A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Can Tho vs. Nikko for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Can Tho or Nikko?

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 Can Tho and Nikko can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a cultural, unique, and fascinating city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Nikko

Nikko is a natural, rural, and historic town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the museums, food, and hiking.

Can Tho and Nikko: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Can Tho or Nikko?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Can Tho. Although Can Tho and Nikko are popular destinations, Can Tho has more sights and attractions for tourists. Can Tho is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Nikko attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Can Tho is famous for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. It is also well known for Cai Rang Floating Market. Nikko is famous for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting.

How is Can Tho different from Nikko?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Can Tho or Nikko?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Nikko are world-renowned. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Can Tho can be an interesting and educational experience. The main attraction nearby is Cai Rang Floating Market, but visitors also enjoy seeing Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Ong pagoda, and Nam Nha Pagoda.

Is the Food Better in Can Tho or Nikko? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Can Tho and Nikko offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Can Tho has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's the largest city in the Mekong Delta, and there are many restaurants with rooftop views and lively atmospheres. The food is local and fresh. Grilled meats, noodle soup, and local produce are all popular. Many visitors come to Cantho specifically to experience the nearby floating markets. You really must sample the many dishes available at the markets, which are unique to the area and offer a whole new approach to street food.

Dining out in Nikko is an experience not to be missed. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for Nightlife?

Can Tho is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Nikko is not a good destination for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Can Tho has a few options to choose from. The city is very beautiful at night with many colorful lights. There are a number of bars and places for tourists to hang out and socialize.

People don't go to Nikko for the nightlife. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for its Old Town?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Nikko can be explored in its historical center. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for Hiking?

Nikko is great for hiking. However, Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Nikko for the hiking trails. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Nikko?

Can Tho is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Nikko is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Can Tho. The city is large with malls and a central market, but most visitors come specifically for the nearby floating markets. These unique markets are best visited by boat. Goods and food are sold out of vendor boats and popular food dishes include noodle soup and local fruits. Each boat has a tall bamboo stick displaying the items that it sells.

Nikko offers some nice shopping areas. There are places in town where you can pick up local handicrafts and traditional items.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Can Tho or Nikko.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Can Tho is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the floating markets and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Most visitors use this growing city as a base for exploring the area, which has a fascinating culture and interesting sights.

Nikko is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area offers a unique way for kids to experience Japanese culture. A highlight for the little ones is a ninja show at Grand Ninja Theatre and the Mizugei-za water magic show. Kids will also enjoy staying in a traditional ryokan and floating in the hot spring baths.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for Couples?

Nikko is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Nikko has plenty to offer. While many visitors come to see the shrines and temples, they often end up falling in love with the area's natural beauty, waterfalls, and "forest bathing" (surrounding yourself with nature). Couples will also enjoy dining on the local food and relaxing in a pool fed by a natural hot spring.

Can Tho is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can take a romantic evening boat ride on the Mekong Delta. During the morning hours, the floating markets are one of Vietnam's most interesting destinations. You can sample local dishes and experience a completely different way of life.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Can Tho and Nikko are superb places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Can Tho. This is a large city with a number of hostels and many backpackers who pass through during their trip to the floating markets and through the Mekong Delta.

Nikko is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels in the area that combine affordability with traditional Japanese customs.

Is Can Tho or Nikko Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nikko is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Can Tho is not a good destination for its public transit.

Nikko has some very good public transit options. There are buses that run from the main train station to the many tourist sights in the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Can Tho. There are local buses, but many visitors come to this area as part of an organized tour because transportation can be a bit a tricky.

Is Can Tho or Nikko a more walkable city?

Nikko is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

Nikko is a very walkable town. While the town is relatively walkable and there are walking paths through the forest and to most of the temples and shrines, if you want to get further into the region, it's helpful to have a car.

Can Tho is a somewhat walkable city. The city center is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Can Tho Worth Visiting? and Is Nikko Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nikko or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Nikko?

It's fun to spend time in either Can Tho or Nikko. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nikko due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Can Tho, and 1-4 days is enough time in Nikko.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nikko than Can Tho 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 Nikko.

One day in Can Tho or Nikko?

In Can Tho, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Nikko is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Can Tho or Nikko?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Can Tho. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Nikko might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nikko has to offer.

Five days in Can Tho or Nikko?

Can Tho is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Can Tho. Lots of people come for the shopping. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Nikko is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

A week in Can Tho or Nikko?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating destination of Can Tho. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Nikko. Since Nikko is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 The Best Bicycle Tours in Vietnam, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Can Tho and Nikko, we can see that Nikko is more expensive. And not only is Can Tho much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Can Tho would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Can Tho 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 Nikko would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nikko than you might in Can Tho.

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

Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Nikko?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Nikko. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho and Nikko, 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 Can Tho or Nikko?

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

Should I visit Can Tho or Nikko in the Summer?

Both Nikko and Can Tho are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Nikko in the summer for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Can Tho is generally a little warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 28°C (82°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Can Tho usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during summer. Can Tho gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 136 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nikko. It's quite rainy in Can Tho. In July, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Nikko. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Can Tho or Nikko in the Autumn?

Both Nikko and Can Tho during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nikko for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Can Tho is much warmer than Nikko in the autumn. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Nikko fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Can Tho often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Nikko. Can Tho gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 167 hours of full sun.

Nikko gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually gets more rain in October than Nikko. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 117 mm (4.6 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Can Tho. May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho.

Should I visit Can Tho or Nikko in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Can Tho and Nikko. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nikko because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nikko can be very cold. In the winter, Can Tho is much warmer than Nikko. Typically, the winter temperatures in Can Tho in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Nikko averages at about 3°C (37°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nikko this time of the year. In Can Tho, it's very sunny this time of the year. Can Tho usually receives more sunshine than Nikko during winter. Can Tho gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Nikko receives 212 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Can Tho usually receives less rain than Nikko. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Can Tho or Nikko in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Can Tho as well as Nikko. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Nikko this time of year.

In April, Can Tho is generally much warmer than Nikko. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 29°C (84°F), and Nikko fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Can Tho this time of the year. In the spring, Can Tho often gets more sunshine than Nikko. Can Tho gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nikko receives 191 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nikko. Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the spring. Can Tho usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Nikko. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Nikko receives 108 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. May to November in Can Tho is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Nikko and Can Tho