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

Should you visit Hamburg or Budapest?

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

Hamburg

Hamburg is a historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Hamburg and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Budapest?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Budapest. Although Hamburg and Budapest are both popular with visitors, Budapest has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Budapest is more popular for its historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hamburg is known for its food and music. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Budapest is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Hamburg different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Budapest can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

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

Hamburg is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Hamburg or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Budapest for the nightlife scene. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Hamburg or Budapest Better for Music?

Hamburg is terrific for its live music scene. However, Budapest is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Hamburg. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Hamburg or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Budapest?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Budapest 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 Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Is Hamburg or Budapest Better for Families?

Hamburg is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hamburg is very family-friendly. 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.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Hamburg or Budapest Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Budapest frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

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 Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Budapest is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Hamburg or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is renowned for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

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

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

Budapest is renowned for its public transit. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Budapest has a great public transit system. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Public transit in Hamburg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Is Hamburg or Budapest a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Budapest on foot is easy. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Budapest?

In either Hamburg or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Hamburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hamburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Budapest?

The port city of Hamburg offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Budapest?

Hamburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Budapest?

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Hamburg or Budapest?

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hamburg and Budapest, we can see that Hamburg is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Budapest?

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

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 Hamburg or Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest and Hamburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

In July, Hamburg is generally cooler than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

In Budapest, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hamburg. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Budapest. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Budapest in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Budapest. 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 Budapest for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hamburg is cooler than Budapest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Budapest. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hamburg or Budapest in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Budapest. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Budapest in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Budapest can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Hamburg. In the winter, Hamburg is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Budapest averages at about -1°C (31°F).

In the winter, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in January than Budapest. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Budapest in the Spring?

Both Budapest and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Budapest for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Budapest. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Hamburg