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

Should you visit Hanoi or Seattle?

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 Seattle 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Seattle

Seattle is a bustling, progressive, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking.

Hanoi and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Seattle?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Seattle than Hanoi. While Hanoi is larger than Seattle, Seattle has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, music, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hanoi is known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Seattle is popular for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle.

How is Hanoi different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Seattle. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a 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 Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Hanoi is not a theatre destination.

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

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

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.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Seattle for the nightlife scene. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for its live music scene. However, Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Seattle is a city with good options for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Hanoi is one of the most recognized in 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.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Seattle?

Hanoi is renowned for its shopping areas. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city 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 Seattle. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Families?

Both Hanoi and Seattle 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.

Seattle offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Couples?

Both Hanoi and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is renowned for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Hanoi or Seattle Better for Students?

Hanoi and Seattle 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 Seattle. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

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

Seattle 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 Seattle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, 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 Seattle a more walkable city?

Seattle 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.

Seattle is a very walkable city. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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 Seattle Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hanoi and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than in Seattle. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

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

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 Seattle, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this outdoorsy big city 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the big city destination of Seattle. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Hanoi or Seattle?

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 shopping and museums around the progressive big city of Seattle. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Seattle?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Seattle. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

Seattle 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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Seattle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Seattle 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 Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hanoi in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Seattle. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Seattle. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, 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 Seattle this time of year.

In October, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 25°C (77°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Seattle. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle 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, many travelers come to Seattle for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Hanoi is much warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 17°C (63°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Seattle. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle 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. Furthermore, many visitors come to Seattle in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Hanoi is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hanoi in April average around 24°C (75°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Seattle. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) 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 Seattle and Hanoi