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

Should you visit Hanoi or Phoenix?

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 Phoenix 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 cultural, historical, and fascinating 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a desert, laid back, and sprawling city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Hanoi and Phoenix: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Phoenix?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hanoi and Phoenix are roughly the same size, Hanoi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hanoi is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Phoenix is known for its hiking. Hanoi is more touristy than Phoenix and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Phoenix is popular for its desert landscapes, high number of golf courses, and year round warm weather.

How is Hanoi different from Phoenix?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Phoenix is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find art, science, and cultural museums around town. Favorites include the Heard Museum, the Phoenix Art Museum, S'edav Va'aki Museum, and the Arizona Science Museum.

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

Hanoi is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Phoenix offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are many mom-and-pop shops around town that serve everything from casual meals to quality steaks. There's also a huge selection of Mexican restaurants, as well as other international options such as sushi, dim sum, and Italian.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

The nightlife in Hanoi has something for everybody. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Phoenix. The best nightlife scene is found in downtown and central Phoenix. There are bars, restaurants, and venues where you can catch a show. North Phoenix also has grown into a popular evening spot with cocktail bars and pubs.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Hanoi offers plenty to see. 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.

Phoenix does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for Hiking?

Phoenix is a city with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Phoenix. You don't have to head far out of town for impressive hiking opportunities. You'll find trails that range from easy to challenging, and many pass through other-worldly landscapes. You'll find popular trails in Usery Mountain Regional Park, Papago Park, White Tank Mountain Regional Park, South Mountain Park and many others.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Phoenix?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Phoenix is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Phoenix is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of shopping centers, outlets, and malls where you'll find the standard chain stores. You'll also find farmer's markets around town.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for Families?

Both Hanoi and Phoenix are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hanoi. 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.

Phoenix offers lots of family activities. Kids will love the Phoenix Zoo, the Arizona Science Center, the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, and the Bearizona Wildlife Park. There's also a number of parks and gardens as well as a children's museum and several other interactive museums for kids.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Phoenix 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.

Phoenix is a good city for couples to visit. There are many parks and gardens in town as well as beautiful hikes and outdoor activities that couples will enjoy. In the evening, there's theater, shows, and many romantic restaurants.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Phoenix is not known 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.

Phoenix is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel or two around town for budget travelers.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix Better for Students?

Hanoi is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Phoenix is not popular with 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.

Phoenix is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hanoi and Phoenix.

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 mostly limited in Phoenix. There's a bus and light rail system, but you really need your own vehicle to get around.

Is Hanoi or Phoenix a more walkable city?

Hanoi is a city with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Phoenix is not known for its walkability.

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.

Phoenix is generally not very walkable. It's a sprawling city and the only real area that's walkable is the downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Phoenix or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Phoenix?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hanoi and Phoenix. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than in Phoenix. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 1-3 days is enough time in Phoenix.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hanoi than Phoenix. 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix?

Because Hanoi is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Phoenix, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this desert destination offers. This city 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 Phoenix?

Because Hanoi is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Phoenix. 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 Phoenix?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hanoi has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

A week in Hanoi or Phoenix?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the laid back destination of Phoenix. 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 Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Phoenix?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Phoenix. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Phoenix, 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 Phoenix?

Phoenix 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 Phoenix in the Summer?

Both Phoenix 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. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Phoenix this time of year.

Phoenix can become quite hot in the summer. In the summer, Hanoi is cooler than Phoenix. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Phoenix averages at about 98°F (36°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than Phoenix. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Phoenix in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Phoenix. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Phoenix for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Hanoi is generally around the same temperature as Phoenix. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and Phoenix fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Phoenix in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Phoenix. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Phoenix in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Phoenix in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Phoenix fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Phoenix. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.7 inches (17 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Phoenix in the Spring?

Both Phoenix and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year.

In the spring, Hanoi is around the same temperature as Phoenix. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hanoi in April average around 24°C (75°F), and Phoenix averages at about 74°F (23°C).

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Phoenix. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Phoenix receives 0.2 inches (6 mm) 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 Phoenix and Hanoi