A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers The Hague vs. Hamburg for Music, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit The Hague or Hamburg?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between The Hague and Hamburg can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Other popular activities here include food, shopping, and nightlife.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a cultural, vibrant, and historic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

The Hague and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in The Hague or Hamburg?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in The Hague than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than The Hague, The Hague has more sights and attractions for tourists. The Hague is better known for its food and big city activities, while Hamburg is more popular for its museums, music, and impressive beauty. Hamburg is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. Also, The Hague is famous for The Peace Palace.

How is The Hague different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in The Hague or Hamburg?

The Hague
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hague
Hamburg

The Hague is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in The Hague is an experience not to be missed. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

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 The Hague or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Hamburg

Both The Hague and Hamburg have very good vibes after the sun sets.

The Hague has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

The people in Hamburg know how to have a good time. 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 The Hague or Hamburg Better for Music?

The Hague
Hamburg

Hamburg is an amazing port city to visit for live music. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.

Hamburg is known as a music capital 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.

The Hague has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.


Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Hamburg?

The Hague
Hamburg

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both The Hague and Hamburg.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting The Hague. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Hamburg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The diversity of shopping venues includes flea markets and luxury shopping malls. One of the main shopping streets in town is the Mönkebergstrasse.

Is The Hague or Hamburg Better for Families?

The Hague
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

Is The Hague or Hamburg Better for Couples?

The Hague
Hamburg

Both The Hague and Hamburg are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

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 The Hague or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

The Hague
Hamburg

The Hague and Hamburg are both notable destinations for backpackers.

The Hague is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

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 The Hague or Hamburg Better for Students?

The Hague
Hamburg

The Hague is renowned for students. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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

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

The Hague
Hamburg

Visitors will find very good public transit in both The Hague and Hamburg.

Public transit in The Hague is fairly effecient and thorough. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Hamburg has some very good public transit options. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.


Is The Hague or Hamburg a more walkable city?

The Hague
Hamburg

Hamburg is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Hamburg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both The Hague and Hamburg. In our opinion, Hamburg has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hamburg than The Hague. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Hamburg than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Hamburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Hamburg 1-3

One day in The Hague or Hamburg?

Because The Hague is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

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 The Hague or Hamburg?

Because The Hague 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 The Hague has to offer.

You'll find live music and food around the historic 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 The Hague or Hamburg?

The Hague 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.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural 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 The Hague or Hamburg?

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

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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Hamburg or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Hamburg is €117. 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 The Hague and Hamburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Hamburg 54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Hamburg 108
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Hamburg

Looking for a hotel in The Hague 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 The Hague


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: The Hague Hotel Prices and Hamburg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Hamburg 29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $277
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.19
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $27
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $255
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $136
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $136
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $125
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

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:

  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg: $82
  • Round Trip Transfer Hamburg Airport HAM to Hamburg City by van: $208
  • Rickmer Rickmers Museum Guided Tour with Transfers: $260
  • Private transfer: Hamburg City Center to Fuhlsbüttel Airport(HAM): $114
  • Private transfer from Fuhlsbüttel Airport to Hamburg City Center: $114
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hannover with 2h of Sightseeing: $269
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Hamburg Airport HAM Departure : $41
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg to Bremen with an English Speaking Driver: $233
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Hotels to Bremerhaven Cruise Port: $65
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport(HAM): $38
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: $78
  • Private Transfer from Hamburg City to Fredericia Cruise Port: $95

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Hamburg?

Prices for flights to both Hamburg and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Hamburg 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
  • WALKING DINNER ZOETERMEER | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

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.

  • St George's Culinary Food Tour: $48
  • Sternschanze kulinarisch: Die Food Tour: $48
  • St. Pauli kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $48
  • Elphi Plaza und HafenCity kulinarisch – Die Food Tour: $59
  • Original Musical Dinner Cruise 2024: $116
  • Hamburg Private Food Tours with a Local: 100% Personalized : $186
  • St. Pauli: Guided Food Tour with 5 Tastings: $479
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $585
  • Elbphilharmonie Plaza and HafenCity Food Tour: $585

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    The Hague 34
    Hamburg 39

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.24
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.24
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.51
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.92
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $7.98
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.51
  • Tour of the Tulip Fields in a Typical Ducth Tulip Farm: $8.62
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.31
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

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:

  • Hamburg Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $287
  • Safari tour in St Pauli: $33
  • "Cruise in the City" - Sailing Yacht Event, Hamburg/Elbe: $73
  • "Hafengeburtstag Hamburg" 2024. Cruise&Sail from/to Wedel: $180
  • "Highlights of Hamburg" Biketour: $39
  • 1 Hour Kiez Speed Tour for Adults: $18
  • 1-Day Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour of Hamburg Line D: $20
  • 10 secrets of Hamburg's old town - exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg E-Scooter Tour: $70
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Night Tour: $93
  • 2 Hours Guided Hamburg Segway Tour: $75
  • 2H Hamburg E-scooter Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hague 30
    Hamburg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12

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
  • Burlesque Show Tickets at Hard Rock Cafe Hamburg: $31
  • Weekend Night Pub Crawl through the Reeperbahn: $34
  • Pub Crawl - Ultimate party pub crawl incl. One-hour drinks flat rate: $43
  • Hamburg Pub Crawl including 1 hour flatrate for beer: $51
  • Bachelor(ette) Premium Party with Pub Crawl: $399
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $399
  • Private Premium Pub Crawl: $511


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


Which is Bigger, The Hague or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of The Hague. When comparing the sizes of The Hague 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 The Hague 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 The Hague or Hamburg in the Summer?

Both Hamburg and The Hague during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

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

In Hamburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in The Hague. In the summer, The Hague often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets less rain in July than Hamburg. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Hamburg 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Hamburg. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The Hague is around the same temperature as Hamburg in the autumn. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during autumn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, The Hague usually receives more rain than Hamburg. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Hamburg 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Hamburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Hamburg. Many travelers come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Hamburg in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hamburg can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in The Hague. In the winter, The Hague is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the winter temperatures in The Hague in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Hamburg averages at about 0°C (33°F).

In the winter, The Hague often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in January than Hamburg. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Hamburg 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to The Hague in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the natural beauty during these months.

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

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg during spring. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, The Hague usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hamburg. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Hamburg and The Hague

The Hague Hamburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (34°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)