An independent city until 1938, Altona lies across the ‘border’ from Sankt Pauli and still exudes a free spirit. This part of Hamburg is home to hip thirty-somethings, art students and other creative personalities. Pedestrian streets lined with boutiques, designer stores and galleries alternate with bistros and beach bars – a refreshing change from Hamburg’s busy city centre.
Perhaps it’s the history of Altona that lends the district its unique atmosphere. Originally Danish, Altona was one of the most important port cities in the Danish Kingdom. The city was independent for many years and was only incorporated into Hamburg in 1938. The neighbourhood still exudes some of this independent free spirit. This is the place in Hamburg to find independent clothing stores, alternative record shops and designer furniture.
“Chocolates and lingerie sets at B.Sweet”