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

Should you visit Canberra or Hamburg?

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

Should I visit Canberra or Hamburg? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Canberra

Canberra is a diverse, under-rated, and cultural 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 cultural, vibrant, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Canberra and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Canberra or Hamburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Canberra than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Canberra, Canberra has more sights and attractions for tourists. Canberra is more popular for its food, hiking, and big city activities, while Hamburg is known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Canberra and is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Canberra is popular for its educational museums and the nearby nature reserves. It is also home to the Australian War Memorial.

How is Canberra different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Canberra
Hamburg

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Canberra and Hamburg.

Canberra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As Australia's capital, there are a large number of museums around town that focus on everything from history and culture to science and nature. Some of the most interesting are the Australian War Memorial, the New Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Science and Technology Centre, but there are many more.

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 the Food Better in Canberra or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Canberra
Hamburg

Canberra 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 Canberra is an experience not to be missed. There's a trendy culinary scene as well as nearby vineyards that provide great wine. You'll find everything from family-friendly and casual to upscale and fine dining.

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 Canberra or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Canberra
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Hamburg has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Canberra has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are local pubs and music venues that offer fun entertainment in the evening. You can sip wine or practice your dance moves at one of the city's clubs.

Is Canberra or Hamburg Better for Music?

Canberra
Hamburg

Hamburg is terrific for its live music scene. However, Canberra is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

Canberra is not a live music destination.


Is Canberra or Hamburg Better for Hiking?

Canberra
Hamburg

Canberra is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Canberra. There's one national park - Namadgi, as well as green space, rolling hills, and hiking trails just outside of town.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Canberra or Hamburg?

Canberra
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Hamburg is well-known for its shopping. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Many visitors go to Canberra to go shopping. Caberra Centre is the city's largest shopping centre and it has all of the usual international brands.

Is Canberra or Hamburg Better for Families?

Canberra
Hamburg

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Canberra or Hamburg.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Canberra is very family-friendly. There are interactive museums and science centers such as Questacon, the National Dinosaur Museum, and the National Zoo and Aquarium. There are also cultural and historical museums such as the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, and the National Museum of Australia. The city also has plenty of outdoor space and hands on crafts that kids will enjoy.

Hamburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Canberra or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Canberra
Hamburg

With fun activities for couples, both Canberra and Hamburg make for a good place to visit.

Canberra makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. As the city has plenty of date night activities like nice restaurants, interesting shows, and trendy wineries. During the day you can explore the outdoor setting, have a picnic, or visit a vineyard.

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 Canberra or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Canberra
Hamburg

Hamburg is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Canberra is lacking in options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Canberra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Despite being the capital city, few backpackers actually spend much time in town. There are some budget-friendly motels if you're stopping by.

Is Canberra or Hamburg Better for Students?

Canberra
Hamburg

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

Canberra is very popular with students. It's a welcoming city that is a fairly popular study abroad destination. Many students appreciate the friendly atmosphere, safe environment, and great economic setting.

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


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

Canberra
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Canberra, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses as well as a light rail system. The Red Explorer Loop bus goes by many of the city's sights.

Is Canberra or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Canberra
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Canberra is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Canberra is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are walkable and possible to explore on foot, but in general this is a very car-centered city.

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Canberra?

How long in Canberra or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Canberra and Hamburg. In our opinion, Hamburg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hamburg than Canberra. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Canberra, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

Couples should spend more time in Hamburg than Canberra. 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 Canberra 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 Canberra or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Canberra 2-3 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Canberra or Hamburg?

In Canberra, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Canberra or Hamburg?

In Canberra, 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 Canberra 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 Canberra or Hamburg?

Canberra 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 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 Canberra or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Canberra. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Canberra. 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 Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or Canberra?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Canberra is $135, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is $125. 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 Canberra and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Canberra $83
    Hamburg $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Canberra $166
    Hamburg $116
Compare Hotels in Canberra and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Canberra 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 Canberra


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: Canberra Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Canberra $25
    Hamburg $31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Canberra

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

  • Canberra Airport (CBR) to Canberra - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • Canberra Int'l Airport to Canberra - Arrival Private Transfer: $34
  • Canberra to Canberra Int Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $34
  • Guided Tour of Floriade Festival with Transfers: $118
  • Private Transfer from Canberra Airport CBR to Eden Cruise Port : $82
  • Private Transfer from Canberra city hotels to Eden Cruise Port: $82

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

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


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    $1.82

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $83
  • Round Trip Transfer Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City by van: $210
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $263
  • Private transfer: Hamburg City Center to Fuhlsbüttel Airport(HAM): $115
  • Private transfer from Fuhlsbüttel Airport to Hamburg City Center: $115
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $272
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM Departure : $41
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $236
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport(HAM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $79
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Fredericia Cruise Port: $97
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City Hotels to Hamburg Cruise Port: $52

Is it cheaper to fly into Canberra or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Canberra 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
    Canberra $35
    Hamburg $37
Typical Food Prices in Canberra

For Canberra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch
    $17

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
    $16
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    $5.36
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    $6.43
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    $16
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    $4.29
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    $6.43
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    $3.75
  • Coffee and Donut
    $4.29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

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

  • St George's Culinary Food Tour: $48
  • 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: $484
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $592
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $592

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Canberra $17
    Hamburg $42

Tours and Activities in Canberra

For Canberra, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Building + Architecture Tour | 10am Daily: $13
  • Museum Highlights Tour | 1pm Daily: $13
  • First Australians Tour | 3pm Daily: $13
  • Australian Institute of Sport: The AIS Tour: $14
  • Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour in Canberra: $30
  • LGBTQIA+ History Walking Tour: $33
  • Guided Tree Ropes Course Experience in Majura Pines: $39
  • Women's History Walking Tour with Local Guide: $40
  • Spies in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour: $40
  • Best of Wildlife Tour: $89
  • Best of Wildlife and Birds Tour: $98
  • Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tasting Tour: $112

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
    $3.75

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: $70
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $182
  • "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: $76
  • 2 Hours Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Canberra $16
    Hamburg $19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Canberra

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canberra from other travelers:


  • Drinks at a Bar
    $9.25

Sample the Local Flavors in Canberra

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

  • Canberra Brewery and Beer Tour in 3 Hours: $99
  • Canberra Brewery Winery and Distillery Tour: $112
  • Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $122
  • CanBEERa Explorer: Capital Brewery Full-Day Tour: $123
  • From Winery, Distillery, & Tasting Tour with Lunch: $149
  • Canberra Wine Tour: $158
  • Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour /w lunch: $162

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: $22
  • 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: $404
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $404
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $517


When comparing the travel costs between Canberra and Hamburg, we can see that Canberra 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. Even though Canberra is in Pacific and Hamburg is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Canberra or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Canberra. When comparing the sizes of Canberra 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 Canberra or Hamburg?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Canberra is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Hamburg has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Canberra or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Canberra during the summer are popular places to visit. The hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Canberra this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Canberra is a little warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Canberra in January average around 20°C (68°F), and Hamburg averages at about 17°C (62°F)in July.

Canberra usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hamburgin July. Canberra gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures January and July
    Canberra 20°C (68°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Canberra or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Canberra and Hamburg. Many travelers come to Canberra for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hamburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In April, Canberra is generally much warmer than Hamburgin October. Daily temperatures in Canberra average around 17°C (63°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Canberra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Canberra usually receives more rain than Hamburgin October. Canberra gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures April and October
    Canberra 17°C (63°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Canberra or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Canberra as well as Hamburg. Many visitors come to Canberra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hamburg can be very cold during winter. Canberra is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Canberra averages around 11°C (52°F) in July, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F)in January.

Canberra usually gets less rain in July than Hamburgin January. Canberra gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures July and January
    Canberra 11°C (52°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Canberra or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Canberra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Canberra for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Canberra is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Canberra in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F)in April.

In October, Canberra usually receives more rain than Hamburgin April. Canberra gets 95 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures October and April
    Canberra 15°C (60°F) 
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Canberra

Canberra Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 107 mm (4.2 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 19°C (67°F) 131 mm (5.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 12°C (54°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 11°C (52°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 12°C (53°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (56°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 19°C (66°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)