A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Hangzhou for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Hoi An or Hangzhou?

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 Hangzhou. 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.

Where Should I go: Hoi An or Hangzhou?

Hoi An

Located just south of the city of Da Nang, Hoi An is famous for it's beautiful old town. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unfortunately, since its designation as a World Heritage Site in 1999, mass tourism has grown and the city has felt the growing pains. Most of the homes and shops in the old town are now used for commercial purposes. The city is still quaint, but the old town is lined with tailor shops, souvenir stores, and restaurants. Foreigners are required to purchase a ticket to enter the old town of Hoi An (120,000 VND, about $5).

Hangzhou

Hangzhou is a city in Eastern China, about an hour by train from Shanghai, renowned for its historic relics and natural beauty. Each year it attracts more than 20 million tourists who come to see what the city has to offer. Set amongst the natural scenery of lakes and mountains, Hangzhou is modern city that coexists with the old. Historic pagodas and cultural sites built around the central lake sit like they belong amidst the skyscrapers and bustling markets of today.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Vietnam, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best Adventure Tours to China, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in China.


Which place is cheaper, Hangzhou or Hoi An?

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 Hoi An is $51, while the average daily cost in Hangzhou is $80. 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 Hoi An and Hangzhou in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hoi An $20
    Hangzhou $24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hoi An $40
    Hangzhou $48
Compare Hotels in Hoi An and Hangzhou

Looking for a hotel in Hoi An or Hangzhou? 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 Hoi An


Hotels in Hangzhou


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: Hoi An Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hoi An $18
    Hangzhou $8.24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hoi An

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Hoi An are as follows:


  • Taxi From Danang to Hoi An
    $8.34
  • Bus From Hoi An Bus Station to Town
    $0.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hoi An

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

  • Hue Private Car with Driver for Customizable Trip & Transfer: $7.09

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hangzhou

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hangzhou:


  • Local Bus for Two
    $0.56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hangzhou

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hangzhou:

  • [Airport Transfer] Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport ⇔ Hangzhou City Transfer ☆ High reputation for service! <Charter charter>: $29
  • Wuzhen Water Town Self-Guided Tour with Private Transfer from Hangzhou : $87
  • VIP Seated Enduring Memories of Hangzhou Show with Private Transfer: $83
  • Transfer from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport to City Center: $75
  • Skip the Line: Impression West Lake Show Ticket with Pick-up Transfer: $72
  • Private Transfer to Yiwu City from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer to Wuzhen Water Town from Hangzhou: $88
  • Private Transfer to Suzhou City from Hangzhou Xiaoshan Airport: $125
  • Private Transfer to Suzhou City from Hangzhou: $113
  • Private Transfer to Shanghai Pudong Airport from Hangzhou: $129
  • Private Transfer to Mogan Mountian from Hangzhou: $85
  • Private Transfer to Impression West Lake show in Hangzhou: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Hoi An or Hangzhou?

Prices for flights to both Hangzhou and Hoi An 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
    Hoi An $16
    Hangzhou $31
Typical Food Prices in Hoi An

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


  • Dinner at Bamboo Village (for Two)
    $13
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $3.79
  • Casual Dinner (for Two)
    $7.58

Typical Food Prices in Hangzhou

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hangzhou:


  • Breakfast Pastries
    $2.38
  • Pizza Hut Lunch
    $11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hangzhou

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hangzhou.

  • All Inclusive Night Tour with Impression West Lake Show VIP Ticket and Dinner: $117
  • Hangzhou One Day Local Food Tour: $124
  • Private Amazing Hangzhou Airport Layover Tour with Lunch or Dinner Option : $170
  • Xitang Water Town Private Night Tour from Hangzhou with Dinner: $203

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hoi An $12
    Hangzhou $20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hoi An

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


  • Golf (for Two)
    $140
  • Short Boat Ride
    $1.52

Tours and Activities in Hoi An

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

  • Hue : Shuttle bus from Hue to Hoi An and sightseeing: $16
  • Hue-Da Nang-Hoi An Bus Tour with English Guide & Sightseeing: $22
  • Hue: Half-Day Tour with Optional Dragon Boat Perfume River: $28
  • Phu Quoc: 3 Islands Snorkeling/ Cable Car Adventure: $45
  • Hoi An Experience 3 Hours Wood Carving Class with Local Artist: $47
  • My Son Sanctuary Private Tour - Early Morning or Half Day Tour: $50
  • My Son - Hoi An Full Day Private Tour With Meals: $75
  • My Son - Danang from Tien Sa cruise harbor: $150
  • Cruiseship Trip from TIEN SA or CHAN MAY Port to MY SON HOLYLAND & HOI AN City: $154
  • Cruiseship Trip from TIEN SA or CHAN MAY Port to MY SON HOLYLAND & DA NANG City: $154
  • Cruiseship Tour to MY SON HOLYLAND - DA NANG CITY From Chan May or Tien Sa Port: $179
  • My Son - Danang from Tien Sa cruise harbor: $180

Tours and Activities in Hangzhou

Here are a few actual costs in Hangzhou for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • West Lake Private Tour with Boat Ride and Enduring Memories Night Show VIP Seat: $242
  • 1-day Village Tea Picking, Roasting & Serving Guided Private Tour from Hangzhou : $244
  • 2-Day Huangshan Mountain Sunset Climb & Sunrise Camp Guided Tour from Hangzhou : $162
  • 4-Hour Hangzhou City Private Customized Tour with Options: $113
  • 4-Hour Hangzhou Highlights Tour of Lingyin Temple and West Lake: $188
  • 4-Hour Hangzhou Summit and Former Residence of Xueyan Hu Private Tour: $141
  • 7 hours Hangzhou Tour Itinerary: $219
  • All Inclusive Tour of Lingyin Temple and Pagoda of Six Harmonies: $199
  • Amazing Landmarks Hangzhou Private Day Tour: $225
  • Authentic Hangzhou Longjing Tea Culture Experience Tour : $53
  • Best Price: Impression West Lake Show Ticket: $59
  • Best of A Comprehensive Tour of the City's Top Sights: $153

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hoi An $8.59
    Hangzhou $10
Typical Alcohol Prices in Hoi An

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Hoi An are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    $9.10


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hoi An and Hangzhou, we can see that Hangzhou is more expensive. And not only is Hoi An much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. 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 Hangzhou would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hangzhou 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 Hangzhou Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Hangzhou?

Hangzhou has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and Hangzhou, 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.


When is the best time to visit Hoi An or Hangzhou?

Hangzhou 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 Hangzhou in the Summer?

Both Hangzhou and Hoi An during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Hoi An is around the same temperature as Hangzhou. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hoi An in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Hangzhou averages at about 29°C (85°F).

Hangzhou gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Hangzhou. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hangzhou receives 129 mm (5.1 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.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Hoi An 29°C (85°F) 
    Hangzhou 29°C (85°F)

Should I visit Hoi An or Hangzhou in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Hangzhou. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round.

In October, Hoi An is generally a little warmer than Hangzhou. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 25°C (78°F), and Hangzhou fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Hangzhou. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Hangzhou receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Hoi An 25°C (78°F) 
    Hangzhou 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Hoi An or Hangzhou in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Hangzhou. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Hangzhou can get quite cold in the winter. Hoi An is much warmer than Hangzhou in the winter. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Hangzhou fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Hangzhou. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hangzhou receives 59 mm (2.3 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.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Hoi An 22°C (71°F) 
    Hangzhou 5°C (41°F)

Should I visit Hoi An or Hangzhou in the Spring?

Both Hangzhou and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year.

In the spring, Hoi An is much warmer than Hangzhou. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hoi An in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Hangzhou averages at about 16°C (61°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hangzhou. In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Hangzhou. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hangzhou receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Hoi An 26°C (80°F) 
    Hangzhou 16°C (61°F)

Typical Weather for Hangzhou and Hoi An

Hoi An Hangzhou
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 22°C (71°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Mar 24°C (75°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 10°C (50°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Apr 26°C (80°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 159 mm (6.3 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 25°C (77°F) 185 mm (7.3 in)
Jul 29°C (85°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 29°C (85°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Aug 29°C (85°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 29°C (84°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 331 mm (13 in) 24°C (76°F) 171 mm (6.7 in)
Oct 25°C (78°F) 613 mm (24.1 in) 19°C (66°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 24°C (76°F) 376 mm (14.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 23°C (73°F) 223 mm (8.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)