boat tour of the harbour – most of them depart from here. Public transport ferries offer a cheaper way to get out on the water, such as the number 62 to Finkenwerder, which offers striking views.

If you can choose when to visit the harbour, aim for early May and the harbour's birthday celebrations. This huge festival has beautiful music and delightful fireworks reflecting on the surface of the water, as well as tugboat “ballets” pirouetting around the port.

Get to Hamburg Harbour via S-bahn or U-bahn to Landungsbrücken. It's open daily, and admission is free, though you'll have to pay for the boat tours. It is advised to check the weather forecast before your visit, as heavy fog can sometimes shroud the port for days at a time.