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

Should you visit Athens or Hanoi?

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 Athens and Hanoi. 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.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a historical, fascinating, and high energy 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Hanoi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Athens, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hanoi is more popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Athens is known for its food, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Athens different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Hanoi and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hanoi that are not to be missed. 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.

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

Athens is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Athens or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Many people head to Hanoi for the nightlife scene. 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 Athens or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Athens and Hanoi.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Hanoi can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Hanoi specifically to go shopping. 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.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Hanoi Better for Families?

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

Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Athens and Hanoi both good destinations for a couple.

Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Hanoi is a nice destination for couples. 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 Athens or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Athens and Hanoi are fantastic places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Hanoi is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Is Athens or Hanoi Better for Students?

For students, both Athens and Hanoi are very good places to visit.

Many students visit Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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.

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

Athens 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 Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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

Is Athens or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Athens is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Athens?

How long in Athens or Hanoi?

In either Athens or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than Hanoi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 3-5 days is enough time in Hanoi.

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

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

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

One day in Athens or Hanoi?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Hanoi is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Hanoi?

Athens is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Hanoi?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical big city of Hanoi. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Hanoi, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Hanoi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Hanoi?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Hanoi?

Athens 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 Athens or Hanoi in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Hanoi. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year.

In July, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. Athens usually gets less rain in July than Hanoi. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Athens or Hanoi in the Autumn?

Both Hanoi and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Athens is cooler than Hanoi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April.

Should I visit Athens or Hanoi in the Winter?

Both Hanoi and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round.

In the winter, Athens is much colder than Hanoi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Hanoi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Athens usually gets more rain in January than Hanoi. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Hanoi in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Hanoi. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Athens is generally much colder than Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Athens