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

Should you visit Hue or Hanoi?

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 Hanoi 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a cultural, historical, and fascinating city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hue and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hue or Hanoi?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Hue, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hue is popular for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Hue different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hanoi 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 Hanoi on the map. 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.

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 Hanoi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

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 Hanoi. 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 Hue or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi 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.

Hanoi offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

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 Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town.

Hanoi has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. 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.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Hue. As the former imperial capital, you'll see many temples and historical sites in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Hanoi?

Hanoi is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Hanoi is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Hue or Hanoi Better for Families?

Both Hue and Hanoi are good 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.

Hanoi is a family-friendly city. 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 Hue or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Both Hue and Hanoi are good 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.

Hanoi is a nice destination for couples. 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 Hue or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Hanoi is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Hue is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Hue or Hanoi Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Hue is not popular with students.

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

Hue is a city 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 Hue, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Cyclos, motorbikes, and local bus are the most common ways to get around the city.

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

Is Hue or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Hue is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Hue Worth Visiting? and Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Hue?

How long in Hue or Hanoi?

In either Hue or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Hanoi than Hue because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 3-5 days is enough time in Hanoi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi 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 Hanoi.

One day in Hue or Hanoi?

In Hue, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this ancient destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Hanoi?

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

Many people visit Hanoi for a weekend. When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Hanoi?

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

When visiting Hanoi, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Hue or Hanoi?

You'll find food and shopping around the imperial destination of Hue. 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.

Hanoi, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 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 Hue Expensive? and Is Hanoi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hue or Hanoi?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hue. When comparing the sizes of Hue 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 Hue or Hanoi?

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 Hanoi in the Summer?

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

March to August in Hue is the dry season. Also, September to December is the rainy season in Hue. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Hue usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Hue gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In July, Hue is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 29°C (85°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Hue or Hanoi in the Autumn?

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

September to December in Hue is the rainy season. Also, November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. Hue receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hue usually gets more rain in October than Hanoi. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Hue is around the same temperature as Hanoi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Hue or Hanoi in the Winter?

Both Hanoi and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue 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 Hue is March to August. It's quite rainy in Hue. In January, Hue usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Hue gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

In the winter, Hue is a little warmer than Hanoi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hue in January average around 22°C (71°F), and Hanoi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Hue or Hanoi in the Spring?

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

November to April is the dry season in Hanoi. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hue usually gets less rain in April than Hanoi. Hue gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

In April, Hue is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 26°C (80°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Hue