A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Lindau vs. Hamburg for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Lindau or Hamburg?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Lindau and Hamburg can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Lindau

Lindau is a picturesque, fun-filled, and scenic town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Lindau and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in Lindau or Hamburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hamburg. Although Lindau and Hamburg are both popular with visitors, Hamburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hamburg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Lindau is known for its food, historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Lindau is popular for its lakefront location and quaint old town. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. It is also home to St. Michael's Church.

How is Lindau different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lindau or Hamburg?

Lindau
Hamburg

Hamburg is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Lindau specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town is more about it's beautiful setting than landmarks and museums, but there are some interesting sights including the harbor and lighthouse.


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

Lindau
Hamburg

Lindau 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 Lindau is an experience not to be missed. Head to the waterfront for the best seafood restaurants. Many restaurants use seasonal ingredients and serve local fish. The local whitefish is particularly popular. Dishes are influenced by the town's proximity to Switzerland and Austria, so you'll enjoy a hybrid of flavors and recipes.

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 Lindau or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Lindau
Hamburg

Hamburg is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Hamburg know how to have a good time. 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.

Lindau doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's not known for its nightlife scene but there are bars where you can enjoy a relaxing night out.

Is Lindau or Hamburg Better for Music?

Lindau
Hamburg

Hamburg is terrific for its live music scene. However, Lindau is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Hamburg The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

Lindau is not a live music destination.


Is Lindau or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Lindau
Hamburg

Lindau is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Lindau. The old town is located on Lindau island in Lake Constance. It has quaint buildings and many waterfront restaurants.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Lindau or Hamburg?

Lindau
Hamburg

Hamburg is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hamburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Lindau is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lindau or Hamburg Better for Families?

Lindau
Hamburg

Both Lindau and Hamburg are superb to visit with kids.

Lindau is a very kid-friendly town. Head to the waterfront where there's a playground, stand up paddleboarding, paddleboats, and more. Kids will also enjoy climbing to the top of the Old Lighthouse or exploring the Museum of Local History.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hamburg. 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 Lindau or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Lindau
Hamburg

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

Couples visit Lindau frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its charming old town, beautiful waterfront, great seafood restaurants, and nice hotels, couples will really enjoy a few days away at this lakefront town. It's the perfect place to have a romantic weekend.

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 Lindau or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lindau
Hamburg

Lindau and Hamburg are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lindau is a good town to visit for backpackers. The town has a couple of hostels and affordable hotels that make this waterfront town accessible to backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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 Lindau or Hamburg Better for Students?

Lindau
Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city with good options for students. However, Lindau is not popular with students.

Hamburg is popular with students. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

Lindau is not popular with students.


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

Lindau
Hamburg

Hamburg is a great destination for its public transit. However, Lindau is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Hamburg has some very good public transit options. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Lindau. It's possible to reach town by bus or train and once you're in town you can walk many places.

Is Lindau or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Lindau
Hamburg

Lindau and Hamburg both are superb when exploring on foot.

Lindau is a very walkable town. The town is very walkable and there are also many walks into the countryside.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Lindau?

How long in Lindau or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lindau and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lindau than in Hamburg. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Lindau, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hamburg than Lindau 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 Lindau or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lindau 2-4 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in Lindau or Hamburg?

Lindau is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

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


A weekend in Lindau or Hamburg?

Lindau 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. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lindau has to offer.

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.

Five days in Lindau or Hamburg?

Lindau is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

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.

A week in Lindau or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lindau. Since Lindau is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or Lindau?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lindau is €163, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is €117. 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 Lindau and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lindau 91
    Hamburg 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lindau 182
    Hamburg 108
Compare Hotels in Lindau and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Lindau 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 Lindau


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: Lindau Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lindau 40
    Hamburg 29

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 hotels to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $119
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $42
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $87
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $109
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $77
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $93
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $87
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $109
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $77
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $93
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $594
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Hamburg - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $68

Is it cheaper to fly into Lindau or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Lindau 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
    Lindau 45
    Hamburg 35

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 George's Culinary Food Tour: $48
  • Sternschanze kulinarisch: Die Food Tour: $48
  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $49
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $118
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $187
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $489
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $597
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $597

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lindau 27
    Hamburg 39

Tours and Activities in Lindau

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

  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $75
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $210
  • Lindau Private Christmas Market Tour: $271
  • Lindau - Town Highlights Walking Tour: $326

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:

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Speicherstadt and HafenCity": $3.25
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.25
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.26
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.26
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.26
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.26
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.26
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.29
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.34
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in St. Pauli: $4.67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lindau 25
    Hamburg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Lindau

Also in Lindau, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Lake Constance wine tour > day tour > wine tasting at 3 winemakers: $197

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: $22
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $35
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $52
  • Bachelor(ette) Party with Pub Crawl: $407
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $407
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $521


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lindau and Hamburg, we can see that Lindau is more expensive. And not only is Hamburg much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Lindau would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lindau 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 Lindau Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Lindau or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Lindau. When comparing the sizes of Lindau 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.