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

Should you visit Hamburg or Portland?

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

Hamburg

Hamburg is a cultural, vibrant, and historic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Portland

Portland is a laid-back, progressive, and quirky city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Hamburg and Portland: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Portland?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hamburg than Portland. Hamburg is bigger than Portland, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hamburg is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Portland is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Hamburg is well known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Also, Hamburg is famous for St. Michael's Church. Portland is well known for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty.

How is Hamburg different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

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

Hamburg is a port city with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Hamburg or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg is a very popular place for nightlife. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Hamburg has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Portland has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Hamburg or Portland Better for Music?

Hamburg is very popular for live music. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Hamburg is known as a music capital 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.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Portland. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Is Hamburg or Portland Better for Hiking?

Portland is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Portland. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Portland?

Hamburg is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Portland offers some nice shopping areas. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Is Hamburg or Portland Better for Families?

Hamburg is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Hamburg is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Hamburg or Portland Better for Couples?

Both Hamburg and Portland 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.

Portland is a nice destination for couples. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Hamburg or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Portland is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

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 Portland Better for Students?

Hamburg and Portland 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 Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

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

Hamburg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Visitors to Hamburg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

You'll find some public transit in Portland, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

Is Hamburg or Portland a more walkable city?

Hamburg and Portland both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Portland?

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Portland?

The port city of Hamburg offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Portland, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Portland?

Hamburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Portland, you'll find nightlife and live music. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Portland has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Portland?

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Portland?

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Portland. Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting Portland. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Portland?

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

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Portland in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hamburg is cooler than Portland. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hamburg in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Portland averages at about 68°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hamburg this time of the year. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Portland. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Portland. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Portland in the Autumn?

Both Portland and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Portland for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Hamburg is generally cooler than Portland. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 10°C (50°F), and Portland fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Portland during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of rain as Portland. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hamburg or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Hamburg during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Portland because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Portland can be very cold. Hamburg can be very cold during winter. Hamburg is much colder than Portland in the winter. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 0°C (33°F) in January, and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Portland. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun.

Portland gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hamburg usually gets less rain in January than Portland. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Portland in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Portland. The spring months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Portland this time of year.

In the spring, Hamburg is cooler than Portland. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hamburg in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Portland averages at about 51°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Portland during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Portland. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Portland and Hamburg