Hamburg is easier to handle by car than many other German cities, and traffic is relatively uncongested. During rush hour, however, there can be gridlock. Several autobahns (A-1, A-7, A-23, A-24, and A-250) connect with Hamburg's three beltways, which then easily take you to the downtown area. Follow the stadtzentrum signs. To reach Altes Land and Stade from Hamburg, take B-73 west.