A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Lipe vs. Ho Chi Minh City for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Ho Chi Minh City can help you decide which place is right for you.

Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a idyllic, small, and local island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a chaotic, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for museums, theater, and nightlife.

Koh Lipe and Ho Chi Minh City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Koh Lipe, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Lipe is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is more touristy than Koh Lipe and is popular for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the War Remnants Museum. Koh Lipe is well known for its world class scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as its small and local atmosphere.

How is Koh Lipe different from Ho Chi Minh City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ho Chi Minh City and Koh Lipe. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Ho Chi Minh City that are not to be missed. It's a day trip outside of town, but the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see stop for any visitor. The War Remnants Museum is also a not-to-be-missed spot. Other highlights of the city include Thiên Hau Temple, the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, the Saigon Opera House, and the Reunification Palace.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Koh Lipe. The island is small and all about beaches and the undersea world, so you won't find any temples or museums here.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is very good for theatre. However, Koh Lipe is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Ho Chi Minh City. Water puppetry is a traditional art form that originated in the rural areas and was brought to the city. It is a fun cultural experience that kids and adults both enjoy. You can see it at The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre.

Koh Lipe is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Ho Chi Minh City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. This city, arguably, has some of the best food in Vietnam. You'll find everything from food stalls selling mouthwatering street food to luxury restaurants preparing traditional dishes with a modern twist. Banh Mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) and Pho (Vietnamese soup) are the most well known dishes around town, but also try the Bún mắm (a noodle dish) and Bún bò Huế (a beef based soup).

Koh Lipe has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's enough of a restaurant selection that you'll find good local food and freshly caught seafood. The options change frequently as the tourist crowds have varied dramatically over the years, making it difficult for businesses to stay open.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for nightlife. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

Ho Chi Minh City is a world class party destination. The city never settles down and you'll find all night parties and dance clubs open into the early hours. Backpackers keep the energy high, but there are also luxury clubs and more relaxed places where you can have a good night out if the backpacker thing isn't your scene.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Koh Lipe This is a small island that attracts tourists who want nature, beauty, and a serene and tranquil environment. You won't find much of a nightlife scene here.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Resorts?

Koh Lipe is great for its luxury resorts. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Lipe. There are a number of locally owned hotels on the island. Many have snorkeling gear for rent.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe is not to be missed. Although it is no longer the undiscovered island paradise that it once was, the snorkeling and diving on Koh Lipe remains some of the best in the country.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Beaches?

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Lipe is a very popular vacation destination. Despite the island's small size, the beaches are truly spectacular. They have white sand and the undersea world is just steps away, so don't forget your mask and snorkel.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Hiking?

Koh Lipe is great for hiking. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Lipe for the hiking trails. The island of Koh Lipe doesn't have any hiking, but nearby Adang Island has some impressive hikes that offer views and small waterfalls. You can take a longtail boat for just a short ride to the nearby island.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Koh Lipe is a island with minimal options for its shopping opportunities.

Ho Chi Minh City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city is filled with a mix of modern shopping centers and local shops selling traditional items. You'll find international brands as well as uniquely Vietnamese products. The city also has some of the best boutique shopping opportunities in Southeast Asia.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Lipe has some nice offerings. The Walking Street is the main street through the island. Its where you'll find the island's shops and restaurants. Most are closed during the morning hours, but people begin to gather in the afternoon.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular family destinations. Kids may feel overwhelmed at first, but they're sure to fall in love with the energy and kid-friendly activities in this city. There are traditional water puppet shows, kid-friendly restaurants, and fun parks. There's also the Suoi Tien Theme Park, smaller water parks, zoos, and art museums to explore.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Lipe is very family-friendly. This is a perfect island to explore with kids. There are beautiful beaches, great snorkeling, and plenty of opportunities to check out wildlife. Your kids will also enjoy seeing the Sea la vie fire show.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Couples?

Koh Lipe is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Lipe has plenty to offer. With its stunning beaches and beautiful nature, this is a great couple's destination. The island has wonderful snorkeling and white sandy beaches that are perfect for exploring with a loved one.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a vibrant cultural scene with excellent restaurants, great parks, and countless day trips, this is the ultimate couple's getaway.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Koh Lipe is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ho Chi Minh City is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's well established on the Southeast Asian backpacker's circuit and you'll find no shortage of hostels in town. You'll find a good number of backpackers in District 1 of the city, near Ben Thanh Market. Many backpackers also arrange trips to the Mekong Delta or elsewhere in Thailand while they're here.

It's common for backpackers to visit Koh Lipe. The island has become more popular than it was in years past, but it still offers a tranquil setting for those who are a bit jaded by the backpacker scene in Thailand.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is very good for students. However, Koh Lipe is not popular with students.

Ho Chi Minh City is popular with students. Study abroad students appreciate the city's energy and plethora of activities. It also makes a good base for trips to other parts of Southeast Asia.

Koh Lipe is not popular with students.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Koh Lipe and Ho Chi Minh City.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Lipe. There are longtail boats, motorbike taxis, and golf cart taxis that you can hire.

Public transit is mostly limited in Ho Chi Minh City. There are public buses around town but motorbike taxis and regular taxis are likely your best bet for getting around.

Is Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City a more walkable city?

Koh Lipe is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Koh Lipe is a very walkable destination. It's an easy island to explore on foot and you can walk from one end of the island to the other in about half an hour.

Ho Chi Minh City is somewhat walkable. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Lipe Worth Visiting? and Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City or Koh Lipe?

How long in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Lipe due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Lipe, and 3-4 days is enough time in Ho Chi Minh City.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Lipe than Ho Chi Minh City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Lipe that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Koh Lipe 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 Ho Chi Minh City.

One day in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the tranquil destination of Koh Lipe. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ho Chi Minh City is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the tranquil island of Koh Lipe. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

Koh Lipe is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Koh Lipe or Ho Chi Minh City?

Koh Lipe is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Lipe and Ho Chi Minh City, we can see that Koh Lipe 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 Koh Lipe Expensive? and Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive?.