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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle?

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 Newcastle 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 shopping, museums, and theater.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a high energy, trendy, and coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Ho Chi Minh City and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Newcastle. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Newcastle attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Ho Chi Minh City is more touristy than Newcastle 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. Newcastle is famous for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Many visitors head to Newcastle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Theater?

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

Newcastle is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newcastle. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-see 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.

Newcastle has a large number of nightlife venues. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Newcastle is great for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Newcastle is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

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

Many people include a hike when visiting Newcastle. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Newcastle. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-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.

Newcastle is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City is a well-known place for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is terrific for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place for students. However, Newcastle 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.

Newcastle is not popular with students.

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

Newcastle 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 Newcastle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

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 Newcastle a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City and Newcastle 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.

Newcastle is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle. In our opinion, Ho Chi Minh City has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Newcastle. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

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

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 vibrant destination of Newcastle. 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 city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle?

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 vibrant city of Newcastle. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Newcastle?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the busy 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.

Newcastle is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Newcastle?

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.

Newcastle is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Contiki Tours to Australia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Ho Chi Minh City and Newcastle, we can see that Newcastle 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Newcastle?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Newcastle. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Newcastle, 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.