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

Should you visit Hanoi or San Francisco?

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 San Francisco 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. 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.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and quirky coastal city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Hanoi and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or San Francisco?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in San Francisco than Hanoi. While Hanoi is larger than San Francisco, San Francisco has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Francisco is more popular for its theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hanoi is known for its nightlife and historical sights. San Francisco is more touristy than Hanoi and is popular for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. It is also home to The Golden Gate Bridge. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy.

How is Hanoi different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the first-rate sights and museums in both Hanoi and San Francisco.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, San Francisco has many famous sights for visitors. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is a coastal city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Hanoi is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in San Francisco. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Hanoi is not a theatre destination.

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

San Francisco 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 San Francisco have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

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 San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a great city for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal 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 San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is a coastal city with good options for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is well known for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

The beaches at San Francisco attract visitors from all over. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

San Francisco does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

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

Around San Francisco visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or San Francisco?

Shopping is a popular activity in both San Francisco and Hanoi.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Many people travel to San Francisco specifically to go shopping. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for Families?

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

San Francisco is an extremely popular coastal city to visit for families. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

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 San Francisco Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit San Francisco frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

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 San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Is Hanoi or San Francisco Better for Students?

Hanoi and San Francisco are high quality 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 San Francisco. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

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

San Francisco is renowned for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

San Francisco has a great public transit system. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

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 San Francisco a more walkable city?

San Francisco 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.

San Francisco is a very walkable coastal city. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

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 San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or San Francisco?

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

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

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

One day in Hanoi or San Francisco?

Hanoi is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In San Francisco, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this one-of-a-kind big city offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal 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 San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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 San Francisco. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 San Francisco?

Hanoi is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. In San Francisco, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this big city destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Hanoi. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In San Francisco, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quirky big city offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or San Francisco?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of San Francisco. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and San Francisco, 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 San Francisco?

San Francisco 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 San Francisco in the Summer?

Both San Francisco 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 summer months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Hanoi is much warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and San Francisco averages at about 63°F (17°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than San Francisco. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or San Francisco in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and San Francisco. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to San Francisco this time of year.

In October, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or San Francisco in the Winter?

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

Hanoi is much warmer than San Francisco in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and San Francisco fluctuates around 50°F (10°C).

Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than San Francisco. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or San Francisco in the Spring?

Both San Francisco and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

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

It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives more rain than San Francisco. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 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 San Francisco and Hanoi