Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or Ho Chi Minh City?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
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 Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg can help you decide which place is right for you.
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is a colorful, busy, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include museums, theater, and nightlife.
Hamburg
Hamburg is a historic, energetic, and cultural port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg: Pros and Cons
Ho Chi Minh City
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Numerous theater shows
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Public transit not as usable
Hamburg
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good public transit
- Less popular for food
- Less popular with backpackers
Is there more to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Hamburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Hamburg attracts visitors for its music and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. It is also well known for the War Remnants Museum. Hamburg is famous for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.
How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Hamburg?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hamburg and Ho Chi Minh City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City 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 Ho Chi Minh City on the map. It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.
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 Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Theater?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City 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 Ho Chi Minh City. Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the rural areas and was brought to the city. It is a fun cultural experience that kids and adults both enjoy. You can see it at The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.
Hamburg is not a theatre destination.
Is the Food Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.
Ho Chi Minh City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).
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 Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.
Ho Chi Minh City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.
Many people head to Hamburg for the nightlife scene. 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.
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Music?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Hamburg is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Ho Chi Minh City 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.
Ho Chi Minh City is not a live music destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.
Ho Chi Minh City is a world class destination for shoppers. The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.
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.
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Families?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.
Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids may feel overwhelmed at first, but they're sure to fall in love with the energy and kid-friendly activities in this city. There are traditional water puppet shows, kid-friendly restaurants, and fun parks. There's also the Suoi Tien Theme Park, smaller water parks, zoos, and art museums to explore.
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 Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Couples?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City is well known for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.
Couples visit Ho Chi Minh City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. If you're looking for a vibrant cultural scene with excellent restaurants, great parks, and countless day trips, this is the ultimate couple's getaway.
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 Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for backpackers. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It's well established on the Southeast Asian backpacker's circuit and you'll find no shortage of hostels in town. You'll find a good number of backpackers in District 1 of the city, near Ben Thanh Market. Many backpackers also arrange trips to the Mekong Delta or elsewhere in Thailand while they're 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 Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Students?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
For students, both Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg are nice places to visit.
It's common for students to visit Ho Chi Minh City. Study abroad students appreciate the city's energy and plethora of activities. It also makes a good base for trips to other parts of Southeast Asia.
Hamburg is a good city to visit for students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Hamburg is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a good destination for its public transit.
Hamburg offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.
Public transit is generally limited in Ho Chi Minh City. There are public buses around town but motorbike taxis and regular taxis are likely your best bet for getting around.
Is Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg a more walkable city?
Ho Chi Minh City
Hamburg
Hamburg is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.
Hamburg is a very walkable destination. Most tourist areas can easily be explored on foot.
Ho Chi Minh City is somewhat walkable. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.
For even more information, also check out Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting? and Is Hamburg Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Ho Chi Minh City?
How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than in Hamburg. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.
Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Hamburg. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ho Chi Minh City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Hamburg. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ho Chi Minh City that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City 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 Ho Chi Minh City.
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How many days in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg? Ideal Length of StayHo Chi Minh City 3-4Hamburg 1-3
One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Because Ho Chi Minh City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Hamburg. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Because Ho Chi Minh City 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.
You'll find shopping and museums around the energetic port city of Hamburg. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.
Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Ho Chi Minh City 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.
Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ho Chi Minh City. Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.
Hamburg is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the live music. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayHo Chi Minh City $81Hamburg $126
The average daily cost (per person) in Ho Chi Minh City is $81, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is $126. 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 Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personHo Chi Minh City $49Hamburg $58
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomHo Chi Minh City $98Hamburg $116
Compare Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg
Looking for a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg? 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.
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: Ho Chi Minh City Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Ho Chi Minh City $15Hamburg $31
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ho Chi Minh City
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Ho Chi Minh City:
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Short Taxi Ride$1.40
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Taxi From Airport$7.99
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Cyclo Ride (One Hour)$1.60
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ho Chi Minh City
Also for Ho Chi Minh City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Airport Transfer (From Hotels in Ho Chi Minh to Airport) Private 4 Seats Car: $38
- Airport Transfer (From Hotels in Ho Chi Minh to Airport) Private 7 Seats Car: $47
- Airport Transfer From Hotel in Ho Chi Minh to Airport By 4 Seats Car: $35
- Airport Transfer From Hotel in Ho Chi Minh to Airport By 7 Seats Car: $41
- Airport Transfers (Airport - Ho Chi Minh,Private 16 Seats Car): $52
- Airport transfer from TAN SON NHAT airport to HO CHI MINH: $23
- Cam Ranh Riviera to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
- Duyen Ha Resort to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
- Golden Bridge &Marble Mountain With Guide &Transfer from Chan May: $110
- Golden Bridge Trip with guide, lunch &Transfer from Chan May Port: $189
- HO CHI MINH AIRPORT: Car 16s pick up <-> hotel (one way transfer): $32
- Hanoi Private Transfer from Vinh City to Hanoi (HAN) Airport: $257
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hamburg:
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Short Distance Ubahn Ticket$1.84
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
Is it cheaper to fly into Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Ho Chi Minh City 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
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Food Meals for one dayHo Chi Minh City $14Hamburg $38
Typical Food Prices in Ho Chi Minh City
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ho Chi Minh City:
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Street Food Dinner (for Two)$4.27
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Pizza$5.19
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Sweet Rice$1.20
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Pork Sandwich$0.60
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Casual Lunch (for Two)$6.78
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Western Lunch (for Two)$12
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ho Chi Minh City
For Ho Chi Minh City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Private Walking Food Tour with Local Students : $26
- Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike (Unique & Authentic): $26
- Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike + Sightseeing: $27
- Saigon: Backstreets Private Walking Food Tour & 10 Tastings: $27
- Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings: $27
- Ho Chi Minh Food Tour on Back of Motobike with Local Guide: $27
- Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $28
- Private Walking Food Tour with 13 Tastings: $28
- Ho Chi Minh: Original Walking Street Food Tour With Local: $29
- Private Half-Day Ho Chi Minh Food Tour with Local Students: $29
- Ho Chi Minh: Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour With Local: $29
- Private 4-Hour Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $29
Typical Food Prices in Hamburg
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hamburg:
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Pink Thai Soup Dinner and Spring Rolls$16
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Currywurst and Pommes Frites$5.42
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Donner Kebab and Coke$6.50
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Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer$16
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Donner Kebab Lunch$4.33
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Sandwich and Coffee Break$6.50
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Fish Sandwich from Fish Market$3.79
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Coffee and Donut$4.33
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
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Ho Chi Minh City $20Hamburg $43
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ho Chi Minh City
For Ho Chi Minh City, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Massage$5.59
Tours and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ho Chi Minh City.
- Chinatown Walking Tour Ho Chi Minh City: $0.80
- Ho Chi Minh City Free Walking Tour: $0.80
- Ho Chi Minh City private walking tours with young local volunteers: $1.85
- Ho Chi Minh City Free Walking Tour - Architecture, History & Food: $1.86
- Saigon Sites and Stories - Free Walking Tour: $2.05
- Saigon: Free Food Walking Tour: $2.13
- Walking Tour: $5.00
- City Sightseeing Panoramic Bus Tour: $7.00
- Saigon: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $7.00
- Saigon: City Sightseeing 45-Minute Panoramic Night Tour: $7.00
- Floating Village Eco-Tourism Tan Lap - Trekking Day Trip: $7.39
- Ho Chi Minh Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $7.65
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hamburg
Here are a few typical costs in Hamburg for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Tower at St. Michael's Church$3.79
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
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayHo Chi Minh City $7.98Hamburg $19
Typical Alcohol Prices in Ho Chi Minh City
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Ho Chi Minh City:
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Beer$0.40
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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg, we can see that Hamburg is more expensive. And not only is Ho Chi Minh City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia and Hamburg is in Europe, 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 Ho Chi Minh City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ho Chi Minh City 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 Hamburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hamburg than you might in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Hamburg?
Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Hamburg. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Hamburg, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.