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

Should you visit Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen is a laid-back, progressive, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Copenhagen and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Copenhagen than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Copenhagen, Copenhagen has more sights and attractions for tourists. Copenhagen is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hamburg is known for its music. Hamburg is more touristy than Copenhagen and is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Copenhagen is popular for its colorful buildings, beautiful canals, progressive policies, and happy population. It is also home to Tivoli Gardens.

How is Copenhagen different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Copenhagen. There are many sights and landmarks around town including Tivoli Gardens, Christiansborg Palace, Nyhavn Harbor, and The Round Tower. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of Denmark and the National Gallery of Denmark.

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 Copenhagen or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Copenhagen is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Copenhagen has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. In recent years the celebrity food scene has put this city on the map. There are many Michelin star restaurants around town including the world famous Noma. But there's also a diversity of restaurants to choose from, ranging from elegant, award-winning options to cozy local eateries. Danish food includes a lot of pastries and sandwiches. Make sure you try a rød pølse, or local hot dog from one of the many stands around town.

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 Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

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

Copenhagen is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The nightlife scene stays active until the early morning hours with many bars and clubs staying open until 5 or 6 in the morning. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include Istedgade and EnghavePlads in Vesterbro, Sankt Hans Torv in Nørrebro and some areas around Frederiksberg.

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 Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for Music?

Hamburg is renowned for its live music scene. However, Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen is not a live music destination.

Is Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen. Indre By is the oldest part of the city and where you'll find most of the sights and attractions. This is where most visitors stay and you'll find many great restaurants and activities to enjoy.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

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

Copenhagen is a world class destination for shoppers. Design and style is notorious with Danish culture. You'll find many great local boutique or fashion design shops in town. Købmagergade is one of the busiest and most famous shopping streets in town, but you should also visit the street parallel to it, Pilestræde.

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 Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for Families?

Copenhagen is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Copenhagen is one of the most popular family destinations. The city almost feels like it was designed with kids in mind. There are countless playgrounds, beaches, and other kid-friendly places to explore. Also make sure you stop by Tivoli Gardens, which has rides and rollercoasters that everyone can enjoy. The city also has an aquarium, zoo, and even a deer park. The Little Mermaid statue may fascinate Disney lovers, and if you want to get out on the water there are boat tours through the canals.

Hamburg is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Copenhagen is renowned for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Copenhagen has plenty to offer. The city is filled with a positive energy that will rejuvenate any couple. You can hire a bike or hop on a boat to explore town, or simply wander through the cobblestone streets. There are many parks and gardens to explore and culture lovers will appreciate the many museums.

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 Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Copenhagen is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. While the city is expensive, there are still plenty of free things to do like simply wandering the neighborhoods. The city has a relaxed and friendly vibe that will almost make you forget all of the money you're spending.

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 Copenhagen or Hamburg Better for Students?

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

Copenhagen is very popular with students. The city has a reputation as the happiest in the world, and students are no exception. There are plenty of activities for students as well as a relaxed, yet productive, atmosphere. It's easy to explore the town on foot or by bike as well.

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

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

Copenhagen 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.

Copenhagen has a great public transit system. There are metros, s-trains, waterbuses, and regular buses available.

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

Is Copenhagen or Hamburg a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Copenhagen on foot is easy. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but there are also plenty of bikes available as well.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Copenhagen?

How long in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Copenhagen and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Copenhagen than in Hamburg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Copenhagen, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

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

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

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

One day in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

In Copenhagen, you'll find nightlife and food. 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.

With live music and food around the energetic port city of Hamburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

In Copenhagen, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Copenhagen has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Hamburg, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

Five days in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

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

Hamburg, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Copenhagen or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Copenhagen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Copenhagen. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Denmark, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Denmark, 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 Copenhagen and Hamburg, we can see that Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Copenhagen or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Copenhagen. When comparing the sizes of Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen 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 Copenhagen or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Copenhagen during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Copenhagen in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Copenhagen in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Hamburg averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in July than Hamburg. Copenhagen gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Copenhagen and Hamburg. Most visitors come to Copenhagen for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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 October, Copenhagen is generally around the same temperature as Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Copenhagen average around 10°C (50°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In October, Copenhagen usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hamburg. Copenhagen gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Copenhagen as well as Hamburg. The winter months attract visitors to Copenhagen 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. The weather in Copenhagen can be very cold. Copenhagen is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Copenhagen averages around 1°C (33°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Copenhagen usually gets less rain in January than Hamburg. Copenhagen gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Copenhagen or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Copenhagen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Copenhagen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Copenhagen is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Copenhagen in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In April, Copenhagen usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Copenhagen gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Copenhagen