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

Should you visit Shanghai 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 Shanghai 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.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a diverse, bustling, and trendy port city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hamburg

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

Shanghai and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Shanghai or Hamburg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Shanghai than Hamburg, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Shanghai is more popular for its museums, food, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hamburg is known for its nightlife and music. Shanghai is popular for its historical landmarks, local street food, vibrant markets, and waterfront promenade. It is also home to The Bund. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

How is Shanghai different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Shanghai 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 Shanghai on the map. The city's sights mix culture with modern innovation. From the futuristic skyline and the iconic waterfront area known as the Bund, to the classic Yu Garden, there are a diversity of sights around the city. There are also museums like the Shanghai Museum, which educate visitors on Chinese culture.

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 Shanghai or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Shanghai has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's cuisine has a long history with many distinct traditional dishes. The foods incorporate a lot of soy sauce and sugar and you'll find most dishes are rice based as opposed to using wheat products. Popular local dishes include the famous Shanghai soup dumplings, steamed crab, and braised pork. The city is also famous for its snacks, which can be purchased at one of the many snack houses or street stalls.

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 Shanghai or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Shanghai is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its evening party scene.

Hamburg has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Shanghai. A night out can quickly become very expensive. Many of the venues are spread out so you'll likely spend at least some of the time in a taxi. The Bund is one of the most popular areas for nightlife, but this area also has the most expensive bars and clubs. They often offer impressive views of Pudong and the Huangpu River though.

Is Shanghai or Hamburg Better for Music?

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

Shanghai is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Shanghai or Hamburg?

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

Shanghai is a world class destination for shoppers. The city has many large shopping malls with department stores, name brand fashion, and trendy shops. It is also known for its cheap electronics and tailor-made clothes.

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 Shanghai or Hamburg Better for Families?

Both Shanghai and Hamburg are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Shanghai is a very kid-friendly port city. Of course there's Disneyland, but kids will also enjoy soaking up the city's culture, trying fun new snacks, and exploring the many science and kid-friendly museums. There are also parks and outdoor spaces as well as skyscrapers and towers that offer incredible views of the city.

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 Shanghai or Hamburg Better for Couples?

Shanghai is renowned for couples. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Shanghai has plenty to offer. With its east meets west personality, couples will be able to enjoy an amazing culinary experience, beautiful gardens, and luxury hotels and spas. There are many romantic areas around this bustling city, making it the perfect place for a romantic city 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 Shanghai or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Shanghai is a very popular port city for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is expensive, but there are hostels and cheap eateries that make it accessible even for the budget conscious. Business travelers and local workers give the city a more professional vibe during the day, but if you find the right place to stay you'll quickly be able to meet likeminded travelers.

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 Shanghai or Hamburg Better for Students?

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

Shanghai is very popular with students. The city attracts international and study abroad students who enjoy its long history and fascinating culture. It's a world financial capital with many businesses headquartered here, so employment opportunities are abundant.

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

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

Both Shanghai and Hamburg offer high quality public transit options.

Shanghai has some very good public transit options. There is a metro system as well as buses and taxis which are relatively affordable.

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

Is Shanghai or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Shanghai and Hamburg both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Shanghai is a very walkable port city. It's possible to explore the major tourist areas on foot but it can be very hot and humid during the summer months.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Shanghai?

How long in Shanghai or Hamburg?

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

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

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

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

One day in Shanghai or Hamburg?

Because Shanghai is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The port city of Hamburg offers museums and nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Shanghai or Hamburg?

Because Shanghai 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 Shanghai has to offer.

Hamburg is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hamburg, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Shanghai or Hamburg?

Shanghai 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 Shanghai has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Shanghai or Hamburg?

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

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This port city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.

When comparing the travel costs between Shanghai and Hamburg, we can see that Hamburg 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. Even though Shanghai is in Asia and Hamburg is in Europe, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Shanghai or Hamburg?

Shanghai has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Hamburg. When comparing the sizes of Shanghai 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 Shanghai 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 Shanghai or Hamburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Shanghai and Hamburg. Many travelers come to Shanghai for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hamburg in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Shanghai is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shanghai in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Hamburg averages at about 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hamburg this time of the year. In Shanghai, it's very sunny this time of the year. Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during summer. Shanghai gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

Shanghai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Shanghai usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Shanghai gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Shanghai or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Shanghai as well as Hamburg. Many visitors come to Shanghai in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Shanghai is generally much warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Shanghai average around 19°C (65°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Shanghai often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Shanghai gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Shanghai usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hamburg. Shanghai gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Shanghai or Hamburg in the Winter?

Both Hamburg and Shanghai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Shanghai for the museums, the shopping scene, and 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. Shanghai can be very cold during winter. Shanghai is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Shanghai averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Shanghai usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Shanghai gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Shanghai usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Shanghai gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Shanghai or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Shanghai during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Shanghai because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In the spring, Shanghai is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shanghai in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Shanghai often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Shanghai gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Shanghai. Shanghai usually gets more rain in April than Hamburg. Shanghai gets 102 mm (4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Shanghai