A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Christchurch for Attractions, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Hanoi or Christchurch?

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 Christchurch 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.

Christchurch

Christchurch is a outdoorsy, adventure-filled, and cultural city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Christchurch: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Christchurch?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Christchurch. Hanoi is bigger than Christchurch, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hanoi is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Christchurch is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Christchurch and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Christchurch is well known for its outdoor beauty and relaxing, scenic atmosphere.

How is Hanoi different from Christchurch?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Christchurch 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.

Many visitors head to Christchurch specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with street art and local galleries. There's also Canterbury Museum, the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre, and the Riccarton House & Bush.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Hanoi and Christchurch.

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.

Christchurch has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There's a mix of cozy cafes and casual eateries around town. You'll also find some fine dining restaurants as well as international flavors.

Is Hanoi or Christchurch Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Christchurch for the nightlife scene. The city has its share of dance clubs, live music venues, and laid back bars. You'll find a number of popular hangout spots around Oxford Terrace or on the historic New Regent Street.

Is Hanoi or Christchurch Better for Beaches?

Christchurch is well known for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Christchurch attract visitors from all over. There are sandy beaches in the area with water sports and various amenities. The summer months are the most popular time for hanging out at the beach, and you'll find local families playing in the sun or enjoying a picnic.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Christchurch Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is terrific for its old town. However, Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

Christchurch does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Christchurch Better for Hiking?

Christchurch is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Christchurch. There are many beautiful hikes in the area that take you along the coastline or past local historic sights. The landscape is diverse and you'll find many amazing parks in the area. Hooker Valley Track is one of the best hiking routes nearby.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Christchurch?

Hanoi is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Christchurch 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 Christchurch. There's a mix of boutique shops, outlet malls, and open air markets. Some of the best shopping places include the Tannery and the Colombo.

Is Hanoi or Christchurch Better for Families?

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

Christchurch is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The International Antarctic Centre is a thrilling and fun experience. There's also the Orana Wildlife Park or Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. For adrenaline junkies there are the ropes courses at the Adrenalin Forest. There are also many indoor playgrounds and rock climbing facilities.

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 Christchurch Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Christchurch frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Punting on the Avon River is one of the most romantic activities in the city. There are also botanical gardens, parks, and natural areas that are fun to explore. Nearby, you can do a wine tour, or there are cocktail bars and charming restaurants in town. The city also has a nice theater and many other date night activities.

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 Christchurch Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is terrific for backpackers. Also, Christchurch 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Christchurch. There's no shortage of hostels around town, and many backpackers pass through Christchurch on their epic New Zealand adventure.

Is Hanoi or Christchurch Better for Students?

Hanoi and Christchurch 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 Christchurch. It's the largest city on the South Island and there are plenty of activities and nearby trips that you can enjoy.

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

Christchurch is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Christchurch, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While it's not a diverse transit system, the buses are well connected and offer the cheapest way to get around town.

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 Christchurch a more walkable city?

Christchurch 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.

Christchurch is a very walkable city. The city center is relatively flat and easy to explore 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 Christchurch Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Christchurch or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Christchurch?

It's fun to spend time in either Hanoi or Christchurch. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hanoi due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-4 days is enough time in Christchurch.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Christchurch 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 Christchurch?

Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Christchurch, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Christchurch?

Hanoi is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Christchurch. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Christchurch?

Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Christchurch is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Christchurch. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Christchurch?

Hanoi is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Christchurch. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Christchurch?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Christchurch. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Christchurch, 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 Christchurch?

Christchurch 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 Christchurch in the Summer?

Both Christchurch 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 Christchurch in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hanoi is much warmer than Christchurch in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Christchurch fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Christchurchin January. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Should I visit Hanoi or Christchurch in the Autumn?

Both Christchurch 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. Also, most visitors come to Christchurch for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Hanoi is much warmer than Christchurch. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Christchurch averages at about 12°C (54°F)in April.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Christchurchin April. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Christchurch in the Winter?

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

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

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Christchurchin July. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Christchurch in the Spring?

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

Hanoi is much warmer than Christchurch in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Christchurch fluctuates around 12°C (54°F)in October.

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Christchurchin October. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Christchurch receives 45 mm (1.8 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 Christchurch and Hanoi