A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ho Chi Minh City vs. Byron Bay for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a diverse, cultural, and chaotic 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. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a vegan-friendly, carefree, and Bohemian town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Byron Bay travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Although Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay are both popular with visitors, Ho Chi Minh City has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Byron Bay is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is popular for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. It is also home to the War Remnants Museum. Byron Bay is popular for its community spirit, undeveloped beaches, and world renowned festivals.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Byron Bay?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Byron Bay and Ho Chi Minh City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Byron Bay is not a good town for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.

While most people don't head to Byron Bay specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. It's a small town that's all about the laid back beach scene so you won't find many museums or iconic buildings in town. Do check out the Cape Byron Lighthouse if you get the chance.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a city with good options for its theatre productions. However, Byron Bay is not a theatre destination.

Ho Chi Minh City offers a number of shows and performances. Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the rural areas and was brought to the city. It is a fun cultural experience that kids and adults both enjoy. You can see it at The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.

Byron Bay is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).

Byron Bay has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The restaurant scene is just starting to gain momentum. There are a growing number of trendy bistros and international flavors around town. You'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, as well as smoothies and brunch cafes.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Ho Chi Minh City is a world class party destination. The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.

Byron Bay has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is all about relaxed luxury. There are high end cocktail bars, piano bars, live music venues, and DJ led parties. You can head to a bistro on the beach or dance the night away at one of the nightclubs.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Resorts?

Byron Bay is great for its luxury resorts. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Byron Bay. There are luxury resorts, family-friendly villas, and contemporary apartments that offer great accommodation in a good environment.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Beaches?

Byron Bay is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Byron Bay is a very popular vacation destination. The pristine beaches are at the heart of the appeal in this town. Main Beach is, as the name implies, right in the heart of town. Many beaches are lined with forest and there are waves that are great for surfing. At its heart, this town will always be a surfer's town.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Hiking?

Byron Bay is very good for hiking. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Byron Bay. There are many walking trails that make nature accessible. Whether you want to walk along the coastline or into the hills, there are many places to enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Ho Chi Minh City make it a world-class shopping destination. The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Byron Bay. In the past, this was never a shopping town, but in recent years it has attracted fashion icons and free spirits. There are many boutique shops on the main streets in town and there are still quirky stores that offer the unexpected.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay More Beautiful?

Byron Bay is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Byron Bay attracts visitors from all around. It's pristine beaches and laid back style make it a beautiful and relaxing place to visit.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Ho Chi Minh City is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Kids may feel overwhelmed at first, but they're sure to fall in love with the energy and kid-friendly activities in this city. There are traditional water puppet shows, kid-friendly restaurants, and fun parks. There's also the Suoi Tien Theme Park, smaller water parks, zoos, and art museums to explore.

Byron Bay is a family-friendly city. It's laid back vibe and beautiful beaches offer a great place for families to vacation. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options and, while there aren't the theme parks and kid-centered activities of some places, there is still plenty to enjoy in the area.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Couples?

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Ho Chi Minh City is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a vibrant cultural scene with excellent restaurants, great parks, and countless day trips, this is the ultimate couple's getaway.

Byron Bay is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's known for its instagram-worthy settings and its popularity with influencers. Couples will appreciate the laid back vibe and chill beach scene. There are great restaurants and plenty of nice hotels and resorts to choose from.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Byron Bay is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Ho Chi Minh City. It's well established on the Southeast Asian backpacker's circuit and you'll find no shortage of hostels in town. You'll find a good number of backpackers in District 1 of the city, near Ben Thanh Market. Many backpackers also arrange trips to the Mekong Delta or elsewhere in Thailand while they're here.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Byron Bay. It's lost some of its original hippie surf town vibe, but there is still a great backpacker scene. Now it's more popular with the influencer crowd, but the party scene and beautiful beaches attract backpackers as well.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a city with good options for students. However, Byron Bay is not popular with students.

Ho Chi Minh City is a good city to visit for students. Study abroad students appreciate the city's energy and plethora of activities. It also makes a good base for trips to other parts of Southeast Asia.

Byron Bay is not popular with students.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ho Chi Minh City. There are public buses around town but motorbike taxis and regular taxis are likely your best bet for getting around.

Public transit is generally limited in Byron Bay. There is a bus service that is provided by Blanch's Bus Company.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay are good when it comes to walkability.

Ho Chi Minh City is a somewhat walkable city. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.

Byron Bay is somewhat walkable. The town itself is compact and it's possible to explore on foot, but if you want to go further you'll need to have access to a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting? and Is Byron Bay Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Byron Bay or Ho Chi Minh City?

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Byron Bay than in Ho Chi Minh City. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 3-7 days is enough time in Byron Bay.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Byron Bay. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ho Chi Minh City that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Byron Bay 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 Ho Chi Minh City.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

People visit Ho Chi Minh City because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the carefree destination of Byron Bay. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

People visit Ho Chi Minh City because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find nightlife and food around the Bohemian town of Byron Bay. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colorful city of Ho Chi Minh City. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Byron Bay is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Byron Bay is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the beaches. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Vietnam, The Best Walking Tours in Australia, and The Best Eco Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay, we can see that Byron Bay is more expensive. And not only is Ho Chi Minh City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia and Byron Bay 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 Ho Chi Minh City would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ho Chi Minh City 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 Byron Bay would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Byron Bay than you might in Ho Chi Minh City.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive? and Is Byron Bay Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Byron Bay?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 510 times larger than the population of Byron Bay. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Byron Bay, 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.