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

Should you visit Hoi An or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong. 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 quaint, peaceful, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a trendy, vibrant, and student-friendly coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Hoi An and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Wollongong?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Wollongong than Hoi An, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Wollongong 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 Wollongong and is known for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. Wollongong is well known for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. Also, Wollongong is famous for Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Hoi An different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

Wollongong offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.

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

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Wollongong makes for a great culinary experience. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Hoi An or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

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

Wollongong has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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 Wollongong Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Wollongong for it's beautiful beaches. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

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 Wollongong Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Wollongong does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Hoi An offers plenty to see. 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.

Wollongong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hoi An or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

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

Wollongong offers some nice hiking trails. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Wollongong?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many people travel to Hoi An specifically to go shopping. 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.

Wollongong is a great destination for shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.

Is Hoi An or Wollongong Better for Families?

Both Hoi An and Wollongong are superb 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.

Wollongong is a very kid-friendly town. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

Is Hoi An or Wollongong Better for Couples?

Hoi An and Wollongong both superb destinations for a couple.

Hoi An makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Wollongong frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hoi An, as it is a very popular town for budget travelers. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.

Is Hoi An or Wollongong Better for Students?

Wollongong is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Hoi An is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Wollongong. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Hoi An is not popular with students.

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

Wollongong is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Wollongong is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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.

Is Hoi An or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Hoi An is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its walkability.

Hoi An is a very easy town to get around 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.

Wollongong is very walkable. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.

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

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Hoi An or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wollongong 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 Wollongong.

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

With museums and food around the peaceful town of Hoi An, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Wollongong. 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 Wollongong?

With food and shopping around the destination of Hoi An, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Wollongong 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 Wollongong?

Hoi An, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wollongong. 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 Wollongong?

Hoi An is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the trendy destination of Wollongong. This coastal 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Vietnam, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Vietnam, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.

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

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Wollongong?

Wollongong has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?

Wollongong 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 Wollongong in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Wollongong. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wollongong for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hoi An is generally a little warmer than Wollongongin January. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 29°C (85°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. In Hoi An, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongong during summer. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Wollongongin January. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. Also, September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or Wollongong in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Wollongong. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Wollongong in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

Hoi An is a little warmer than Wollongong in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and Wollongong fluctuates around 18°C (64°F)in April.

In the autumn, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin April. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun.

Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An usually gets more rain in October than Wollongongin April. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or Wollongong in the Winter?

Both Wollongong and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Wollongong for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Hoi An is much warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hoi An in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Wollongong averages at about 10°C (50°F)in July.

It's quite sunny in Wollongong. Hoi An usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during winter. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In January, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Wollongongin July. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Hoi An is February to July. The rainy season in Hoi An is September to January.

Should I visit Hoi An or Wollongong in the Spring?

Both Wollongong and Hoi An during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Hoi An is generally much warmer than Wollongongin October. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 26°C (80°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Wollongong, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hoi An. In the spring, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin October. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun.

Hoi An usually gets less rain in April than Wollongongin October. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Hoi An