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

Should you visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a expensive, beautiful, and clean city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Stockholm and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Stockholm or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Stockholm than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Stockholm, Stockholm has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town). Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Stockholm different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Stockholm and Hamburg.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Stockholm. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Both Stockholm and Hamburg offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Stockholm. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Hamburg is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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 Stockholm or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

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

Stockholm is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

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 Stockholm or Hamburg Better for Music?

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

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Stockholm The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

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.

Is Stockholm or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

Stockholm is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Stockholm is one of the most recognized in the world. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Stockholm or Hamburg?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hamburg and Stockholm.

Stockholm is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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 Stockholm or Hamburg Better for Families?

Stockholm is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Stockholm is one of the most popular family destinations. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

Hamburg is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Stockholm or Hamburg Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Stockholm has plenty to offer. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Stockholm is a good city to visit for backpackers. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

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 Stockholm or Hamburg Better for Students?

Stockholm and Hamburg are good places to visit for students.

Stockholm is popular with students. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

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

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

Stockholm 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.

Stockholm has a great public transit system. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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

Is Stockholm or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Stockholm is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Stockholm on foot is easy. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Stockholm?

How long in Stockholm or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Stockholm and Hamburg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Stockholm than in Hamburg. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Stockholm, and 1-3 days is enough time in Hamburg.

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

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

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

One day in Stockholm or Hamburg?

Because Stockholm 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. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Hamburg. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hamburg has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Stockholm or Hamburg?

Because Stockholm 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. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer.

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Hamburg. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Stockholm or Hamburg?

Stockholm is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Stockholm has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant port city of Hamburg. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Stockholm or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Stockholm. Because Stockholm is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Hamburg is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Sweden, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden, 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 Stockholm and Hamburg, we can see that Stockholm 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 Stockholm would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stockholm 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 Stockholm Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Stockholm or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 39% larger than the population of Stockholm. When comparing the sizes of Stockholm 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 Stockholm 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 Stockholm or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and Stockholm are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Stockholm 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 the summer, Stockholm is around the same temperature as Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Stockholm in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Hamburg averages at about 17°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Hamburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Stockholm. Stockholm usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during summer. Stockholm gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Stockholm gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Stockholm or Hamburg in the Autumn?

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

In October, Stockholm is generally cooler than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Stockholm average around 8°C (46°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Stockholm often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Stockholm gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in October than Hamburg. Stockholm gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Stockholm or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Stockholm and Hamburg. The winter months attract visitors to Stockholm 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 Stockholm can be very cold. Stockholm is much colder than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Stockholm averages around -3°C (27°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Stockholm usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during winter. Stockholm gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Stockholm usually receives less rain than Hamburg. Stockholm gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Stockholm or Hamburg in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Stockholm is cooler than Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Stockholm in April average around 5°C (41°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Stockholm often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Stockholm gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Stockholm usually gets less rain in April than Hamburg. Stockholm gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Stockholm