A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hue vs. Hong Kong for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Hue or Hong Kong?

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 Hong Kong 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 imperial, cultural, and authentic city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a compact, dense, and cosmopolitan city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Hue and Hong Kong: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Hue or Hong Kong?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hong Kong than Hue, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Hong Kong is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hue is known for its historical sights. Hue is popular for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. Hong Kong is popular for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum. It is also home to Victoria Peak.

How is Hue different from Hong Kong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hue
Hong Kong

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Hue or Hong Kong.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.


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

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

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 Hong Kong Better for Nightlife?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong 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.

Hong Kong offers plenty to do in the evening. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

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 Hong Kong Better for Beaches?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a well-known place for the beach. However, Hue is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

Hue is not a beach destination.


Is Hue or Hong Kong Better for its Old Town?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hue is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

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

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hue or Hong Kong Better for Hiking?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Hue is not a hiking destination.

Hong Kong is a popular spot for hiking. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

Hue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Hong Kong?

Hue
Hong Kong

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

Hong Kong is a world class destination for shoppers. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

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 Hong Kong Better for Families?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is terrific for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an extremely popular city to visit for families. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

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 Hong Kong Better for Couples?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is terrific for couples. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Hong Kong is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

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 Hong Kong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hue is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Hue. 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.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.


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

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is terrific 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.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Hong Kong can take you anywhere. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

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

Is Hue or Hong Kong a more walkable city?

Hue
Hong Kong

Hong Kong is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Hong Kong on foot. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Hong Kong or Hue?

How long in Hue or Hong Kong?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong 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 Hong Kong.


  • How many days in Hue or Hong Kong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hue 1-3 
    Hong Kong 3-7

One day in Hue or Hong Kong?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Hue. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hue has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

When visiting Hong Kong, people usually allow for lots of time. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Hong Kong?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Hue. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Hong Kong for a weekend. When visiting Hong Kong, people usually allow for lots of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Hong Kong?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ancient city of Hue. 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.

When visiting Hong Kong, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Hue or Hong Kong?

Hue 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.

Hong Kong, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Vietnam.


Which place is cheaper, Hong Kong or Hue?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Hue is $48, while the average daily cost in Hong Kong is $159. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hue and Hong Kong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hue $23
    Hong Kong $75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hue $46
    Hong Kong $150
Compare Hotels in Hue and Hong Kong

Looking for a hotel in Hue or Hong Kong? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hue


Hotels in Hong Kong


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hue Hotel Prices and Hong Kong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hue $12
    Hong Kong $8.70
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hue

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Hue:


  • Cyclo
    $0.48
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $0.88
  • Taxi Ride to Tombs
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hue

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hue:

  • Vinh Moc Tunnels & Khe Sanh: Transfer from Hue or Phong Nha: $43
  • Transfer from Hue to Hoi An with Private Car: $98
  • Transfer from Hue to Hoi An via Hai Van Pass and Golden Bridge: $55
  • Transfer from Hue to Hoi An by Motorbike: $67
  • Transfer from Hue to Da Nang or Hoi An via Bach Ma National Park: $81
  • Transfer from Hue airport to Hue city center or vice versa: $7.10
  • Transfer from Da Nang or Hoi An to Hue via Hue City Tour: $64
  • Transfer between Hue Hotels and Hue Airport: $7.40
  • Sightseeing Transfer Between Hue and Hoi An: $102
  • Sightseeing Transfer Between Hue and Hoi An: $113
  • Rental of a Scooter from Hue to Hoi An with Bag Transfer: $30
  • Privated Hue Airport Transfer-Airport to Hotel or vice versa: $14

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hong Kong:


  • MTR (for 2)
    $2.81
  • Local Bus
    $2.81
  • Ferry Ticket
    $0.26
  • Hong Kong Airport Express Train Ticket
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Hue or Hong Kong?

Prices for flights to both Hong Kong and Hue change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hue $15
    Hong Kong $33
Typical Food Prices in Hue

Some typical examples of dining costs in Hue are as follows:


  • River Night Market Dinner (for Two)
    $7.99
  • Two Sugarcane Drinks
    $0.80
  • Quick Lunch (for Two)
    $2.20
  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    $4.39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hue

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hue.

  • Private Healthy Cooking Class In Ancient Vietnamese Garden: $20
  • Hue Walking Street Food Tour: $27
  • Walking street food tour: $30
  • Hue : Vegetarian Cooking Class with Local Family: $31
  • Vietnamese Cooking Class with Local Family in Hue: $31
  • Hue Food Tour by Walking or Cyclo or Motorcycle with Driver: $33
  • Hue Food Tour by Walking or Cyclo or Motorbike with Driver: $33
  • Hue Walking Food Tour: $35
  • Exploring Hue Food Tour with Local Guide : $35
  • Home Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Class with Local Girl: $35
  • Home Cooking Class with Local Girl: $37
  • Hue:Exploring Street Food Tour With Local Guide: $37

Typical Food Prices in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hue $11
    Hong Kong $95
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hue

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Hue are as follows:


  • Boat Ride
    $7.79
  • Bicycle Rental (One Day)
    $1.12
  • Imperial Citadel Entrance
    $3.20
  • Massage at Institute for the Blind
    $1.60

Tours and Activities in Hue

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hue are as follows:

  • Hue City Full-Day Tour with Boat Trip on Perfume River and Lunch: $128
  • Hue City: Full-Day Guided Tour - Imperial City - All Inclusive: $59
  • Hue Private Guided Tour : Citadel, Royal tombs, Thien Mu pagoda: $57
  • 1-day Hue full day city tour: $39
  • 12 Hours Experience Different Hue: $179
  • 13 Days Private Tour Highlights of Cambodia & Vietnam: $4,731
  • 2 Day Motorbike Tour from Hue to Hoi An by Mister T Easy Rider: $160
  • 2,5 hours walking tour inside Hue Imperial city: $35
  • 2-Day Phong Nha-Ke Bang Cave Adventure from Hue: $250
  • 2-Day Sa Pa Adventure with Trekking and Ethnic Homestay: $88
  • 2.5 hours Hue Walking Tour with Tour Guide: $20
  • 3-Hours Hue Imperial Walking Tour with Guide: $22

Typical Entertainment Prices in Hong Kong

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Hong Kong's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Peak Tram
    $7.66
  • Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
    $24

Tours and Activities in Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Plover Cove Bicycling and Hiking Adventure: $110
  • Ma On Shan Climbing Adventure: $115

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hue $5.79
    Hong Kong $21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Hue

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Hue:


  • Beer
    $1.00


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


Which is Bigger, Hue or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hue. When comparing the sizes of Hue and Hong Kong, 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.