A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Koh Chang for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hanoi or Koh Chang?

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

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a tranquil, scenic, and idyllic island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Koh Chang?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hanoi and Koh Chang are popular destinations, Hanoi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hanoi is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Koh Chang and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Hanoi different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is very popular for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Hanoi from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

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

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Hanoi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is well known for its resorts. However, Hanoi is not a resort destination.

In Koh Chang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a island with a few options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Chang has a few snorkeling spots. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is renowned for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Koh Chang is considered to be a world-class beach destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is very popular for its historic old town. However, Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi has a world-famous historical 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.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a island with a few options for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Koh Chang?

Hanoi is very popular for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Families?

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

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly island. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

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 Koh Chang Better for Couples?

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

Koh Chang is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

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 Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Koh Chang is a great city to visit for backpackers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Is Hanoi or Koh Chang Better for Students?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Chang 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.

Koh Chang is not popular with students.

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

Koh Chang is a island 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 Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

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 Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Hanoi is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Hanoi is somewhat walkable. 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.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Koh Chang?

In either Hanoi or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Hanoi has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hanoi than Koh Chang. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

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

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 Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this serene destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the beaches. This island 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 Koh Chang?

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 Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Koh Chang?

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.

Koh Chang is a fun place to experience. In Koh Chang, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the beaches. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Koh Chang?

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 nightlife around the serene destination of Koh Chang. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. 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 Thailand, and The Best Eco Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Hanoi and Koh Chang, 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 Koh Chang Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Hanoi or Koh Chang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Hanoi or Koh Chang in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Koh Chang. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year.

May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hanoi usually gets less rain in July than Koh Chang. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In July, Hanoi is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In October, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Hanoi is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Koh Chang in the Winter?

Both Koh Chang and Hanoi during the winter 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 Koh Chang year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Koh Chang. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Hanoi is much colder than Koh Chang. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Hanoi or Koh Chang in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Koh Chang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the spring. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Hanoi is generally cooler than Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Hanoi