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

Should you visit Hanoi or Tauranga?

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 Tauranga 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 fascinating, high energy, and colorful 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.

Tauranga

Tauranga is a nature-filled, coastal, and laid back town. The beauty of Tauranga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Tauranga travel costs.

Hanoi and Tauranga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Tauranga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Tauranga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hanoi is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Tauranga is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Tauranga is popular for its sandy beaches and beautiful walking trails.

How is Hanoi different from Tauranga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its sights and museums. Also, Tauranga 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.

Tauranga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic buildings in town like the Elms Mission Station which dates back to 1847.

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

Hanoi is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Hanoi is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Tauranga. You'll find a great mix of restaurants in the town's downtown area. There are international flavors as well as seafood and other local favorites.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Tauranga is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Tauranga. The city is known for its laid back bar scene. There are venues with casual live music as well as pubs where locals and tourists intermingle.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga Better for Beaches?

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

The beaches at Tauranga attract visitors from all over. Families and travelers head here for the sandy beaches and water activities. Surfing, kayaking, and fishing are all popular in the area. Some of the most popular beaches include Mount Maunganui Beach, Waihī Beach, and Anzac Bay.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Tauranga 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.

Tauranga does not have a historic old town.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Tauranga. The Bay of Plenty is filled with hiking trails that run along the coast or head inland through the mountains. There are forest and bush walks that range in length and skill level and there really is something for everyone.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Tauranga?

Hanoi is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Tauranga 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 Tauranga. You'll find all of the standard shopping malls, retail outlets, and clothing boutiques around town.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga More Beautiful?

Tauranga is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Tauranga is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. A mix of beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and other natural environments make this a beautiful destination for travelers.

Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga Better for Families?

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

Tauranga is an extremely popular town to visit for families. Check out the ropes courses at Adrenalin Forest or play in the water at Waimarino Adventure Park. There are also many different walking areas like McLaren Falls Park and Kaiate Falls. Kids will love hanging out at the beach around Mount Maunganui or Papamoa Beach. This is an affordable and kid-family destination for locals and international tourists alike.

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 Tauranga Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Tauranga frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic destination with great beaches and beautiful waterfalls. You can enjoy a picnic in the park or dine at one of the local restaurants. Kayaking is also a popular activity in the area.

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 Tauranga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi and Tauranga are terrific 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 Tauranga, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. This is one of the more affordable destinations in New Zealand. There are also a number of backpacker-friendly jobs that make it a great place to base yourself.

Is Hanoi or Tauranga Better for Students?

Hanoi is a well-known place for students. However, Tauranga is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Tauranga is not popular with students.

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

Tauranga 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 Tauranga, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses, trains, and ferries in the area.

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 Tauranga a more walkable city?

Hanoi and Tauranga both are good when exploring on foot.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Tauranga is a somewhat walkable city. There are many walking and cycling paths in the area, but you really need a car to explore the area in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Tauranga or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Tauranga?

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

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

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

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

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Tauranga, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this laid back destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town 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 Tauranga?

Hanoi is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tauranga. 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 Tauranga?

Hanoi is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hanoi, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Tauranga is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Tauranga. 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 Tauranga?

Hanoi is a great place to explore. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

You'll find food and shopping around the coastal destination of Tauranga. 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 Tauranga, we can see that Tauranga 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 Tauranga 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 Tauranga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tauranga 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 Tauranga Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Tauranga?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Tauranga. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Tauranga, 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.