Located 8 kilometres from Hamburg Airport and 13 kilometres north of central Hamburg, is the district of Wandsbek. It’s the second largest of seven districts which make up the city of Hamburg. The area is filled with museums, parks and churches, all of which capture the imagination of a bygone era.

One of the districts main landmarks is Kreuz-Kirche Wandsbek, an Evangelical-Lutheran Church nestled between the River Wandse and Eichtalpark. One of its most distinctive features is the 58 metres high tower complete with gilded weather vane. From Eichtalpark the exterior can be viewed in all its glory, the towering spire dominating the landscape. The park itself features botanical gardens, sculptures, historic monuments and a restaurant housed in a former watermill. The botanical garden is a haven of peace and tranquillity. There are free exhibitions where gardening enthusiasts can glean information about everything plant-related. Much of Wandsbeck history can be discovered at the Homeland Museum. It showcases an interesting collection of artefacts and exhibits, maps, photographs and uniforms. Wandsbek has its fair share of dining establishments too. Visitors can opt for dinner at the local steakhouse or enjoy pizza, German-based snacks or even Turkish cuisine.

Wandsbek is a pleasant area to walk around, with many attractions a short stroll of one another. Alternatively, those wishing to venture into Hamburg city centre can do so via Wandsbek Markt, the U-Bahn station in the centre. Departures operate several times an hour with a journey time of 15 minutes from Hamburg Central Station. Central bus terminal on Wandsbeker Marktplatz above the subway station is one of the largest bus terminals in Germany. Visitors can travel to many destinations throughout Germany from here. Those preferring to reach A to B with minimum fuss will find taxis and Uber readily available.

Wandsbek was originally in the county known as Stormarn. The name Wandsbek derives from the Low Saxon words for “Border River”. The district was once part of the Duchy of Holstein, ruled by Denmark. Residents could participate in a local “lottery” where people could claim prizes from Copenhagen while living in Wandsbek. In 1937, the borough joined the city of Hamburg. Today, visitors flock to the charming area north of Hamburg to explore the museums, parks and it’s interesting heritage.