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

Should you visit Hanoi or Boston?

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 Boston 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 historical, fascinating, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a historic, traditional, and classic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Boston?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Boston than Hanoi. While Hanoi is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Boston is very popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hanoi attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Boston is famous for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also well known for The Freedom Trail.

How is Hanoi different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the fantastic sights and museums in both Hanoi and Boston.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is well known for its theatre productions. However, Hanoi is not a theatre destination.

Boston attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Hanoi is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Hanoi and Boston.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hanoi. 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.

Boston has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Hanoi and Boston.

Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Boston for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Boston. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a city with a few options for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Boston. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Both Hanoi and Boston have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

The old town of Hanoi is one of the most recognized in 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.

Boston offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Boston?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Hanoi is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is well known for its Christmas activities. However, Hanoi does not offer Christmas activities.

Visitors come from all around to experience the Christmas activities in Boston. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Hanoi does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is well known for its Christmas markets. However, Hanoi does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston has a lively atmosphere around its Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Hanoi does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Boston is an extremely popular city to visit for families. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Boston are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hanoi makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Boston is a good city for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hanoi is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Hanoi or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is renowned for students. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Boston is a very popular city for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Many students visit 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.

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

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

Boston has a great public transit system. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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 Boston a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Boston on foot is easy. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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 Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Boston?

In either Hanoi or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Boston has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Boston than Hanoi. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Hanoi or Boston?

Hanoi is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Boston, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this historic big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Boston?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Hanoi or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston is a fun place to experience. In Boston, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful big city of Hanoi. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the proud big city of Boston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Boston?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Boston, 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 Boston?

Boston 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 Boston in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Boston. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Boston. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Boston. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Boston in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hanoi is much warmer than Boston in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Boston. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Boston can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Boston averages at about 29°F (-2°C).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Boston. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Hanoi during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Boston because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Boston. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Typical Weather for Boston and Hanoi