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

Should you visit Hamburg or Alesund?

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 Hamburg and Alesund can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

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

Alesund

Alesund is a friendly, scenic, and laid back city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Alesund: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Alesund?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Alesund than Hamburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Alesund is better known for its food and big city activities, while Hamburg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping. Hamburg is more touristy than Alesund and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Alesund is well known for its nouveau architecture, beautiful views, and access to the fjords. Also, Alesund is famous for the Art Nouveau Center.

How is Hamburg different from Alesund?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hamburg
Alesund

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

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.

Alesund offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Check out the Atlantic Sea-Park and the Sunnmøre Museum. Also visit the small but interesting Fisheries Museum & Ålesund Museum.


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

Hamburg
Alesund

Alesund 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 Alesund is an experience not to be missed. As Norway's largest fishing port, you'll find plenty of seafood offerings around town. A favorite is bacalao de noruega (dried and salted clipfish), but also make sure you try the lobster soup.

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 Hamburg or Alesund Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alesund. There are plenty of bars around town as well as nightclubs and live music venues.

Is Hamburg or Alesund Better for Music?

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg is a world-class destination for live music. However, Alesund 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.

Alesund is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Alesund?

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Hamburg is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Alesund. There are a number of shopping streets around town including the shopping areas in Aspøya, which are known for their homemade souvenirs.

Is Hamburg or Alesund Better for Families?

Hamburg
Alesund

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

Hamburg is 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.

Alesund is a family-friendly port city. There's an aquarium and several great parks including Tueneset Naturlekeplass, which is near the aquarium. There's also hiking in the area and other outdoor adventures.

Is Hamburg or Alesund Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Alesund

Both Hamburg and Alesund are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Hamburg is a good port 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.

Alesund is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful setting with spectacular views and fun restaurants. There are many great hikes in the area, and many visitors like to use this town as a base for exploring nearby places.


Is Hamburg or Alesund Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg is a popular place for backpackers. However, Alesund is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Alesund is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a limited number of hostels in town so apartments may be the best option for backpackers. It's also hard to get around the region without a car.

Is Hamburg or Alesund Better for Students?

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg and Alesund are notable places to visit for students.

Hamburg is popular with students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

It's common for students to visit Alesund. There's a small student population, which means that the group stays close and everyone is very welcoming. The town also makes a great base for exploring this part of Norway.

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

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Hamburg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Alesund has some public transit options. There is a public bus system around town.


Is Hamburg or Alesund a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Alesund

Hamburg is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Alesund is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Alesund is a somewhat walkable place. The city center can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alesund or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Alesund?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hamburg than Alesund 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 Hamburg or Alesund? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hamburg 1-3 
    Alesund 2-3

One day in Hamburg or Alesund?

In Hamburg, you'll find shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Alesund, 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.

A weekend in Hamburg or Alesund?

In Hamburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer.

In Alesund, 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 Alesund has to offer.


Five days in Hamburg or Alesund?

Hamburg 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.

Alesund 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.

A week in Hamburg or Alesund?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Hamburg. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alesund. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alesund. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, The Best Tours for Seniors to Norway, and The Best Contiki Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Alesund or Hamburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Hamburg is €117, while the average daily cost in Alesund is €93. 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 Hamburg and Alesund in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Alesund 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Alesund 98
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Alesund

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Alesund? 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 Hamburg


Hotels in Alesund


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: Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Alesund 24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

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


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    1.70

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alesund

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Alesund:

  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund (AES) Airport to City centre: $135
  • Aalesund Private Transfer from Aalesund city centre to Aalesund airport: $135
  • Alesund to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES)-Departure Private Transfer: $59
  • Private Transfer To and From Airport in Ålesund: $71
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Airport (AES) to Geiranger Port: $185
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Alesund Cruise Port: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Andalsnes Port: $87
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Molde Cruise Port: $58
  • Private Transfer from Alesund City Hotels to Olden Cruise Port: $60
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Cruise Port to Alesund City Hotels: $36
  • Private Transfer from Alesund Port to Alesund Vigra Airport (AES): $36

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Alesund?

Prices for flights to both Alesund and Hamburg 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
    Hamburg 35
    Alesund 28
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
    15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    4.00

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.
    Hamburg 39
    Alesund 15
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
    3.50

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

Tours and Activities in Alesund

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

  • Ålesund Two Hour Walking City Tour: $42
  • 1-Day Hop-on Hop-off Audio-Guided Tour in Alesund : $42
  • City Sightseeing Alesund Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $45
  • Varden Molde Panorama Hike Tour: $46
  • Hellesylt Sightseeing Boat Geirangerfjord: $55
  • Molde and Atlantic Ocean Road Audio Tour: $64
  • Ålesund Sightseeing and Viking Saga Islands: $102
  • 3 Hour Guided Food Walk Tour in Alesund, Norway: $111
  • Fjord Paddle in Hellesylt - Half Day Kayaking Tour: $121
  • Alesund Shore Excursion: The Ultimate Sightseeing Tour: $125
  • Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen - Land of Trolls: $140
  • E-bike And Hiking Tour In Ålesund: $140

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Alesund 11

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 Hamburg and Alesund, we can see that Hamburg is more expensive. And not only is Alesund much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alesund would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alesund 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 Hamburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hamburg than you might in Alesund.

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


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Alesund?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Alesund. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Alesund, 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 Hamburg or Alesund?

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 Hamburg or Alesund in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Alesund. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Alesund because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hamburg is a little warmer than Alesund. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hamburg in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Alesund averages at about 12°C (54°F).

In July, Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Alesund. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Alesund 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Alesund in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Alesund. The autumn months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Alesund this time of year.

In October, Hamburg is generally a little warmer than Alesund. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 10°C (50°F), and Alesund fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite rainy in Alesund. Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Alesund. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 188 mm (7.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Alesund 9°C (48°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Alesund in the Winter?

Both Alesund and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Alesund for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Alesund. It's quite cold in Hamburg in the winter. Hamburg is much colder than Alesund in the winter. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Alesund fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Alesund. In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Alesund. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Alesund 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Alesund in the Spring?

Both Alesund and Hamburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Alesund in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Alesund can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Hamburg is much warmer than Alesund. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hamburg in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Alesund averages at about 5°C (40°F).

Hamburg usually gets less rain in April than Alesund. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Alesund receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Alesund 5°C (40°F)

Typical Weather for Alesund and Hamburg

Hamburg Alesund
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 131 mm (5.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 112 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 188 mm (7.4 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 187 mm (7.4 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (38°F) 167 mm (6.6 in)