A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Hamburg for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Antwerp or Hamburg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Hamburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a youthful, vibrant, and authentic port city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Antwerp, Antwerp has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Antwerp is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Hamburg is known for its music and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Antwerp is popular for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also home to Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Antwerp and Hamburg.

Many visitors head to Antwerp specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hamburg can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Antwerp or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Hamburg can be an enjoyable experience.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Hamburg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Antwerp or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

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

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

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 Antwerp or Hamburg Better for Music?

Hamburg is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Hamburg The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Antwerp is not a live music destination.

Is Antwerp or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp 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 Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Hamburg?

Antwerp is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Antwerp is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Antwerp or Hamburg Better for Families?

Hamburg is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Antwerp offers lots of family activities. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Antwerp or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Both Antwerp and Hamburg are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Antwerp makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Hamburg is a good port 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 Antwerp or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Antwerp and Hamburg are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Antwerp is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

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 Antwerp or Hamburg Better for Students?

Antwerp is well known for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Antwerp is very popular with students. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

It's common for students to visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

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

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

Hamburg has some very good public transit options. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Antwerp or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Hamburg both are very good when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Antwerp and Hamburg. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Hamburg than Antwerp. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Antwerp 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 Antwerp.

One day in Antwerp or Hamburg?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Hamburg, you'll find shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Antwerp or Hamburg?

In Antwerp, you'll find food and shopping. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.

In Hamburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Hamburg?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hamburg is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Hamburg. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.

When comparing the travel costs between Antwerp and Hamburg, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Antwerp. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp 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 Antwerp 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 Antwerp or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In the summer, Antwerp is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Antwerp in July average around 17°C (63°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 Antwerp. Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during summer. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antwerp or Hamburg in the Autumn?

Both Hamburg and Antwerp during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Antwerp is generally a little warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 12°C (54°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets more rain in October than Hamburg. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Hamburg. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hamburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Antwerp. Antwerp is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Antwerp usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Antwerp usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hamburg. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antwerp or Hamburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Hamburg. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Antwerp is a little warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Antwerp in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in April than Hamburg. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Antwerp