A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Lake Tekapo for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hanoi or Lake Tekapo?

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 Lake Tekapo 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 historical, fascinating, and high energy 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.

Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is a small, remote, and basic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. The beauty of Lake Tekapo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Lake Tekapo travel costs.

Hanoi and Lake Tekapo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Lake Tekapo?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hanoi and Lake Tekapo are both popular with visitors, Hanoi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hanoi is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake Tekapo is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Lake Tekapo and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Lake Tekapo is popular for its hot springs, remote location, and beautiful night sky.

How is Hanoi different from Lake Tekapo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is terrific for its museums and landmarks. However, Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Lake Tekapo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hanoi is a great destination for its restaurant scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options 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.

Lake Tekapo offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The town is very small with just a couple of restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for nightlife.

The people in Hanoi know how to have a good time. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Lake Tekapo This is a very small town and there isn't a real nightlife scene. The night sky is incredible though, and you should absolutely do some stargazing.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Lake Tekapo does not have a 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.

Lake Tekapo does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo Better for Hiking?

Lake Tekapo is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Lake Tekapo. There are many beautiful hikes in the area with some of the most popular being the Mount John Summit Track, the Richmond Trail, and Cowan's Hill Walkway.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Lake Tekapo?

Hanoi is terrific for its shopping areas. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options 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 in Lake Tekapo can be found for those interested. There are a couple of shops where you can pick up basic necessities.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo More Beautiful?

Lake Tekapo is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Lake Tekapo is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. You really want to get out of town and explore the area's stunning natural beauty.

Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo Better for Families?

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

Lake Tekapo is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will enjoy a visit to Tekapo Springs, which is particularly fun in the winter months. There's snow tubing, ice skating, and, of course, the hot pools. There are also short hikes in the area like the Mount John Summit Walk. Biking, paddleboarding, and kayaking are also popular in the area.

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 Lake Tekapo Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Lake Tekapo 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.

Lake Tekapo is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the stunning scenery, beautiful hikes, and the romantic hot springs. Stargazing is another popular activity in the area.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is terrific for backpackers. Also, Lake Tekapo 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Lake Tekapo. It's a small town with a couple of cheap places to stay that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo Better for Students?

Hanoi is a great destination for students. However, Lake Tekapo is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Lake Tekapo is not popular with students.

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

Hanoi is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Lake Tekapo is a town with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Public transit is quite limited in Lake Tekapo. Public transportation in the area is very limited. If you don't have a car, you'll want to arrange tours to get out and about.

Is Hanoi or Lake Tekapo a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Lake Tekapo both are good when exploring on foot.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Lake Tekapo is a somewhat walkable city. The town is small enough to get around on foot, and you can hire a tour to get out into the region.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Lake Tekapo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lake Tekapo or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Lake Tekapo?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hanoi or Lake Tekapo to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hanoi than Lake Tekapo because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lake Tekapo.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hanoi than Lake Tekapo. 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 Lake Tekapo 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 Lake Tekapo?

Hanoi is a cultural city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Lake Tekapo, many people enjoy the that this small destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town 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 Lake Tekapo?

Hanoi is a cultural big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Lake Tekapo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Lake Tekapo?

Hanoi is a historical city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Lake Tekapo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Lake Tekapo. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Lake Tekapo?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the basic destination of Lake Tekapo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Tours for Seniors to New Zealand, and The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Lake Tekapo?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 4340 times larger than the population of Lake Tekapo. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Lake Tekapo, 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.