A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hue vs. Beijing for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hue or Beijing?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hue and Beijing can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Hue

Hue is a cultural, authentic, and ancient city. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Beijing

Beijing is a historic, massive, and jam-packed city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hue and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Beijing?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing than Hue. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Beijing is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hue attracts visitors for its historical sights. Beijing is more touristy than Hue and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Hue is famous for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital.

How is Hue different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hue or Beijing?

Beijing is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hue. It's an ancient city that is filled with many sights from its imperial past. The Imperial City in Hue is the city's most important attraction. Other sights include the Thai Hoa Palace, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tomb of Emperor Khai Dinh.

Is the Food Better in Hue or Beijing? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Many restaurants in Beijing have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hue. Local dishes were once served to the city's emperors, but today you'll find them in restaurants and food stalls. Dishes are either sweet or spicy with lemongrass, basil, chilies, and mint herbs mixed in. Soups and grilled meats are popular such as bun bo hue and nem lui.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a well-known place for its evening party scene. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Beijing offers plenty to do in the evening. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hue. For the best nightlife, many visitors head to the Western Area, particularly around the streets of Pham Ngu Lao, Chu Van An and Vo Thi Sau. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street is another popular area for nightlife in Hue.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for its Old Town?

Hue is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Hue is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

Beijing does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Beijing?

Both Hue and Beijing are great shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Hue. The city has many local markets where you can find traditional and authentic handicrafts. Some of the most interesting things to purchase at the markets include silk paintings, antiques, and lacquerware.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for Families?

Both Hue and Beijing are nice to visit with kids.

Hue is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the Imperial City, visiting Ho Quyen Arena and Long Chau Temple, or wandering through the city's local markets. The Demilitarized Zone is also an interesting side trip.

Beijing is a family-friendly city. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for Couples?

Both Hue and Beijing are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Hue is a good city for couples to visit. Couples can enjoy boat rides or sunset cruises along Perfume River. There are also interesting temples and fascinating day trips that you can take from the city.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Hue and Beijing are great destinations for backpackers.

Hue is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It is a popular stop over in central Vietnam. There are plenty of hostels and budget guesthouses to accommodate the backpacker crowds. There are also cheap restaurants and interesting activities relating to the city's long history.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for Students?

Beijing is a well-known place for students. However, Hue is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Hue is not popular with students.

Is Hue or Beijing Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Beijing offers a very effecient public transportation network. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Hue has some public transit options. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around the city.

Is Hue or Beijing a more walkable city?

Hue is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Hue is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights can be reached on foot and the city is relatively compact.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Hue Worth Visiting? and Is Beijing Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Hue?

How long in Hue or Beijing?

Both Hue and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than in Hue. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beijing.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Hue 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 Beijing.

One day in Hue or Beijing?

In Hue, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

When visiting Beijing, people usually allow for lots of time. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Hue or Beijing?

In Hue, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hue has to offer.

Many people visit Beijing for a weekend. When visiting Beijing, people usually allow for lots of time. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Hue or Beijing?

Hue is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

When visiting Beijing, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Hue or Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hue. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hue. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Beijing, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hue or Beijing?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hue. When comparing the sizes of Hue and Beijing, 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 Hue or Beijing?

Beijing has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hue experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hue or Beijing in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hue and Beijing. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hue year-round. Furthermore, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Beijing this time of year.

Hue is around the same temperature as Beijing in the summer. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Beijing fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In Hue, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hue usually receives more sunshine than Beijing during summer. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 224 hours of full sun in the summer.

Beijing receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Hue usually receives less rain than Beijing. Hue gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the summer. March to August in Hue is the dry season. Also, September to December is the rainy season in Hue.

Should I visit Hue or Beijing in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hue as well as Beijing. Hue attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many travelers come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Hue is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hue in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Beijing averages at about 14°C (56°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. In the autumn, Hue often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Hue gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 227 hours of full sun.

Hue receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hue usually gets more rain in October than Beijing. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year. September to December in Hue is the rainy season.

Should I visit Hue or Beijing in the Winter?

Both Beijing and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Beijing can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Hue is generally much warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 22°C (71°F), and Beijing fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. Hue usually receives less sunshine than Beijing during winter. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Beijing receives 201 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Hue. In January, Hue usually receives more rain than Beijing. Hue gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Hue is March to August.

Should I visit Hue or Beijing in the Spring?

Both Beijing and Hue during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hue because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Hue is much warmer than Beijing in the spring. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hue. In the spring, Hue often gets less sunshine than Beijing. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Beijing receives 247 hours of full sun.

Hue usually gets more rain in April than Beijing. Hue gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Hue