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

Should you visit Hanoi or Manchester?

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 Manchester 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 high energy, colorful, and cultural 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.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Hanoi and Manchester: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Manchester?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Manchester. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hanoi is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Manchester attracts visitors for its music. Hanoi is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Manchester is famous for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Hanoi different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Hanoi and Manchester.

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.

Manchester has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Is Hanoi or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Manchester for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Is Hanoi or Manchester Better for Music?

Manchester is well known for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Hanoi or Manchester Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is very popular for its historic old town. However, Manchester 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.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Manchester?

Hanoi is very popular for shopping. Also, Manchester 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.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Hanoi or Manchester Better for Families?

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

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

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 Manchester Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Manchester frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

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 Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Hanoi or Manchester Better for Students?

Hanoi and Manchester are superb 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 Manchester. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

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

Manchester 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 Manchester can get you around easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

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 Manchester a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Manchester both are nice 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.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable city. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Manchester?

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

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

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

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

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Manchester, many people enjoy the live music and food that this vibrant big city offers. 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 Manchester?

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Hanoi, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Manchester is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the big city destination of Manchester. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Manchester?

Hanoi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Manchester. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Manchester?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Manchester, 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 Manchester?

Manchester 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 Manchester in the Summer?

Both Manchester 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, most visitors come to Manchester for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than Manchester. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Manchester in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Manchester. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Manchester because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Hanoi is much warmer than Manchester in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Manchester fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Manchester. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Manchester in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Manchester. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Manchester this time of year.

It's quite cold in Manchester in the winter. In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Manchester. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Manchester averages at about 4°C (39°F).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Manchester. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Manchester in the Spring?

Both Manchester 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 travelers come to Manchester for the activities around the city.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Manchester. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 51 mm (2 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 Manchester and Hanoi