Hamburg - Hamburg Sound and Sea: Urban Vibes, Island Charm and the Rhythm of the Sea

Texel welcomes you with a sense of space and unspoilt nature. The island is known for its eponymous sheep and its characteristic Gulfhäuser farmhouses. Yet the creative force of nature on the largest of the West Frisian Islands is no less impressive than the work of human hands. With a fresh breeze in the air, explore the De Slufter nature reserve – a vast plain of tidal creeks and salt marshes set within a chain of dunes. A touch of idyllic charm awaits on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the small town of De Koog, with its inviting centre and cosy beach cafés. Alternatively, head out onto the Wadden Sea aboard a shrimp cutter to haul in the fresh catch. The sandy, silty coastline is ideal for garnalenvissen, as shrimp fishing is known in the Netherlands.

Quaint yet vibrant, historic yet modern, picturesque yet bold – the canal city of Amsterdam invites you to celebrate its contrasts. Discover this Dutch gem best on a self-guided walking tour. Only by wandering through the narrow streets will you notice the elegance of the gabled houses, a heron on a houseboat, or a hidden courtyard. Experience a journey through time, past the Westerkerk, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace. Cultural highlights await at the Van Gogh Museum, where you can follow in the footsteps of the legendary painter. The Netherlands and cycling are inseparable: why not explore Amsterdam actively by bike? An avant-garde destination is the former working-class district in the north of the city – today a “creative quarter” with houseboat galleries and trendy dining spots.

Situated in the North Sea, Helgoland rises as a captivating nature and leisure paradise. During your individual onshore visit, discover the island’s unique combination of dramatic cliffs and diverse flora and fauna. The iconic landmark is the impressive Lange Anna, a 47-metre-high freestanding rock formation at the northwestern tip. Beyond spectacular landscapes, Helgoland also offers culinary delights, most famously the fresh local lobster. Visitors can also enjoy duty-free shopping, with exclusive products such as perfumes, spirits and delicacies. A walk along the cliff-top trail provides breathtaking views, while the nearby Düne, with its white sandy beaches and Germany’s largest grey seal colony, invites relaxation. Whether for nature, gastronomy or maritime charm – Helgoland is always worth a visit.