A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Hong Kong for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hanoi or Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a compact, dense, and cosmopolitan city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Hanoi or Hong Kong?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hong Kong than Hanoi. Hong Kong is bigger than Hanoi, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hong Kong is better known for its food, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hanoi is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Hanoi is well known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Hong Kong is well known for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. Also, Hong Kong is famous for Victoria Peak.

How is Hanoi different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


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

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Hong Kong have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Is Hanoi or Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

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

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 Hong Kong for the nightlife scene. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hanoi or Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is well known for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.


Is Hanoi or Hong Kong Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Hong Kong?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hong Kong and Hanoi.

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.

Many people travel to Hong Kong specifically to go shopping. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.


Is Hanoi or Hong Kong Better for Families?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an extremely popular city to visit for families. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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 Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Hong Kong is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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 Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


Is Hanoi or Hong Kong Better for Students?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hanoi is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

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

Hanoi
Hong Kong

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

Hong Kong has a great public transit system. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of 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 Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Hanoi
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Hong Kong on foot is easy. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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 Hong Kong Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Hong Kong?

Both Hanoi and Hong Kong have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in Hanoi. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 3-7 days is enough time in Hong Kong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Hong Kong 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.


  • How many days in Hanoi or Hong Kong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hanoi 3-5 
    Hong Kong 3-7

One day in Hanoi or Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse big city offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Hanoi or Hong Kong?

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.

Hong Kong is a fun place to experience. In Hong Kong, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Hanoi or Hong Kong?

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.

In Hong Kong, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cosmopolitan big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


Which place is cheaper, Hong Kong or Hanoi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hanoi is $49, while the average daily cost in Hong Kong is $159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hanoi and Hong Kong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hanoi $25
    Hong Kong $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hanoi $50
    Hong Kong $150
Compare Hotels in Hanoi and Hong Kong

Looking for a hotel in Hanoi or Hong Kong? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hanoi


Hotels in Hong Kong


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hanoi Hotel Prices and Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hanoi $7.00
    Hong Kong $8.71
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hanoi

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hanoi:


  • Taxi to Bus Station
    $1.22
  • Shuttle Bus From Airport (for Two)
    $3.24
  • Local Bus Ride (for Two)
    $0.41
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $1.38
  • Short Motorbike Ride (10 Minutes)
    $0.81

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hanoi

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hanoi:

  • Wonderbay Luxury 1 Day Cruise from Hanoi with Expressway Transfer: $75
  • VIP LUXURY Sapa 2D1N -TRANSFER BY LUX LIMOUSINE CAR (Stay at 5* hotel): $189
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Ha Noi HTL-APT (HAN): $14
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Ha Noi APT-HTL (HAN): $14
  • Transfer between Hanoi and Sapa : $14
  • Transfer Hanoi to Halong Super Limousine Morning Bus: $33
  • The Best Sapa Tour 2D1N Stay At 3* Hotel -Transfer by Sleep BUS : $159
  • The Best Sapa Tour 2D1N At 3 Star Hotel by sleeping BUS TRANSFER : $129
  • The Best 2D1N HALONG BAY- All Inclusive,Overnight on Boat By Expressway Transfer: $125
  • Symphony Cruise- Luxury Day Trip From Hanoi With Express Transfer: $99
  • Small Group Hoa Lu Tam Coc Day Tour with Limousine Transfer : $45
  • Small Group Halong Islands, Cave, Kayak. Seafood Lunch. EXPRESSWAY Transfer: $67

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Hanoi or Hong Kong?

Prices for flights to both Hong Kong and Hanoi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hanoi $13
    Hong Kong $33
Typical Food Prices in Hanoi

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hanoi:


  • High End Dinner (for Two)
    $12
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $4.46
  • Bowl of Pho
    $0.81
  • Italian Dinner (for Food)
    $6.29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hanoi

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hanoi.

  • Private Traditional Vietnamese Food Cooking Class in Hanoi : $5.00
  • Hanoi free food tour - Old Quarter food walking tour: $5.00
  • (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR : $5.13
  • Street Food Tour with Free Private Tour Guide: $5.26
  • Hanoi Best Local Food Tour Visit Train Street Old Quarter: $19
  • Hanoi food tour - Local street food walking tour: $19
  • Hanoi Walking Street Food Tour: $20
  • Hanoi local street food tour: $20
  • Hanoi street food tour small group tour: $22
  • Walking Street Food Tour Small Group with Local Guide: $22
  • Ngon ngon & Authentic Hanoi Food Tour: $23
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour: $23

Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hanoi $8.64
    Hong Kong $95
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hanoi

Here are a few typical costs in Hanoi for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Puppet Theater
    $1.62
  • The Hanoi Hilton Entrance
    $1.62
  • National History Museum
    $1.62
  • Puppet Theater Ticket
    $2.84

Tours and Activities in Hanoi

Here are a few actual costs in Hanoi for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day Luxury Arcady Cruise Tour from Hanoi by Express Limousine: $75
  • 1 Day Trip in Wego Halong Cruise with Pick up: $55
  • 2 Day Oasis Bay Cruise Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi: $228
  • 2 Day Private Guided Tour in Pu Luong Nature Hanoi: $169
  • 2-day Gen Z Cruise Explore Halong Bay from Hanoi: $228
  • 4 Days 3 Nights Ha Giang Loop Tour from Hanoi by Sleeper Bus: $235
  • 4 Hours and 30 Minutes Historical Hanoi Army Jeep Tour: $58
  • 5 Days Motorbike Tour in Ha Giang Loop From Hanoi: $265
  • All-Inclusive 2D/1N 5star Cruises: Meals-Kayak-Cave-Accommodation : $175
  • Beautiful Female Riders Vespa Red River Countryside Tour 5 Hours: $65
  • Explore Hoa Lu, Tam Coc and Ninh Binh in a Day Tour from Hanoi: $85
  • From Halong Bay by Scenic Seaplane and Luxury Day Cruise: $230

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110
  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hanoi $7.82
    Hong Kong $21

Sample the Local Flavors in Hanoi

Also in Hanoi, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hanoi Beer and Brewery Tour: $48
  • Half-Day Guided Tour Australian Beef with Wine Tasting & Rickshaw in Hanoi: $107


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


Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hanoi. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Hong Kong, 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.