A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Genoa for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Hanoi or Genoa?

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 Genoa 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 colorful, cultural, and historical city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a colorful, energetic, and historic port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Genoa?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Genoa, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hanoi is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Genoa is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Hanoi different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is terrific for its historical sights. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hanoi has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Hanoi and Genoa.

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.

Genoa has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Hanoi or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is great for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

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 Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Hanoi or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Genoa is a port city with a few options for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

You can check out the beach in Genoa. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Genoa?

Hanoi is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Hanoi specifically to go shopping. 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.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Hanoi or Genoa Better for Families?

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

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Genoa frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

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 Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hanoi, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Genoa. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

Is Hanoi or Genoa Better for Students?

Hanoi and Genoa are high quality 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 Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

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

Genoa is well known for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Genoa can get you around easily. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Genoa a more walkable city?

Genoa 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.

Genoa is a very walkable port city. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is 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 Genoa Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Hanoi or Genoa. 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 Genoa.

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

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

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

Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

In Genoa, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this colorful destination offers. This port 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Hanoi is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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

A week in Hanoi or Genoa?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical big city of Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful destination of Genoa. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Genoa?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Genoa. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Genoa, 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 Genoa?

Genoa 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 Genoa in the Summer?

Both Genoa 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. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Genoa because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hanoi is a little warmer than Genoa. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Genoa averages at about 25°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than Genoa. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Genoa in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Genoa. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Genoa this time of year.

In October, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Genoa. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and Genoa fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Genoa. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Genoa in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Genoa. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Genoa for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hanoi is much warmer than Genoa in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Genoa fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Genoa. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Genoa in the Spring?

Both Genoa and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Genoa in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hanoi is much warmer than Genoa. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hanoi in April average around 24°C (75°F), and Genoa averages at about 15°C (58°F).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Genoa. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Genoa receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Typical Weather for Genoa and Hanoi