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

Should you visit Hamburg or Lyon?

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 Lyon 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.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Lyon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Lyon?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Lyon than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Lyon, Lyon has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Lyon is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hamburg is known for its music. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Lyon is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also home to The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Hamburg different from Lyon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lyon is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Lyon on the map. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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.

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

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

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Lyon for the nightlife scene. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Hamburg or Lyon Better for Music?

Hamburg is an amazing port city to visit for its live music scene. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a live music destination.

Is Hamburg or Lyon Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Lyon?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Lyon and Hamburg.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Is Hamburg or Lyon Better for Families?

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

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.

Lyon is a very family-friendly destination. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

Is Hamburg or Lyon Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lyon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Lyon is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

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 Lyon Better for Students?

Lyon is renowned for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

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

Lyon is renowned for its public transit. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Lyon has a great public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

Public transit in Hamburg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Is Hamburg or Lyon a more walkable city?

Hamburg and Lyon both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Lyon is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Lyon or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Lyon?

In either Hamburg or Lyon, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Lyon than Hamburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hamburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Lyon.

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

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Lyon?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Lyon?

Hamburg is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the live music. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Because Lyon 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Lyon?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Hamburg. This port city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Lyon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lyon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hamburg or Lyon?

The cultural port city of Hamburg offers shopping and museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lyon. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lyon. 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 Lyon, we can see that Lyon 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 Lyon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Lyon?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Lyon. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Lyon, 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 Lyon?

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 Lyon in the Summer?

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

In July, Hamburg is generally cooler than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 17°C (62°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 285 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Lyon. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hamburg or Lyon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Lyon. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Lyon in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hamburg is cooler than Lyon in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Lyon fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 127 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Hamburg or Lyon in the Winter?

Both Lyon 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 Lyon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can be very cold during winter. Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than Lyon. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Lyon averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Lyon during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Lyon receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Lyon. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hamburg or Lyon in the Spring?

Both Lyon and Hamburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Lyon because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than Lyon. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and Lyon fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

In the spring, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Lyon. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lyon receives 174 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in April than Lyon. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lyon receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Lyon and Hamburg