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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague?

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 The Hague 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. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

The Hague

The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and live music. See The Hague travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and The Hague: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City than The Hague. Ho Chi Minh City is bigger than The Hague, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while The Hague is more popular for its music. Ho Chi Minh City is more touristy than The Hague and is 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. The Hague is well known for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

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

The Hague is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Ho Chi Minh City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

The people in The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague Better for Music?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

The Hague is great for its music scene. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a live music destination.

The music scene in The Hague draws a good crowd. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Ho Chi Minh City makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

The Hague 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 The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

The Hague 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.

The Hague offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

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 The Hague a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City
The Hague

Ho Chi Minh City and The Hague are notable 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.

The Hague is somewhat walkable. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

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

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ho Chi Minh City and The Hague. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than in The Hague. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 1-3 days is enough time in The Hague.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than The Hague. 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 The Hague. 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 The Hague 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 The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ho Chi Minh City 3-4 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague?

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 live music and food around the global big city of The Hague. 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 The Hague?

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 food and shopping around the global city of The Hague. 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 The Hague?

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.

The Hague 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 The Hague?

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.

The Hague 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 Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Ho Chi Minh City?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ho Chi Minh City is $89, while the average daily cost in The Hague is $245. 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 The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ho Chi Minh City $49
    The Hague $117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ho Chi Minh City $98
    The Hague $234
Compare Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague? 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 The Hague


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 The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $15
    The Hague $22
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
    $1.35
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.74
  • Cyclo Ride (One Hour)
    $1.55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ho Chi Minh City

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

  • Transfer from Ho Chi Minh to Phan Thiet or Mui Ne, Japan Quality: $14
  • Tan Son Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Ho Chi Minh City: $40
  • Swandor Cam Ranh Resort to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
  • Saigon Airport to Ho Chi Minh City Center Private Transfer: $19
  • Sai Gon Airport Departure Private Transfer: $40
  • Round-trip Private Transfer Ho Chi Minh - Vung Tau (7 Seats Car): $122
  • Round-trip Private Transfer Ho Chi Minh - Vung Tau (16 Seats Car): $141
  • Radisson Blu Resort to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
  • Private transfer from Mui Ne to Ho Chi Minh City: $87
  • Private transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne: $89
  • Private transfer Tan Son Nhat airport - Hotels in Ho Chi Minh: $12
  • Private transfer Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) - Hotels In City: $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

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

  • Private direct transfer from The Hague to Antwerp: $300
  • Rotterdam & Delft: Private Tour with Cube House and Transfer: $273
  • The Hague and Delft: Private Half-Day Tour with Transfer: $273
  • Rotterdam and Private Half-Day Tour with Transfer: $273
  • Private Tour of The Hague and Gouda including Transfer: $273
  • Private Tour of Delft and Gouda including Transfer: $273
  • Private Direct Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $177
  • Private Transfer From The Hague Hotels to Amsterdam Cruise Port: $168
  • The Hague to Amsterdam Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $168
  • Premium Electric transfer from Delft to Schiphol Airport: $168
  • Private direct transfer from The Hague to Utrecht: $161
  • Private Transfer: Amsterdam Airport to The Hague (Den Haag): $120

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

Prices for flights to both The Hague 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 $23
    The Hague $107
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)
    $4.14
  • Pizza
    $5.03
  • Sweet Rice
    $1.16
  • Pork Sandwich
    $0.58
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.57
  • 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:

  • Ho Chi Minh City Authentic Street Food Tour With Local Students: $7.95
  • Ho Chi Minh City Local Street Food Tour With Local Students: $7.95
  • Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour & Hidden Local Gems Sightseeing: $9.93
  • HCMC: Cu Chi Tunnels & Scooter Food Tour (Up to 12 Tastings): $13
  • Mekong With Cai Be Less Tourist - Cooking Class: $14
  • Express Cooking Experience: $15
  • Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour with Local LGBT Student Guide: $16
  • Mekong Delta 4 Islands, TukTuk, Boat, Try Khot Cake Local Cooking: $16
  • Vietnamese Spring Roll Cooking Class: $16
  • HCMC: Saigon Food Tour & Chinatown & Local Market on Scooter: $17
  • Ho Chi Minh City Cyclo Ride with Lunch or Dinner Experience: $18
  • Ho Chi Minh City Michelin & Street Food Tour by Motorbike or Car: $18

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

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

  • The Hague Food Tour: $67
  • Private Indian Cooking Experience in Netherlands: $86
  • The Hague Walking Food Tour: $101

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $20
    The Hague $39
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
    $5.42

Tours and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

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

  • 'Cost-Saving' Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta 1-Day Tour: $59
  • 1 Day Small Group Tour in Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta: $91
  • 1 Hour Saigon River Tour in Ho Chi Minh: $13
  • 1-Day City Tour: Saigon Chinatown, Must-See Icons & Cyclo Ride: $128
  • 1-Day Less Touristy Mekong River (Cai Be-Vinh Long) trip: $40
  • 1-Day Mekong Delta Tour: Less-Touristy Cai Be & Vinh Long(Max 10): $35
  • 1-Day Tour in Vung Tau Beach: $59
  • 1-Day Tour of Black Virgin Mountain - Cao Dai Temple - Cu Chi Tunnels from HCMC: $65
  • 1-day Ho Chi Minh city and Cu Chi tunnels group tour: $46
  • 1-day Mekong Delta Tour: Cai Be Market, Local Island and Cycling: $125
  • 1-hour Nhieu Loc boat tour experience: A historic canal: $15
  • 2 Day Mekong Delta Adventure and Floating Market Tour: $169

Tours and Activities in The Hague

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

  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of The Hague’s Historical Center: $9.99
  • Dahlia Tour in Voorhout: $10
  • Delft 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local: $3.42
  • Delft Family Delights Historic Walking Tour: $229
  • Delft Journey and Heritage Audio Tour: $5.46
  • Delft's Local Bites and Stories: A Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Delft: Private Walking Tour and Royal Delft Factory: $165
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $31
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune and Beach GPS audio tour: $81
  • Enjoy the tulip fields by bicycle with a local guide! Tulip bike tour!: $63
  • From Private Sightseeing tour to Keukenhof: $364
  • Get the best out of Delft by creating memories during our private walking tour!: $154

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ho Chi Minh City $7.73
    The Hague $33
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 Ho Chi Minh City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Ho Chi Minh City:

  • Rooftops, Hidden Bars & Iconic Pub Crawl: $8.09
  • Make Your Own Gin Experience and Saigon Baigur Distillery Tour: $36
  • Make-Your-Own Gin Experience & Saigon Baigur Distillery Tour: $36
  • Saigon After Dark: Pub Crawl & Party Adventure: $69
  • Bike And Craft Beer Brewery Mekong Delta Cycling Tour: $152

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • Pub Crawl with Free Drinks and Entrance: $41
  • The Hague Pub Crawl: Play, Explore, Enjoy!: $279


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


Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or The Hague?

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