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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg?

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 Strasbourg 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a impressive, quaint, and historic city. 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 Strasbourg: 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
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Strasbourg. Ho Chi Minh City is bigger than Strasbourg, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Strasbourg is more popular for its historical sights and 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. Strasbourg is well known for its charming beauty, its impressive cathedral, and its quaint houses.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Strasbourg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

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

Travelers visit Ho Chi Minh City from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Strasbourg can be an interesting and educational experience. It is filled with grand monuments and historic landmarks. Many are concentrated in La Petite France and highlights include Strasbourg Cathedral, Barrage Vauban, Ponts Couverts, and Église Saint-Thomas.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Ho Chi Minh City is very good for theatre. However, Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Strasbourg. The cuisine combines French and German flavors for rich and hearty flavors. Popular dishes include Tarte Flambée, Alsatian Sausages, and Baeckeoffe (meat and vegetable stew). Also make sure you sample the Sauerkraut, munster cheese, and Reisling wine.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Strasbourg. It's most famous for its monuments and charm, but the city also has plenty to do at night. The liveliest areas are The Krutenau (for students and tourists alike), The Grande-île, and La Petite France.


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

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg is revered around the world. Known as La Petite France, the old town is filled with charming squares, historic monuments, and beautiful architecture.

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

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Strasbourg is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with pedestrian shopping streets and boutique stores. For some of the best shopping make sure you check out the main thoroughfare of Grand'Rue. If you want to pick up some trinkets or souvenirs, head to Place de la Cathédrale, and for department store shopping head to Galeries Lafayette Strasbourg.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

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

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

Strasbourg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to Zoo de l’Orangerie or La Montagne des Singes. If the kids need to stretch their legs you can head to Deux-Rives Garden or on a rainy day check out Planetarium De Strasbourg or the Historical Museum of the City of Strasbourg.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Both Ho Chi Minh City and Strasbourg are very good 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.

Strasbourg is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the region and it is filled with romance. There is beautiful architecture, romantic restaurants, wine tours, and flower filled parks. The scenic squares and grand cathedrals offer a truly perfect couples getaway.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Ho Chi Minh City is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Strasbourg is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Strasbourg. The city has a handful of hostels that offer affordable accommodation for those on a shoestring budget.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

For students, both Ho Chi Minh City and Strasbourg are notable places to visit.

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.

Strasbourg is a good city to visit for students. Students appreciate the mix of traditional culture and international opportunities.


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

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

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

Strasbourg offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has six tramlines and a number of bus routes.

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 Strasbourg a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City
Strasbourg

Strasbourg 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.

Strasbourg is a very walkable destination. One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot.

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 Strasbourg Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ho Chi Minh City and Strasbourg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than in Strasbourg. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 2-3 days is enough time in Strasbourg.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg 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 Strasbourg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ho Chi Minh City 3-4 
    Strasbourg 2-3

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg?

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the impressive destination of Strasbourg. 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 Strasbourg?

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the picturesque city of Strasbourg. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Strasbourg?

Ho Chi Minh City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Strasbourg is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Strasbourg?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Strasbourg is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours in Vietnam, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Strasbourg 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 $80, while the average daily cost in Strasbourg is $148. 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 Strasbourg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ho Chi Minh City $48
    Strasbourg $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ho Chi Minh City $96
    Strasbourg $142
Compare Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Strasbourg

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


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 Strasbourg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $15
    Strasbourg $48
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
    $1.38
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.87
  • Cyclo Ride (One Hour)
    $1.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ho Chi Minh City

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

  • Private taxi transfer from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh: $358
  • Private Taxi transfer from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City: $358
  • Private Taxi transfer from Ho Chi Minh to Phnom Penh: $358
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Phnom Penh: $292
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Nha Trang Cang Pha Vinpearl : $274
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Nha Trang: $273
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Cam Ranh: $260
  • Private Transfer: Ho Chi Minh City Center/ Airport - Mui Ne/Phan Thiet: $258
  • Private Transfer from Cam Ranh to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $245
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Phang Rang Thap Cham: $235
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Ca Mau: $229
  • Private Transfer from Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport to Vinh Tan: $223

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Strasbourg

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

  • Private Transfer Strasbourg to Europa Park: $252
  • Door-to-Door private transfer and driver from Strasbourg to Basel: $233
  • Strasbourg Private Transfer from Strasbourg city centre to Strasbourg Airport: $82
  • Strasbourg Entzheim Airport - Private Transfer from/to Hotels: $79
  • Private Transfer from Strasbourg Train Station to Hotel: $65
  • Private transfer Strasbourg Airport: $59
  • Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: $58

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

Prices for flights to both Strasbourg 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
    Strasbourg $47
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)
    $4.21
  • Pizza
    $5.12
  • Sweet Rice
    $1.18
  • Pork Sandwich
    $0.59
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.68
  • 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 Unseen & Food Tour By scooter w Student | Saigon Adventure: $19
  • Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour by Motorbike/ Car with Student : $19
  • Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike (Unique & Authentic): $26
  • Private Walking Food Tour with Local Students : $26
  • Saigon: Backstreets Private Walking Food Tour & 10 Tastings: $27
  • Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings: $27
  • Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $28
  • Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike/Car + Sightseeing + Fun: $28
  • Top Notch Street Food Tour With Saigon Vibes: $28
  • Private Walking Food Tour with 13 Tastings: $28
  • Private Half-Day Ho Chi Minh Food Tour with Local Students: $29
  • Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour With Saigon Vibes: $29

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Strasbourg

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

  • 3 hours Cooking lesson: $53
  • Strasbourg Private Food Tour: experience the city like a local!: $93
  • Strasbourg Food Tour : Gourmet private Tour with tastings: $102
  • Strasbourg Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $20
    Strasbourg $25
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
    $5.51

Tours and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

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

  • From Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne 3 Days Tour | 4 Star Beach Resort : $170
  • Mekong Delta Discovery Day Tour - My Tho - Ben Tre: $46
  • Mekong Vespa Tour 5 hours: $92
  • 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 Vegetarian Tour by Motorbike and Scooter: $39
  • 'Cost-Saving' Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta 1-Day Tour: $65
  • 'Cost-Saving' Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta 1-Day Tour: $60
  • "Less-touristy" Mekong Delta Ben Tre Cruising Fullday: $138
  • 02 - Days: Experience The Real Mekong Delta By Bike & Boat.: $220

Tours and Activities in Strasbourg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Strasbourg.

  • 2-Hour Strasbourg Euro Tour by Segway: $65
  • Alsace Christmas Markets Day Tour from Strasbourg: $148
  • Alsace Wine Odyssey: Full-Day Private Tour from Strasbourg: $2,044
  • Alsace Wine Route Small Group Half-Day Tour with Tasting from Strasbourg: $107
  • Alsace Wine Route Wineries & Tasting Small Group Guided Tour from Strasbourg: $175
  • Alsatian brunch with immersive cellar tour: $49
  • Alsatian tour, tasting and meal - 100% immersive experience: $60
  • Christmas Joy in Strasbourg Walking Tour: $645
  • Culinary city tour in Strasbourg with tastings: $104
  • From Half-Day Tour of Alsace Villages: $86
  • Full-Day Highlights of the Alsace Tour: from Strasbourg: $178
  • Gems of Alsace: Private Full-Day Tour from Strasbourg: $2,044

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ho Chi Minh City $7.86
    Strasbourg $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
    $0.39

Sample the Local Flavors in Strasbourg

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Strasbourg:

  • Aperitif at the winemaker with cellar visit and wine tasting in Alsace: $11
  • Wine tasting and immersive cellar tour: $20
  • Wine tour, tasting and picnic basket: $38
  • Alsace Half-Day Wine Tour from Strasbourg: $105
  • From Medieval Villages & Wine Tasting Day Trip: $118
  • Medieval Villages and Wine Tasting from Strasbourg: $120
  • Strasbourg : Wine Tour by bike with a local: $151
  • Alsace: Full-Day Wine Tour & Tastings from Strasbourg: $172
  • Wine Tasting Private Tour: $549


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


Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Strasbourg?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Strasbourg. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Strasbourg, 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.