A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Palma de Mallorca for Nightlife, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca?

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 Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a cultural, historic, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Hanoi and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Hanoi and is popular for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Hanoi different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have 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.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Hanoi and Palma de Mallorca.

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.

Palma de Mallorca has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Palma de Mallorca is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Many people head to Hanoi for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Palma de Mallorca. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca is well known for its resorts. However, Hanoi is not a resort destination.

In Palma de Mallorca, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca is renowned for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Palma de Mallorca is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of Hanoi can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Many people head to Palma de Mallorca to see the old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca is a island with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

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

Palma de Mallorca is a very kid-friendly island. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Palma de Mallorca are nice 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a good city for couples to visit. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Is Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca Better for Students?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

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

Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

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 Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Palma de Mallorca 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable city. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

In Palma de Mallorca, many people enjoy the live music and food that this stunning destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palma de Mallorca. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Palma de Mallorca is a fun place to experience. In Palma de Mallorca, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this destination offers. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

Hanoi is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Palma de Mallorca. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 in Spain, and The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca?

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

Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Palma de Mallorca. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Palma de Mallorca because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the summer. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than Palma de Mallorca. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca in the Autumn?

Both Palma de Mallorca 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, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Palma de Mallorca this time of year.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Palma de Mallorca in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In October, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Palma de Mallorca. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April.

Should I visit Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca in the Winter?

Both Palma de Mallorca 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. Furthermore, many travelers come to Palma de Mallorca for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Palma de Mallorca. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Palma de Mallorca averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Palma de Mallorca. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Palma de Mallorca in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Palma de Mallorca. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, many visitors come to Palma de Mallorca in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Palma de Mallorca. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Palma de Mallorca fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Palma de Mallorca. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Palma de Mallorca receives 46 mm (1.8 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 Palma de Mallorca and Hanoi