A Travel Price Comparison for Vietnam Hue vs. Da Nang for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hue or Da Nang?

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 Da Nang 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 ancient, imperial, and cultural city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Da Nang

Da Nang is a coastal, accessible, and authentic city. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hue and Da Nang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Da Nang?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Hue than Da Nang. While Da Nang is larger than Hue, Hue has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Hue is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and shopping, while Da Nang is known for its nightlife, resorts, and beaches. Hue is more touristy than Da Nang and is known for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. It is also home to Imperial City. Da Nang is popular for its traditional pagodas, nearby beaches, and high end resorts.

How is Hue different from Da Nang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hue is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Da Nang. Some people use this city as a base for exploring other nearby towns. While it has some interesting sights, there aren't nearly as much history as in the surrounding area. The Golden Bridge Hands has become a popular tourist attraction and the nearby Marble Mountains are also a highlight. You can also check out the Museum of Cham Sculpture.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hue and Da Nang.

Dining out in Hue is an experience not to be missed. 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Da Nang. The city's local cuisine is authentic and traditional. There are many local dishes to try such as Mi Quang (rice noodles and chicken), Bun Cha Ca (rice noodles and fish cakes), and Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork belly wrapped in rice paper).

Is Hue or Da Nang Better for Nightlife?

Da Nang 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.

Da Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. There are rooftop cafes, lounges, and local bars that are cheap and stay open late. You'll find a good number of places along Bach Dang Street, which turns into a walking street at 7 pm.

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 Da Nang Better for Resorts?

Da Nang is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Hue is not a resort destination.

In Da Nang, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The city has a good number of luxury, international brand hotels that are along the beaches.

Hue is not a resort destination.

Is Hue or Da Nang Better for Beaches?

Da Nang is a city with good options for the beach. However, Hue is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Da Nang. There are beaches within a 10 minute drive of the city, which can get crowded on weekends and holidays. If you want a more peaceful experience, you'll need to go to Son Tra Peninsula, which is where you'll find most of the luxury resorts.

Hue is not a beach destination.

Is Hue or Da Nang Better for its Old Town?

Hue is a well-known place for its old town. However, Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Hue. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

Da Nang does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Da Nang?

Hue is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its shopping areas.

Hue is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Da Nang has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are some shopping malls and local shops that make for interesting shopping experiences, but nothing compared to some of the more popular cities.

Is Hue or Da Nang Better for Families?

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

Da Nang is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities in the area. Amusement parks like Asia Park Da Nang and nearby Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park are fun for everyone. There are also beaches and beachfront resorts that aren't far from town.

Hue is a family-friendly city. 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.

Is Hue or Da Nang Better for Couples?

Da Nang is a well-known place for couples. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Da Nang is a very popular place to visit for couples. The surrounding area has luxury resorts and nice beaches that make for a romantic getaway.

Hue is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Hue or Da Nang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hue is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Da Nang is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hue is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Da Nang is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's often skipped by backpackers and other tourists, but those who hang out for a day or two will appreciate an authentic city with genuine Vietnamese culture.

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

Both Hue and Da Nang offer good public transit options.

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

Da Nang has some public transit options. There are 14 bus routes in the city.

Is Hue or Da Nang a more walkable city?

Hue is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Da Nang is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Da Nang is not a very walkable city. The city is very spread out and very difficult to explore on foot. There are some beachfront promenades that are pedestrian-friendly, but most of the city is not.

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

Should I spend more time in Da Nang or Hue?

How long in Hue or Da Nang?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hue or Da Nang to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hue than Da Nang because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 1-2 days is enough time in Da Nang.

Families should spend more time in Da Nang than Hue. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Da Nang, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

One day in Hue or Da Nang?

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.

With food and museums around the coastal destination of Da Nang, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Hue or Da Nang?

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 Da Nang for a weekend. With museums and nightlife around the coastal city of Da Nang, there's plenty to do. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Hue or Da Nang?

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.

The destination of Da Nang offers nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Five days 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.

A week in Hue or Da Nang?

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.

Da Nang, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Vietnam, and The Best Cultural Tours in Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Hue and Da Nang, we can see that Hue 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 Hue Expensive? and Is Da Nang Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hue or Da Nang?

Da Nang has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hue. When comparing the sizes of Hue and Da Nang, 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 Da Nang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Hue or Da Nang in the Summer?

Both Da Nang and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Da Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hue is March to August. The rainy season in Hue is September to December. The dry season in Da Nang is January to July. The rainy season in Da Nang is August to December. In July, Hue usually receives around the same amount of rain as Da Nang. Hue gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

It's quite sunny in Da Nang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hue. Hue usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Da Nang during summer. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Da Nang receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hue is generally around the same temperature as Da Nang. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 29°C (85°F), and Da Nang fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Hue or Da Nang in the Autumn?

Both Da Nang and Hue during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hue because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Da Nang year-round.

September to December is the rainy season in Hue. August to December is the rainy season in Da Nang. Da Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hue. Hue usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Da Nang. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Hue often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Da Nang. Hue gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Da Nang receives 158 hours of full sun.

Hue is around the same temperature as Da Nang in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and Da Nang fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Hue or Da Nang in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hue and Da Nang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hue year-round. Da Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

March to August in Hue is the dry season. January to July in Da Nang is the dry season. Da Nang receives a lot of rain in the winter. Hue gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hue usually receives around the same amount of rain as Da Nang. Hue gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Hue usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Da Nang during winter. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Da Nang receives 136 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Hue is around the same temperature as Da Nang. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hue in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Da Nang averages at about 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Hue or Da Nang in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hue as well as Da Nang. Hue attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Da Nang throughout the year.

Hue usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Da Nang. Hue gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Da Nang receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Da Nang. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hue this time of the year. In the spring, Hue often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Da Nang. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Da Nang receives 210 hours of full sun.

In April, Hue is generally around the same temperature as Da Nang. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 26°C (80°F), and Da Nang fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Da Nang and Hue