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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

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 Kuala Lumpur can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a busy, diverse, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a modern, welcoming, and friendly city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for students
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Petronas Twin Towers


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Kuala Lumpur. Ho Chi Minh City is bigger than Kuala Lumpur, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its theatre productions and nightlife, while Kuala Lumpur is more popular for its impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is well known for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the War Remnants Museum. Kuala Lumpur is well known for its blend of cultures and cuisines, its mix of modern and colonial, and its bustling neighborhoods with markets and restaurants.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Kuala Lumpur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

You'll find a number of first-rate museums and attractions in both Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Ho Chi Minh City has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kuala Lumpur that are not to be missed. The most notable landmark in the city is the famed Petronas Twin Towers, but other popular sights include Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Tower, and the National Museum.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Ho Chi Minh City is a good destination for theatre. However, Kuala Lumpur is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Kuala Lumpur is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Foodies will find both Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur both to be first-rate destinations.

Ho Chi Minh City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kuala Lumpur is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The food is influenced by the populations that live here and you'll find a lot of Malay, Chinese and Indian flavors. Spicy curries and noodle dishes are very common. Street food is also a mainstay in this city and it's an experience to wander the market streets and sample dishes from the different vendors.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

People head to Ho Chi Minh City just to party. 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Rooftop bars and lounges are popular hangout spots after the sun sets. For classy pubs and clubs head to the Golden Triangle district, but if drinking and partying isn't your thing, the city's night markets are not to be missed.


Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

If you're looking to go shopping, Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur both offer plenty of first-rate spots.

Many people travel to Ho Chi Minh City specifically to go shopping. 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with shopping malls, and a big appeal of shopping in this city is the very affordable prices. Some of the most popular shopping malls are Suria KLCC at the base of the Petronas Towers as well as the malls in the Bukit Bintang/Jalan Imbi areas.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Ho Chi Minh City is very family-friendly. 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a very kid-friendly city. This family-friendly city includes a surprising number of opportunities to experience wildlife. There's an aquarium, petting zoos, and places to see the wild monkeys. There are also large playgrounds including one by the Petronas Towers. Kids will also enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens, Butterfly Park, and the Forest Eco Park.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur are high quality 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a very popular place to visit for couples. This city has diverse restaurants and a number of luxury hotels at affordable prices. For couples who enjoy romance on a budget, this is a good city.


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

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kuala Lumpur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

Kuala Lumpur is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is a popular stop for backpackers on the Southeast Asia circuit. It's modern and comfortable but also affordable and diverse. The city has a number of affordable hostels, but it also has a more laid back and authentic vibe than you'll find in many other Southeast Asian cities. The city also isn't as touristy as some other cities, so the people are down to Earth and helpful without being jaded by all of the vacationers.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Kuala Lumpur. It's affordability, diversity, and dynamic atmosphere make this a great city for international 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.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a good destination for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Kuala Lumpur can get you around easily. The system is relatively easy to navigate with most signs in English. There are buses, a monorail, light rail transit and commuter trains.

Public transit is generally 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.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City
Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Kuala Lumpur is a very walkable destination. Traffic can be congested, but there are many wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas around town. The River of Life waterfront area offers nice paths that connect many tourist areas.

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

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

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

In either Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Kuala Lumpur than Ho Chi Minh City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 1-5 days is enough time in Kuala Lumpur.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Kuala Lumpur. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Kuala Lumpur 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.


  • How many days in Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ho Chi Minh City 3-4 
    Kuala Lumpur 1-5

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

Each neighborhood in Ho Chi Minh City has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly big city of Kuala Lumpur. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

Ho Chi Minh City is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the diverse city of Kuala Lumpur. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. 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 Kuala Lumpur?

You'll find nightlife and food around the cultural big city of Ho Chi Minh City. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Kuala Lumpur is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. 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 Kuala Lumpur?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kuala Lumpur is a great place to explore. 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 Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Vietnam, The Best Tours for Seniors to Malaysia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Malaysia.


Which place is cheaper, Kuala Lumpur or Ho Chi Minh City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ho Chi Minh City is $81, while the average daily cost in Kuala Lumpur is $62. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ho Chi Minh City $49
    Kuala Lumpur $36
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ho Chi Minh City $98
    Kuala Lumpur $72
Compare Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur

Looking for a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City


Hotels in Kuala Lumpur


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ho Chi Minh City Hotel Prices and Kuala Lumpur Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $15
    Kuala Lumpur $6.41
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Ho Chi Minh City:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    $1.40
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.99
  • Cyclo Ride (One Hour)
    $1.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ho Chi Minh City

Also for Ho Chi Minh City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Vinpearl Resort & Spa Long Beach to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Cam Ranh HTL-APT (CXR): $18
  • Transfer from Ho Chi Minh to Airport Tan Sơn Nhat: $17
  • Tan Son Nhat International Airport Transfer: $23
  • Tan Son Nhat International Airport Private Transfer: $19
  • Tan Son Nhat Airport: Private Transfer to/from Ho Chi Minh: $22
  • Tan Son Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City: $32
  • Shared Arrival Transfer - Hanoi Airport to Sapa Hotel: $71
  • SGN Airport: the private transfer to Center (District 1 & 3): $16
  • Round-trip Private Transfer Ho Chi Minh - Vung Tau (16 Seats Car): $141
  • Radisson Blu Resort to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
  • Private transfer: Ho Chi Minh City/Airport - Ho Tram/Vung Tau: $207

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    $3.14
  • Metro Ride (for Two)
    $0.67
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $3.14
  • Taxi From Airport
    $19
  • Bus from Airport
    $1.68
  • Train & Boat to Pulau Ketam
    $2.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kuala Lumpur

Also for Kuala Lumpur, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Penang: $270
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Singapore: $270
  • *Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Singapore Car Transfer: $268
  • Chauffeur: Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Besut Transfer [Car]: $251
  • Chauffeur: Port Dickson to Singapore Car Transfer: $241
  • Arrival Transfer from KLIA/KLIA2 to Johor Bharu: $237
  • KUL Hotel to Johor Bharu(One Way Transfer): $237
  • KUL Hotel to Penang(One Way Transfer): $237
  • Kuala Lumpur Hotels to Singapore Hotels 1-way Transfer: $230
  • Cameron Highlands Transfer Private (Per Vehicle): $230
  • KL City Hotels to Singapore City Hotels One-way Transfer: $230
  • Kuala Lumpur Hotels to Singapore Hotels One-way Transfer: $230

Is it cheaper to fly into Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

Prices for flights to both Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ho Chi Minh City $14
    Kuala Lumpur $15
Typical Food Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ho Chi Minh City:


  • Street Food Dinner (for Two)
    $4.27
  • Pizza
    $5.19
  • Sweet Rice
    $1.20
  • Pork Sandwich
    $0.60
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.78
  • Western Lunch (for Two)
    $12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ho Chi Minh City

For Ho Chi Minh City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Saigon Food Tour & Culture Explore Ho Chi Minh City Walking Tour: $15
  • Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike +Sightseeing SAFE & FUN: $25
  • Private Walking Food Tour with Local Students : $26
  • Saigon: Backstreets Private Walking Food Tour & 10 Tastings: $27
  • Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $28
  • Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings: $28
  • Ho Chi Minh: Thirteen-Tastings Private Walking Food Tour: $28
  • Ho Chi Minh: Original Walking Street Food Tour With Local: $29
  • Top Niche Walking Street Food Tour with Uni Student: $29
  • Private 4-Hour Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $29
  • Ho Chi Minh: Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour With Local: $29
  • Walking Street Food Tour Ho Chi Minh City: $30

Typical Food Prices in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner at Ding Tai Fung
    $8.39
  • Roti Bread
    $0.21
  • Food Court Lunch
    $3.02
  • Dinner at Indian Restaurant (for Two)
    $4.51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Nightlife Street Food Tour with 6 Tastings: $43
  • Street Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Laksa Lanes Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 14+ Tastings: $49
  • Sambal Streets Kuala Lumpur Food Tour with 15+ Tastings: $49
  • Authentic Malaysian Street Food Tour in Kampung Baru: $50
  • From Kuala Selangor Fireflies Tour with Dinner: $56
  • Kuala Lumpur by Night and Malaysian Food Tour: $61
  • Petaling Street Heritage Food Tour: $62
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $63
  • Private Malaysian Cooking Class With A Professional Chef: $64
  • Firefly Park Kuala Selangor Seafood Dinner and Free Boat Ride: $64
  • 'Kelip Kelip' Fireflies Tour include Dinner + Free Boat-Ride: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $20
    Kuala Lumpur $13
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

For Ho Chi Minh City, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Massage
    $5.59

Tours and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Half Day Private Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $70
  • Mekong Delta Discovery Day Tour - My Tho - Ben Tre: $46
  • Mui Ne,Fairy Spring, Sand dunes, Fishing Village, Private Tour: $290
  • Private Mekong Delta 1 Day Tour: $65
  • Small Group Tour to Cu Chi Tunnels and cruise Mekong Delta in a day: $48
  • Vietnam Classic Day Tour in Ho Chi Minh with Cu Chi Tunnels: $18
  • 'Cost-Saving' Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta 1-Day Tour: $54
  • 'Cost-Saving' Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta 1-Day Tour: $65
  • "Less-touristy" Mekong Delta Ben Tre Cruising Fullday: $140
  • 02 -Days: Experience Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta.: $220
  • 1 Day Small Group Tour in Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta: $100
  • 1 Hour Saigon River Tour in Ho Chi Minh: $13

Typical Entertainment Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Kuala Lumpur's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • KL Tower Admission (for Two)
    $9.43
  • Canopy Walk at FRIM Forest Reserve
    $1.05

Tours and Activities in Kuala Lumpur

For Kuala Lumpur, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Adventure Sports & Thrilling White-water Rafting in Kampar River: $241
  • Batu Caves And Countryside Tour: $24
  • Full Day Kuala Lumpur City Tour with Petronas Twin Tower Tickets: $95
  • Half-day Kuala Lumpur City Tour: $19
  • History, Heritage & Culture Of Malaysia Tour: $62
  • KL Tour with Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck & Batu Cave: $145
  • KLCC Lake Symphony & The River of Life Tour from Kuala Lumpur: $33
  • Malacca Instagram Tour: Most Famous Spots (Private & All-Inclusive): $184
  • *10 Hrs Kuala Lumpur Flexible Van Tour w' Tour Guide: $90
  • *12Hrs Kuala Lumpur Van Tour from Genting Highlands w' Tour Guide: $90
  • *13 Hrs Bentong Van tour from Kuala Lumpur w' Tour Guide: $81
  • *13 Hrs Kuala Lumpur & Melaka Van Tour from Bentong w' Tour Guide: $108

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ho Chi Minh City $7.98
    Kuala Lumpur $6.21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Ho Chi Minh City:


  • Beer
    $0.40

Typical Alcohol Prices in Kuala Lumpur

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Kuala Lumpur are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $9.43


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

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 Kuala Lumpur Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Kuala Lumpur?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kuala Lumpur. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur, 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.