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

Should you visit Hanoi or Dunedin?

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 Dunedin 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. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Hanoi travel costs.

Dunedin

Dunedin is a small, hilly, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Dunedin travel costs.

Hanoi and Dunedin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Dunedin?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Dunedin, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hanoi is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dunedin is known for its beaches and hiking. Hanoi is more touristy than Dunedin and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Dunedin is popular for its wildlife and proximity to the Otago Peninsula.

How is Hanoi different from Dunedin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Hanoi on the map. 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 Dunedin specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city has cultural scene that is centered around both Scottish and Maori heritage. Top sights around town include the Larnach Castle, the Dunedin Railway Station, Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, and the Otago Museum.

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

Hanoi is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hanoi is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dunedin. The culinary scene in town continues to grow and improve. There are local eateries that have charm and character and serve interesting and local dishes.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Dunedin for the nightlife scene. The town has eclectic bars and a diverse club scene that is fun to experience. It has a lively nightlife scene that is driven, in part, by the large student population.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for Beaches?

Dunedin is a city with good options for the beach. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Dunedin. Many of the beaches are just a short drive from the city center. The surf is surprisingly good and the beaches are fun during the warmer summer months.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Dunedin does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Hanoi offers plenty to see. 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.

Dunedin does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for Hiking?

Dunedin is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Dunedin. There are biking and hiking trails that travel around town and through the surrounding landscapes.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Dunedin?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Hanoi is a world class destination for shoppers. 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 Dunedin. The shopping scene is diverse and eclectic with everything from vintage shops to fashion boutiques. Some of the most popular shopping areas are Edinburgh Way, Octagon Entertainment Precinct, Moray Place, and the Warehouse Precinct.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for Families?

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

Dunedin is a very kid-friendly city. It's one of the largest cities on the South Island, and there are many educational opportunities and unique experiences available to kids. You can visit the Otago Museum or the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, take a wildlife cruise, or visit the Larnach Castle. You can also take a ride on the Inlander or simply hang out at a playground.

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 Dunedin Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Dunedin are good 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.

Dunedin is a good city for couples to visit. You can wander through the castle or explore one of the city's markets. There are also romantic restaurants and many opportunities to see wildlife.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Dunedin is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hanoi is a very popular city to visit 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.

Dunedin is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many hostels around town and plenty of activities that keep backpackers entertained.

Is Hanoi or Dunedin Better for Students?

Hanoi and Dunedin 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 Dunedin. This is a large student city that is welcoming to international students and a popular place to study.

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

Dunedin 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 Dunedin, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There a relatively decent bus system that travels through 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 Dunedin a more walkable city?

Dunedin 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.

Dunedin is a very walkable city. Parts of the town are 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 Dunedin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dunedin or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Dunedin?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hanoi and Dunedin. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than in Dunedin. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-3 days is enough time in Dunedin.

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

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

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 Dunedin, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this small destination offers. 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 Dunedin?

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 Dunedin. 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 Dunedin?

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.

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

A week in Hanoi or Dunedin?

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 small destination of Dunedin. 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, The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Dunedin?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Dunedin. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Dunedin, 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.