A Travel Price Comparison for Vietnam Hanoi vs. Can Tho for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hanoi or Can Tho?

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 Can Tho 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 high energy, colorful, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a cultural, unique, and fascinating city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Can Tho: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Can Tho?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Can Tho. Hanoi is bigger than Can Tho, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hanoi is well known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Can Tho is well known for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways.

How is Hanoi different from Can Tho?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Hanoi are world-renowned. 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 a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Can Tho can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Hanoi and Can Tho.

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.

Can Tho has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Hanoi or Can Tho Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi 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 Hanoi for the nightlife scene. 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.

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 Hanoi or Can Tho Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Hanoi can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Can Tho?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Can Tho and Hanoi.

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 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.

Is Hanoi or Can Tho Better for Families?

Can Tho is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Can Tho is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

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 Can Tho Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Can Tho frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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 Can Tho Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hanoi is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Can Tho is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Is Hanoi or Can Tho Better for Students?

Hanoi is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Can Tho is not popular with students.

Hanoi is very popular with students. 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.

Can Tho is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hanoi and Can Tho.

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

Public transit is mostly 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 Hanoi or Can Tho a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Can Tho both are notable when exploring on foot.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Can Tho is a somewhat walkable city. The city center is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Can Tho or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Can Tho?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hanoi or Can Tho to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hanoi than Can Tho because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-2 days is enough time in Can Tho.

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

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

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

One day in Hanoi or Can Tho?

Because Hanoi is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Can Tho, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this fascinating destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Hanoi or Can Tho?

Because Hanoi is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Can Tho. 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 Can Tho?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hanoi has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Can Tho is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Can Tho. Lots of people come for the shopping. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Can Tho?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Can Tho. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hanoi and Can Tho, we can see that Can Tho is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Can Tho would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Can Tho 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 Can Tho Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Can Tho?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Can Tho. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Can Tho, 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 Can Tho?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Hanoi or Can Tho in the Summer?

Both Can Tho and Hanoi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round.

May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets less rain in July than Can Tho. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Hanoi is around the same temperature as Can Tho in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Can Tho fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Can Tho in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Can Tho. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. Also, May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho. Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Can Tho. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Hanoi is around the same temperature as Can Tho. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Can Tho averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Can Tho in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Can Tho. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year.

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Can Tho. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Hanoi is generally much colder than Can Tho. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Can Tho fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Can Tho in the Spring?

Both Can Tho and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September. The dry season in Can Tho is December to April. The rainy season in Can Tho is May to November. It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Can Tho. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Can Tho receives 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Hanoi is cooler than Can Tho in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Can Tho fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Can Tho and Hanoi