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

Should you visit Can Tho or Wollongong?

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

Can Tho

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

Wollongong

Wollongong is a vibrant, student-friendly, and trendy coastal city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Can Tho and Wollongong: 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
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Can Tho or Wollongong?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wollongong. Although Can Tho and Wollongong are about the same size, Wollongong has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wollongong is more popular for its nightlife, beaches, and hiking, while Can Tho is known for its shopping. Can Tho is more touristy than Wollongong and is known for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. Wollongong is popular for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also home to Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Can Tho different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Can Tho
Wollongong

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

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 Wollongong can be an interesting and educational experience. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.


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

Can Tho
Wollongong

Both Can Tho and Wollongong offer a number of great 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 Wollongong is an experience not to be missed. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Can Tho or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Wollongong is great for nightlife and partying. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Many people head to Wollongong for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Can Tho. 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.

Is Can Tho or Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Wollongong is great for the beache. However, Can Tho is not a beach destination.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Can Tho is not a beach destination.


Is Can Tho or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Wollongong is very good for hiking. However, Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Wollongong?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Can Tho is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Wollongong is a great destination for shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Can Tho or Wollongong Better for Families?

Can Tho
Wollongong

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Can Tho or Wollongong.

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.

Wollongong is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.


Is Can Tho or Wollongong Better for Couples?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Both Can Tho and Wollongong are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Can Tho is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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

Can Tho
Wollongong

Can Tho is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Can Tho or Wollongong Better for Students?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Wollongong is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Can Tho is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Can Tho is not popular with students.


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

Can Tho
Wollongong

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

Wollongong has some very good public transit options. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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 Wollongong a more walkable city?

Can Tho
Wollongong

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong is a very walkable coastal city. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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 Wollongong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Can Tho or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wollongong 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 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Can Tho or Wollongong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Can Tho 1-2 
    Wollongong 2-4

One day in Can Tho or Wollongong?

With museums and nightlife around the fascinating city of Can Tho, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Can Tho, one day is sufficent for most.

In Wollongong, you'll find nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This coastal 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 Can Tho or Wollongong?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Can Tho, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

In Wollongong, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wollongong has to offer.

Five days in Can Tho or Wollongong?

Can Tho, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Wollongong is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the 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 Wollongong?

Can Tho is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wollongong. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Wollongong. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Wollongong 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 Wollongong is $127. 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 Wollongong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Can Tho $28
    Wollongong $68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Can Tho $56
    Wollongong $136
Compare Hotels in Can Tho and Wollongong

Looking for a hotel in Can Tho or Wollongong? 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 Wollongong


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 Wollongong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Can Tho $13
    Wollongong $41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Can Tho

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

  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Can Tho City: $126
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $115
  • Private Transfer from Vinh Long to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $109
  • Private Transfer from Thanh Thoi to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $108
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Can Tho (VCA) Airport: $48
  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport to/from Can Tho City Center: $37
  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport - Can Tho City Center: $35
  • PRIVATE CAR: Can Tho AIRPORT <=> CanTho Hotels (one way transfer): $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Can Tho or Wollongong?

Prices for flights to both Wollongong 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
    Wollongong $32
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

Typical Food Prices in Wollongong

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


  • Lunch
    $8.22

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Can Tho $17
    Wollongong $23
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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Can Tho $6.71
    Wollongong $19
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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Can Tho and Wollongong, we can see that Wollongong 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 Wollongong 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 Wollongong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wollongong 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 Wollongong Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Wollongong?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 1% larger than the population of Can Tho. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho and Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?

Wollongong 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 Wollongong in the Summer?

Both Wollongong 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, the summer months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Can Tho is a little warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the summer temperatures in Can Tho in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Wollongong averages at about 23°C (74°F)in January.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. Can Tho usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during summer. Can Tho gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Can Tho. In July, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Wollongongin January. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F) 
    Wollongong 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Wollongong in the Autumn?

Both Wollongong 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, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

In October, Can Tho is generally much warmer than Wollongongin April. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 28°C (82°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In the autumn, Can Tho often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin April. Can Tho gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually gets more rain in October than Wollongongin April. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 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.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F) 
    Wollongong 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Wollongong in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Can Tho and Wollongong. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round. Also, many travelers come to Wollongong for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Can Tho is much warmer than Wollongong in the winter. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 26°C (78°F) in January, and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. In Can Tho, it's very sunny this time of the year. Can Tho usually receives more sunshine than Wollongong during winter. Can Tho gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Can Tho usually receives less rain than Wollongongin July. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Can Tho 26°C (78°F) 
    Wollongong 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Wollongong in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Can Tho as well as Wollongong. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Wollongong in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Can Tho is much warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the spring temperatures in Can Tho in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Wollongong averages at about 17°C (63°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Can Tho this time of the year. In the spring, Can Tho often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongongin October. Can Tho gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun.

Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the spring. Can Tho usually gets more rain in April than Wollongongin October. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (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.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Can Tho 29°C (84°F) 
    Wollongong 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Can Tho

Can Tho Wollongong
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 23°C (74°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 27°C (80°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 21°C (70°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Apr 29°C (84°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 29°C (84°F) 268 mm (10.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 332 mm (13.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 313 mm (12.3 in) 10°C (50°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 365 mm (14.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 360 mm (14.2 in) 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 343 mm (13.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 26°C (79°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)


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