A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Newcastle for Food, Backpackers, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Hoi An or Newcastle?

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 Newcastle. 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. With stunning beauty, Hoi An attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, beaches, and shopping. See Hoi An travel costs.

Newcastle

Newcastle is a coastal, vibrant, and high energy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Newcastle travel costs.

Hoi An and Newcastle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Newcastle?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Newcastle than Hoi An, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Newcastle is better known for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Hoi An is more popular for its food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Newcastle and is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. Newcastle is well known for its bustling harbor, sandy beaches, and coastal walks. Also, Newcastle is famous for the Bathers Way.

How is Hoi An different from Newcastle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Spend time exploring the superb sights and museums in either Hoi An or Newcastle.

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.

Newcastle offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some interesting sights around town such as Nobbys Lighthouse. There's also the popular Ocean Baths. These pools offer a nice break from the surf. You can also check out the sights along the Newcastle Memorial Walk. For a history lesson, head to Fort Scratchley.

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

Hoi An is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Hoi An is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Newcastle. It's a moderately sized city, so you'll find a good mix of restaurants. Head to the beachfront if you want fine dining and good seafood. There are also some good breweries and cafes, as well as brunch places and international flavors around town.

Is Hoi An or Newcastle Better for Nightlife?

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

Newcastle has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. It's a vibrant city, and the best nightlife can be found in the Honeysuckle Precinct. This is where you'll find the largest number of bars and pubs. Hunter Street is also a cool hangout area where you'll find the hidden gems where the locals hang out. Civic Theatre is the place to see a show.

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 Newcastle Better for Beaches?

Newcastle is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Many people visit Newcastle for it's beautiful beaches. There are a number of beaches in and near the city. Nobbys Beach is the most popular and you'll find families, surfers, and locals hanging out here. Newcastle Beach is also popular with its many restaurants and cafes.

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 Newcastle Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, Newcastle does not have a historic old town.

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.

Newcastle does not have a historic old town.

Is Hoi An or Newcastle Better for Hiking?

Newcastle is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Newcastle offers some nice hiking trails. There are many places to enjoy a stroll or hike near town. The most famous walk is the Bathers Way Walk, which runs along the coastline and offers spectacular views. It's particularly nice during the winter whale watching season.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Newcastle?

Hoi An is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Hoi An is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Newcastle. It's gained popularity for its trendy fashions and chic style. You'll find great shopping around town that highlight both local and international brands.

Is Hoi An or Newcastle More Beautiful?

Hoi An is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hoi An attracts visitors from all around. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

Newcastle is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hoi An or Newcastle Better for Families?

Hoi An is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hoi An is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Newcastle is a family-friendly town. Kids will enjoy the long sandy beaches, but there's also a working harbor that you can explore. You can also visit the Newcastle Museum or try one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.

Is Hoi An or Newcastle Better for Couples?

Hoi An is a well-known place for couples. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Hoi An is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Newcastle is a nice destination for couples. The city has some great restaurants as well as many coastal walks and a vibrant nightlife scene that couples enjoy.

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

Hoi An is terrific for backpackers. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hoi An is a very popular town to visit for backpackers. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Newcastle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not Australia's most popular backpacker destination, there are some hostels and a good nightlife scene that are worth checking out.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Hoi An and Newcastle.

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

You'll find some public transit in Newcastle, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's both a light rail system and a bus system.

Is Hoi An or Newcastle a more walkable city?

Hoi An is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Newcastle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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.

Newcastle is somewhat walkable. There are parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Newcastle or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Newcastle?

It's fun to spend time in either Hoi An or Newcastle. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Newcastle due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hoi An, and 2-4 days is enough time in Newcastle.

Families should spend more time in Hoi An than Newcastle. 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 Newcastle. 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 Newcastle 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 Newcastle?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hoi An. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Newcastle. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hoi An or Newcastle?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful destination of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Newcastle is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or Newcastle?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Hoi An. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or Newcastle?

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

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the high energy destination of Newcastle. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Newcastle?

Newcastle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and Newcastle, 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 Newcastle?

Newcastle 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 Newcastle in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Newcastle. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Newcastle for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hoi An is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein January. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 29°C (85°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hoi An this time of the year. In the summer, Hoi An often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Newcastlein January. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 232 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle. Hoi An usually gets less rain in July than Newcastlein January. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 111 mm (4.4 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 Newcastle in the Autumn?

Both Newcastle 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 visitors come to Newcastle in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Hoi An is a little warmer than Newcastle in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and Newcastle fluctuates around 19°C (67°F)in April.

Hoi An usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during autumn. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 199 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Newcastle. It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In October, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Newcastlein April. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Hoi An or Newcastle in the Winter?

Both Newcastle 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, most visitors come to Newcastle for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Hoi An is much warmer than Newcastle. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hoi An in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Newcastle averages at about 13°C (55°F)in July.

In Newcastle, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Newcastlein July. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Newcastle receives 206 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually gets more rain in January than Newcastlein July. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 61 mm (2.4 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 Newcastle in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Newcastle. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Newcastle because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Hoi An is generally a little warmer than Newcastlein October. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 26°C (80°F), and Newcastle fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Newcastle this time of the year. In Hoi An, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives less sunshine than Newcastle during spring. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Newcastle receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Newcastlein October. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Newcastle receives 85 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Newcastle and Hoi An