A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Phuket vs. Hoi An for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Backpackers

Should you visit Phuket or Hoi An?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Phuket or Hoi An, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Phuket

Phuket is a stunning, activity-filled, and energetic resort island. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a traditional, quaint, and peaceful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Phuket and Hoi An: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Phuket or Hoi An?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hoi An. Although Phuket and Hoi An are popular destinations, Hoi An has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hoi An is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Phuket attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Phuket is famous for its long sandy beaches, wild nightlife, colorful resorts, and easy access to day tours. Hoi An is famous for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. It is also well known for the Fukian Assembly Hall.

How is Phuket different from Hoi An?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Phuket or Hoi An?

Hoi An is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hoi An can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Phuket does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Phuket or Hoi An? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hoi An is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

Phuket is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Because it served as an international port for so long, food around the island has many international influences. For the most authentic local food, head into Phuket Town. Many dishes include seafood, but there are also chicken curries and noodle soup. Like elsewhere in Thailand, the food can be quite spicy but because the island is so touristy, they're accustomed to people asking for "no spice."

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Nightlife?

Phuket is terrific for nightlife. However, Hoi An is lacking in options for nightlife and partying.

Phuket is a must-see party destination. The island has a long running reputation as a party destination and it lives up to expectations. The biggest party area is Patong, particularly around Bangla Road, but even in Kata and Karon, it's hard to escape the party atmosphere.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Resorts?

Phuket is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Hoi An is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Phuket for its luxury resorts. It's easy accessibility and larger size make this the premiere resort destination in Thailand. There are five star resorts, family-friendly resorts, and everything in between. Many people use the island as a base for exploring other nearby islands. Any resort or tour company can arrange excursions or activities for guests.

Hoi An is not a resort destination.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Phuket is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Phuket. You can dive and snorkel year round, but the visibility is usually best between November and May. There are countless boat tours available and the easy accessibility make this a good base for snorkeling and diving. Many areas are overrun with tourists though, so it'll be hard to find a quiet, undisturbed location.

Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Beaches?

Phuket is terrific for its beaches. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beache.

Phuket offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island has more than 30 beaches to choose from, ranging from party hard areas to a few quieter gems in more remote locations. The area became a world-famous destination because of its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, and the beaches will not disappoint, even if development has taken over the island.

Hoi An is a good option for a beach vacation. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its old town. However, Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Phuket does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Phuket or Hoi An?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Hoi An make it a world-class shopping destination. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

Phuket has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping malls offer a range of stores, air conditioning, and fixed prices while markets have more local items and unique souvenirs. There are also galleries and other souvenir shops all over the island.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Families?

Hoi An is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hoi An is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Phuket offers lots of family activities. Many people visit this island with kids because it has beautiful beaches and tons of activities including water sports, water parks, and amusement areas. The island is filled with a diversity of tourists, so you'll encounter a number of areas with party-hard atmospheres, but there are also tons of family-friendly resorts to choose from as well.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Couples?

Phuket and Hoi An are both great to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Phuket frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The island is filled with beautiful beaches and plenty of activities for all travel styles. It's a tourist and party mecca in Thailand with many resorts and restaurants to choose from.

Hoi An is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for backpackers. However, Phuket is a resort island with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Phuket is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It has a long history as a party island with expensive prices and hordes of tourists. Many backpackers complain about the lack of authenticity and prefer to spend their time elsewhere.

Is Phuket or Hoi An Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Phuket and Hoi An.

You'll find some public transit in Phuket, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tuk tuks, buses, and motorbike taxis are all available on the island. The buses are usually Songtaew, which have open air seating areas.

While Hoi An offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Is Phuket or Hoi An a more walkable city?

Hoi An is an amazing town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Phuket is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Hoi An on foot is easy. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

Phuket is a somewhat walkable resort island. Most of the hotels and resorts are walking distance to the beach and many resort areas are small enough to be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Phuket Worth Visiting? and Is Hoi An Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hoi An or Phuket?

How long in Phuket or Hoi An?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Phuket and Hoi An. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Phuket than in Hoi An. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Phuket, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hoi An.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An than Phuket 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 Hoi An.

One day in Phuket or Hoi An?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Phuket. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Phuket or Hoi An?

Phuket is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hoi An is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Phuket or Hoi An?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Phuket. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Phuket or Hoi An?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the stunning destination of Phuket. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the peaceful destination of Hoi An. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours in Thailand, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Vietnam, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in Vietnam.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Phuket or Hoi An?

Phuket has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Phuket and Hoi An, 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 Phuket or Hoi An?

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 Phuket or Hoi An in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Phuket as well as Hoi An. Phuket attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year.

Also, February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. September to January in Hoi An is the rainy season. Phuket receives a lot of rain in the summer. Phuket usually gets more rain in July than Hoi An. Phuket gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Phuket this time of the year. In the summer, Phuket often gets less sunshine than Hoi An. Phuket gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hoi An receives 242 hours of full sun.

In July, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Hoi An. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 28°C (82°F), and Hoi An fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Hoi An in the Autumn?

Both Hoi An and Phuket are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Phuket throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Phuket is December to March. The rainy season in Phuket is June to October. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. It's quite rainy in Phuket. In October, Phuket usually receives less rain than Hoi An. Phuket gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Hoi An during autumn. Phuket gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Hoi An receives 158 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Phuket is around the same temperature as Hoi An in the autumn. The daily temperature in Phuket averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Hoi An fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Hoi An in the Winter?

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

December to March is the dry season in Phuket. February to July is the dry season in Hoi An. September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Phuket usually gets less rain in January than Hoi An. Phuket gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

It's quite sunny in Phuket. In the winter, Phuket often gets more sunshine than Hoi An. Phuket gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hoi An receives 136 hours of full sun.

In the winter, Phuket is a little warmer than Hoi An. Typically, the winter temperatures in Phuket in January average around 28°C (82°F), and Hoi An averages at about 22°C (71°F).

Should I visit Phuket or Hoi An in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Phuket and Hoi An. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Phuket year-round. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Also, June to October is the rainy season in Phuket. Phuket gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Phuket usually receives more rain than Hoi An. Phuket gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Hoi An receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hoi An this time of the year. In Phuket, it's very sunny this time of the year. Phuket usually receives more sunshine than Hoi An during spring. Phuket gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Hoi An receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Phuket is generally around the same temperature as Hoi An. Daily temperatures in Phuket average around 29°C (84°F), and Hoi An fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Typical Weather for Hoi An and Phuket