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

Should you visit Hamburg or Chartres?

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 Chartres 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Chartres

Chartres is a spectacular, historic, and grand town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Hamburg and Chartres: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Chartres?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hamburg. Although Hamburg and Chartres are both popular with visitors, Hamburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hamburg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is known for its small town charm. Hamburg is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also home to St. Michael's Church. Chartres is popular for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Hamburg different from Chartres?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg is great for its historical sights. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Chartres. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.


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

Hamburg
Chartres

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at good restaurants in both Hamburg and Chartres.

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 Chartres. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Hamburg or Chartres Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg is great for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Hamburg for the nightlife scene. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hamburg or Chartres Better for Music?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Chartres?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hamburg is well-known for its shopping. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hamburg or Chartres Better for Families?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Hamburg or Chartres Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Chartres

Both Hamburg and Chartres are good 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.

Chartres is a nice destination for couples. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.


Is Hamburg or Chartres Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg and Chartres are good 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 Chartres. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

Is Hamburg or Chartres Better for Students?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Chartres is not popular with students.

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

Hamburg
Chartres

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

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

Public transit in Chartres is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.


Is Hamburg or Chartres a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Chartres

Hamburg and Chartres both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Chartres is very walkable. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chartres or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Chartres?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hamburg or Chartres to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hamburg than Chartres because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hamburg, and 1-2 days is enough time in Chartres.

Families should spend more time in Hamburg than Chartres. 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 Chartres. 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 Chartres 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 Chartres? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hamburg 1-3 
    Chartres 1-2

One day in Hamburg or Chartres?

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.

In Chartres, you'll find food and museums. 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 Chartres?

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.

In Chartres, you'll find museums and food. 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 Chartres has to offer.


Five days in Hamburg or Chartres?

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.

Chartres 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 Chartres?

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 Chartres. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Chartres. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Chartres 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 Chartres is €117. 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 Chartres in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Chartres 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Chartres 118
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Chartres

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Chartres? 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 Chartres


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 Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Chartres 26
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:

  • Hamburg Airport(HAM): Transfer to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $645
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $585
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM): Transfer to Fredericia Cruise Port: $585
  • Private One-Way Transfer to or from Kiel Port: $422
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Berlin, English Speaking Driver: $300
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Wolfsburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $271
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers : $267
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $262
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $235
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $234
  • Private Transfer From Hamburg To Bremen With a 2 Hour Stop: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Chartres?

Prices for flights to both Chartres 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
    Chartres 39
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
    Chartres 22
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:

  • Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
  • Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
  • "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $69
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $181
  • "Highlights of Hamburg" Biketour: $39
  • 1 Hour Kiez Speed Tour for Adults: $19
  • 1-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Hamburg Line D: $20
  • 10 secrets of Hamburg's old town - exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg E-Scooter Tour: $71
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Night Tour: $93
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Tour: $75
  • 2 Hours Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Chartres

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Chartres.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Chartres 12

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 comparing the travel costs between Hamburg and Chartres, we can see that Chartres 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 Chartres Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Chartres?

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

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 Chartres in the Summer?

Both Chartres and Hamburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Chartres because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hamburg is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Chartres, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hamburg. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 239 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Chartres. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Chartres 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Chartres in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Chartres. The autumn months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Chartres this time of year.

Hamburg is cooler than Chartres in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Chartres fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Chartres during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 126 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Chartres. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Chartres 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Chartres in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Chartres. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Chartres for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chartres. It's quite cold in Hamburg in the winter. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Chartres. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Chartres averages at about 5°C (40°F).

In the winter, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Chartres. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chartres receives 56 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in January than Chartres. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Chartres 5°C (40°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Chartres in the Spring?

Both Chartres and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Chartres in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Hamburg is generally cooler than Chartres. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Chartres fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Chartres during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Chartres receives 173 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Chartres. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Chartres receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Chartres 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Chartres and Hamburg

Hamburg Chartres
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in)