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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne?

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

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a colorful, busy, and diverse 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 theater, nightlife, and food. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Lausanne

Lausanne is a vibrant, cultural, and international city. Lausanne offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Lausanne travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Lausanne: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Lausanne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Lausanne attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is more touristy than Lausanne and is popular for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. It is also well known for the War Remnants Museum. Lausanne is famous for being the home of the International Olympic Committee headquarters.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Lausanne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Ho Chi Minh City on the map. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lausanne. You'll find many great museums around town that cover a range of topics. The Olympic Museum is very interesting. You should also check out the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and the Hermitage Foundation.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Lausanne is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show 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.

Lausanne is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Ho Chi Minh City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Lausanne. The city is filled with delicious chocolate, cheese, and wine. Fondue is a favorite, but you'll also find cured meats on most menus. While food can be expensive, it's also high quality and usually locally produced.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lausanne has a few options to choose from. There are a surprising number of clubs around town and it's not hard to find somewhere to party. The large student population and the international vibe make this a fascinating place for nightlife.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne Better for its Old Town?

Lausanne is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

Lausanne has an old town worth visiting. There's a relatively large historic section that has a Gothic cathedral and many quaint shops.

Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Ho Chi Minh City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lausanne. You'll find luxury Swiss watch brands, jewelry, chocolate, and many other interesting things to buy. Prices can be high, but so is the quality. It's fun to look, even if you're not planning to purchase.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne More Beautiful?

Lausanne is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Lausanne offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set on the banks of the beautiful Lake Geneva, this city has a charming historic section and many great shops.

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

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne Better for Families?

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

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Lausanne offers lots of family activities. There are kid-friendly museums, petting zoos, and other fun activities in town. You can also take a boat ride or let the kids run around one of the parks in town.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City is well known for couples. Also, Lausanne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Ho Chi Minh City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Lausanne is a nice destination for couples. The medieval old city is fun to explore. The lakefront setting also offers fun activities like boating. There are also a number of museums in town to explore.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Lausanne is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular city to visit 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.

Lausanne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not the most popular town for backpackers but there are some affordable hotels. It's also more reasonably priced than many Swiss cities.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne Better for Students?

Lausanne is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Lausanne is very popular with students. There are 11 institutes for higher learning in town, so students make up a significant percentage of the population. The city is also full of culture, making it a very livable city.

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 Lausanne Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lausanne is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Lausanne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive network of transportation options available in town including buses and boats.

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 Lausanne a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City and Lausanne are nice 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.

Lausanne is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city, including the historic sections, and relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ho Chi Minh City than Lausanne 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 Lausanne.

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

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 cultural destination of Lausanne. 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 Lausanne?

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 vibrant city of Lausanne. 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 Lausanne?

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.

Lausanne is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Lausanne?

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.

Lausanne 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 Luxury Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland.

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

Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Lausanne?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Lausanne. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Lausanne, 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.