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

Should you visit Hanoi or Cromwell?

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 Cromwell 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 cultural, historical, and fascinating 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. See Hanoi travel costs.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a cultural, outdoorsy, and historical town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing. See Cromwell travel costs.

Hanoi and Cromwell: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Cromwell?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Cromwell, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hanoi is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cromwell is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Hanoi is more touristy than Cromwell and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Cromwell is well known for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards.

How is Hanoi different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Hanoi or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Cromwell is a town with good options for winter skiing. However, Hanoi is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Cromwell is a great destination to visit. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Hanoi is not a skiing destination.

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

Hanoi is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cromwell. There are some interesting historical activities around town like Goldfields Mining Centre.

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

Hanoi is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hanoi has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cromwell area. There are charming cafes and bakeries where you can grab a light meal or snack. There are also quaint restaurants and wineries with nice meals available.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Hanoi has something for everybody. 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 Cromwell. There are a few breweries and a number of wineries around town where you can have a relaxing night out.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is very popular for its old town. However, Cromwell does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi has a world-famous historical 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.

Cromwell does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cromwell. There are many beautiful walks in the area that take you through diverse landscapes and to impressive views.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Cromwell?

Hanoi is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Hanoi draws large crowds to its 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.

Many visitors go to Cromwell to go shopping. There's a farmers market in town as well as several local vendors and cute shops.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell Better for Families?

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

Cromwell is a very kid-friendly town. The lakefront setting means that there are water activities during the warmer months. There are also ski fields nearby for the winter months. Biking and walking are also popular in the area.

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 Cromwell Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Cromwell frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Cycling, walking, kayaking, and skiing all make this a romantic a charming town to visit as a couple. There are also wineries in the area with beautiful vineyards.

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 Cromwell Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell Better for Students?

Hanoi is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Cromwell is not popular with 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.

Cromwell is not popular with students.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell 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 Cromwell.

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 Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.

Is Hanoi or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Cromwell 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.

Cromwell is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Cromwell or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Cromwell?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hanoi or Cromwell to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hanoi than Cromwell 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 Cromwell.

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

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

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

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 Cromwell, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Cromwell?

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 Cromwell. 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 Cromwell?

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.

Cromwell is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Cromwell. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Cromwell?

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 museums and skiing around the cultural destination of Cromwell. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Tours for Seniors to Vietnam, The Best G Adventures Tours to Vietnam, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

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