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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech?

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

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a cultural, chaotic, and vibrant city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and theater.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a fascinating, ancient, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. 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 Marrakech: 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
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Visitors will generally find more to do in Marrakech than Ho Chi Minh City. While Ho Chi Minh City is larger than Marrakech, Marrakech has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Marrakech is very popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Ho Chi Minh City attracts visitors for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, and big city activities. Marrakech is more touristy than Ho Chi Minh City and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also well known for Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Marrakech?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Many visitors head to Marrakech specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While wandering the medina is an attraction in and of itself, there are also several sights that you should specifically check out. The iconic Djemaa el-Fnaa, or the city's main square, is best visited as the sun goes down. Other notable landmarks include Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Medersa Ben Youssef.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Marrakech 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.

Marrakech is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Ho Chi Minh City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Marrakech makes for a great culinary experience. Moroccan food is amazing and you'll enjoy grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and more. The city is more touristy than some parts of Morocco so you'll find the quality of the food can vary a bit, but it's still a culinary delight. Marrakesh is also a great city for taking a cooking class.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Marrakech has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Although alcohol is hard to come by, you'll find it in most western style restaurants and high end hotel chains. The city has more bars and nightclubs than you'd expect. There's also a great nighttime energy with many locals heading outside in the evening. Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, comes to life with street vendors, performers, and people during the nighttime hours.


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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Marrakech is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Marrakech is revered around the world. The historic medina is filled with spices, antiques, art, and pottery. The culture and experience of wandering the medina will have you feeling like you stepped back in time.

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

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

If you're looking to go shopping, Ho Chi Minh City and Marrakech both offer plenty of world-class 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.

Marrakech is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shop your way through the street stalls and sample perfumes, spices, produce, and more. You'll find everything from souvenir trinkets to local items and authentic antiques.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ho Chi Minh City is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Marrakech is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring a new culture and wandering through the medina. The food is very kid-friendly and during the evening the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes to life with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Families can also take cooking classes or head into the desert for a camel trek.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Marrakech is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Marrakech has plenty to offer. There are many wonderful restaurants and fascinating places for couples to explores. Wandering the medina or visiting the gardens make for a romantic and adventurous getaway.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

For backpackers, both Ho Chi Minh City and Marrakech are world-class places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Ho Chi Minh City, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Marrakech is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is very affordable and there are countless riads that are budget-friendly. There are enough backpackers around town that it's not hard to meet fellow travelers.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Marrakech is not popular with students.

Plenty of students 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.

Marrakech is not popular with students.


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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Ho Chi Minh City is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marrakech is lacking in options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Marrakech

Marrakech 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.

Marrakech is a very walkable destination. The medina is the best area to walk around but it's very easy to get lost. Outside of the medina you'll want to keep your eyes open for motorbikes and the occasional donkey.

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 Marrakech Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech?

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Marrakech have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marrakech 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 Marrakech.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Marrakech 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 Marrakech? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ho Chi Minh City 3-4 
    Marrakech 3-7

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech?

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 food and shopping around the fascinating big city of Marrakech. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech?

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 shopping and museums around the cultural city of Marrakech. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. 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 Marrakech?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural 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.

Marrakech is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Marrakech?

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.

Marrakech is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 shopping. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco.


Which place is cheaper, Marrakech 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 $82, while the average daily cost in Marrakech is $68. 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 Marrakech in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ho Chi Minh City $50
    Marrakech $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ho Chi Minh City $100
    Marrakech $92
Compare Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Marrakech

Looking for a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech? 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 Marrakech


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 Marrakech Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $15
    Marrakech $6.29
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
    $1.41
  • Taxi From Airport
    $8.07
  • Cyclo Ride (One Hour)
    $1.61

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ho Chi Minh City

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

  • Try find better than us! Airport Transfer in Ho Chi Minh APT-HTL (SGN): $19
  • Transfer from Ho Chi Minh to Airport Tan Sơn Nhat: $17
  • Transfer Services from Phu My Port to Ho Chi Minh City: $79
  • 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 Nhat Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Ho Chi Minh City: $17
  • Tan Son Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City: $32
  • Swandor Cam Ranh Resort to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
  • Shared Bus Transfer Between Saigon and Nha Trang City: $11
  • Shared Arrival Transfer - Hanoi Airport to Sapa Hotel: $71
  • Saigon: Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Tour with Car Transfer: $144

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • Private Transfer From Fez To Marrakech: $444
  • One way transfer from Fes to Marrakech: $360
  • Marrakesh to Casablanca: Private Transfer (English Speaking Driver): $298
  • Agadir private transfer from Ouirgane to Agadir airport (AGA): $292
  • Transfer Marrakech to Tangier: $288
  • Private Premium Transfert From / To Marrakech To / From Tangier: $286
  • Private Transfer From Marrakech To Agadir Or Agadir To Marrakech : $268
  • Transfert Departure Marrakech City to Casablanca Airport: $265
  • Private Transfer Marrakech - Rabat : $264
  • Private Transfer from Marrakech Menara (RAK) Airport to Taroudant: $257
  • Essaouira Day Trip From Marrakech With Private Transfers: $254
  • Private Premium Transfert From / To Marrakech To / From Merzouga: $248

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

Prices for flights to both Marrakech 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
    Marrakech $13
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)
    $4.32
  • Pizza
    $5.25
  • Sweet Rice
    $1.21
  • Pork Sandwich
    $0.61
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.85
  • 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 City Street Food Tour by Motorbike/ Car with Student : $19
  • Saigon: Backstreets Private Walking Food Tour & 10 Tastings: $25
  • Private Walking Food Tour with Local Students : $26
  • Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike +Sightseeing SAFE & FUN: $26
  • Top Niche Walking Street Food Tour with Uni Student: $26
  • Walking Street Food Tour Ho Chi Minh City: $27
  • Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings: $27
  • Saigon Private Eleven-Tastings Food Tour by Scooter: $28
  • Ho Chi Minh: Thirteen-Tastings Private Walking Food Tour: $29
  • Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $29
  • Ho Chi Minh Private Half Day Street Food Tour with Local Students: $29

Typical Food Prices in Marrakech

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


  • Orange Juice on the Square
    $0.30
  • Breakfast
    $1.19
  • Dates
    $0.60
  • Olives
    $0.90
  • Sandwich
    $1.29
  • Souvenir Spices
    $6.17

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

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

  • Dinner In Agafay Desert & Camel Ride with lovely Sunset : $12
  • Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride and Dinner from Marrakech: $15
  • Cooking Lesson at the Ouirgane Ecolodge with Lunch: $19
  • Typical Moroccan Dinner at the inhabitant in Marrakech: $22
  • Marrakesh: Agafay desert Sunset tour with dinner show : $22
  • Magical Dinner in Marrakech Desert with Camel ride at the sunset : $22
  • Sunset in Agafay: Dinner, Camel, Quad-Book Adventure with Viator: $22
  • Magical dinner and camel ride on sunset in Desert Marrakech : $23
  • Magical Dinner In Agafay Desert and Sunset Experience: $24
  • Marical dinner and camel ride at sunset in Desert of Marrakech: $24
  • Marrakech Desert Tour with Camel Ride and Dinner Show : $26
  • Berber Dinner In Marrakech Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride : $27

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $20
    Marrakech $6.99
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
    $5.65

Tours and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

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

  • Amazing Tour in Dalat city: $45
  • Chan May Port to Hoi An Ancient Town & Marble Mountain Car/Tour: $10
  • Cu Chi Tunnels half day tours: $39
  • 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
  • Non-Touristy Mekong Delta with Biking in Ben Tre Private Tour: $40
  • Private Mekong Delta 1 Day Tour: $65
  • Private Tour Water Puppet Show And Cruise Tour On Saigon River : $65
  • SAIGON SHORE EXCURSION: Past and Present Tour from Cruise Port: $111
  • Saigon Unseen City Day Tour and Local Food by Scooter: $39
  • Vietnam Classic Day Tour in Ho Chi Minh with Cu Chi Tunnels: $18

Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

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


  • Palace Tickets
    $1.99
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    $56

Tours and Activities in Marrakech

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

  • 3 Day Private Desert Tour From Marrakech To Merzouga Dunes With Camel Trek: $275
  • 3 Days Tour - Marrakech To Fez via Sahara Desert Erg chebbi: $208
  • 4 Days Small Group Tour from Marrakech To Merzouga: $187
  • Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $21
  • Atlas Mountains &Berber family & berber village experience : $94
  • Atlas Mountains Horseback Ride Day Tour From Marrakech : $50
  • Atlas Mountains and Berber villages & Waterfalls Day Tour from Marrakech : $25
  • Best Marrakech Private walking tour: $30
  • Desert Agafay & Berber Villages Day Tour From Marrakech including Camel Ride: $50
  • Desert tour small group : $176
  • Experience Spa Hammam Massage and Camel tour: $84
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Ouzoud Waterfalls : $30

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ho Chi Minh City $8.07
    Marrakech $15
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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ho Chi Minh City and Marrakech, we can see that Ho Chi Minh City is more expensive. And not only is Marrakech much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia and Marrakech is in Africa, 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 Marrakech would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marrakech 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 Marrakech.

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 Marrakech Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Marrakech?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Marrakech. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Marrakech, 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.