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

Should you visit Hue or Wollongong?

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 Wollongong 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 authentic, ancient, and imperial city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Wollongong

Wollongong is a student-friendly, trendy, and vibrant coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Hue and Wollongong: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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 for students


Is there more to do in Hue or Wollongong?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wollongong. Although Hue and Wollongong are popular destinations, Wollongong has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wollongong is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Hue attracts visitors for its historical sights and shopping. Hue is more touristy than Wollongong and is popular for its imperial buildings and political history as the country's historic capital. Wollongong is famous for its surrounding nature and urban beaches. It is also well known for Grand Pacific Drive.

How is Hue different from Wollongong?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Hue
Wollongong

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

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 Wollongong. There are several museums like the Wollongong Science Centre and Wollongong Planetarium and the railway museum Trainworks. There's also the Illawarra Museum, which is housed in the former post and telegraph office.


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

Hue
Wollongong

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

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 Wollongong. In recent years a younger crowd of entrepreneurs and self-starters has moved into the city, and with them has come a growing food scene. You'll find local cafes, fine dining restaurants, and many great beachfront restaurants where you can dine.

Is Hue or Wollongong Better for Nightlife?

Hue
Wollongong

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong offers plenty to do in the evening. The nightlife scene has seen a revitalization in recent years, and in addition to the standard bars and pubs, you'll find local venues that range from quirky to lively.

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 Wollongong Better for Beaches?

Hue
Wollongong

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

The beaches at Wollongong attract visitors from all over. There are urban beaches, as well as more hidden coastal areas that attract locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the city you'll find North Wollongong Beach and Wollongong City Beach, both of which have picnic areas and are popular with locals.

Hue is not a beach destination.


Is Hue or Wollongong Better for its Old Town?

Hue
Wollongong

Hue is great for its historic old town charm. However, Wollongong 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.

Wollongong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hue or Wollongong Better for Hiking?

Hue
Wollongong

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Hue is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Wollongong. The surrounding area has many great hikes that can be done as a day trip or even a half day trip. There are waterfalls, city views, and forest walks. Some of the most popular trails include Brokers Nose and Clover Hill Trail.

Hue is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hue or Wollongong?

Hue
Wollongong

Hue is great for its shopping areas. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Wollongong is a great destination for shopping. The most popular shopping area is Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, which has international brands and all of the big fashion names.


Is Hue or Wollongong Better for Families?

Hue
Wollongong

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The beaches, nearby nature, and ubiquitous bike trails make this a fun coastal city to explore with kids. There are also interactive museums such as Discovery Space and plenty of playgrounds. Kid-friendly surf lessons as well as the Nan Tien Temple make this a fun and fascinating family destination.

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 Wollongong Better for Couples?

Hue
Wollongong

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

Wollongong is a very popular place to visit for couples. The scenic natural areas, including the Grand Pacific Drive or the many bush walks, make this a wonderful couples retreat. There are water sports like surfing as well as horseback riding and even helicopter rides. In the evening, enjoy a nice meal and a sunset view.

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 Wollongong Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hue
Wollongong

Hue is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Wollongong is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Wollongong is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels as well as many outdoor areas to explore, so backpackers who want to escape the traditional backpacker scene will appreciate some time here.


Is Hue or Wollongong Better for Students?

Hue
Wollongong

Wollongong is a coastal city with good options for students. However, Hue is not popular with students.

Wollongong is a good coastal city to visit for students. It's not too far from Sydney and has a smaller, more laid back coastal vibe that appeals to many students.

Hue is not popular with students.

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

Hue
Wollongong

Wollongong 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.

Wollongong offers a very effecient public transportation network. There's a free Gong shuttle bus that travels around the city center. It runs a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University in both directions. There are also other bus services in town.

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

Is Hue or Wollongong a more walkable city?

Hue
Wollongong

Hue and Wollongong both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Wollongong is very walkable. There are walking paths in the city center so it's possible to walk to many tourist destinations.


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

Should I spend more time in Wollongong or Hue?

How long in Hue or Wollongong?

It's fun to spend time in either Hue or Wollongong. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Wollongong due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Hue, and 2-4 days is enough time in Wollongong.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hue than Wollongong 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 Wollongong? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hue 1-3 
    Wollongong 2-4

One day in Hue or Wollongong?

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Hue, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hue, one day is sufficent for most.

With nightlife and food around the trendy destination of Wollongong, there's plenty to do. 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 Wollongong?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Hue, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Many people visit Wollongong for a weekend. With food and shopping around the trendy coastal city of Wollongong, there's plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Hue or Wollongong?

Hue, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The destination of Wollongong offers shopping and museums. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Wollongong?

Hue is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Wollongong, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Australia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Wollongong 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 Wollongong is $121. 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 Wollongong in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hue $23
    Wollongong $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hue $46
    Wollongong $130
Compare Hotels in Hue and Wollongong

Looking for a hotel in Hue or Wollongong? 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 Wollongong


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 Wollongong Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hue $12
    Wollongong $39
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:

  • Hue city day trip with Guide, lunch &transfer from Chan May Port : $169
  • Golden Bridge Trip with Guide, Lunch &transfer from Chan May Port: $165
  • Da Nang: Private Car Transfer to Hue Via My Son Sanctuary: $139
  • Private Transfer from Hue (HUI) Airport to Dong Hoi: $135
  • Private Transfer From Hue To Phong Nha: $135
  • Hue Transfer to Hoi An Via Hai Van Pass &Sightseeing Private: $135
  • Private Transfer To Hue Via My Son Sanctuary :Hoi An/Da Nang: $131
  • Hue & Hoi An Transfer: Private Car Sightseeing Trip: $131
  • Private Car Transfer to Hue Via Hai Van Pass & Golden Bridge: $131
  • Private transfer from Hue to Hoi An with fabulous stops: $125
  • From Bach Ma National Park Private Car Transfer: $121
  • Private Transfer: Hoi An City Center - Hue City Center: $115

Is it cheaper to fly into Hue or Wollongong?

Prices for flights to both Wollongong 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
    Wollongong $30
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

Typical Food Prices in Wollongong

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Wollongong:


  • Lunch
    $7.79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hue $11
    Wollongong $22
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 - Bach Ma National Park Group Tour : $300
  • 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: $19

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hue $5.79
    Wollongong $18
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 Wollongong, we can see that Wollongong 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 Wollongong 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 Wollongong would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wollongong 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 Wollongong Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Hue or Wollongong?

Hue has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Wollongong. When comparing the sizes of Hue and Wollongong, 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 Wollongong?

Wollongong 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 Wollongong in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hue as well as Wollongong. Hue attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many visitors come to Wollongong in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hue is a little warmer than Wollongong in the summer. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Wollongong fluctuates around 23°C (74°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wollongong. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hue this time of the year. In the summer, Hue often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wollongongin January. Hue gets 242 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 236 hours of full sun.

Hue usually gets less rain in July than Wollongongin January. Hue gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, March to August in Hue is the dry season. September to December in Hue is the rainy season.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Hue 29°C (85°F) 
    Wollongong 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Hue or Wollongong in the Autumn?

Both Wollongong and Hue are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hue throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Wollongong for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Hue is a little warmer than Wollongong. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hue in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Wollongong averages at about 18°C (64°F)in April.

Hue usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during autumn. Hue gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Hue. In October, Hue usually receives more rain than Wollongongin April. Hue gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The rainy season in Hue is September to December.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Hue 25°C (78°F) 
    Wollongong 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Hue or Wollongong in the Winter?

Both Wollongong and Hue during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hue because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Wollongong because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Hue is generally much warmer than Wollongongin July. Daily temperatures in Hue average around 22°C (71°F), and Wollongong fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In Wollongong, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Hue often gets less sunshine than Wollongongin July. Hue gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wollongong receives 208 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hue. Hue usually gets more rain in January than Wollongongin July. Hue gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year. March to August is the dry season in Hue.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Hue 22°C (71°F) 
    Wollongong 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Hue or Wollongong in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hue and Wollongong. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hue year-round. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Wollongong this time of year.

Hue is much warmer than Wollongong in the spring. The daily temperature in Hue averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Wollongong fluctuates around 17°C (63°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wollongong this time of the year. In Hue, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hue usually receives less sunshine than Wollongong during spring. Hue gets 210 hours of sunny skies, while Wollongong receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hue usually receives less rain than Wollongongin October. Hue gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Wollongong receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Hue 26°C (80°F) 
    Wollongong 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Wollongong and Hue

Hue Wollongong
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 22°C (71°F) 112 mm (4.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Feb 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 23°C (73°F) 103 mm (4.1 in)
Mar 24°C (75°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 21°C (70°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Apr 26°C (80°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
May 29°C (83°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 30°C (85°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 142 mm (5.6 in)
Jul 29°C (85°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 29°C (85°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 331 mm (13 in) 14°C (58°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 25°C (78°F) 613 mm (24.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Nov 24°C (76°F) 376 mm (14.8 in) 20°C (68°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 23°C (73°F) 223 mm (8.8 in) 23°C (73°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)