A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Hamburg for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Hamburg. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Hamburg

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

Isle of Skye and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
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
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hamburg than Isle of Skye, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hamburg is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Isle of Skye is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Isle of Skye is well known for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. 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.

How is Isle of Skye different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hamburg and Isle of Skye. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye is an experience not to be missed. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Music?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is terrific for live music. However, Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a live music destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Isle of Skye is well known for the beach. However, Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Hamburg is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Isle of Skye is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Hamburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

Is Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

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

Couples visit Isle of Skye frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples 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 Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

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

Isle of Skye is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Hamburg Better for Students?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

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

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit in Hamburg is fairly effecient and thorough. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Hamburg

Hamburg is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Hamburg Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Hamburg. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

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


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Hamburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant port city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Isle of Skye has to offer.

Hamburg is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the live music. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the cultural destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Isle of Skye. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

Hamburg is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is £100. 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 Isle of Skye and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Hamburg £46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Hamburg £92
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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.

Hotels in Isle of Skye


Hotels in Hamburg


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Hamburg £25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hamburg

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


  • Short Distance Ubahn Ticket
    £1.45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hamburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hamburg:

  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $83
  • Round Trip Transfer Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City by van: $209
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers : $267
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $262
  • Private transfer from Fuhlsbüttel Airport to Hamburg City Center: $114
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $271
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM Departure : $41
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $234
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Hotels to Bremerhaven Cruise Port: $65
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg City Hotels: $51
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport(HAM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Hamburg £30

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
    £13
  • Currywurst and Pommes Frites
    £4.28
  • Donner Kebab and Coke
    £5.13
  • Traditional Hamburg Dinner w/ Beer
    £13
  • Donner Kebab Lunch
    £3.42
  • Sandwich and Coffee Break
    £5.13
  • Fish Sandwich from Fish Market
    £2.99
  • Coffee and Donut
    £3.42

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
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Hamburg £34

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

For Isle of Skye, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

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
    £2.99

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
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Hamburg £15

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 Isle of Skye and Hamburg, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye 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.


When is the best time to visit Isle of Skye or Hamburg?

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 Isle of Skye or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Isle of Skye during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 13°C (55°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Hamburg. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hamburg. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Hamburg. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Hamburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Hamburg during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Isle of Skye gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Hamburg in the Winter?

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

The weather in Hamburg can be very cold. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Isle of Skye is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Isle of Skye in January average around 4°C (40°F), and Hamburg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the winter. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Hamburg. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In April, Isle of Skye is generally cooler than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 7°C (44°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)