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

Should you visit Hamburg or Galway?

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 Galway 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Galway

Galway is a lively, friendly, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Galway: 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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Galway?

Both Galway and Hamburg have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hamburg is better known for its museums, music, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Galway is more popular for its big city activities. Hamburg is more touristy than Galway and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Galway is well known for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Hamburg different from Galway?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hamburg. 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.

Galway offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.


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

Hamburg
Galway

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

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 Galway. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Hamburg or Galway Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Galway

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

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 Galway for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Hamburg or Galway Better for Music?

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg is an unbeatable place for live music. However, Galway 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.

Galway is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Galway?

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg is notable for shopping. Also, Galway 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 Galway. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Is Hamburg or Galway Better for Families?

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway 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.

Galway is a family-friendly port city. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Hamburg or Galway Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Galway

Both Hamburg and Galway 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.

Galway is a nice destination for couples. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.


Is Hamburg or Galway Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Galway

Galway is well known for backpackers. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Galway is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet 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 Galway Better for Students?

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg and Galway 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 Galway. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

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

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg is notable for its public transit. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Galway has some public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.


Is Hamburg or Galway a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Galway

Hamburg and Galway both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Galway is very walkable. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Galway or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Galway?

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

Families should spend more time in Hamburg than Galway. 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 Galway. 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.


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

One day in Hamburg or Galway?

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

In Galway, 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 Galway?

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 Galway, 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 Galway has to offer.


Five days in Hamburg or Galway?

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.

Galway 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 Galway?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the energetic 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 Galway. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Galway 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 Galway is €131. 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 Galway in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Galway 70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Galway 140
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Galway

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Galway? 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 Galway


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 Galway Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Galway 33
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 Galway

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Galway:

  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Cork City: $561
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Dublin Airport: $668
  • Galway Private Driver: Personalized Tours & Transfers: $749
  • Galway Private Transfer from Galway Airport to City centre: $90
  • Galway Private Transfer from central Galway to Galway Airport: $90
  • Galway to Limerick | Private Transfer and Car Service: $294
  • Galway to Shannon Airport | Private Transfer & Car Service: $294
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Killarney: $668
  • Shannon Airport to Seamless Private Transfers: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Galway?

Prices for flights to both Galway 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
    Galway 33
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

Typical Food Prices in Galway

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


  • Fish & Chips Dinner
    8.12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Galway

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Galway.

  • Tour & Taste Galway Food Tour: $93
  • Galway Food Tour: $107
  • Galway Food Tours: $109
  • Private Irish Cooking Experience in the Heart of Gaeltacht: $136
  • Farm to Table Experience and Irish Cooking Class in Galway: $190

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Galway 12
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 Galway

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

  • Cong The Quiet Man Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket: $8.17
  • Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour: $8.45
  • City Centre App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Galway's City Centre: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Welcome to Galway Walking Tour: $16
  • Burren Botany Experience: $16
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • The Legendary Walking Tour of Galway: $17
  • City Sightseeing Galway Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $17
  • Galway City: Guided 1.5-Hour Walking Tour: $21
  • Dark History Guided City Walking Tour: $21
  • Evening Guided Walking Tour: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Galway 15

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Galway

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Galway:

  • Traditional Irish Poitin & Gin Distillery Tour: $355


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


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Galway?

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

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 Galway in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Galway. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Galway in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hamburg is around the same temperature as Galway. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hamburg in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Galway averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives more sunshine than Galway during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 142 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Galway. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Galway 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Galway in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Galway. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Hamburg is generally cooler than Galway. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 10°C (50°F), and Galway fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Galway. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Galway receives 96 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Galway. Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Galway. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Galway receives 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Galway 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Galway in the Winter?

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

Hamburg can be very cold during winter. Hamburg is much colder than Galway in the winter. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Galway fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Galway during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Galway receives 59 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Galway. In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Galway. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Galway receives 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Galway 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Galway in the Spring?

Both Galway and Hamburg during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Galway this time of year.

In the spring, Hamburg is cooler than Galway. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hamburg in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Galway averages at about 9°C (48°F).

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

Hamburg usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Galway. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Galway receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Galway 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Galway and Hamburg

Hamburg Galway
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 116 mm (4.6 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 52 mm (2.1 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 16°C (60°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (44°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)