A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hamburg vs. San Diego for Music, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hamburg or San Diego?

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 San Diego can help you decide which place is right for you.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hamburg and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or San Diego?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Diego than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than San Diego, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Hamburg is known for its music and shopping. San Diego is more touristy than Hamburg and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also home to The San Diego Zoo. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

How is Hamburg different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 San Diego can be an interesting and educational experience. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

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

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 San Diego. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

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 San Diego for the nightlife scene. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Music?

Hamburg is renowned for its live music scene. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week 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.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Resorts?

San Diego is very good for its resorts. However, Hamburg is not a resort destination.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Hamburg is not a resort destination.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Hamburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Hamburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Beaches?

San Diego is renowned for the beach. However, Hamburg is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, San Diego is a very popular vacation destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or San Diego?

Hamburg is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Hamburg is well-known for its shopping. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Diego is one of the most popular family destinations. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

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.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Couples?

San Diego is renowned for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, San Diego has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

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 San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg and San Diego 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 San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Hamburg or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego 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 San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

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

Hamburg is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Hamburg can get you around easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Hamburg or San Diego a more walkable city?

Hamburg is great for its high level of walkability. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its ease of walking around.

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

San Diego is a somewhat walkable port city. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or San Diego?

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

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

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

One day in Hamburg or San Diego?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Hamburg. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In San Diego, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal 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 San Diego?

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Hamburg. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In San Diego, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hamburg or San Diego?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant port city of Hamburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

San Diego is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Diego has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hamburg or San Diego?

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Diego. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Diego. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or San Diego?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 42% larger than the population of San Diego. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Hamburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

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

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hamburg. In the summer, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than San Diego. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and San Diego. 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 San Diego because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hamburg is much colder than San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hamburg usually receives more rain than San Diego. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hamburg or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as San Diego. 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 San Diego this time of year.

The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. In the winter, Hamburg is much colder than San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hamburg in January average around 0°C (33°F), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Hamburg is generally much colder than San Diego. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 8°C (46°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than San Diego during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives more rain than San Diego. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Hamburg