A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Munich vs. Hamburg for Nightlife, Music, Backpackers, and Attractions

Europe / Comparisons /
Jump to  down-arrow

Should you visit Munich or Hamburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Munich or Hamburg, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

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

How is Munich different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Is Munich or Hamburg better for Museums and Historical Sights?

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Munich can be an interesting and educational experience. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Many visitors head to Hamburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous district is the port area, which has a number of cultural sights and a pedestrian trail. There are also many museums and architectural landmarks around town.


Is Munich or Hamburg better for Food?

Both Munich and Hamburg offer a number of unique restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Munich is an experience not to be missed. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Hamburg area. 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 Munich or Hamburg better for Nightlife?

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

Munich is a world class party destination. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

Hamburg is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is often overlooked, but it's nightlife scene is actually among the best. There are techno concerts, music festivals, and nightclubs that appeal to all personalities.

Is Munich or Hamburg better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Munich or Hamburg.

In Munich you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

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

Is Munich or Hamburg better for Shopping?

Shopping in a popular activity in both Hamburg and Munich.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hamburg. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.


Is Munich or Hamburg better for Families?

Munich and Hamburg are both fun destinations for the whole family.

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

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.

Is Munich or Hamburg better for Couples?

Munich and Hamburg are both fun to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Hamburg is a good city for couples to visit. Romantic activities in town include taking a boat ride or harbor cruise or grabbing a cocktail at one of the city's many bars.

Is Munich or Hamburg better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Most people consider Munich to be better for backpackers than Hamburg.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Munich. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

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.

Is Munich or Hamburg better for Students?

Munich is generally a better city for students than Hamburg.

Munich is a great destination for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

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


Is Munich or Hamburg better for Public Transit?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Munich and Hamburg.

Munich has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

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

Is Munich or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Munich and Hamburg both are comparable when exploring on foot.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

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

Munich and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Munich
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Hamburg
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Cons
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students


Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Munich?

How long in Munich or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Munich and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Munich than Hamburg.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Munich is 2-5 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Hamburg is 1-3 days.


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

One day in Munich or Hamburg?

Because Munich 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.

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

A weekend in Munich or Hamburg?

Because Munich is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich 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 Munich or Hamburg?

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. 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 here unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Munich or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. One week may feel like too much time here unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural 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.

Which city is cheaper, Hamburg or Munich?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Munich is €116, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is €93. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Munich and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Munich €69
    Hamburg €43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Munich €138
    Hamburg €86

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Munich €15
    Hamburg €23
Typical Local Transportation prices in Munich

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


  • Single Zone Trip on Subway
    €2.30
  • Inner District Subway Day Pass
    €5.20
  • City transport day ticket
    €11

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Munich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Munich:

  • EXCLUSiVE OKTOBERFEST & Munich Sightseeing in Comfort Minivan + extra Transfer: $429
  • Ellmau: Private Transfer to or from Munich Airport: $347
  • Exclusive Private Ski Course with success guarantee & Transfer to ski area from Munich: $496
  • From Munich to Frankfurt Airport - Private transfer - punctual & friendly Driver: $344
  • Garmisch: Private Transfer to or from Munich Airport: $377
  • Graz: Private Transfer to or from Munich Airport: $53
  • Innsbruck: Private Transfer to or from Munich Airport: $483
  • Kitzbuhel: Private Transfer to or from Munich Airport: $422
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From Friedrichshafen Airport to Munich City - One Way: $452
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From Memmingen Allgau Airport to Munich City - One Way: $341
  • Low Cost Private Transfer From Salzburg Airport to Munich City - One Way: $322
  • Munich - Budapest Transfer: $523

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:

  • Airport Transfer Luxury Van 8-seater: $299
  • Airport transfer executive sedan: $148
  • Airport-Transfer First Class: $198
  • Airport-Transfer Premium Van: $180
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $59
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $77
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $87
  • Deluxe Private Transfer From Hamburg City to Berlin City: $249
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $62
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $77
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Munich or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Munich 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
    Munich €22
    Hamburg €28
Typical Food prices in Munich

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


  • Bratwurst
    €5.00
  • Leberkässemmeln (Veal & Pork Sandwich)
    €1.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Munich

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

  • Viktualienmarkt 2-Hour Gourmet Food Tour: Munich: $40
  • 3-Hour Food Tour Through Haidhausen: $44
  • Munich Traditional Bavarian Culture, Beer And Food Tour Including Traditional Bavarian Dress: $200

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.

  • Historic Reeperbahn Tour with Optional Dinner in Hamburg: $38
  • St. Georg Hamburg - Food Tour: $45
  • HafenCity & Elbphilharmonie - Food Tour: $50
  • Sternschanze Hamburg - Food Tour: $53
  • St. Pauli - Food Tour: $53
  • Eat Like A Local : Hamburg Private Food Tour With Tastings: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Munich €23
    Hamburg €31
Typical Entertainment prices in Munich

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


  • Schack Gallery Entrance
    €4.00
  • Munich Zoo Entrance
    €9.00
  • Pub Crawl Munich Tour
    €14
  • Neuschwanstein Castle (2)
    €24

Tours and Activities in Munich

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

  • Haunted City Exploration Game and Tour: $5.64
  • Old Town Walking Tour in Spanish: $16
  • CityTourCard Public Transport & Discounts: $16
  • SEA LIFE Munich Admission Ticket: $18
  • Day Ticket to Sea Life: $21
  • Nymphenburg Palace/Munich Residenz Guided Tour: $21
  • Crypts, Roof Terraces, & Hidden Things Walking Tour: $21
  • 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Express Tour of Munich: $21
  • Spooky Theatrical Performances and Old Town Tour: $32
  • Munich Card (Group) with public transport: Save at attractions & tours!: $33
  • Mysterious Old Town Theatrical Tour: $33
  • City Tour & FC Bayern Munich Soccer Arena Tour: $34

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:

  • Spicy's Gewürzmuseum Entry Ticket and Audio Guide: $5.66
  • RICKMER RICKMERS Museum Entry Ticket: $6.79
  • Walking Tour for School Groups: $8.48
  • Panoptikum Hamburg Ticket: $8.58
  • Hamburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Hamburg by Boat: 1-Hour Hanseatic Tour: $16
  • Express outer Elbphilharmonietour: $19
  • Speicherstadt and Hafencity Guided Tour: $19
  • 2-Hour St. Georg Walking Tour: $19
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tour - Yellow Double Decker - GROUP TICKETS: $20
  • GROUP TICKETS HOP-ON HOP-OFF City Tour by Bus: $20
  • Outer Elbphilharmonie Tour: Public Tour in German: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Munich €29
    Hamburg €14
Typical Alcohol prices in Munich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Munich:


  • Hofbrauhaus
    €12

Sample the Local Flavors in Munich

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

  • Munich's Original Pub Crawl: $28

Sample the Local Flavors in Hamburg

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

  • Club and Pub Tour of St. Pauli: $27
  • Corona Pub Crawl with special drinks: $62
  • Private guided Club & Pub tour - Pub Crawl: $358

About these numbers

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

Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.
Sign Up

More City Comparisons
Wurzburg vs. Munich
Wurzburg vs. Hamburg
Wernigerode vs. Munich
Wernigerode vs. Hamburg
Stuttgart vs. Munich
Stuttgart vs. Hamburg
Potsdam vs. Munich
Potsdam vs. Hamburg
Nuremberg vs. Munich
Nuremberg vs. Hamburg
Munich vs. Mainz
Munich vs. Lindau
Munich vs. Leipzig
Munich vs. Cologne
Munich vs. Koblenz
Munich vs. Kiel
Munich vs. Heidelberg
Munich vs. Hannover
Munich vs. Fussen
Munich vs. Frankfurt
Munich vs. Dusseldorf
Munich vs. Dresden
Munich vs. Bremen
Munich vs. Bonn
Munich vs. Berlin
Munich vs. Bamberg
Munich vs. Baden-Baden
Mainz vs. Hamburg
Share This Page
Pin This Page
Munich vs. Hamburg Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.