A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Bordeaux for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hanoi or Bordeaux?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hanoi and Bordeaux can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a fascinating, high energy, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a romantic, historical, and elegant city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Bordeaux: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Bordeaux. Hanoi is bigger than Bordeaux, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hanoi is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bordeaux is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is more touristy than Hanoi and is known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Hanoi is well known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Hanoi different from Bordeaux?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

Is the Food Better in Hanoi or Bordeaux? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Bordeaux have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The people in Hanoi know how to have a good time. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Hanoi is revered around the world. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for Families?

Both Hanoi and Bordeaux are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hanoi. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for Couples?

Bordeaux is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Hanoi is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hanoi. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for Students?

Hanoi and Bordeaux are excellent places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

Many students visit Bordeaux. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bordeaux is well known for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Bordeaux can get you around easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Hanoi or Bordeaux a more walkable city?

Bordeaux is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bordeaux or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

In either Hanoi or Bordeaux, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Hanoi has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hanoi than Bordeaux. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-5 days is enough time in Bordeaux.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Bordeaux 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 Hanoi.

One day in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this romantic destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bordeaux. 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.

Five days in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hanoi, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Bordeaux. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Bordeaux?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Bordeaux. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Bordeaux, 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 Hanoi or Bordeaux?

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

Should I visit Hanoi or Bordeaux in the Summer?

Both Bordeaux and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Bordeaux in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Bordeaux in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Bordeaux. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Should I visit Hanoi or Bordeaux in the Autumn?

Both Bordeaux and Hanoi during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Hanoi is much warmer than Bordeaux. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Bordeaux averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Bordeaux. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Bordeaux in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Bordeaux. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Bordeaux. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Bordeaux fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

Bordeaux receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Bordeaux. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Bordeaux in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Bordeaux. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year.

Hanoi is much warmer than Bordeaux in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Bordeaux fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Bordeaux. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bordeaux receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Bordeaux and Hanoi