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

Should you visit Salzburg or Hamburg?

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

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. The famous beauty of Salzburg is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Salzburg travel costs.

Hamburg

Hamburg is a energetic, cultural, and vibrant port city. Hamburg offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and live music. See Hamburg travel costs.

Salzburg and Hamburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Hamburg?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Salzburg than Hamburg. While Hamburg is larger than Salzburg, Salzburg has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Salzburg is very popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hamburg attracts visitors for its nightlife. Salzburg is more touristy than Hamburg and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. It is also well known for The Salzburg Old Town. Hamburg is famous for its music clubs, beautiful architecture, relaxing natural areas, and green space.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Hamburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Salzburg or Hamburg.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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 Salzburg or Hamburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg is an experience not to be missed. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg Better for Nightlife?

Hamburg is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Hamburg offers plenty to do in the evening. 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 Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

Is Salzburg or Hamburg Better for Music?

Both Salzburg and Hamburg offer terrific live music venues.

In Salzburg you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

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.

Is Salzburg or Hamburg Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Salzburg is one of the most recognized in the world. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

Hamburg does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Hamburg?

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

Salzburg is a world class destination for shoppers. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg More Beautiful?

Salzburg is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hamburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Salzburg is one of the main draws. This stunning city is known for its beautiful churches and hillside views.

Hamburg is a gorgeous place to visit. The city is divided into a number of different districts that each have their own personality.

Is Salzburg or Hamburg Better for Families?

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

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg Better for Students?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

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

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

Both Salzburg and Hamburg offer excellent public transit options.

The public transit in Salzburg can get you to most places easily. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

Visitors to Hamburg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trains and buses that make their way around town.

Is Salzburg or Hamburg a more walkable city?

Salzburg and Hamburg both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Salzburg is a very walkable destination. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hamburg or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Hamburg?

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

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

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

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

One day in Salzburg or Hamburg?

In Salzburg, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg?

In Salzburg, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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 Salzburg or Hamburg?

Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Hamburg?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Salzburg. 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.

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 in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, 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 Salzburg and Hamburg, we can see that Salzburg 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 Salzburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Salzburg 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 Salzburg Expensive? and Is Hamburg Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Hamburg?

Hamburg has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Salzburg. When comparing the sizes of Salzburg 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 Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Hamburg in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Hamburg. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hamburg because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Salzburg is a little warmer than Hamburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Hamburg fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hamburg this time of the year. In Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Hamburg during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Hamburg receives 207 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Hamburg. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Hamburg in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Hamburg. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Salzburg is a little warmer than Hamburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Salzburg in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Hamburg averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hamburg. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hamburg receives 101 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Hamburg. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hamburg receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Hamburg in the Winter?

Both Hamburg and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hamburg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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