A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Ho Chi Minh City for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

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 Mykonos and Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a postcard perfect, glamourous, and party-oriented Greek island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a diverse, cultural, and chaotic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Mykonos and Ho Chi Minh City: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Mykonos, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Ho Chi Minh City is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, and big city activities, while Mykonos is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Ho Chi Minh City and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Ho Chi Minh City is popular for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. It is also home to the War Remnants Museum.

How is Mykonos 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 Mykonos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City are among the most recognizable in the world. 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 for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a good destination for its theatre productions. However, Mykonos is not a theatre destination.

Ho Chi Minh City offers a number of shows and performances. 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.

Mykonos is not a theatre destination.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Ho Chi Minh City can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

For foodies, Ho Chi Minh City is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Nightlife?

Both Mykonos and Ho Chi Minh City are first-rate when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Resorts?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Mykonos is a perfect choice. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

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

Mykonos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

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

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is great for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Mykonos is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Hiking?

Mykonos is mediocre for hiking. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Both Mykonos and Ho Chi Minh City are first-rate shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Many people travel to Ho Chi Minh City specifically to go shopping. 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.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Ho Chi Minh City is very family-friendly. 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Couples?

Mykonos 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, Mykonos has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

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 Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a good destination for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Ho Chi Minh City is a good city to visit for 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.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Mykonos offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Public transit is generally 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 Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City a more walkable city?

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Mykonos is a very easy Greek island to get around on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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 Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mykonos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 3-4 days is enough time in Ho Chi Minh City.

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

One day in Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the postcard perfect destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Ho Chi Minh City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

You'll find shopping and museums around the opulent Greek island of Mykonos. 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.

Because Ho Chi Minh City is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ho Chi Minh City. Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Vietnam.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mykonos Expensive? and Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Ho Chi Minh City, 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.