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

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 Amsterdam is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Amsterdam travel costs.

Hamburg

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

Amsterdam and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Amsterdam than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Amsterdam, Amsterdam has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Amsterdam is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hamburg is known for its food. Amsterdam is more touristy than Hamburg and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Rijksmuseum. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

How is Amsterdam different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hamburg and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Plenty of people visit the excellent 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. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hamburg. 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 the Food Better in Amsterdam or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hamburg is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Hamburg. 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).

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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!

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Amsterdam is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Many people head to Hamburg for the nightlife scene. 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.

Hamburg has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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 its Old Town?

Amsterdam is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Amsterdam. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Shopping is 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 More Beautiful?

Amsterdam is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Amsterdam is one of the main draws. With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.

Hamburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The city is divided into a number of different districts that each have their own personality.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg Better for Families?

Hamburg is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. 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 is well known for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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 nice destination for couples. 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?

Amsterdam is renowned for backpackers. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Hamburg. 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 Students?

Hamburg is a nice place to visit for students. However, Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Hamburg is popular with students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Amsterdam is not popular with students.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam is renowned for its public transit. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has a great 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.

Public transit in Hamburg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Is Amsterdam or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Amsterdam is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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 very walkable. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Hamburg Worth Visiting?.

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 in Hamburg. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

Families should spend more time in Hamburg than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hamburg, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Hamburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amsterdam that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Hamburg if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Amsterdam.

One day in Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 historic 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. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 energetic 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. Because Amsterdam is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany.

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.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Amsterdam. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Hamburg, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Amsterdam or Hamburg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Amsterdam in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Hamburg averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Hamburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Amsterdam. Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Hamburg in the Autumn?

Both Hamburg and Amsterdam during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In October, Amsterdam is generally around the same temperature as Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 11°C (51°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in October than Hamburg. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Hamburg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hamburg. It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. Amsterdam is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Amsterdam usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Hamburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Hamburg. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hamburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Amsterdam in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hamburg. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Amsterdam