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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell?

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 Cromwell can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant, colorful, and busy city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Cromwell

Cromwell is a outdoorsy, historical, and cultural town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Cromwell travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Cromwell: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City. Although Ho Chi Minh City and Cromwell 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 Cromwell is known for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Ho Chi Minh City is more touristy than Cromwell and is known for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. It is also home to the War Remnants Museum. Cromwell is popular for its fruit farms, orchards, and vineyards.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Cromwell?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Skiing?

Cromwell is very good for skiing. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a skiing destination.

Head to Cromwell for some great skiing and other winter activities. The town isn't far from several ski fields, so it attracts winter sports enthusiasts when the weather gets cold.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a skiing destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City are world-renowned. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Cromwell. There are some interesting historical activities around town like Goldfields Mining Centre.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Theater?

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

If you have some extra time in Ho Chi Minh City, take in a show. 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.

Cromwell is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and 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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Cromwell area. There are charming cafes and bakeries where you can grab a light meal or snack. There are also quaint restaurants and wineries with nice meals available.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its evening party scene.

Ho Chi Minh City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Cromwell. There are a few breweries and a number of wineries around town where you can have a relaxing night out.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Hiking?

Cromwell is great for hiking. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Cromwell for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful walks in the area that take you through diverse landscapes and to impressive views.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell?

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Ho Chi Minh City draws large crowds to its stores. 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 go to Cromwell to go shopping. There's a farmers market in town as well as several local vendors and cute shops.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-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.

Cromwell is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The lakefront setting means that there are water activities during the warmer months. There are also ski fields nearby for the winter months. Biking and walking are also popular in the area.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Couples?

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Cromwell 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.

Cromwell is a very popular place to visit for couples. Cycling, walking, kayaking, and skiing all make this a romantic a charming town to visit as a couple. There are also wineries in the area with beautiful vineyards.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cromwell is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Ho Chi Minh City is extremely popular for backpackers. 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 backpackers visit Cromwell. There are a handful of great hostels in the area and plenty of things to keep backpackers entertained.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Cromwell is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Cromwell is not popular with students.

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

Ho Chi Minh City and Cromwell 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 Cromwell. Public transit around town is limited to a couple of buses.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City and Cromwell 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.

Cromwell is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are walkable.

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

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ho Chi Minh City than Cromwell because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cromwell.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Cromwell. 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 Cromwell. 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 Cromwell 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 Cromwell?

Ho Chi Minh City is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of Cromwell. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural town of Cromwell. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Cromwell is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Cromwell?

Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to explore. 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.

Cromwell is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Vietnam, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in New Zealand, and The Best Adventure Tours to New Zealand.

When comparing the travel costs between Ho Chi Minh City and Cromwell, we can see that Cromwell is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia and Cromwell is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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 Cromwell Expensive?.