A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Fraser Island for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Hoi An and Fraser Island. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a peaceful, beautiful, and traditional town. The beauty of Hoi An is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping. See Hoi An travel costs.

Fraser Island

Fraser Island is a stunning, serene, and breathtaking island. Fraser Island is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Fraser Island travel costs.

Hoi An and Fraser Island: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hoi An. Although Hoi An and Fraser Island are popular destinations, Hoi An has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hoi An is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Fraser Island attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Fraser Island and is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. It is also well known for the Fukian Assembly Hall. Fraser Island is famous for its beautiful sand dunes, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.

How is Hoi An different from Fraser Island?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fraser Island and Hoi An. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Hoi An is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hoi An. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Fraser Island. The stunning natural beauty is the appeal of this island. It is worth visiting the Maheno Shipwreck which was once a trans-Tasman liner.

Is the Food Better in Hoi An or Fraser Island? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Hoi An, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

Fraser Island may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are settlements on the island where you can pick up food and essentials, but don't expect much more than the basics. There are also several restaurants.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Nightlife?

Hoi An is a moderate town for nightlife and partying. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its evening party scene.

Most people don't head to Hoi An specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

Fraser Island doesn't offer many options. There are a handful of bars on the island where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Fraser Island is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Fraser Island. The waters around the island are not designed for snorkeling, as the currents are strong and there are often large sharks. There are several dive spots including a ship wreck as well as a beautiful reef that is filled with hard and soft corals.

Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Beaches?

Fraser Island is terrific for its beaches. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Fraser Island offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The idyllic beaches really are paradise. The water is blue, the sand white, and the rainforest feels undiscovered. The most famous beach is Seventy-Five Mile Beach, but other beautiful spots include Eli Creek, Lake Wabby, and the Champagne Pools (the only oceanfront spot where you can swim).

Hoi An is a good option for a beach vacation. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is very popular for its old town. However, Fraser Island does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Fraser Island does not have a historic old town.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Hiking?

Fraser Island is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Fraser Island. There are many stunning hikes on the island and many visitors choose to camp during their visit. It's possible to organize a group hike with a guide as well, which is recommended as it is the safer option.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Hoi An is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Hoi An make it a world-class shopping destination. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

Fraser Island is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island More Beautiful?

Fraser Island is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Fraser Island is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its strikingly blue water and white sand, this is truly a bucket list destination for many travelers. You'll be immersed in one of the world's most beautiful environments.

The beauty of Hoi An is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Families?

Both Hoi An and Fraser Island are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Hoi An is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Fraser Island is a very kid-friendly town. The kids will love the peaceful beaches and stunning landscapes as much as the adults. There are walking trails, beautiful water, and between the months of July and November you can go whale watching.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Couples?

Fraser Island is terrific for romance. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Fraser Island is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's stunning beaches and serene setting make for a truly romantic destination. You can picnic on the white sand or float down Eli Creek. Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding are also fun.

Couples visit Hoi An frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is very popular for backpackers. Also, Fraser Island is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Fraser Island. It's truly a bucket list destination, so even though it may be challenging to reach, it's well worth the effort. There are ferries that leave from either Rainbow Beach or Hervey Bay, or you can visit as part of an organized tour.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hoi An is a good destination for its public transit. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for times when you don't have a car.

Hoi An has a few public transit options. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Fraser Island. The roads are sand and you'll need a vehicle of your own to get around. Because of the conditions, it requires four wheel drive.

Is Hoi An or Fraser Island a more walkable city?

Hoi An is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Fraser Island is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Hoi An on foot. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

Fraser Island is generally not a very walkable town. The island is large enough that you'll likely want a vehicle (four wheel drive) to get around and fully experience it.

For even more information, also check out Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? and Is Fraser Island Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fraser Island or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

In either Hoi An or Fraser Island, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fraser Island than Hoi An because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hoi An, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fraser Island.

Families should spend more time in Hoi An than Fraser Island. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hoi An, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An than Fraser Island 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 Hoi An.

One day in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint destination of Hoi An. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Fraser Island. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Fraser Island is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Hoi An. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fraser Island. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or Fraser Island?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful town of Hoi An. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Fraser Island. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Vietnam, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Australia, and The Best Honeymoon Tours in Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hoi An and Fraser Island, we can see that Fraser Island is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hoi An is in Asia and Fraser Island is in Pacific, 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 Hoi An would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hoi An 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 Fraser Island would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Fraser Island than you might in Hoi An.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hoi An Expensive? and Is Fraser Island Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Hoi An or Fraser Island?

Fraser Island has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hoi An experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or Fraser Island in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Fraser Island. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Fraser Island this time of year.

In the summer, Hoi An is a little warmer than Fraser Island. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hoi An in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 26°C (78°F)in January.

It's quite rainy in Fraser Island. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Fraser Islandin January. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. September to January in Hoi An is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hoi An or Fraser Island in the Autumn?

Both Fraser Island and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Fraser Island for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Hoi An is generally a little warmer than Fraser Islandin April. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 25°C (78°F), and Fraser Island fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Fraser Islandin April. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hoi An or Fraser Island in the Winter?

Both Fraser Island and Hoi An during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Fraser Island in the winter for the cuisine.

Hoi An is a little warmer than Fraser Island in the winter. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Fraser Island fluctuates around 15°C (59°F)in July.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Fraser Islandin July. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year. February to July is the dry season in Hoi An. September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or Fraser Island in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Fraser Island. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Fraser Island for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Hoi An is a little warmer than Fraser Island. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hoi An in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Fraser Island averages at about 21°C (71°F)in October.

In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Fraser Islandin October. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Fraser Island receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Fraser Island and Hoi An