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

Should you visit Hamburg or Houston?

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

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Houston

Houston is a one-of-a-kind, diverse, and sprawling city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Houston: 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 public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Houston?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Houston. Although Hamburg and Houston are about the same size, Houston has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Houston is more popular for its big city activities, while Hamburg is known for its music, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Houston and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Houston is popular for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. It is also home to The Space Center Houston.

How is Hamburg different from Houston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg
Houston

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

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 Houston can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.


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

Hamburg
Houston

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

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 Houston. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

Is Hamburg or Houston Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Houston

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

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 Houston for the nightlife scene. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Is Hamburg or Houston Better for Music?

Hamburg
Houston

Hamburg is a world-class destination for its live music scene. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone 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.

The music scene in Houston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.


Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Houston?

Hamburg
Houston

Hamburg is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Houston is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Hamburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Houston has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Is Hamburg or Houston Better for Families?

Hamburg
Houston

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Hamburg or Houston.

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.

Houston is a very family-friendly destination. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

Is Hamburg or Houston Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Houston

Both Hamburg and Houston 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.

Houston is a nice destination for couples. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.


Is Hamburg or Houston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Houston

Hamburg is a good destination for backpackers. However, Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Houston is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Hamburg or Houston Better for Students?

Hamburg
Houston

Hamburg and Houston are good 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 Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

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

Hamburg
Houston

Hamburg is well known for its public transit. However, Houston is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Hamburg can get you to some places easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.


Is Hamburg or Houston a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Houston

Hamburg is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Houston is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Houston is generally not a very walkable port city. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Houston or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Houston?

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Houston?

In Hamburg, you'll find shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

In Hamburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer.

Because Houston 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Houston has to offer.


Five days in Hamburg or Houston?

Hamburg 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.

Houston 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 Houston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Hamburg. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Houston. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Houston. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Houston or Hamburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hamburg is $125, while the average daily cost in Houston is $262. 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 Houston in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg $58
    Houston $142
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg $116
    Houston $284
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Houston

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Houston? 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 Houston


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 Houston Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg $31
    Houston $72
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    $1.82

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Hamburg hotels to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $118
  • Airport Transfer: Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg by Business Car: $82
  • Airport Transfer: Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg by Luxury Car: $134
  • Airport Transfer: Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg by Luxury Van: $92
  • Airport Transfer: Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM by Business Car: $82
  • Airport Transfer: Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM by Luxury Van: $92
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $42
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $77
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $92
  • Arrival Transfer: Airport HAM to Hamburg by Business Car: $82
  • Arrival Transfer: Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg by Luxury Van: $98
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $92

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston - Arrival Private Transfer: $168
  • Arrival Private Transfer: George Bush Airport IAH to Houston in Business Car: $108
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Business Car: $106
  • Departure Private Transfer: Houston to George Bush Airport IAH in Luxury SUV: $109
  • George Bush Airport (IAH) to Galveston Port - Arrival Transfer: $194
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Houston George Bush Airport (IAH): Transfer to Houston: $349
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Arrival Private Transfer: $81
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $162
  • Houston to Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $81
  • Round-Trip Shuttle Transfer to NASA Space Center: $54
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $168

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Houston?

Prices for flights to both Houston 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 $37
    Houston $35
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
    $16
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    $5.36
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    $6.43
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    $16
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    $4.29
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    $6.43
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    $3.75
  • Coffee and Donut
    $4.29

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
  • 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: $484
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $592
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $592

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

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

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston with Tunnel Access: $70
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $76
  • Houston Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $85
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $87
  • Howdy H-Town EADO Food Tour: $90
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Montrose Food Tour: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg $42
    Houston $14
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
    $3.75

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

Here are a few actual costs in Hamburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • The Historic Treasure: 'Speicherstadt' "FREE TOURS'" Hamburg: $2.58
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Speicherstadt and HafenCity": $3.22
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.22
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.23
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.23
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.23
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.23
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.23
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.23
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.23
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.28
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.31

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sights of Downtown Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.31
  • Houston Museum of Natural Sciences: Planetarium Ticket: $9.00
  • Downtown In App Audio Walking Tour: $9.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Wacky Walks: $10
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Houston by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern History Tour: $12
  • Sightseeing Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $14
  • Austin & Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Children's Museum Houston Entry Ticket: $17
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Houston with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Family Guy Experience - Houston: $25
  • Museum of Natural Science General Admission Ticket: $25

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg $19
    Houston $13

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: $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: $404
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $404
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $517

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70
  • Downtown Houston Brewery Bike Tour : $71


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hamburg and Houston, we can see that Houston is more expensive. And not only is Hamburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hamburg is in Europe and Houston is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Houston?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Hamburg. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Houston, 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 Houston?

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 Houston in the Summer?

Both Houston and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hamburg is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Houston fluctuates around 84°F (29°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Houston. In July, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Houston. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Houston 84°F (29°C)

Should I visit Hamburg or Houston in the Autumn?

Both Houston and Hamburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Houston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Hamburg is much colder than Houston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Houston fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

Houston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Houston. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Houston receives 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Houston 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Hamburg or Houston in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Houston. The winter months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Houston this time of year.

The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Houston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Houston averages at about 52°F (11°C).

In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Houston. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Houston 52°F (11°C)

Should I visit Hamburg or Houston in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Houston. The natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Houston for the activities around the city.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than Houston. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Houston fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

Hamburg usually gets less rain in April than Houston. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Houston receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Houston 70°F (21°C)

Typical Weather for Houston and Hamburg

Hamburg Houston
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)