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

Should you visit Hanoi or Nagoya?

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 Nagoya 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 fascinating, high energy, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Hanoi travel costs.

Nagoya

Nagoya is a under-rated, often overlooked, and under-the-radar 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nagoya travel costs.

Hanoi and Nagoya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Nagoya?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Nagoya. While Nagoya is larger than Hanoi, Hanoi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hanoi is more popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Nagoya is known for its food. Hanoi is more touristy than Nagoya and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Nagoya is popular for its local cuisine, historic shrines, and long running shipping industry.

How is Hanoi different from Nagoya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hanoi has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Many visitors head to Nagoya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are shrines, temples, and other interesting sights in the city. Atsuta Jingu is an important Shinto shrine. Nagoya Castle is another interesting place to visit. If you're willing to head out of the city center a bit, the Meiji-mura Village Museum is an open air museum that has interesting Japanese architecture. There are also interesting museums in town such as the Nagoya City Art Museums and the Toyota Techno and Toyota Automobile Museums.

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

Nagoya 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 Nagoya have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a strong food culture that's referred to as Nagoya meshi. It's a popular destination for foodies to Japan, even though the city itself is often overlooked by tourists. The city's food uses a lot of local vegetables and its influenced by several international flavors. Important ingredients in the dishes include unagi (freshwater eel), Nagoya cochin (chicken), tamari (soy sauce), and mame miso.

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 Nagoya Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Nagoya for the nightlife scene. There are many bars around town, many of which have an international theme. Later in the evening, many people head out to a nightclubs, most of which are concentrated in either Sakae and Shin-sakae.

Is Hanoi or Nagoya Better for its Old Town?

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

Nagoya does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Nagoya?

Hanoi is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Hanoi specifically to go shopping. 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.

Nagoya is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find everything from large shopping malls to street markets and local vendors. Many people head to Nagoya Station for shopping, but Osu Shotengai is another interesting shopping area in the city's old town.

Is Hanoi or Nagoya Better for Families?

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

Nagoya is an extremely popular city to visit for families. There are a large number of attractions for families in the area. This city is where you'll find Legoland Japan, which is one of the most popular activities to do with kids. The city also has the Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the Legoland Hotel. Next to Legoland you'll find the SCMaglev and Railway Park. Another great activity is a visit to the Nagoya Public Aquarium, which is one of the biggest aquariums in Japan. There are dolphins, orcas, and many different ecosystems to explore. Nearby is the Sea Train Land amusement park.

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 Nagoya Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy visiting the Nagoya Castle or checking out the dolphin and orca shows at the Nagoya Public Aquarium. Noritake Garden is a nice place to explore. There are also many coffee shops in town as well as museums and temples.

Is Hanoi or Nagoya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Hanoi, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Nagoya is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Although the city is often overlooked by tourists, there are a limited number of hostels in town, so they fill up quickly. You should make reservations well in advance if budget is a priority.

Is Hanoi or Nagoya Better for Students?

Hanoi is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nagoya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Hanoi is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Nagoya is popular with students. Nagoya University has been working to grow its international population. This is a fun and dynamic city that makes a great place to study.

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

Nagoya 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 Nagoya can get you around easily. The city has both a subway and public buses. The main bus stations are at Nagoya Station and Sakae Station and there are six subway lines throughout 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 Nagoya a more walkable city?

Nagoya 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.

Nagoya is a very walkable city. The downtown area, where you'll find many of the sights, is walkable. The distances vary, but many sights can be reached 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 Nagoya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nagoya or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Nagoya?

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

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

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

Hanoi is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Nagoya, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this often overlooked big city offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Nagoya?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Hanoi or Nagoya?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating big city of Hanoi. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 food and shopping around the under-the-radar big city of Nagoya. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Luxury Tours to Japan, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Nagoya?

Nagoya has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Hanoi. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Nagoya, 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 Nagoya?

Nagoya 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 Nagoya in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Nagoya. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Nagoya in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hanoi is around the same temperature as Nagoya. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Nagoya averages at about 27°C (80°F).

It's quite rainy in Nagoya. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hanoi usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Nagoya. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 213 mm (8.4 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Nagoya in the Autumn?

Both Nagoya and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Nagoya for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Nagoya. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and Nagoya fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nagoya. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In October, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Nagoya. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April.

Should I visit Hanoi or Nagoya in the Winter?

Both Nagoya 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. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Nagoya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Nagoya can be very cold. Hanoi is much warmer than Nagoya in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Nagoya fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Nagoya. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Nagoya in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Nagoya. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Nagoya this time of year.

In the spring, Hanoi is much warmer than Nagoya. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hanoi in April average around 24°C (75°F), and Nagoya averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Nagoya 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 Nagoya. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Nagoya receives 152 mm (6 in) of rain each month for the spring. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Typical Weather for Nagoya and Hanoi