A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Hamburg vs. Bremen for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Hamburg or Bremen?

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 Bremen can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Bremen

Bremen is a colorful, lively, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Bremen: 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
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Bremen?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hamburg than Bremen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hamburg is very popular for its music, while Bremen attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Bremen 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. Bremen is famous for its beautiful historic center and its role as a cultural hub in Germany.

How is Hamburg different from Bremen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg
Bremen

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hamburg or Bremen.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bremen can be an interesting and educational experience. Many of the city's landmarks are located around the famous Marktplatz. You can tour the Bremen Town Hall or wander around the Medieval Schnoor Quarter. Also make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Peter.


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

Hamburg
Bremen

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Hamburg and Bremen.

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 Bremen. The food is hearty and filling with many meat heavy dishes. Vegetarians may struggle to find local options. Traditional regional dishes include Kohl und Pinkel (kale and sausage), Labskaus (meat and stew), and fried smelt.

Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Bremen

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Hamburg and Bremen.

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.

Many people head to Bremen for the nightlife scene. There's a variety of evening activities including cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and fine dining restaurants. Head to the Viertel District for some of the most lively clubs.

Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for Music?

Hamburg
Bremen

Hamburg is an amazing port city to visit for its music scene. However, Bremen 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.

Bremen is not a live music destination.


Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for its Old Town?

Hamburg
Bremen

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

The old town of Bremen is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is beautiful with its charming streets and beautiful buildings. There's a main market square which is filled with many landmarks and tourist sights.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Bremen?

Hamburg
Bremen

Shopping is a popular activity in both Bremen and Hamburg.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Bremen. The city offers a mix of historic shopping areas and large shopping malls. Some of the biggest shopping malls include Karstadt Bremen, Lloyd Passage, and Weserpark.

Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for Families?

Hamburg
Bremen

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Hamburg or Bremen.

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.

Bremen is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will appreciate a Sunday visit to the Bremen Town Musicians play which performs popular fairy tales. If the season isn't right, there are many other kid-friendly activities around town including Bürgerpark, the puppet theater, or visiting the beach at Café Sand. Popular museums in town for kids include Universum and Bremer Geschichtenhaus.


Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Bremen

Both Hamburg and Bremen are nice 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.

Bremen is a nice destination for couples. From its beautiful old town to its many great restaurants and shopping streets, couples will enjoy a romantic trip away in this beautiful city.

Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Bremen

Hamburg and Bremen are nice 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 Bremen. Backpackers love the old town and lively atmosphere. There are enough tourists around that you'll find a decent social scene and the atmosphere makes for a great visit.

Is Hamburg or Bremen Better for Students?

Hamburg
Bremen

Hamburg is very good for students. However, Bremen 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.

Bremen is not popular with students.


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

Hamburg
Bremen

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hamburg and Bremen.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Hamburg. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Public transit in Bremen is fairly effecient and thorough. The city has both trams and buses that offer easy accessibility to most of the tourist areas.

Is Hamburg or Bremen a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Bremen

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

Getting around Bremen on foot is easy. It's one of the most walkable cities in Europe.

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 Bremen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bremen or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Bremen?

It's fun to spend time in either Hamburg or Bremen. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bremen due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hamburg, and 2-4 days is enough time in Bremen.

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

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


  • How many days in Hamburg or Bremen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hamburg 1-3 
    Bremen 2-4

One day in Hamburg or Bremen?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Hamburg. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Bremen, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Hamburg or Bremen?

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Bremen, 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 Bremen has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Bremen?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Bremen 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 Bremen?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the vibrant destination of Hamburg. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bremen. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bremen. 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, Bremen 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 Bremen is €147. 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 Bremen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Bremen 76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Bremen 152
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Bremen

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Bremen? 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 Bremen


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 Bremen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Bremen 45
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): $39
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport(HAM) to Hamburg Cruise Port: $39
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $42
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM Departure : $42
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City Hotels to Hamburg Cruise Port: $52
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Bremerhaven Port: $66
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Hotels to Bremerhaven Cruise Port: $66
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Hamburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $77
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $77
  • Hamburg Airport Transfers : Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg in Business Car: $77
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport(HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Port: $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bremen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bremen:

  • Private Transfer From Bremen City to Hanover City: $95
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg With a 2 Hour Stop: $236
  • Private Transfer From Bremen to Hamburg, English Speaking Driver: $177
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Cruise Port to Hamburg Hotels: $66
  • Private Transfer from Bremerhaven Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM): $66

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Bremen?

Prices for flights to both Bremen 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
    Bremen 36
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: $49
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $118
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $187
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $489
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $597
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $597

Typical Food Prices in Bremen

Some typical examples of dining costs in Bremen are as follows:


  • Croissant & Cappacino
    3.90
  • Fish and Chips
    3.20
  • Pizza and Cola
    7.00
  • Chinese Food Lunch
    8.00
  • Vietnamese Soup
    5.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee
    8.00
  • Pastry and Coffee
    4.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Bremen 34
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": $3.25
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.25
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.26
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.26
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.26
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.26
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.29
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.34
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in St. Pauli: $4.67

Tours and Activities in Bremen

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

  • Exploration Game & City Tour on your Phone: $6.46
  • Bremen City Exploration Private Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.60
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $7.55
  • Scavenger Hunt and City Centre Walking Tour: $8.58
  • Public Tour of the Town Hall in English: $9.77
  • Guided Historical Walking Tour in Bremen : $11
  • Guided Walking Tour of Böttcherstraße: $13
  • Night Watchman Guided Tour for Children (in German): $13
  • Guided Tour of City Center: $13
  • Übersee Museum Entrance Ticket: $15
  • Walking Tour of Historic Schnoor District: $16
  • Walking Tour in German with Night Guard: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Bremen 34

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: $22
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $35
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $52
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $407
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $407
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $521

Sample the Local Flavors in Bremen

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

  • 3-Hour Beck's Brewery Tour: $23


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


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Bremen?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bremen. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Bremen, 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 Bremen?

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 Bremen in the Summer?

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

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

In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives more sunshine than Bremen during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Bremen. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Hamburg or Bremen in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Bremen. The shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Bremen for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hamburg is around the same temperature as Bremen. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hamburg in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Bremen averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 100 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in October than Bremen. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Bremen 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Bremen in the Winter?

Both Bremen and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Bremen in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bremen can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hamburg. In January, Hamburg is generally much colder than Bremen. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 0°C (33°F), and Bremen fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Bremen receives 41 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Bremen. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Bremen 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Bremen in the Spring?

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

Hamburg is around the same temperature as Bremen in the spring. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Bremen fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Bremen. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bremen receives 153 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Bremen. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Bremen receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Bremen 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Bremen and Hamburg

Hamburg Bremen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 1°C (33°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 1°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (40°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)