A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Osaka vs. Hamburg for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Osaka or Hamburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Osaka 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.

Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant, cultural, and high energy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a cultural, vibrant, and historic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Osaka and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Osaka or Hamburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Osaka than Hamburg. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Osaka is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Hamburg attracts visitors for its music and impressive beauty. Osaka is famous for its diverse street food, eclectic shopping and its economic roots as a port city. It is also well known for Osaka Castle. Hamburg is famous for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

How is Osaka different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Osaka 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 Osaka on the map. The city is filled with impressive sights that are both old and new. A highlight is a visit to Osaka Castle, which dates back to the 1500s. The city's most well known temple is Shitennō-ji Temple and the Kobe Port Tower is another recognizable sight. Other highlights include the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, the Tempozan Ferris Wheel, and the National Museum of Art.

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

Osaka is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Osaka has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. It's one of the top culinary cities in Japan, and you'll find both local and regional dishes throughout. Street food is famous here, but there are also award winning restaurants and small traditional venues. Sushi and sashimi is a favorite, and it's focused simple and high quality ingredients. You'll find some great sushi restaurants around Kuromon Ichiba Market. Another unique experience is to visit a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Land lovers should try the Yakiniku and Horumon, which is Japanese barbecue. And, of course, there's the ramen. Don't miss the ramen!

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 Osaka or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Osaka is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Osaka is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city really comes to life after the sun sets. The buildings light up and the energy is palpable. In addition to the many world class restaurants, there are countless bars, pubs and izakaya, which are Japanese-style bars. Beer is popular, with many internationally recognized brands available. The most popular nightlife area is Dotonbori, which is along the Dotonbori River.

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 Osaka or Hamburg Better for Music?

Hamburg is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Osaka 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.

Osaka is not a live music destination.

Is Osaka or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Osaka 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 Osaka. If you want to step back in time, head to Shinsekai, which holds tight to its traditional street life scene. There are old-school arcades, traditional shops, and local street food to sample.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Osaka or Hamburg?

Osaka is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Osaka is a world class destination for shoppers. There is everything from grand shopping malls to specialty boutique shops that sell antiques or local trinkets. Umeda Shopping Arcade is a large mall that has everything. For international brands, head to America Mura, which is where many of the younger Japanese hang out. Shinsaibashi-Suji Street is a favorite shopping street in the city and also not-to-be-missed.

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 Osaka or Hamburg Better for Families?

Osaka and Hamburg are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Osaka. Kids will enjoy the view from the observatory of the Umeda Sky Building or taking a ride on the HEP Five Ferris Wheel. There is also the Kids Plaza Osaka as well as arcades along Tenjinbashi suji Shopping Street. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Osaka Castle and museum lovers will also appreciate visiting the Osaka Science Museum or the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living.

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.

Is Osaka or Hamburg Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Osaka frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city's atmosphere is filled with an energy that couples will enjoy. You can take a walk along the Tombori Riverwalk. For a touch of nature, head to Minoh Park and check out Minoh Falls, or for a relaxing experience, visit the hot springs at Solaniwa Onsen. Other fun activities include taking a ride on the Hep Five Ferris wheel or sampling the city's famous street food.

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 Osaka or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Osaka is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels around town and street food is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the city's culinary scene.

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 Osaka or Hamburg Better for Students?

Osaka is well known for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Osaka is very popular with students. There's a colorful energy and a lively atmosphere that appeals to students. The city is also the second largest economic center in the country.

It's common for students to visit Hamburg. The city has a few great universities and a number of opportunities for international students.

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

Osaka is renowned for its public transit. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Osaka has a great public transit system. The best way to get around town is by subway or train. The main tourist areas are located along the Midosuji subway line, which runs north to south.

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

Is Osaka or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Osaka is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Osaka is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Osaka?

How long in Osaka or Hamburg?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Osaka 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 Osaka.

One day in Osaka or Hamburg?

Because Osaka is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 live music and food that this historic destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Osaka or Hamburg?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Osaka or Hamburg?

Osaka 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.

Hamburg is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hamburg. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Osaka or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Osaka. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Osaka. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Hamburg. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan, The Best Adventure Tours to Japan, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Osaka and Hamburg, we can see that Hamburg is more expensive. And not only is Osaka much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Osaka 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 Osaka would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Osaka 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 Osaka.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Osaka Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Osaka or Hamburg?

Osaka has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Hamburg. When comparing the sizes of Osaka 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 Osaka 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 Osaka or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Osaka during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Osaka for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Osaka is much warmer than Hamburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Osaka often gets less sunshine than Hamburg. Osaka gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Osaka. Osaka usually gets more rain in July than Hamburg. Osaka gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Osaka and Hamburg. The autumn months attract visitors to Osaka because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In the autumn, Osaka is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Osaka in October average around 19°C (66°F), and Hamburg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during autumn. Osaka gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Osaka gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Osaka usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Osaka gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Osaka or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Osaka as well as Hamburg. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Osaka this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Hamburg. In January, Osaka is generally much warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Osaka average around 6°C (42°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, Osaka often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Osaka gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun.

Osaka usually gets less rain in January than Hamburg. Osaka gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Osaka or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Osaka are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Osaka for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Hamburg in the spring for the natural beauty.

Osaka is much warmer than Hamburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Osaka averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Hamburg fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Osaka usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during spring. Osaka gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Osaka. In April, Osaka usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Osaka gets 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Osaka