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

Should you visit Hamburg or Genoa?

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

Hamburg

Hamburg is a historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hamburg than Genoa. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hamburg is very popular for its nightlife, music, and shopping, while Genoa attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and historical sights. Hamburg is famous for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also well known for St. Michael's Church. Genoa is famous for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Hamburg different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Genoa can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

Genoa is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Genoa is an experience not to be missed. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Hamburg. 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).

Is Hamburg or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Hamburg or Genoa Better for Music?

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

Hamburg has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Genoa is not a live music destination.

Is Hamburg or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beach. However, Hamburg is not a beach destination.

The beach in Genoa is worth checking out. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Is Hamburg or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Genoa is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Genoa offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Genoa?

Hamburg is great for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Hamburg or Genoa Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Hamburg or Genoa.

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.

Genoa is a very family-friendly destination. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

Is Hamburg or Genoa Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Genoa is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

Genoa is well known for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Genoa is very popular with students. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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 Genoa Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

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

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

Public transit in Genoa is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Is Hamburg or Genoa a more walkable city?

Hamburg and Genoa both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Hamburg or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Genoa 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 Genoa.

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

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Genoa?

In Hamburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cultural destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, 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 Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Genoa?

Hamburg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hamburg. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. 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 Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Genoa?

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

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 Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa and Hamburg during the summer are popular places to visit. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Genoa for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

Hamburg is cooler than Genoa in the summer. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Genoa fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

In Genoa, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hamburg. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 295 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Genoa. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hamburg is much colder than Genoa. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hamburg in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Genoa averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 183 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Genoa. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hamburg or Genoa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Genoa. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hamburg is generally much colder than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 0°C (33°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the winter, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Genoa. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Genoa receives 127 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in January than Genoa. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Hamburg is much colder than Genoa in the spring. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Genoa fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Genoa during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Genoa receives 198 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Genoa. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Hamburg