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

Should you visit Bristol or Hamburg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Bristol and Hamburg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Bristol

Bristol is a friendly, authentic, and historic 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 historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Bristol and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Bristol or Hamburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Bristol than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Bristol, Bristol has more sights and attractions for tourists. Bristol is very popular for its big city activities, while Hamburg attracts visitors for its music and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Bristol and is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also well known for The Bristol Harbour.

How is Bristol different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bristol
Hamburg

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Hamburg and Bristol.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Bristol. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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 Bristol or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bristol
Hamburg

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

Bristol is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Hamburg offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Bristol or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Bristol
Hamburg

The vibe at night is superb in both Bristol and Hamburg.

Many people head to Bristol for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Hamburg has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Bristol or Hamburg Better for Music?

Bristol
Hamburg

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

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.

Bristol is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Bristol or Hamburg?

Bristol
Hamburg

If you're looking to go shopping, Bristol and Hamburg both offer plenty of superb spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bristol. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Hamburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Is Bristol or Hamburg Better for Families?

Bristol
Hamburg

Hamburg is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hamburg. 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.

Bristol is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is Bristol or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Bristol
Hamburg

Both Bristol and Hamburg are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Bristol is a good city for couples to visit. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

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 Bristol or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bristol
Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Bristol or Hamburg Better for Students?

Bristol
Hamburg

For students, both Bristol and Hamburg are nice places to visit.

It's common for students to visit Bristol. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Hamburg is a good city to visit for students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

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

Bristol
Hamburg

Hamburg is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Hamburg can get you to most places easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.


Is Bristol or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Bristol
Hamburg

Bristol and Hamburg are superb when it comes to walkability.

Bristol is a very walkable destination. The city center is well designed for walking.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Bristol?

How long in Bristol or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bristol and Hamburg. In our opinion, Hamburg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hamburg than Bristol. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hamburg than Bristol 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 Hamburg.


  • How many days in Bristol or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bristol 1-3 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Bristol or Hamburg?

In Bristol, you'll find nightlife and food. This 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 Bristol or Hamburg?

In Bristol, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Bristol 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 Bristol or Hamburg?

Bristol 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.

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 Bristol or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bristol. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bristol. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or Bristol?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bristol is £91, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is £100. 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 destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bristol and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bristol £49
    Hamburg £46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bristol £98
    Hamburg £92
Compare Hotels in Bristol and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Bristol or Hamburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bristol


Hotels in Hamburg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bristol Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Hamburg £25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bristol

Also for Bristol, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Business Car: $78
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol by Luxury Car: $85
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport (BRS) to Southampton hotels - Arrival Transfer: $172
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to Bristol City: $148
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Private Transfer to London city: $680
  • Bristol Airport (BRS): Transfer to Southampton city hotels: $781
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol Airport BRS to Bristol City in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Business Car: $90
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Car: $108
  • Bristol Airport Transfers: Bristol City to Bristol Airport BRS in Luxury Van: $99
  • Bristol Airport to London City Hotels Arrival Private Transfer: $160

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

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


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    £1.45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Hamburg Airport(HAM): Transfer to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $645
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $585
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM): Transfer to Fredericia Cruise Port: $585
  • Private One-Way Transfer to or from Kiel Port: $422
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Berlin, English Speaking Driver: $300
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Wolfsburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $271
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers : $267
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $262
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $235
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $234
  • Private Transfer From Hamburg To Bremen With a 2 Hour Stop: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Bristol or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Bristol 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
    Bristol £32
    Hamburg £30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bristol

For Bristol, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • (Thur 7pm) Comedy Magic Show includes 1x Pizza & 2 glasses of Prosecco: $25

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
    £13
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    £4.28
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    £5.13
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    £13
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    £3.42
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    £5.13
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    £2.99
  • Coffee and Donut
    £3.42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

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

  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $117
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $186
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $481
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bristol £13
    Hamburg £34

Tours and Activities in Bristol

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bristol.

  • Self-Guided Sightseeing Audio Tour: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Craft Beer Tour with Optional Tasting: $5.31
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Bristol's Harbourside History: $5.99
  • The Harbourside's Hidden History Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Bristol's Brilliant Pubs: A Self-Guided GPS Audio Tour of the Old City: $6.99
  • Brunel’s A Self-Guided Tour from SS Great Britain to Clifton Bridge: $7.99
  • Brunel’s Iconic Engineering Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Bristol's Time-Honored Pubs: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Bristol Harbourside Self-Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge Vaults Experiences: $12

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
    £2.99

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

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

  • Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
  • Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
  • "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $69
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $181
  • "Highlights of Hamburg" Biketour: $39
  • 1 Hour Kiez Speed Tour for Adults: $19
  • 1-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Hamburg Line D: $20
  • 10 secrets of Hamburg's old town - exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg E-Scooter Tour: $71
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Night Tour: $93
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Tour: $75
  • 2 Hours Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bristol £11
    Hamburg £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Bristol

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

  • Bristol’s Best Brewery Taprooms: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

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

  • Night Pub Crawl through The Repperbahn: $21
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $34
  • Pub Crawl - Ultimate party pub crawl incl. One-hour drinks flat rate: $44
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $513


When comparing the travel costs between Bristol and Hamburg, we can see that Hamburg 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 Bristol Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Bristol or Hamburg?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bristol or Hamburg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bristol as well as Hamburg. Many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Bristol is around the same temperature as Hamburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 18°C (64°F) in July, and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Bristol usually gets less rain in July than Hamburg. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bristol 18°C (64°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Hamburg in the Autumn?

Both Hamburg and Bristol are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Bristol is a little warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bristol in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Hamburg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In October, Bristol usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bristol 13°C (55°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Hamburg in the Winter?

Both Hamburg and Bristol during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hamburg in the winter. In January, Bristol is generally much warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Bristol average around 6°C (43°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Bristol usually gets more rain in January than Hamburg. Bristol gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bristol 6°C (43°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Bristol or Hamburg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bristol and Hamburg. The activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty.

Bristol is a little warmer than Hamburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Bristol averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Hamburg fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In April, Bristol usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Bristol gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bristol 10°C (50°F) 
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Bristol

Bristol Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)