A Travel Price Comparison for Vietnam Hanoi vs. Da Nang for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hanoi or Da Nang?

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 Da Nang 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a authentic, coastal, and accessible city. And you can't forget about the beaches, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Da Nang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Da Nang?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Da Nang. Hanoi is bigger than Da Nang, 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 Da Nang is more popular for its resorts and beaches. Hanoi is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Da Nang is well known for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Hanoi different from Da Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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 Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

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

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

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.

Da Nang has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Is Hanoi or Da Nang Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Da Nang for the nightlife scene. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

Is Hanoi or Da Nang Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is well known for its resorts. However, Hanoi is not a resort destination.

In Da Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Hanoi or Da Nang Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a city with good options for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Da Nang. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Da Nang Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is terrific for its old town. However, Da Nang 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.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Da Nang?

Hanoi is terrific for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city 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.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Hanoi or Da Nang Better for Families?

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

Da Nang is a very kid-friendly city. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from 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 Da Nang Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Da Nang frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

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 Da Nang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is terrific for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

Is Hanoi or Da Nang Better for Students?

Hanoi is a well-known place for students. However, Da Nang is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Da Nang is not popular with students.

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

Da Nang 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 Da Nang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

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 Da Nang a more walkable city?

Hanoi is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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.

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

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

Should I spend more time in Da Nang or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Da Nang?

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

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

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

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

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 Da Nang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this coastal destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Da Nang?

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 Da Nang. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Da Nang?

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.

Da Nang is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Da Nang. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Da Nang?

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 nightlife and food around the authentic destination of Da Nang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Hanoi and Da Nang, we can see that Hanoi is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Da Nang?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Da Nang. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Da Nang, 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 Da Nang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Da Nang in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Da Nang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. Also, August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Da Nang. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Hanoi is around the same temperature as Da Nang in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Da Nang fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Da Nang in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Da Nang. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year.

Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. August to December in Da Nang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Da Nang. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets less rain in October than Da Nang. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Hanoi is around the same temperature as Da Nang. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Da Nang averages at about 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Da Nang in the Winter?

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

The dry season in Da Nang is January to July. It rains a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Da Nang. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In January, Hanoi is generally cooler than Da Nang. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Da Nang fluctuates around 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Da Nang in the Spring?

Both Da Nang 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Da Nang. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Hanoi is around the same temperature as Da Nang in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Da Nang fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Da Nang and Hanoi