Hamburg has two artificial lakes in its main area, the Außenalster and the Binnenalster, which are commonly referred as the Alster lakes. The lakes were made using the flow of the river Alster and has became over the years places around which the city has developed. They are used as the most important places for leisure in Hamburg.

The Außenalster literally means the Outside Alster Lake, because it is located just outside the old city walls. This lake is used mostly during summer for sport purposes like swimming, rowing, and sailing. Many tourists like the idea of renting a canoe or a small boat. Hiking around the lake on a 7-kilometer long park track is also a nice way to get away from the city rush.

Binnenalster is the lake closer to the city center. It is smaller but has a greater importance for Hamburg. That is the place where various art exhibitions and music concerts take place. Every September on the banks of this lake, the city government organizes a fair. Dozens of stands are set to offer a different kind of food, beverages, souvenirs, and other merchandise.