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

Should you visit Brussels or Hamburg?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Hamburg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Brussels and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Brussels than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Brussels, Brussels has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Brussels is better known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Hamburg is more popular for its nightlife, music, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Brussels is well known for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. Also, Brussels is famous for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Brussels and Hamburg have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

Hamburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Brussels or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Brussels is an experience not to be missed. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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).

Is Brussels or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Hamburg Better for Music?

Hamburg is renowned for live music. However, Brussels is not a live music destination.

Hamburg is a world class music destination. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Brussels is not a live music destination.

Is Brussels or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Hamburg?

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

Brussels is a world class destination for shoppers. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Hamburg Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Hamburg are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hamburg is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Brussels or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Brussels is well known for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels is well known for backpackers. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Brussels is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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 Brussels or Hamburg Better for Students?

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

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

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

Brussels 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.

Brussels has a great public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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

Is Brussels or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Brussels and Hamburg both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Hamburg. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

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

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

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

One day in Brussels or Hamburg?

Because Brussels 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

The port city of Hamburg offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Hamburg?

Because Brussels 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. 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 Brussels has to offer.

Hamburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Hamburg?

Brussels 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 Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. 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.

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Hamburg, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 71% larger than the population of Brussels. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Brussels is generally around the same temperature as Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 18°C (65°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Hamburg. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Hamburg during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Brussels 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 Brussels or Hamburg in the Autumn?

Both Hamburg and Brussels during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Brussels is a little warmer than Hamburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Hamburg. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Hamburg. Most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. Brussels can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Brussels is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Brussels in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Hamburg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Brussels usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brussels or Hamburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Hamburg. The spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In April, Brussels is generally a little warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 10°C (49°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Hamburg. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Hamburg. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Brussels