A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Hanoi for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Antalya or Hanoi?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Hanoi? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a fascinating, high energy, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Antalya and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Hanoi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Antalya, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hanoi is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and big city activities, while Antalya is known for its music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Antalya is more touristy than Hanoi and is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Antalya different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antalya or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hanoi has many famous sights for visitors. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Is the Food Better in Antalya or Hanoi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Hanoi can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hanoi makes for a great culinary experience. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Antalya and Hanoi.

Antalya has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Resorts?

Antalya is renowned for its resorts. However, Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Beaches?

Antalya is renowned for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Hanoi offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Hiking?

Antalya is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Hanoi?

Shoppers can find a variety of terrific stores in both Antalya and Hanoi.

Many people travel to Antalya specifically to go shopping. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

Hanoi is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Families?

Antalya is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Antalya is a very kid-friendly vacation spot. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Antalya is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Hanoi is a good vacation spot for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hanoi, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Students?

Hanoi is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

Antalya is not popular with students.

Is Antalya or Hanoi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Antalya is well known for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Antalya can get you around easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Antalya or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Antalya and Hanoi are good when it comes to walkability.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

Hanoi is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

For even more information, also check out Is Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Hanoi?

In either Antalya or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Antalya has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Antalya than Hanoi. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 3-5 days is enough time in Hanoi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Antalya 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 Hanoi.

One day in Antalya or Hanoi?

In Antalya, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this relaxing destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This vacation spot offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Because Hanoi 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. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Because Hanoi 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. 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.

Five days in Antalya or Hanoi?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. In Antalya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Antalya or Hanoi?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the relaxing destination of Antalya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Hanoi, we can see that Antalya is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Antalya is in Europe and Hanoi is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Hanoi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hanoi 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 Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya than you might in Hanoi.

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

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Hanoi?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 89% larger than the population of Antalya. When comparing the sizes of Antalya and Hanoi, 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 Antalya or Hanoi?

Antalya has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hanoi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Hanoi in the Summer?

Both Hanoi and Antalya during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round.

In July, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Hanoi. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Antalya or Hanoi in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Hanoi. Most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Antalya is cooler than Hanoi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Antalya or Hanoi in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Hanoi. The winter months attract visitors to Antalya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year.

In the winter, Antalya is much colder than Hanoi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Hanoi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Antalya receives a lot of rain in the winter. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Hanoi. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Hanoi in the Spring?

Both Hanoi and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Antalya is generally cooler than Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Antalya