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

Should you visit Hamburg or Lille?

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

Hamburg

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

Lille

Lille is a fascinating, cultural, and culinary city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Hamburg and Lille: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Lille?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hamburg than Lille, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hamburg is more popular for its museums and music, while Lille is known for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Lille and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also home to St. Michael's Church. Lille is popular for its beautiful architecture, excellent shopping, and world class food scene.

How is Hamburg different from Lille?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg is notable for its sights and museums. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hamburg can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

While most people don't head to Lille specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The city offers an amazing atmosphere, with many of the most beautiful buildings near Place du Général de Gaulle (the main square). Top rated attractions in town include Palais des Beaux-Arts, Musée du Louvre-Lens, and Eglise Saint-Maurice.

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

Lille is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Lille has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a cuisine all its own. There are many local dishes that are recommended with some of the most popular being les moules (mussels), the Welsh (a beer and cheddar cheese dish), and la carbonade flamande (beef stew). Most dishes are served with a hearty side of fries. The mussels are a favorite and are served with various toppings including local cheese. You can expect your very own pot of mussels with each order. Many of the restaurants around the main square (General de Gaulle Square) offer these local specialties. Outside the old town you'll also find plenty of international restaurants including Asian street food.

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 Lille Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Lille for the nightlife scene. With its young population and countless places to hang out, there's rarely a dull night around town. The most popular nightlife areas are Rue Masséna and Rue Solférino. The city also offers plenty of theaters and shows that you can enjoy.

Is Hamburg or Lille Better for Music?

Hamburg is very popular for its live music scene. However, Lille is not a live music destination.

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.

Lille is not a live music destination.

Is Hamburg or Lille Better for its Old Town?

Lille 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 Lille. The old town (Le Vieux Lille) is charming to explore. Many of the buildings are from the 16th or 17th centuries and feature very ornate architecture. The area is filled with shops and restaurants and it stays active throughout the day. This is an area where locals and tourists alike live and play.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Lille?

Lille is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Lille is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is filled with shopping opportunities. Almost any store you could want is in or around the old town and the two main shopping centers in town are McArthur Glen and A l'Usine. Also by the train station is a shopping mall.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Is Hamburg or Lille Better for Families?

Hamburg is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Lille is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Hamburg is a very kid-friendly port city. 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.

Lille is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a handful of kid-focused activities like a small zoo, a small amusement park, several museums and even a puppet theater. Many of the restaurants also have kid's menus that are reasonably priced.

Is Hamburg or Lille Better for Couples?

Both Hamburg and Lille 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.

Lille is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy shopping, dining out, and exploring beautiful cities will enjoy a visit. There are many great restaurants worth experiencing, as well as beautiful architecture and fun shops.

Is Hamburg or Lille Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg and Lille 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 Lille. This small city flies under the radar for most backpackers, but there are a handful of hostels and a great experience for those who venture here. It feels more off the beaten path than some French cities, but you'll find great food and a nice atmosphere.

Is Hamburg or Lille Better for Students?

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

Lille is very popular with students. The city is home to a number of students, both local and international. It has a lower cost of living than many places in France as well as a youthful vibe with fun activities and plenty of shopping.

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 Lille 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 Lille.

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

Public transit in Lille is fairly effecient and thorough. There is a metro as well as trams and buses throughout the city.

Is Hamburg or Lille a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Lille on foot is easy. The old town in particular is compact and best explored on foot, but even outside of the old town, many areas are easily explored on foot.

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 Lille Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lille or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Lille?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hamburg and Lille. In our opinion, Lille has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Lille than Hamburg. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Lille?

In Hamburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this vibrant 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 Lille, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 Lille?

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 Lille, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 Lille has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Lille?

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.

Lille is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Lille?

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 Lille. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Lille. 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 Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Lille?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Lille. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Lille, 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 Lille?

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 Lille in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Lille. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lille for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hamburg is generally around the same temperature as Lille. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Lille fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lille this time of the year. In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Lille during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Lille. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hamburg or Lille in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Lille. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Lille in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Hamburg is cooler than Lille in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Lille fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 105 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Lille. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Lille receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Lille in the Winter?

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

Lille can be very cold during winter. Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Lille. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Lille averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Lille during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Lille receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Lille. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lille receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hamburg or Lille in the Spring?

Both Lille and Hamburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lille because of the natural beauty.

In April, Hamburg is generally cooler than Lille. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Lille fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Lille. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lille receives 158 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in April than Lille. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lille receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lille and Hamburg