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

Should you visit Hamburg or Seattle?

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

Hamburg

Hamburg is a energetic, cultural, and vibrant port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Seattle

Seattle is a outdoorsy, laid-back, and bustling city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and hiking.

Hamburg and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hamburg or Seattle?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seattle than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seattle is very popular for its theatre productions, food, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Hamburg attracts visitors for its music and shopping. Hamburg is famous for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Seattle is famous for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also well known for The Space Needle.

How is Hamburg different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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 Seattle can be an interesting and educational experience. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is very good for its shows and theatre. However, Hamburg is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Hamburg is not a theatre destination.

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

Seattle is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Seattle is an experience not to be missed. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

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 Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Music?

Hamburg is renowned for its music scene. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for live music.

In Hamburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Seattle has diverse options. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is very good for the beach. However, Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Seattle to enjoy the beach. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Seattle?

Hamburg is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Families?

Hamburg is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Seattle is a family-friendly port city. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Hamburg and Seattle are nice 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.

Seattle is a nice destination for couples. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg and Seattle are nice 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 Seattle. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Hamburg or Seattle Better for Students?

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

Seattle is very popular with students. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Hamburg is notable for its public transit. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Hamburg offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Seattle has some public transit options. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Hamburg or Seattle a more walkable city?

Hamburg and Seattle both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Seattle is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Seattle?

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

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

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

One day in Hamburg or Seattle?

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

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 Seattle 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. 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 Seattle has to offer.

Five days in Hamburg or Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Seattle. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Seattle?

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

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 Seattle in the Summer?

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

Hamburg is cooler than Seattle in the summer. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Seattle fluctuates around 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hamburg usually receives more rain than Seattle. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hamburg or Seattle in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Hamburg is cooler than Seattle. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hamburg in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Seattle averages at about 54°F (12°C).

In the autumn, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in October than Seattle. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hamburg or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle 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 Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hamburg is generally much colder than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 0°C (33°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

Hamburg usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during winter. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Seattle. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hamburg or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle 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 Seattle because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Hamburg is cooler than Seattle in the spring. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Seattle fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Hamburg often gets less sunshine than Seattle. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Hamburg