A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Hamburg vs. Bamberg for Couples, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hamburg or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg 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 museums, nightlife, and live music.

Bamberg

Bamberg is a scenic, storybook, and historic town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Hamburg and Bamberg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Bamberg?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hamburg than Bamberg. Hamburg is bigger than Bamberg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hamburg is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Bamberg is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Hamburg is well known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Also, Hamburg is famous for St. Michael's Church. Bamberg is well known for its medieval old town and its many beautiful bridges and buildings.

How is Hamburg different from Bamberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bamberg 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 Bamberg?

Hamburg
Bamberg

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

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.

Bamberg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. At the heart of Bamberg is the old town, which is what attracts international tourists from around the world. Make sure you see the Cathedral & Diocesan Museum and the Historical Museum. There's also a brewery museum that is fascinating to wander through.


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

Hamburg
Bamberg

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Hamburg and Bamberg.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Hamburg area. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bamberg. There are a number of charming and traditional restaurants in the old town. They have a cozy atmosphere and a small and quaint feel. Many of the local dishes include pork and potatoes and they're often flavored with local beer. Make sure you try the Schäuferla (roasted pork shoulder), Hörnla (a local pastry available at bakeries), and Zwiebeln (stuffed onions).

Is Hamburg or Bamberg Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Bamberg

Hamburg is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Bamberg is not a good town 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Bamberg. While the town isn't known for its nightlife, there are some relaxing bars and pubs around town.

Is Hamburg or Bamberg Better for Music?

Hamburg
Bamberg

Hamburg is an amazing port city to visit for live music. However, Bamberg 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.

Bamberg is not a live music destination.


Is Hamburg or Bamberg Better for its Old Town?

Hamburg
Bamberg

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

The old town of Bamberg is one of the most recognized in the world. With its cobblestone streets, impressive architecture, and beautiful riverside setting, the town's old town is a favorite for many travelers. The buildings have ornate and detailed designs and the bridges are beautiful.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Bamberg?

Hamburg
Bamberg

Hamburg is a well-known place for shopping. Also, Bamberg is not as famous, but is still a good town 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 Bamberg. Head to the Gardeners' District, where you'll find vendors selling local produce, crafts, and other items. In the old town there are charming German shops that sell Christmas items or other local handicrafts.

Is Hamburg or Bamberg Better for Families?

Hamburg
Bamberg

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

Bamberg is a family-friendly port city. The history comes to life with reenactments and historical museums. There are also water activities, playgrounds, and many places where kids can run around and stretch their legs.


Is Hamburg or Bamberg Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Bamberg

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

For those traveling as a couple, Bamberg has plenty to offer. Filled with scenic bridges, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture, this is a top destination for a couples getaway. You can enjoy gondola rides and fine dining on a romantic weekend away.

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 Hamburg or Bamberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Bamberg

Hamburg and Bamberg are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hamburg is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bamberg. There are hostels and a great tourist scene that makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Is Hamburg or Bamberg Better for Students?

Hamburg
Bamberg

Hamburg is a nice place to visit for students. However, Bamberg 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.

Bamberg is not popular with students.


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

Hamburg
Bamberg

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Hamburg. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Bamberg has some public transit options. There are 28 buses that leave from the Central Bus Station and travel through the region.

Is Hamburg or Bamberg a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Bamberg

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

Getting around Bamberg on foot is easy. The old town is compact enough to easily explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bamberg or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Bamberg?

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

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg, you'll find museums and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Hamburg or Bamberg?

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 Bamberg, 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 Bamberg has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Bamberg?

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.

Bamberg is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Bamberg. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Bamberg 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 Bamberg is €127. 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 Bamberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Bamberg 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Bamberg 150
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Bamberg

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Bamberg? 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 Bamberg


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 and Bamberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Bamberg 14
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 City Hotels to Hamburg Cruise Port: $51
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg City Hotels: $51
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Hotels to Bremerhaven Cruise Port: $65
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Bremerhaven Port: $65
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Hamburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $67
  • Hamburg Airport Transfers : Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg in Business Car: $76
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $76
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Bamberg?

Prices for flights to both Bamberg 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
    Bamberg 41
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 George's Culinary Food Tour: $48
  • Sternschanze kulinarisch: Die Food Tour: $48
  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $116
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $184
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $479
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $586
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $586

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Bamberg 17
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": $3.19
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.19
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.20
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.20
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.20
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.20
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.20
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.25
  • Free tour Free Tour of the Port and Red Light District Hamburg: $3.25
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.26

Tours and Activities in Bamberg

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

  • Historical Museum Entry Ticket: $8.52
  • Bayreuth Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • City Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Guided tour - World Heritage Fascination: $14
  • Guided Walking Tour: $14
  • Altenburg Burg Tour: $14
  • Guided Beer History Tour with Optional Tasting: $16
  • Guided Tour of the Gardeners' District: $17
  • 1-Hour Theatrical Humor Tour with Costumed Guide: $19
  • Immersive Medieval Tour: $19
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $21
  • Food and Beer Guided Walking Tour: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Bamberg 19

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
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $400
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $400
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $511

Sample the Local Flavors in Bamberg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Bamberg:

  • Historical City Tour in German with Brewery Visit: $17
  • Beer & Brewery Tour - 2 Hour: $37


When comparing the travel costs between Hamburg and Bamberg, we can see that Bamberg 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Bamberg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Bamberg. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Bamberg, 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 Bamberg?

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 Bamberg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Bamberg. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Bamberg for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hamburg is cooler than Bamberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hamburg in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Bamberg averages at about 19°C (67°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bamberg this time of the year. In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 217 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Bamberg 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Bamberg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Bamberg. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Bamberg in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hamburg is generally around the same temperature as Bamberg. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 10°C (50°F), and Bamberg fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 107 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in October than Bamberg. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Bamberg 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Bamberg in the Winter?

Both Bamberg and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Bamberg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Bamberg can be very cold during winter. Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. Hamburg is cooler than Bamberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Bamberg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Bamberg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Bamberg. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Bamberg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Bamberg in the Spring?

Both Bamberg and Hamburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Bamberg because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hamburg is cooler than Bamberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hamburg in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Bamberg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bamberg. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bamberg receives 156 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bamberg. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bamberg receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Bamberg 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Bamberg and Hamburg

Hamburg Bamberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 0°C (33°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (58°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (66°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)