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

Should you visit Hamburg or Tromso?

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

Hamburg

Hamburg is a historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the nightlife, live music, and food.

Tromso

Tromso is a one-of-a-kind, spectacular, and remote town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, nightlife, and food.

Hamburg and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Northern Lights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Hamburg or Tromso?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hamburg than Tromso. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hamburg is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Tromso attracts visitors for its food, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is famous for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also well known for St. Michael's Church. Tromso is famous for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Hamburg different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg is a great port city for its historical sights. However, Tromso does not have 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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.


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

Hamburg
Tromso

Tromso 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 Tromso is an experience not to be missed. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

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 Tromso Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg is a great port city for its evening party scene. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife.

The nightlife in Hamburg has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Tromso. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Hamburg or Tromso Better for Music?

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Tromso is not a live music destination.

Hamburg has become a mecca for musicians from 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.

Tromso is not a live music destination.


Is Hamburg or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Hamburg
Tromso

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hamburg or Tromso?

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg is a great port city for its shopping areas. However, Tromso is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Hamburg or Tromso Better for Families?

Hamburg
Tromso

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Hamburg or Tromso.

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.

Tromso is a very family-friendly destination. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.


Is Hamburg or Tromso Better for Couples?

Hamburg
Tromso

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

Couples visit Tromso frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

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 Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg and Tromso 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 Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Hamburg or Tromso Better for Students?

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg and Tromso are nice 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 Tromso. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.


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

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg is a great port city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

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

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Hamburg or Tromso a more walkable city?

Hamburg
Tromso

Hamburg and Tromso both are superb when exploring on foot.

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

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Hamburg?

How long in Hamburg or Tromso?

Both Hamburg and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Hamburg. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hamburg, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hamburg than Tromso 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.


  • How many days in Hamburg or Tromso? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hamburg 1-3 
    Tromso 4-7

One day in Hamburg or Tromso?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Hamburg. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Tromso?

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. 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 Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Tromso is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tromso has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Hamburg or Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic destination of Hamburg. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tromso. Tromso is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.


Which place is cheaper, Tromso or Hamburg?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hamburg is €117, while the average daily cost in Tromso is €104. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hamburg and Tromso in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hamburg 54
    Tromso 52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hamburg 108
    Tromso 104
Compare Hotels in Hamburg and Tromso

Looking for a hotel in Hamburg or Tromso? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hamburg


Hotels in Tromso


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hamburg Hotel Prices and Tromso Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hamburg 29
    Tromso 27
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    1.70

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Hamburg Airport(HAM): Transfer to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $645
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $585
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM): Transfer to Fredericia Cruise Port: $585
  • Private One-Way Transfer to or from Kiel Port: $422
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Berlin, English Speaking Driver: $300
  • Private Direct Transfer From Hamburg to Wolfsburg; English Speaking Driver: $289
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $271
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers : $267
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $262
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $235
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $234
  • Private Transfer From Hamburg To Bremen With a 2 Hour Stop: $233

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tromso

Also for Tromso, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Highway to Heaven - Aurora Cable Car Transfer in Tromsø: $93
  • Private Airport and City Transfer in Tromso: $82

Is it cheaper to fly into Hamburg or Tromso?

Prices for flights to both Tromso and Hamburg change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hamburg 35
    Tromso 36
Typical Food Prices in Hamburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:


  • Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls
    15
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    5.00
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    6.00
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    15
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    4.00
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    6.00
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    3.50
  • Coffee and Donut
    4.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hamburg

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hamburg.

  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $117
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $186
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $481
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $588

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tromso

For Tromso, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 3 Hours Private Walking Food Tour in Norway: $167
  • Reindeer Camp Dinner with Chance of Northern Lights in Tromso: $173
  • Night Reindeer Sledding with Camp Dinner and Chance of Northern Lights: $186
  • Fjord Cruise Expedition with Dinner,Tromso: $206
  • Luxury Northern Lights Cruise with Hot Tub and Dinner: $250
  • Aurora Borealis Cruise with Dinner in Tromso: $299

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hamburg 39
    Tromso 16
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hamburg

Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Tower at St. Michael's Church
    3.50

Tours and Activities in Hamburg

Here are a few actual costs in Hamburg for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
  • Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
  • "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $69
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $181
  • "Highlights of Hamburg" Biketour: $39
  • 1 Hour Kiez Speed Tour for Adults: $19
  • 1-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Hamburg Line D: $20
  • 10 secrets of Hamburg's old town - exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg E-Scooter Tour: $71
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Night Tour: $93
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Tour: $75
  • 2 Hours Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Tromso

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Tromso.

  • Touring-Trekking Bicycle Rental in Tromso - 1 to 2 Days: $46
  • Experience the Full Steam Storytelling Package: $46
  • Tromso Embrace the Spirits of the North Tasting Experience: $63
  • 1 Hour Photo & History Cruise: $74
  • Experience Cross-Country Adventure in Tromsø: $93
  • Northern Lights Walking Tour: $111
  • Fjord & History Cruise: $111
  • Tromso Sightseeing with E-Bike: $112
  • Half Day Arctic Fjord Cruise from Tromso: $117
  • History Fjordcruise Around The Isle Of Tromso - Luxury Catamaran: $121
  • From Tromso all- inclusive Midnight sun cruise by Boat: $126
  • Puppy Training Experience at a Husky Farm in Tromso: $130

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hamburg 17
    Tromso 7.84

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Hamburg:

  • Night Pub Crawl through The Repperbahn: $21
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $34
  • Pub Crawl - Ultimate party pub crawl incl. One-hour drinks flat rate: $44
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $401
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $513


When comparing the travel costs between Hamburg and Tromso, 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 Tromso Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hamburg or Tromso?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Tromso. When comparing the sizes of Hamburg and Tromso, 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 Tromso?

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso and Hamburg during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Tromso in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hamburg is a little warmer than Tromso in the summer. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 17°C (62°F) in July, and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hamburg. In the summer, Hamburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso. Hamburg gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets more rain in July than Tromso. Hamburg gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F) 
    Tromso 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hamburg and Tromso. Many visitors come to Hamburg in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tromso for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Tromso can be very cold during autumn. In the autumn, Hamburg is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hamburg in October average around 10°C (50°F), and Tromso averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Hamburg usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Hamburg gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Tromso. Hamburg gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F) 
    Tromso 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Tromso in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hamburg as well as Tromso. Most visitors come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Tromso because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. Hamburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Hamburg is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Hamburg average around 0°C (33°F), and Tromso fluctuates around -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Hamburg often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Hamburg gets 42 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Hamburg usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Hamburg gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F) 
    Tromso -4°C (25°F)

Should I visit Hamburg or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso and Hamburg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. 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 Tromso this time of year.

It's quite cold in Tromso in the spring. Hamburg is much warmer than Tromso in the spring. The daily temperature in Hamburg averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

Hamburg usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tromso during spring. Hamburg gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hamburg usually receives less rain than Tromso. Hamburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F) 
    Tromso 1°C (33°F)

Typical Weather for Tromso and Hamburg

Hamburg Tromso
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) -4°C (25°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) -4°C (25°F) 86 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) -2°C (28°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in) 1°C (33°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 5°C (41°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 12°C (54°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (51°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Oct 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
Nov 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) -1°C (31°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Dec 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) -3°C (27°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)