A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nottingham vs. Hamburg for Music, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a cultural, authentic, and dynamic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a vibrant, historic, and energetic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Nottingham and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nottingham than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Nottingham, Nottingham has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nottingham is better known for its big city activities, while Hamburg is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than Nottingham and is known for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nottingham
Hamburg

Hamburg is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


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

Nottingham
Hamburg

Both Nottingham and Hamburg offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Hamburg has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Nottingham or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Hamburg is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Is Nottingham or Hamburg Better for Music?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Hamburg is very popular for live music. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its live music scene.

Hamburg is a world class music destination. The city is an influential power in the music scene around Europe. You'll find many clubs concentrated in the St. Pauli district.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.


Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Hamburg?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hamburg and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Hamburg is well-known for its shopping. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Is Nottingham or Hamburg Better for Families?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Hamburg is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hamburg is 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.

Is Nottingham or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Both Nottingham and Hamburg are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Hamburg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Nottingham or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Hamburg is a good port city to visit for backpackers. Many backpackers overlook the city, but there are a number of good hostels and a relaxing vibe that makes for a nice visit.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Hamburg Better for Students?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Hamburg is a port city with good options for students. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.

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

Nottingham
Hamburg

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nottingham. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit in Hamburg can get you to some places easily. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.


Is Nottingham or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Hamburg

Nottingham and Hamburg both are superb when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Hamburg?

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

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

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

One day in Nottingham or Hamburg?

In Nottingham, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

With live music and food around the vibrant port city of Hamburg, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Nottingham or Hamburg?

In Nottingham, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Nottingham has to offer.

With food and shopping around the destination of Hamburg, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.


Five days in Nottingham or Hamburg?

Nottingham 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, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Nottingham. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Hamburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, 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 Nottingham and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Hamburg £46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Hamburg £92
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham 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 Nottingham


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Hamburg £25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

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:

  • Hamburg hotels to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $118
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $41
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City: $86
  • Arrival Private Transfers from Hamburg Airport XFW to Hamburg City: $76
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $108
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport HAM: $86
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $76
  • Departure Private Transfers from Hamburg City to Hamburg Airport XFW: $92
  • Fredericia Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg city: $585
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM) to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port-Round-Trip Private Transfer: $235
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM): Private Transfer to Hamburg hotels: $176

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    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.
    Nottingham £28
    Hamburg £34

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

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:

  • Selfguided Audiotour "Speicherstadt and HafenCity": $3.20
  • Selfguided Audiotour "Old Town and City Center": $3.20
  • Deutsche Hafen & St.Pauli Bezahl-Was-ihr-wollt Tour zu Fuß: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $3.21
  • Harbor&St. Pauli Pay-What-You-Want 2-Hour Walking Tour: $3.21
  • English Hamburg City Center Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.21
  • German Hamburg Historic City Center Pay-What-You-Want Tour: $3.21
  • English Harbor&St.Pauli Pay-What-You-Want Walking Tour: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • The Local Tour of Hamburg Historic Centre: $3.26
  • Germany eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.28
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in St. Pauli: $4.60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Hamburg £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

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 Nottingham and Hamburg, we can see that Nottingham 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 Nottingham would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nottingham 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 Nottingham Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Hamburg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Hamburg. Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Hamburg in the Autumn?

Both Hamburg and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Hamburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Hamburg. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Hamburg. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hamburg in the winter. The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. In the winter, Nottingham is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Hamburg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Hamburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Hamburg. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Hamburg. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Hamburg 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Nottingham

Nottingham Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)