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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Hanoi. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a beautiful, undiscovered, and secluded island. The beauty of Koh Tarutao is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a historical, fascinating, and high energy 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 food, shopping, and museums. See Hanoi travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi. Although Koh Tarutao and Hanoi are both popular with visitors, Hanoi has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hanoi is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao is known for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also home to Hoan Kiem Lake. Koh Tarutao is popular for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its 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 Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

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

Hanoi is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Hanoi has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Hanoi has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not so good for its resorts. However, Hanoi is not a resort destination.

There isn't the widest selection of resorts in Koh Tarutao, but you'll find a few options to choose from. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Hanoi is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Tarutao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Hanoi offers plenty to see. 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 Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options 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 Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Koh Tarutao is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Hanoi are good family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Hanoi. 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 Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Koh Tarutao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Hanoi is a good 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 Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi Better for Students?

Hanoi is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Many students visit Hanoi. 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 Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Koh Tarutao and Hanoi.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

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

Is Koh Tarutao or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Hanoi is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options 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 Tarutao is generally not very walkable. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

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

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tarutao than Hanoi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao 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 Tarutao or Hanoi?

In Koh Tarutao, many people enjoy the that this undiscovered destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the beaches. This 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.

Hanoi is a fascinating city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Hanoi is a fascinating big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

Koh Tarutao is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Koh Tarutao. Lots of people come for the beaches. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Hanoi is a cultural city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Hanoi?

You'll find around the remote destination of Koh Tarutao. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the beaches. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Vietnam, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Hanoi, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hanoi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hanoi 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 Koh Tarutao would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Koh Tarutao than you might in Hanoi.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Koh Tarutao Expensive? and Is Hanoi Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao or Hanoi in the Summer?

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

May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Hanoi. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In July, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hanoi in the Autumn?

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

November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Hanoi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hanoi fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hanoi in the Winter?

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

Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in January than Hanoi. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Hanoi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Tarutao in January average around 27°C (80°F), and Hanoi averages at about 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Hanoi in the Spring?

Both Hanoi and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao 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 Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Koh Tarutao is generally a little warmer than Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 29°C (85°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Koh Tarutao