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

Should you visit Hanoi or Queenstown?

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 Queenstown 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. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a bustling, active, and adventure-filled city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the skiing, nightlife, and food.

Hanoi and Queenstown: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Queenstown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hanoi and Queenstown are popular destinations, Hanoi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hanoi is very popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Queenstown attracts visitors for its skiing, food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Queenstown is famous for its world class skiing, adrenaline-filled adventure sports, and stunning mountain scenery.

How is Hanoi different from Queenstown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Queenstown and Hanoi. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Hanoi or Queenstown Better for Skiing?

Queenstown is renowned for winter skiing. However, Hanoi is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Queenstown. There are four ski areas that are near the city, and many consider these among the best ski fields in New Zealand. The ski season runs from June until October and the skiing is world class.

Hanoi is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hanoi or Queenstown?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. However, Queenstown is not a good city for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Hanoi that are not to be missed. 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.

While most people don't head to Queenstown specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. People head to this city for its amazing outdoor activities, but you won't find much if you're looking for museums. You can check out the Lakes District Museum though.

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

Queenstown 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 Queenstown have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Located in the heart of the Otago wine region, this city has many award-winning restaurants. Local dishes, vegan cafes, and international flavors all make for a cosmopolitan and world class dining scene.

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 Queenstown Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Queenstown for the nightlife scene. This cosmopolitan town has some of the best nightlife in the country. There are laid back pubs, trendy cocktail bars, and live music venues that make for a fun night out.

Is Hanoi or Queenstown Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Queenstown does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Hanoi is revered around the world. 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.

Queenstown does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Queenstown Better for Hiking?

Queenstown is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Around Queenstown visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city is ideally located near some of the country's best hiking. There are walks through beech forests, along rugged mountains, and to stunning views. Several of the Great Walks are in the area as well, but if you're looking for something a little simpler, then there are many options also.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Queenstown?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Queenstown is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Hanoi is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Queenstown is well-known for its shopping. It's a bustling city with designer brands and boutique shopping. There are also souvenir shops and retail outlets.

Is Hanoi or Queenstown Better for Families?

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

Queenstown is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the Queenstown cable car and the Skyline Gondola. After a ride on the gondola, you can even take the luge back down! The city also offers lake cruises, family-friendly farm tours, boat tours, and kayaking.

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 Queenstown Better for Couples?

Queenstown is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Queenstown is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The city is known for its adrenaline-filled adventure activities and couples who enjoy a thrill will appreciate the fun. There are also hot springs, boat cruises, and wine tours in the area. One of the most romantic activities is dinner at the Skyline.

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 Queenstown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi and Queenstown are fantastic places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Queenstown, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. With its thrill-seeking activities and nearby skiing, this is a great backpacker destination year round.

Is Hanoi or Queenstown Better for Students?

Hanoi and Queenstown are very good 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 Queenstown. There are excellent universities in the area as well as fun activities and a lively energy that students enjoy.

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

Queenstown is a city 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 Queenstown, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a decent bus system that travels 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 Queenstown a more walkable city?

Queenstown 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.

Queenstown is a very walkable city. In town, many of the sights and activities 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 Queenstown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Queenstown or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Queenstown?

Both Hanoi and Queenstown have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Queenstown than in Hanoi. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-7 days is enough time in Queenstown.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Queenstown than Hanoi 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 Queenstown.

One day in Hanoi or Queenstown?

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 Queenstown, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this nature-oriented destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Queenstown?

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 Queenstown. 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 Queenstown?

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.

Queenstown is a fun place to experience. In Queenstown, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Queenstown?

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.

In Queenstown, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this nature-oriented destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 10-Day Tours in New Zealand.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Queenstown?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Queenstown. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Queenstown, 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.