A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Zurich for Attractions, Old Town, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Hanoi or Zurich?

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 Zurich 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. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Hanoi and Zurich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Zurich?

You'll generally find more things to do in Hanoi than Zurich. Hanoi is bigger than Zurich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Hanoi is better known for its museums and big city activities, while Zurich is more popular for its music and impressive beauty. Hanoi is well known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Hanoi different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Zurich offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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

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

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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Hanoi or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Zurich for the nightlife scene. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Hanoi or Zurich Better for Music?

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

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Hanoi is not a live music destination.

Is Hanoi or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Both Hanoi and Zurich have fantastic historic old towns worth visiting.

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.

Zurich offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Zurich?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Zurich 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 Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Is Hanoi or Zurich Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Zurich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Hanoi or Zurich Better for Students?

Zurich is renowned for students. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Zurich is a very popular city for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

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.

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

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

The public transit in Zurich can get you around easily. The system is made up of streetcars 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 Zurich a more walkable city?

Zurich 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.

Zurich is a very walkable city. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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 Zurich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Zurich?

In either Hanoi or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Zurich has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Zurich than Hanoi. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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

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

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

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 Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Zurich?

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 Zurich. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Zurich?

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.

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating 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 museums and nightlife around the liberal destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Zurich?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Zurich, 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 Zurich?

Zurich 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 Zurich in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Zurich. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Zurich in the summer. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 29°C (84°F) in July, and Zurich fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Hanoi usually receives more rain than Zurich. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Zurich in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Zurich. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hanoi is much warmer than Zurich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hanoi in October average around 25°C (77°F), and Zurich averages at about 13°C (56°F).

Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi usually gets more rain in October than Zurich. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Zurich in the Winter?

Both Zurich 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 Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In January, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Zurich. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 17°C (63°F), and Zurich fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Zurich. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hanoi or Zurich in the Spring?

Both Zurich 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 Zurich because of the natural beauty.

Hanoi is much warmer than Zurich in the spring. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 24°C (75°F) in April, and Zurich fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in April than Zurich. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Zurich receives 79 mm (3.1 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 Zurich and Hanoi