A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Paihia for Beaches, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Da Nang or Paihia?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Paihia? 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.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and museums. See Da Nang travel costs.

Paihia

Paihia is a relaxing, fun-filled, and beautiful coastal town. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Paihia travel costs.

Da Nang and Paihia: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Paihia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paihia than Da Nang, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paihia is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Da Nang is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Paihia is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its warm year round climate, impressive beaches, and world class snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Paihia is famous for the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Paihia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Da Nang or Paihia?

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Da Nang and Paihia.

Da Nang offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Paihia. There are some interesting cultural sights in the area like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds and the Museum of Waitangi.

Is the Food Better in Da Nang or Paihia? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Da Nang and Paihia.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Paihia has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local seafood, regional produce, and fresh ingredients make dining in the area a rewarding experience. You'll find fine dining restaurants, pizzerias, and local cafes to choose from.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. Also, Paihia is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Da Nang has a large number of nightlife venues. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Paihia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. As a holiday spot, there are a number of clubs and bars that cater to tourists in the area.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Paihia is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Da Nang to choose from. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Paihia is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paihia is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Paihia. There are scuba diving and snorkel shops available around town where you can organize trips and excursions to experience the undersea world.

Da Nang is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Beaches?

Paihia is terrific for the beach. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paihia. There are stunning beaches both in Paihia and throughout the Bay of Islands. Paihia Beach is in town. It's small but nice and makes a great picnic spot. For a more secluded spot head to Matauri Bay Beach or Takou Bay.

Many people head to Da Nang to enjoy the beach. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Hiking?

Paihia is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Paihia is a popular spot for hiking. The Bay of Islands is filled with coastal walks and peaceful hikes. This is a great way to soak up the area's atmosphere and take in some spectacular views.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Paihia?

Paihia is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Paihia offers some nice shopping areas. There are plenty of retail stores around town where you can pick up clothes or enjoy some souvenir shopping.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Families?

Paihia is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Paihia is a very family-friendly destination. Beaches, dolphin spotting, ice cream, and chocolate factories make the Bay of Islands the perfect place for a family vacation. There are amazing walking trails like the Manginangina Kauri Walk and opportunities to learn about the Maori culture. There are also adventure spots and great beaches.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Da Nang. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Couples?

Paihia is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Paihia makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. You can enjoy sunset boat cruises, sip wine with a waterfront view, or walk through pristine natural areas. For thrill seekers there are adrenaline filled activities like parasailing or scuba diving.

Da Nang makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paihia is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paihia is a great coastal town to visit for backpackers. There are a handful of hostels around town as well as many great activities for backpackers like scuba diving or parasailing.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Da Nang or Paihia Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Da Nang and Paihia offer notable public transit options.

Da Nang has a few public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Paihia has some public transit options. There are ferries and some intercity buses through the Bay of Islands.

Is Da Nang or Paihia a more walkable city?

Paihia is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

Paihia is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to explore parts of the town on foot.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

For even more information, also check out Is Da Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Paihia Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Paihia or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Paihia?

In either Da Nang or Paihia, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Paihia than Da Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Da Nang, and 3-5 days is enough time in Paihia.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paihia than Da Nang 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 Paihia.

One day in Da Nang or Paihia?

Many travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Paihia, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This coastal 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 Da Nang or Paihia?

Da Nang is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Paihia, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Da Nang or Paihia?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Paihia is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paihia has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Da Nang or Paihia?

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Da Nang. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paihia. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paihia. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Hanoi, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Paihia?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 390 times larger than the population of Paihia. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang and Paihia, 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.