A Travel Price Comparison for Vietnam Hoi An vs. Hanoi for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hoi An or Hanoi?

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 Hanoi. 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 traditional, quaint, and peaceful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a historical, fascinating, and high energy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Hoi An and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Hanoi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi. Although Hoi An and Hanoi are popular destinations, Hanoi has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hanoi is very popular for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities, while Hoi An attracts visitors for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Hanoi and is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Hoi An different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Hanoi from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city is rich in history and culture, which you can experience through its many museums and temples. Notable sights include the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, and the Imperial Citadel.

Hoi An offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

Hoi An is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Hoi An have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Northern Vietnamese cuisine is fresh and delicious. There are some Chinese influences, but it still has a distinct flavor that's all its own. Most notably, Hanoi is the birthplace of the famous soup, Pho. There are also many dishes that use freshwater fish and seafood. Street food and food stalls are a part of the culture, and you'll find some of the best dishes prepared right on the street.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. However, Hoi An is lacking in options for nightlife and partying.

Hanoi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. There are night markets, nightclubs, and bars that are popular with backpackers and other young travelers. Some of the best streets for nightlife include Ta Hien Street, Hang Buom Street, Trang Tien Street, and Hoan Kiem Lake Walking Street.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is a town with good options for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Hoi An. 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.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Hoi An and Hanoi.

Hoi An has a unique history which comes to life in its historic 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.

The old town of Hanoi is one of the most recognized in the world. This compact and energetic area is filled with history, Vietnamese architecture, traditional food stalls, and some of the city's most interesting streets. It's also at the heart of the city's backpacker scene, and you'll find many hostels in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Hanoi?

Shoppers can find a variety of fantastic stores in both Hoi An and Hanoi.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hoi An. 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.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. Explore the Old Quarter where you'll find narrow shophouses and traditional markets. It's best to explore on foot and pop in to the places that look interesting. Silk Street and Silver Street are particularly fascinating.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for Families?

Hoi An is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hoi An is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. Some kids love the energy of the city, but others can get a bit intimidated by it. The traffic and chaotic congestion is part of the experience, but for kids it can feel overwhelming. Take a tour to help ease some of the pressure. Kids will also enjoy going to a water puppet show or visiting a museum such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Hoi An is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Hanoi is a good town for couples to visit. Couples who enjoy adventure and exploring new cultures will love a trip to this fascinating city. If you want to get out of town, also book a trip through the stunning Halong Bay.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An and Hanoi are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hanoi. It's a highlight for many backpackers doing the Southeast Asian circuit. It is filled with hostels and cheap places to eat, and there is no shortage of backpackers around town. Most stay in the Old Quarter, where you'll find the highest concentration of hostels and budget accommodation.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi Better for Students?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Hoi An is not popular with students.

Many students visit Hanoi. It's affordability, fascinating culture, and accessibility make it a great study abroad destination. The food and plethora of cultural opportunities are a highlight for many international students.

Hoi An is not popular with students.

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

Hoi An is a town with good options for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Hoi An, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Hanoi. The best ways to get around town include motorbike taxis, cyclos, regular taxis, and local buses.

Is Hoi An or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Hoi An is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Hoi An on foot is easy. 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.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable town. There are parts of the city that are best explored on foot, but you'll also find crowded areas with motorbikes, food stalls, and cars, so come prepared for a bit of a thrill. Most visitors spend the majority of their time in the Old Quarter, which is compact and dense.

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

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Hanoi?

In either Hoi An or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi 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 Hanoi.

Families should spend more time in Hoi An than Hanoi. 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.

Couples should spend more time in Hoi An than Hanoi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hoi An that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An than Hanoi 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 Hanoi?

In Hoi An, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Hanoi is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hoi An or Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Hanoi is a great place to explore. 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 Hanoi?

Hoi An is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Hoi An. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Hanoi?

You'll find food and shopping around the traditional destination of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy big city of Hanoi. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Vietnam, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Vietnam, The Best Luxury Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Budget Tours to Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Hoi An and Hanoi, we can see that Hanoi 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. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Hanoi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Hanoi?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and Hanoi, 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 Hanoi?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Hoi An or Hanoi in the Summer?

Both Hanoi 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round.

February to July is the dry season in Hoi An. September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Hanoi. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the summer, Hoi An is around the same temperature as Hanoi. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hoi An in July average around 29°C (85°F), and Hanoi averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Hoi An or Hanoi in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Hanoi. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In October, Hoi An is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 25°C (78°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Hoi An or Hanoi in the Winter?

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

Also, February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. September to January in Hoi An is the rainy season. Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Hanoi. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Hoi An is a little warmer than Hanoi in the winter. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 22°C (71°F) in January, and Hanoi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Hoi An or Hanoi in the Spring?

Both Hanoi 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. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In the spring, Hoi An is around the same temperature as Hanoi. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hoi An in April average around 26°C (80°F), and Hanoi averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Hoi An