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

Should you visit Can Tho or Rotorua?

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 Rotorua can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a cultural, unique, and fascinating city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a world-renowned, diverse, and cultural town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Can Tho and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Can Tho or Rotorua?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Can Tho than Rotorua, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Can Tho is more popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Rotorua is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Can Tho is popular for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. It is also home to Cai Rang Floating Market. Rotorua is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies.

How is Can Tho different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rotorua 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 Rotorua?

Can Tho
Rotorua

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Can Tho and Rotorua.

Many visitors head to Can Tho specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Rotorua can be an interesting and educational experience. The area is filled with opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. The Maori village of Whakarewarewa is a highlight and you should also visit Te Wairoa. Fans of Lord of the Rings won't want to miss Hobbiton either. Finally, Rotorua Museum well worth a visit.


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

Can Tho
Rotorua

Both Can Tho and Rotorua 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 Rotorua is an experience not to be missed. There's a wide selection of culinary options in the area that include steambox (food prepared with the geothermal heat), and hāngī, which is a traditional Maori cooking technique. Many restaurants also make use of the local fruit, vegetables, and meats.

Is Can Tho or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Can Tho
Rotorua

The vibe at night is good in both Can Tho and Rotorua.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Rotorua. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Can Tho or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

Can Tho
Rotorua

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

Many visitors go to Rotorua for the hiking trails. The area is filled with beautiful walking trails that take you by lakes, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs. A favorite route in the area is Tarawera Trail, which is 15 kilometers long and ends at a natural hot water beach.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Rotorua?

Can Tho
Rotorua

Can Tho is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Can Tho specifically to go shopping. 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.

Rotorua is a great destination for shopping. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

Is Can Tho or Rotorua Better for Families?

Can Tho
Rotorua

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Rotorua is one of the most popular family destinations. The geothermal activity is fascinating for kids and adults alike. There are also many activities that will teach kids about the Maori culture and for animal lovers, there are farms and wildlife tours. Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss Hobbiton, and there are many thrilling activities in the area such as white water rafting.

Can Tho is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Can Tho or Rotorua Better for Couples?

Can Tho
Rotorua

Rotorua 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, Rotorua has plenty to offer. The unique environment and beautiful natural setting make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. Couples will appreciate the geothermal activity, beautiful walking trails, and diverse outdoor activities. There's also horseback riding, hot springs, and helicopter rides.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Can Tho
Rotorua

Rotorua is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Rotorua is extremely popular for backpackers. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Can Tho is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

Can Tho
Rotorua

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

While Rotorua offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through 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 Rotorua a more walkable city?

Can Tho
Rotorua

Can Tho and Rotorua are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Rotorua is a somewhat walkable city. The town itself is fairly walkable but if you want to get into the surrounding areas, having a vehicle provides the most flexibility.


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

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Rotorua?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Can Tho or Rotorua? Ideal Length of Stay
    Can Tho 1-2 
    Rotorua 2-3

One day in Can Tho or Rotorua?

In Can Tho, you'll find nightlife and food. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Rotorua, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Can Tho or Rotorua?

In Can Tho, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Can Tho has to offer.

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

Five days in Can Tho or Rotorua?

Can Tho is a great place to explore. 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.

Rotorua is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Can Tho. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Can Tho. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rotorua. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rotorua. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi, The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand, and The Best Bicycle Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Rotorua or Can Tho?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Can Tho is $58, while the average daily cost in Rotorua is $100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Can Tho and Rotorua in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Can Tho $28
    Rotorua $51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Can Tho $56
    Rotorua $102
Compare Hotels in Can Tho and Rotorua

Looking for a hotel in Can Tho or Rotorua? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Can Tho


Hotels in Rotorua


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Can Tho Hotel Prices and Rotorua Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Can Tho $13
    Rotorua $5.34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Can Tho

Also for Can Tho, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport to/from Can Tho City Center: $37
  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport - Can Tho City Center: $35
  • Private Transfer from Vinh Long to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $108
  • Private Transfer from Thanh Thoi to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $108
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $115
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Can Tho (VCA) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Can Tho City: $126
  • PRIVATE CAR: Can Tho AIRPORT <=> CanTho Hotels (one way transfer): $30

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rotorua

Also for Rotorua, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Rotorua to Auckland Afternoon Transfer with Waitomo Glow Worms: $193

Is it cheaper to fly into Can Tho or Rotorua?

Prices for flights to both Rotorua and Can Tho change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Can Tho $17
    Rotorua $31
Typical Food Prices in Can Tho

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Can Tho:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for Two)
    $5.28
  • Coconut
    $0.28
  • Mango
    $1.10
  • Hot Pot Dinner (for Two)
    $7.07
  • Two Vietnamese Iced Coffees
    $0.65
  • Casual Lunch (for One)
    $2.84

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Can Tho

For Can Tho, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Boat tour on Mekong river see the sunset, small canal, Vegan dinner, street food: $29
  • Biking and Cooking Class in Can Tho Rural: $32
  • Local Food Tour: $33
  • Explore Can Tho City tour combine Local Food tour - in afternoon: $35
  • Biking and cooking class in the rural tour at Can Tho: $36
  • Can Tho food tour designed by local chef: $38
  • Street food tour back of the bike in Can Tho: $39
  • Eco Cooking Class and Market Tour: $47
  • Walking street food tour designed by local chef: $48
  • Discover Local Cuisine: Walking Food Tour in Can Tho: $49
  • Mekong Delta Cooking Class with Lunch: $69
  • Can Tho Cooking Class - Motorbike trip in the countryside: $69

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rotorua

For Rotorua, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mitai Maori Village: Cultural Experience and Dinner Buffet: $104
  • Te Pa Tu Māori Cultural Experience with Dinner: $160

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Can Tho $17
    Rotorua $36
Typical Entertainment Prices in Can Tho

For Can Tho, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Sunset Boat Ride
    $2.03
  • Half Day Floating Market Tour
    $8.53

Tours and Activities in Can Tho

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Can Tho.

  • 'Cai Rang' Floating Market 2-Day Tour With Biking & Boating: $155
  • 1 day-Tra Su cajuput forest tour pick up from Chau Doc or Can Tho: $155
  • 3-DAY CA MAU CAPE TOUR IN MEKONG DELTA FROM SAI GON: $166
  • A unique tour of the floating market includes a cacao plantation.: $39
  • Bicycle Tour Through Peaceful Villages: $35
  • Boat tour visit 3 pagodas, Ancient house, see sunset on mekong river: $59
  • CASA Authentic Bicycle Tour: $89
  • CASA Authentic Mekong Motorbike Tour: $89
  • Cai Rang Famous Floating Market in Can Tho - Private tour: $176
  • Cai Rang Floating Market - My Tho & Ben Tre - VIP Private Tour: $135
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour: $42
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour -Amazing Can Tho : $72

Typical Entertainment Prices in Rotorua

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Rotorua's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Lunch Out for Two
    $29

Tours and Activities in Rotorua

For Rotorua, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 DAYS-HOBBITON, ROTORUA, TAUPO & WAITOMO TOUR from Auckland: $1,163
  • Agrodome Farm Experience including Farm Show and Farm Tour - Rotorua: $38
  • Auckland: Rotorua Maori Cultural Experience with Hangi Feast: $277
  • Cultural Experience & Seasonal Māori Cuisine at Te Pā Tū : $168
  • From Auckland to Hobbiton and Te Puia Day Tour with Lunch: $344
  • From Auckland:Hell's Gate Mud Bath & Rotorua Highlights Tour: $215
  • From Hobbiton Movie Set Tour with Festive Lunch: $175
  • From Wai O Tapu & Waimangu Eco Thermal Morning Tour: $89
  • From Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland Half-Day Tour: $110
  • From Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Te Puia Full-Day Tour: $160
  • Geothermal Adults Only Mineral Bathing - Pavilion Pools Bathing Ticket: $28
  • Geothermal Lakeside Bathing Experience - Deluxe Lake Spa: $47

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Can Tho $6.71
    Rotorua $12
Typical Alcohol Prices in Can Tho

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Can Tho from other travelers:


  • Beer
    $3.25

Typical Alcohol Prices in Rotorua

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Rotorua:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $12


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


Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Rotorua?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho and Rotorua, 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 Rotorua?

Rotorua 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 Rotorua in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Can Tho and Rotorua. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round. Also, many visitors come to Rotorua in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Can Tho is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Can Tho in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F)in January.

Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Rotoruain January. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F) 
    Rotorua 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Can Tho as well as Rotorua. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Can Tho is generally much warmer than Rotoruain April. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 28°C (82°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Can Tho usually gets more rain in October than Rotoruain April. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F) 
    Rotorua 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Rotorua in the Winter?

Both Rotorua and Can Tho are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Can Tho is around the same temperature as Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 26°C (78°F) in January, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in July.

In January, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Rotoruain July. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Can Tho 26°C (78°F) 
    Rotorua 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Can Tho during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

In the spring, Can Tho is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Can Tho in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually gets more rain in April than Rotoruain October. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Can Tho 29°C (84°F) 
    Rotorua 19°C (66°F)

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Can Tho

Can Tho Rotorua
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 27°C (80°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 15°C (59°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Apr 29°C (84°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
May 29°C (84°F) 268 mm (10.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 332 mm (13.1 in) 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 313 mm (12.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 365 mm (14.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 360 mm (14.2 in) 24°C (75°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 343 mm (13.5 in) 19°C (66°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Dec 26°C (79°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)