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

Should you visit Hanoi or Picton?

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 Picton 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Hanoi travel costs.

Picton

Picton is a relaxing, picturesque, and scenic town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Picton travel costs.

Hanoi and Picton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Picton?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hanoi and Picton are both popular with visitors, Hanoi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hanoi is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Picton is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Picton is popular for its picturesque scenery, laid back setting, and beautiful walking trails.

How is Hanoi different from Picton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Picton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums around town that are fun to visit with the weather isn't cooperating. Edwin Fox Ship is the world's oldest merchant ship. You can also learn about the town's whaling past at the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Hanoi and Picton.

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.

Picton has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with restaurants that stay true to New Zealand's culinary traditions. Mussels and salmon are common on menus, and there are many bakeries and waterfront cafes to try.

Is Hanoi or Picton Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Picton is not a good town for nightlife.

Hanoi offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Picton. It's a small town with a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Is Hanoi or Picton Better for Beaches?

Picton is well known for the beach. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Picton attract visitors from all over. There are four beaches in the area. Picton Beach is by the town center and near many restaurants and cafes. About a ten minute walk from town is Shelley Beach and if you're up for more walking, Bob's Bay is secluded and nice. If you have a car you can make it to Governer's Bay.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Picton Better for its Old Town?

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

Picton does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Picton Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Picton. There are many nice walking paths in the area and this is a great way to explore, reach beaches, and see the surrounding landscapes. If you're up for a longer trip, Queen Charlotte Track is a popular trail.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Picton?

Hanoi is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Picton. There are a few galleries and local shops around town.

Is Hanoi or Picton Better for Families?

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

Picton is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will enjoy taking a boat cruise to Motuara Island. You can see dolphins, birds, and other wildlife. There are also wildlife centers in the area, family-friendly walking trails, museums, aquariums, and kayaking opportunities.

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 Picton Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Picton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic and quaint bed and breakfasts, beautiful walking paths, wildlife encounters, and many more fun activities for couples. Kayak trips, vineyard tours, and local spas make this a great couple's getaway destination.

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 Picton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is very popular for backpackers. Also, Picton is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Picton is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are plenty of hostels in the area as well as great transportation links, making this a great spot for backpackers.

Is Hanoi or Picton Better for Students?

Hanoi is a well-known place for students. However, Picton 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.

Picton is not popular with students.

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

Picton is a town 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 Picton, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are water taxis but no buses around 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 Picton a more walkable city?

Picton 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.

Picton is a very walkable town. It's a quaint and compact town that's easy to explore 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 Picton Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Picton or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Picton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hanoi or Picton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hanoi than Picton 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 Picton.

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

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

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

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 Picton, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this picturesque destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Picton?

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 Picton. 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 Picton?

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.

Picton is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Picton. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Picton?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical 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 relaxing destination of Picton. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Adventure Tours to New Zealand, and The Best Eco Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Picton?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 480 times larger than the population of Picton. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Picton, 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 Picton?

Picton 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 Picton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Picton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Picton for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hanoi is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Picton averages at about 18°C (64°F)in January.

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Pictonin January. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Picton receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Picton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Picton. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Picton in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Pictonin April. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and Picton fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Pictonin April. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Picton receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Picton in the Winter?

Both Picton and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Picton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Hanoi is much warmer than Picton in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Picton fluctuates around 10°C (49°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Picton. In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Pictonin July. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Picton receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Picton in the Spring?

Both Picton and Hanoi during the spring 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 spring months attract visitors to Picton because of the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Hanoi is much warmer than Picton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hanoi in April average around 24°C (75°F), and Picton averages at about 13°C (55°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Pictonin October. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Picton receives 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Typical Weather for Picton and Hanoi