A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hue vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a rugged, breathtaking, and undeveloped national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Hue and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hue. Although Hue and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Hue has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hue is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hue is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. It is also home to Imperial City. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Hue different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hue can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for its Old Town?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a well-known place for its old town. However, Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Hue is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Hue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a well-known place for couples. Also, Hue is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

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

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.


Is Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Hue
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hue is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Hue Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Hue?

How long in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Hue because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hue than Mount Aspiring National Park 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.


  • How many days in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hue 1-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The authentic destination of Hue offers shopping and museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 around the remote destination of Mount Aspiring National Park, there's plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hue. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hue has to offer.

Many people visit Mount Aspiring National Park for a weekend. With around the remote national park of Mount Aspiring National Park, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.


Five days in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Hue is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

With around the destination of Mount Aspiring National Park, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Hue. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park is $109. 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 Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hue $23
    Mount Aspiring National Park $59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hue $46
    Mount Aspiring National Park $118
Compare Hotels in Hue and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ? 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 Mount Aspiring National Park


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 Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hue $12
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49
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:

  • Da Nang: Airport Transfer Pick up Service: $5.91
  • Privated Hue Airport Transfer - Airport to Hotels or vice versa: $6.75
  • Transfer from Hue airport to Hue city center or vice versa: $7.10
  • Transfer between Hue Hotels and Hue Airport: $7.41
  • Private transfer from Phu Bai Airport to Hue city center: $9.30
  • Hue city Airport transfer - All Inclusive : $9.60
  • Private Transfer: Hue City Center - Hue Train Station: $12
  • Hue and Hoi An/ Da Nang City Shuttle Transfer Service: $13
  • Private Transfer: Hue City Center to Hue Train Station: $13
  • Hue City: Private Transfer to/from Phu Bai International …: $14
  • Phu Bai airport to/from Hue City Center - Private Transfer: $14
  • Privated Hue Airport Transfer-Airport to Hotel or vice versa: $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Hue or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park 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
    Mount Aspiring National Park $18
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
  • Home Cooking Class in Hue City : $35
  • Hue Walking Food Tour: $35
  • Best Hue Street Food Tour: $35
  • Exploring Hue Food Tour with Local Guide : $35
  • Home Vegan/Vegetarian Cooking Class with Local Girl: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hue $11
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
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:

  • Traditional Singing on Huong River Ticket: $3.82
  • Hue City Tour by Private Car & English Speaking Driver: $8.80
  • Hue Car Rental: Sightseeing City Day Trip by Car with Driver: $9.23
  • Sightseeing Travel Bus from Hue to Hoi An: $12
  • Discover Vietnamese Cuisine E-Ticket: $15
  • Hue Hoi An Bus Tour Sightseeing via Hai Van Pass 4 Stops: $15
  • Sightseeing Bus from Hue to Hoi An (Seat in Coach): $15
  • Hue Imperial City Sightseeing Full-Day Trip From Hue: $16
  • From Hue : Full-Day Hue Imperial City Tour with Lunch: $16
  • Hue : City Highlights Full Day Tour with Lunch: $16
  • BUS TOUR HUE - PHONG NHA: $16
  • HUE - HOI AN BUS TOUR (S.I.C): $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hue $5.79
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.09
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 Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Hue much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hue is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park 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 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 Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.