As Karolinenviertel's central life-line, the Marktstraße has established through the years national and international fame as the thriving alternative shopping and fashion scene of Hamburg. Here and in the surrounding streets gather unique small shops featuring fashion, music, design, accessories, and decoration.

The resident designers intentionally create and produce on site; their boutique is oftentimes their atelier, making this district, which is free of the usual franchise-outlets, rich with interesting limited editions and exclusive product lines, some of which have an international reputation - made by Karolinenviertel.

There's a remarkably eclectic choice of styles : classic, timeless fashion; extravagant individual designer pieces; latest trend and sportswear; feminine chic; vintage; fetish and rock'n roll can be found next door to each other.
This fascinating mix of styles and attitude persists in the cafes, bars, clubs and restaurants. For the Karolinenviertel is not only the place for endless shopping sprees but is equally inviting for its buzzing nightlife. From an early morning coffee until the late wee-hours nightcap, in the Karolinenviertel you can wine & dine as well as party through until dawn. 

Because of its exceptional location, the Karolinenviertel has been able to keep a small-town, laid-back charm. Surrounded by the Heiligengeistfeld, abattoire and the exposition complex, this island location of the Karolinenviertel was almost sacrificed to make place for the exhibition complex expansion.
The Karolinenviertel was saved by the stirring and creative commitment of the district's inhabitants and entrepreneurs, the alternative scene and loyal visitors. Driven by this unconventional spirit, and unique social framework, a wide variety of businesses and unmatched popularity have flourished.

The Karolinenviertel can be reached by public transportation:  U3-Feldstraße or U2-Messehallen; Metrobuslinie 3 When you come by car, you can avoid the hassles of searching for a parking space by going directly to the parking Feldeck, at the corner Glacischaussee/Feldstraße or the Parking under Karostar at Feldstraße; both offer around-the-clock parking space. The Gänsemarkt is just 10 minutes walk away from the Karolinenviertel. Shops are open on weekdays from noon on and 11 am on Saturdays.