A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Hamburg for Nightlife, Music, Backpackers, and Attractions

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Should you visit Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Hamburg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and live music.

How is Amsterdam different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Plenty of people visit the sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Hamburg.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Many visitors head to Hamburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.


Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Food?

Dining out in both Amsterdam and Hamburg can be an enjoyable experience.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Amsterdam. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Hamburg area. The city has a mix of cosmopolitan restaurants and traditional places where you can enjoy a classic German dish like currywurst or labskaus (a type of stew).

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Amsterdam and Hamburg.

The nightlife in Amsterdam is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Hamburg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Amsterdam or Hamburg.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Amsterdam The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

In Hamburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Shopping?

Shopping in a popular activity in both Hamburg and Amsterdam.

Amsterdam is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.


Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Families?

Families will find a wider variety of activities in Hamburg than Amsterdam.

Hamburg is a very kid-friendly port city. The city has a surprising number of opportunities to see wildlife nearby including a zoo and a wildlife park just outside of town. The city also has great playgrounds that are fun for kids who need a break from sightseeing.

Amsterdam doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Couples?

Amsterdam and Hamburg are both fun to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Hamburg is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Most people consider Amsterdam to be better for backpackers than Hamburg.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Amsterdam. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

Hamburg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg better for Public Transit?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Amsterdam and Hamburg.

Visitors in Amsterdam can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Hamburg. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.


Is Amsterdam or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Amsterdam and Hamburg both are comparable when exploring on foot.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Hamburg is a very walkable destination. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.

Amsterdam and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Amsterdam
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
Hamburg
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers


Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than Hamburg.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Amsterdam is 2-7 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Hamburg is 1-3 days.


  • How many days in Amsterdam or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Hamburg. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer.

You'll find live music and food around the vibrant destination of Hamburg. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Amsterdam is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Amsterdam has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural port city of Hamburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Amsterdam. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Which city is cheaper, Hamburg or Amsterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €138, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is €93. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Amsterdam and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam €80
    Hamburg €43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam €160
    Hamburg €86

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam €16
    Hamburg €23
Typical Local Transportation prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    €3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    €15
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    €10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    €2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    €3.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Amsterdam Airport Arrival Transfer in a Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Viano or S-Class: $84
  • Amsterdam Airport Departure Transfer: $58
  • Amsterdam Airport Departure Transfer (Amsterdam Hotels to Amsterdam Airport): $83
  • Amsterdam Airport Private Departure Transfer: $52
  • Amsterdam Airport Transfer (Airport to Hotel or address in Amsterdam) ROUND-TRIP: $167
  • Amsterdam Airport Transfers : Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport AMS in Luxury Car: $96
  • Amsterdam Airport Transfers : Amsterdam to Schiphol Airport AMS in Luxury Van: $85
  • Amsterdam City Center - Schiphol Airport Transfer: $143
  • Amsterdam City Center - Schiphol Airport Transfer (MiniVan): $160
  • Amsterdam City Departure Private Transfer to Amsterdam Port in Luxury Car: $79
  • Amsterdam City Departure Private Transfer to Amsterdam Port in Luxury Van: $60
  • Amsterdam City Departure Private Transfer to Amsterdam Train Station in Business Car: $52

Typical Local Transportation prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    €1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Airport Transfer Luxury Van 8-seater: $299
  • Airport transfer executive sedan: $148
  • Airport-Transfer First Class: $198
  • Airport-Transfer Premium Van: $180
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $59
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $77
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $87
  • Deluxe Private Transfer From Hamburg City to Berlin City: $249
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $62
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $77
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Amsterdam change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Amsterdam €35
    Hamburg €28
Typical Food prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    €6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Amsterdam.

  • Live online cooking class from Classic European 2-course meal: $23
  • Amsterdam Evening Pizza Cruise: $40
  • Three course lunch/dinner voucher: $42
  • Walking Food Tour: $43
  • 3 Course Dinner in the Dark: $48
  • Withlocals the 10 Tastings: Amsterdam's Favourite Private Food Tour with a Local: $50
  • Private Pizza Canal Cruise Amsterdam: $62
  • Dinner with an Amsterdam artist on the river: $62
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket & VIP Dinner at Hard Rock Café: $63
  • Amsterdam Small Group Food Tour: $69
  • Food Tour in the Albert Cuyp Market Amsterdam: $73
  • Delicious Dutch Dinner in an Amsterdam Canalhouse: $75

Typical Food prices in Hamburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:


  • Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls
    €15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    €5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    €6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    €15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    €4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    €6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    €3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    €4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hamburg.

  • Historic Reeperbahn Tour with Optional Dinner in Hamburg: $38
  • St. Georg Hamburg - Food Tour: $45
  • HafenCity & Elbphilharmonie - Food Tour: $50
  • Sternschanze Hamburg - Food Tour: $53
  • St. Pauli - Food Tour: $53
  • Eat Like A Local : Hamburg Private Food Tour With Tastings: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam €30
    Hamburg €31
Typical Entertainment prices in Amsterdam

Here are a few typical costs in Amsterdam for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum
    €6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    €17

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • A tasty stroll through Pijp: An audio tour of some of Amsterdam great food spots: $5.00
  • An Amsterdam introduction: Explore the origins of Amsterdam on an audio tour: $5.00
  • Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.41
  • Amsterdam West Specialty Coffee Spots Cycling Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.41
  • Vondelpark and Old West Neighbourhood Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap: $5.48
  • Amsterdam Private Tour: Red Light District Exploration Game: $5.65
  • Self-Guided Tour with Over 100 Sights: $5.67
  • The Red Light District self-guided Virtual Experience: The Highlights: $7.45
  • Absolutely Tip-Based Walking Tour With Super Local Guide (2,5 Hours): $8.09
  • Red Light District 1-hour Smartphone Audio Tour: $9.06
  • Amsterdam Red Light District: A Walking Audio Tour on your Phone (1hour): $9.94
  • Silent Disco Club Experience: $9.95

Typical Entertainment prices in Hamburg

Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Tower at St. Michael's Church
    €3.50

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

Here are a few actual costs in Hamburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Spicy's Gewürzmuseum Entry Ticket and Audio Guide: $5.66
  • RICKMER RICKMERS Museum Entry Ticket: $6.79
  • Walking Tour for School Groups: $8.48
  • Panoptikum Hamburg Ticket: $8.58
  • Hamburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Hamburg by Boat: 1-Hour Hanseatic Tour: $16
  • Express outer Elbphilharmonietour: $19
  • Speicherstadt and Hafencity Guided Tour: $19
  • 2-Hour St. Georg Walking Tour: $19
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour - Yellow Double Decker - GROUP TICKETS: $20
  • GROUP TICKETS HOP-ON HOP-OFF City Tour by Bus: $20
  • Outer Elbphilharmonie Tour: Public Tour in German: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam €19
    Hamburg €14

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Distillery Tour & Tasting: $22
  • Amsterdam Bar Crawl: $27
  • Amsterdam Shared Bar Crawl: $31
  • Private Amsterdam Red Light District and pub tour: $61
  • Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings: $67
  • 4 hour Amsterdam Brewery Tour: $81
  • High Class Culinary Lunch in Amsterdam - Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $102
  • Drew's 3-Hour Amsterdam Brewery and Bar Tour to Top Rated Bars: $106
  • Discover 3 gastronomic restaurants in Amsterdam - self-guided food & wine tour: $129
  • Experience 4 Culinary Restaurants in Amsterdam Self-Guided Food & Wine Tour: $152
  • Amsterdam Bachelor Party Bar Crawl: $488

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hamburg:

  • Club and Pub Tour of St. Pauli: $27
  • Corona Pub Crawl with special drinks: $62
  • Private guided Club & Pub tour - Pub Crawl: $358

About these numbers

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Hamburg, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Hamburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hamburg would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hamburg and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Hamburg.

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Amsterdam vs. Hamburg Travel Comparison

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