Just southeast of Hamburg is the German city of Lüneburg; with many sites of historical interest and attractions it's well worth hiring a car from Lüneburg to fully experience the Salt City. Here you can learn all about the town's once-thriving salt trade at the Salt Museum or enjoy bathing in the hot salt springs in the SaLü Waterpark. The city's Water Tower dominates the skyline along with the spires of the two beautiful churches, and the Old Harbour emotes a sense of historical heritage. Car hire from Lüneburg also gives you access to family attractions such as the Heath, which hosts a Flower Festival every August.
Visitors to Lüneburg will often begin their tour by scaling the monumental Wasserturm (water tower) to enjoy the great views from the top. Lüneburg Old Town is often next on the itinerary; the Altstadt is home to St Nicholas' Church and the Salt Museum, as well as the scenic Old Harbour. For those who rent a car from Lüneburg, a trip to Hamburg involves just 40 minutes' drive northwest on the A39. Alternatively, Lüneburg Heath is situated to the west on the K20; here you'll find Heide-Park, one of the most popular theme parks in Germany.