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

Should you visit Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant, gothic, and ancient city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include museums, theater, 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.

Edinburgh and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Edinburgh than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights and attractions for tourists. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hamburg is known for its food. Edinburgh is more touristy than Hamburg and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

How is Edinburgh different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Edinburgh is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Edinburgh on the map. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hamburg can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is well known for its shows and theatre. However, Hamburg is not a theatre destination.

Edinburgh has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Hamburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Hamburg is a port city with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Hamburg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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).

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Edinburgh and Hamburg.

Edinburgh has a large number of nightlife venues. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Music?

It can be fun to see live music in either Edinburgh and Hamburg.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Edinburgh. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Edinburgh is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Edinburgh and Hamburg.

Edinburgh is well-known for its shopping. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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.

Is Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Families?

Both Edinburgh and Hamburg are superb to visit with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Edinburgh is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

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 Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is renowned for backpackers. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Edinburgh is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh or Hamburg Better for Students?

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

Edinburgh is very popular with students. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

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

Hamburg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Edinburgh or Hamburg a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Edinburgh?

How long in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

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

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

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

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

One day in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Hamburg. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh has to offer.

You'll find live music and food around the energetic destination of Hamburg. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

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

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic port city of Hamburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Edinburgh or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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 choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, 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 Edinburgh and Hamburg, we can see that Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Edinburgh or Hamburg?

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

Both Hamburg and Edinburgh during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Edinburgh in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, 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, Edinburgh is cooler than Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Edinburgh in July average around 14°C (58°F), and Hamburg averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Edinburgh often gets less sunshine than Hamburg. Edinburgh gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets less rain in July than Hamburg. Edinburgh gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Edinburgh and Hamburg. Most visitors come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music 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, Edinburgh is generally around the same temperature as Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Edinburgh average around 10°C (49°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Hamburg during autumn. Edinburgh gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Edinburgh usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hamburg. Edinburgh gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Edinburgh as well as Hamburg. The winter months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, 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 Edinburgh can be very cold. Edinburgh is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Edinburgh averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Edinburgh often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Edinburgh gets 48 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Edinburgh usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hamburg. Edinburgh gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Edinburgh or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty.

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

Edinburgh usually receives less sunshine than Hamburg during spring. Edinburgh gets 132 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

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

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Edinburgh