Be Safe in Hamburg

Hamburg has its danger hotspots like any city; however, visitors who exercise caution should find they are not exposed to any great threats to their health of safety during a vacation here.

Safety

Hamburg is, like the rest of Germany, a rather safe place. In the area around the Mönckebergstrasse, the main station, on the Reeperbahn and on crowded escalators; watch out for pocket-picking. The Reeperbahn is the quarter with the most dense police presence in Germany; nevertheless, make absolutely sure you avoid arguments here. They won't get you anywhere but possibly in hospital with a knife in your belly. Keep a distance from demonstrations unless you're involved; both leftist groups and the Hamburg police are known for heavy reactions.

Keep in mind that the Hamburg police wear blue uniforms. This is mentioned due to the fact that both the federal German police and all of the 15 other state police sectors in Germany mostly still wear green uniforms.

Police:  110

Health

There are no serious health risks in Germany, although there have been recent outbreaks of measles in Bavaria, Lower Saxony and North Rhine Westphalia. The German health service is excellent. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to free medical and dental treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Nationals of other countries should take out medical insurance.

Cases of bird flu have been reported throughout the country, but no human infections have been found. The deadly virus has also been found in cats. The risk is low for travellers to Germany, but all close contact with wild, caged or domestic birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes should be well cooked as a precaution.

Emergency services: 112