A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Hanoi for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Koh Samui or Hanoi?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hanoi? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a fascinating, high energy, and colorful city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Koh Samui and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi. Although Koh Samui and Hanoi are both popular with visitors, Hanoi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hanoi is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Samui is more touristy than Hanoi and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Hanoi is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake.

How is Koh Samui different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Hanoi has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Hanoi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Hanoi can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole in the wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not to be missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hanoi makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Many people head to Hanoi for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is renowned for its resorts. However, Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is renowned for the beache. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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.

Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Samui. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many people travel to Hanoi specifically to go shopping. 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.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Families?

Koh Samui is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Koh Samui is a very kid-friendly resort island. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Hanoi offers lots of family activities. 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 Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Koh Samui frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Hanoi is a good resort island for couples to visit. 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 Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hanoi, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi Better for Students?

Hanoi is a great city for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Koh Samui is a resort island 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 Koh Samui, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

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

Is Koh Samui or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Hanoi is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

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.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

In either Koh Samui or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Samui than Hanoi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 3-5 days is enough time in Hanoi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui or Hanoi?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this tropical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

Koh Samui is a fun place to experience. In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

People visit Hanoi because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Hanoi?

In Koh Samui, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Hanoi 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Vietnam, and The Best Eco Tours in Vietnam.

When comparing the travel costs between Koh Samui and Hanoi, we can see that Koh Samui 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 Samui Expensive? and Is Hanoi Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Hanoi?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui or Hanoi?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hanoi in the Summer?

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

May to September in Hanoi is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Samui usually gets less rain in July than Hanoi. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In July, Koh Samui is generally cooler than Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hanoi in the Autumn?

Both Hanoi and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui 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 Koh Samui is December to February. The rainy season in Koh Samui is October to December. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Hanoi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hanoi in the Winter?

Both Hanoi and Koh Samui during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round.

December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in January than Hanoi. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Koh Samui is a little warmer than Hanoi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Hanoi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Koh Samui or Hanoi in the Spring?

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

November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Also, May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Hanoi. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Koh Samui is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Koh Samui