A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Da Nang vs. Rotorua for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Da Nang or Rotorua?

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

Should I visit Da Nang or Rotorua? 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 coastal, accessible, and authentic city. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and museums.

Rotorua

Rotorua is a diverse, cultural, and natural town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Da Nang and Rotorua: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Da Nang or Rotorua?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Rotorua than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Rotorua, Rotorua has more sights and attractions for tourists. Rotorua is more popular for its museums, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Da Nang is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Rotorua is more touristy than Da Nang and is popular for its geothermal activity, Maori cultural influence, and its role in the famous Lord of the Rings movies. It is also home to Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Da Nang is popular for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Da Nang different from Rotorua?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Rotorua is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Rotorua offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. 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.

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

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

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).

Rotorua has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Da Nang or Rotorua Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Rotorua is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Da Nang has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Rotorua has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find the best concentration of bars and restaurants around Tutankei Street, which is often referred to as "Eat Street".

Is Da Nang or Rotorua Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rotorua is not a resort destination.

In Da Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Rotorua is not a resort destination.

Is Da Nang or Rotorua Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a city with good options for the beach. However, Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Da Nang. 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.

Rotorua is not a beach destination.

Is Da Nang or Rotorua Better for Hiking?

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

Rotorua is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Da Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Da Nang or Rotorua?

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

Rotorua offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find stores and galleries selling art and crafts around the main town center.

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 Rotorua Better for Families?

Rotorua 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, Rotorua is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

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 Rotorua Better for Couples?

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

Rotorua makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

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 Rotorua Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rotorua is terrific for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Rotorua. Well established on the backpacker trail, there are plenty of hostels in the area and tons of activities that backpackers will enjoy.

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

Both Da Nang and Rotorua offer good public transit options.

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

Rotorua has some public transit options. There are buses and shuttles that travel around town and through the area.

Is Da Nang or Rotorua a more walkable city?

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

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

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 Rotorua Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rotorua or Da Nang?

How long in Da Nang or Rotorua?

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

Families should spend more time in Rotorua than Da Nang. 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 Da Nang. 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 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 Rotorua.

One day in Da Nang or Rotorua?

In Da Nang, you'll find museums and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Da Nang or Rotorua?

In Da Nang, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Da Nang 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 Da Nang or Rotorua?

Da Nang is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Da Nang or Rotorua?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Da Nang. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Da Nang. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Budget Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Da Nang and Rotorua, we can see that Rotorua 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 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 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 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 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 Rotorua Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Da Nang or Rotorua?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Rotorua. When comparing the sizes of Da Nang 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 Da Nang or Rotorua?

Rotorua has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Da Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Da Nang or Rotorua in the Summer?

Both Rotorua and Da Nang during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Rotorua for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Da Nang is much warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the summer temperatures in Da Nang in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Rotorua averages at about 12°C (54°F)in January.

Da Nang usually gets more rain in July than Rotoruain January. Da Nang gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. January to July is the dry season in Da Nang. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Rotorua in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Da Nang and Rotorua. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Rotorua because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Da Nang is generally much warmer than Rotoruain April. Daily temperatures in Da Nang average around 25°C (78°F), and Rotorua fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Da Nang usually receives more rain than Rotoruain April. Da Nang gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang.

Should I visit Da Nang or Rotorua in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Da Nang as well as Rotorua. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Rotorua this time of year.

Da Nang is cooler than Rotorua in the winter. The daily temperature in Da Nang averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Rotorua fluctuates around 26°C (79°F)in July.

Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the winter. Da Nang usually gets more rain in January than Rotoruain July. Da Nang gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, January to July in Da Nang is the dry season.

Should I visit Da Nang or Rotorua in the Spring?

Both Rotorua and Da Nang are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Rotorua for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Da Nang is a little warmer than Rotorua. Typically, the spring temperatures in Da Nang in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Rotorua averages at about 19°C (66°F)in October.

In April, Da Nang usually receives around the same amount of rain as Rotoruain October. Da Nang gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Rotorua receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rotorua and Da Nang