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

Should you visit Dover 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 Dover and Hamburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a energetic, cultural, and vibrant port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dover and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit


Is there more to do in Dover or Hamburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hamburg. Although Dover and Hamburg are popular destinations, Hamburg has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hamburg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Dover attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Dover and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also well known for St. Michael's Church. Dover is famous for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Dover different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


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

Dover
Hamburg

Foodies will find both Dover and Hamburg both to be nice destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

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 Dover or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

Hamburg offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Dover or Hamburg Better for Music?

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Dover is not a live music destination.

In Hamburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Dover is not a live music destination.


Is Dover or Hamburg Better for Hiking?

Dover
Hamburg

Dover is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Hamburg?

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Hamburg Better for Families?

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Dover is a family-friendly town. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Dover or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Dover
Hamburg

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

Couples visit Dover frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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 Dover or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover
Hamburg

Both Dover and Hamburg are nice destinations for backpackers.

Dover is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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 Dover or Hamburg Better for Students?

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is very good for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

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

Dover is not popular with students.


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

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Dover
Hamburg

Hamburg is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Dover?

How long in Dover or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dover and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dover than in Hamburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

Families should spend more time in Hamburg than Dover. 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 Dover. 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 Dover 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 Dover or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Dover 2-4 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Dover or Hamburg?

In Dover, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Hamburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this vibrant destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Dover or Hamburg?

In Dover, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dover has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Hamburg?

Dover is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hamburg. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Dover. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle 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 Dover?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Dover is £124, 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 Dover and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Dover £62
    Hamburg £46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Dover £124
    Hamburg £92
Compare Hotels in Dover and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Dover 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 Dover


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: Dover Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Dover £39
    Hamburg £25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210

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:

  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport(HAM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport(HAM) to Hamburg Cruise Port: $38
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $41
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM Departure : $41
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg City Hotels: $51
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City Hotels to Hamburg Cruise Port: $51
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Hotels to Bremerhaven Cruise Port: $65
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $76
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $76
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport(HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Port: $78
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $78
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $83

Is it cheaper to fly into Dover or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Dover 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
    Dover £38
    Hamburg £30

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.
    Dover £20
    Hamburg £34

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $27
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $153
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

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:

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Speicherstadt and HafenCity": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.20
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.21
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.21
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.21
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.21
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.26
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in St. Pauli: $4.60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Dover £7.71
    Hamburg £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

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

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178

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


Which is Bigger, Dover or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover or Hamburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Hamburg. The summer months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

Dover is around the same temperature as Hamburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hamburg this time of the year. In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during summer. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dover usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Dover 17°C (63°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Dover or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dover as well as Hamburg. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dover 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 the autumn, Dover is a little warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dover in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Hamburg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Dover often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hamburg. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Dover 12°C (54°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Dover or Hamburg in the Winter?

Both Hamburg and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Dover for the museums 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 Dover. In January, Dover is generally much warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 4°C (40°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Dover usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Dover 4°C (40°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Dover or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Dover during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Dover in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months.

Dover is a little warmer than Hamburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Hamburg fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in April than Hamburg. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Dover 9°C (47°F) 
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Dover

Dover Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)