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

Should you visit Hanoi or Hiroshima?

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 Hiroshima 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Hiroshima

Hiroshima is a memorable, meaningful, and park-filled city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Hiroshima: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Hiroshima?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Hiroshima. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hanoi is more touristy than Hiroshima and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Hiroshima is famous for being the sight of the world's first atomic bomb detonation.

How is Hanoi different from Hiroshima?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the world-class sights and museums in both Hanoi and Hiroshima.

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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hiroshima has many famous sights for visitors. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park was built to commemorate the victims of the world's first nuclear attack. The park also serves as a sight to promote long term peace. In the park you'll find the Peace Memorial Museum, the Memorial Cenotaph, the Atom Bomb Dome, and the Flame of Peace. Other sights in Hiroshima include the Itsukushima shrine, the Hiroshima Castle, and Mitaki-dera Temple.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Hanoi and Hiroshima.

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.

Hiroshima has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many local dishes that you'll find in restaurants around town. Some of the best dining areas are around Hiroshima Station and in downtown Hiroshima. Make sure you try the Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, the local oysters, and tsukemen.

Is Hanoi or Hiroshima Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great city for nightlife. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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 Hiroshima. The city has many hidden pubs and traditional Japanese bars. The most vibrant nightlife scene is in the Chugoku-Shikoku district, particularly around Nagarekawa Street.

Is Hanoi or Hiroshima Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Hiroshima?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hanoi. 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.

Hiroshima is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are outlet malls as well as morning markets, that make for interesting shopping. Head to old Sanyodo Road to shop where the locals shop and for international brands head to Hondori Central Shopping District.

Is Hanoi or Hiroshima Better for Families?

Both Hanoi and Hiroshima are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hanoi. 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.

Hiroshima offers lots of family activities. Tragedy often comes to mind when you think of this city, as it was the sight of the first atomic bomb detonation. Older kids will learn a lot from a visit, but it may be a bit overwhelming for younger kids. There are still many things to do with kids of all ages in the city though, such as feeding the koi fish at Shukeien Park or visiting the floating Itsukushima shrine.

Is Hanoi or Hiroshima Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Hiroshima are nice 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.

Hiroshima is a good city for couples to visit. There is plenty of nature and green space in the city. Couples will enjoy visiting the Hiroshima Castle or wandering through the gardens such as Shukkeien or the Hiroshima Botanical Garden.

Is Hanoi or Hiroshima Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hiroshima is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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 backpackers visit Hiroshima. There are many hostels around town and plenty of things to see an do.

Is Hanoi or Hiroshima Better for Students?

Hanoi is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is not popular with students.

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

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima can get you around easily. There's a good tram and streetcar network around town as well as a ferry connecting the city to Miyajima Island. There are also buses 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 Hiroshima a more walkable city?

Hiroshima 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.

Hiroshima is a very walkable city. If you base yourself in downtown Hiroshima, you can explore many areas 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 Hiroshima Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hiroshima or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Hiroshima?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hanoi and Hiroshima. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than in Hiroshima. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hiroshima.

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

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

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Hiroshima, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this memorable destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Hiroshima?

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

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

A week in Hanoi or Hiroshima?

Hanoi is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the park-filled destination of Hiroshima. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Adventure Tours to Japan, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hanoi and Hiroshima, we can see that Hiroshima is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Hiroshima would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Hiroshima?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Hiroshima. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Hiroshima, 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 Hiroshima?

Hiroshima 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 Hiroshima in the Summer?

Both Hiroshima 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. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hiroshima this time of year.

In July, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Hiroshima gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets less rain in July than Hiroshima. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 238 mm (9.4 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Hiroshima in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Hiroshima. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hiroshima for the shopping scene.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Hiroshima in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Hiroshima fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Hiroshima receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hiroshima. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Hiroshima in the Winter?

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

Hiroshima can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Hiroshima. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Hiroshima averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Hiroshima. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Hiroshima in the Spring?

Both Hiroshima and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Hiroshima. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Hiroshima fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hiroshima. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Hiroshima. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Hiroshima receives 168 mm (6.6 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 Hiroshima and Hanoi