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

Should you visit Zurich 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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a historic, liberal, and beautiful city. 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.

Zurich and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Zurich than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Zurich, Zurich has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Zurich is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hamburg is known for its music. Zurich is popular for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also home to The Grossmünster. Hamburg is popular for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

How is Zurich different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Zurich and Hamburg.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Hamburg offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Zurich or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zurich 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 Zurich is an experience not to be missed. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Both Zurich and Hamburg are high quality when it comes to partying.

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Hamburg has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Zurich or Hamburg Better for Music?

Hamburg is a must-visit destination for its live music scene. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its music scene.

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.

It's worth checking out the music scene in Zurich while you're in town. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Is Zurich or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Zurich is one of the most recognized in the world. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Hamburg?

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

Zurich is a world class destination for shoppers. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

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 Zurich or Hamburg Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Hamburg Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Zurich and Hamburg are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Zurich or Hamburg Better for Students?

Zurich 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 Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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

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

Both Zurich and Hamburg offer high quality public transit options.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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

Is Zurich or Hamburg a more walkable city?

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

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Hamburg?

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

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

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

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

One day in Zurich or Hamburg?

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Hamburg. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Zurich or Hamburg?

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.

Hamburg is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Hamburg?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hamburg. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the cultural destination of Hamburg. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Hamburg in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Zurich is a little warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zurich in July average around 21°C (70°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 Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Hamburg. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hamburg for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Hamburg. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 13°C (56°F), and Hamburg fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Zurich often gets more sunshine than Hamburg. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Hamburg. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Hamburg in the Winter?

Both Hamburg and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Zurich 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. Zurich can be very cold during winter. Zurich is much warmer than Hamburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Hamburg fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 42 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Hamburg in the Spring?

Both Hamburg and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Hamburg this time of year.

In the spring, Zurich is much warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zurich in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Hamburg averages at about 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Zurich gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 161 hours of full sun.

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Hamburg. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hamburg and Zurich