A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Similan Islands vs. Hanoi for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Similan Islands or Hanoi?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Similan Islands and Hanoi can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Similan Islands

Similan Islands is a spectacular, idyllic, and remote island chain. The famous beauty of Similan Islands is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Similan Islands travel costs.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a cultural, historical, and fascinating city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Hanoi travel costs.

Similan Islands and Hanoi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Similan Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hanoi is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Similan Islands is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Similan Islands and is popular for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Similan Islands is well known for its world class diving and remote setting.

How is Similan Islands different from Hanoi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its museums and history. However, Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Hanoi are world-renowned. 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.

Similan Islands does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Similan Islands or Hanoi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Similan Islands is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Hanoi has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Similan Islands area. Most people visit the islands as part of an organized tour, which usually provides meals as part of the package.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Hanoi has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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 Similan Islands. Peace and tranquility is what makes these islands special, and you'll find very limited amenities and no nightlife on the islands.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Similan Islands is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Similan Islands is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. These islands offer one of the world's most famous and impressive diving spots. World class divers travel great distances to experience the undersea world here. There are liveaboard boat trips that range in length from 4 to 6 nights and leave from either Khao Lak or Phuket. These trips will take you to the many great dive spots in the area. Do take note that the islands close every year from May until October.

Hanoi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Beaches?

Similan Islands is renowned for the beach. However, Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Similan Islands is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The world class beaches have white sand and stunningly blue waters. The setting is challenging enough to reach that you'll likely have few people to share the beaches with. The undersea world is also among the best and most vibrant around.

Hanoi is not a beach destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its old town. However, Similan Islands 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.

Similan Islands does not have a historic old town.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Hiking?

Similan Islands is a island chain with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Similan Islands. There are hikes through the jungle and to various viewpoints on several of the islands.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Known for shopping, Hanoi draws large crowds to its stores. 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.

Similan Islands is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi More Beautiful?

Similan Islands is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Similan Islands is one of the main draws. The remote setting makes this one of the few truly pristine places left to explore. In addition to the white sand and blue water, the undersea world here is spectacular.

Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Families?

Both Similan Islands and Hanoi are notable to visit with kids.

Similan Islands is a family-friendly island chain. It's a remote setting, but it's spectacularly beautiful with great snorkeling and sandy beaches that kids and adults alike will enjoy.

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 Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Couples?

Similan Islands is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Similan Islands is a great island chain for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who want to escape the tourist crowds will appreciate this remote and beautiful beach setting. The blue water and sandy beaches make for a true paradise.

Hanoi is a good island chain 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 Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Similan Islands is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hanoi is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Similan Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's remote setting makes it challenging to reach on a budget, but if you're willing to devote a day or more to travel, then you'll be well rewarded.

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi Better for Students?

Hanoi is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Similan Islands is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Similan Islands is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Similan Islands and Hanoi.

Public transit is mostly limited in Similan Islands. The national park operates boats between the islands. You can also charter private longtail boats, however these must be secured in advance and availability is not guaranteed.

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

Is Similan Islands or Hanoi a more walkable city?

Similan Islands and Hanoi are notable when it comes to walkability.

Similan Islands is a somewhat walkable place. There are footpaths that connect the points of interest on some of the islands.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable island chain. 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.

For even more information, also check out Is Similan Islands Worth Visiting? and Is Hanoi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hanoi or Similan Islands?

How long in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

In either Similan Islands or Hanoi, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Similan Islands than Hanoi because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Similan Islands, and 3-5 days is enough time in Hanoi.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Hanoi?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this remote destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island chain 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 big city with plenty to do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Similan Islands. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

Similan Islands is a fun place to experience. In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Hanoi is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Similan Islands or Hanoi?

In Similan Islands, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food that this spectacular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bangkok, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phuket, 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 Similan Islands and Hanoi, we can see that Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands Expensive? and Is Hanoi Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands or Hanoi in the Summer?

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

June to September is the rainy season in Similan Islands. 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 Similan Islands. Similan Islands usually gets more rain in July than Hanoi. Similan Islands gets 284 mm (11.2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Hanoi in the summer. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 28°C (82°F) in July, and Hanoi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hanoi in the Autumn?

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

October to May in Similan Islands is the dry season. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season. Hanoi receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Similan Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Similan Islands gets 351 mm (13.8 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

In the autumn, Similan Islands is around the same temperature as Hanoi. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Similan Islands in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Hanoi averages at about 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hanoi in the Winter?

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

Similan Islands usually gets more rain in January than Hanoi. Similan Islands gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In January, Similan Islands is generally much warmer than Hanoi. Daily temperatures in Similan Islands average around 27°C (80°F), and Hanoi fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Should I visit Similan Islands or Hanoi in the Spring?

Both Hanoi and Similan Islands are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Similan Islands 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 Similan Islands is October to May. The rainy season in Similan Islands is June to September. 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 Similan Islands. In April, Similan Islands usually receives more rain than Hanoi. Similan Islands gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Hanoi receives 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Similan Islands is a little warmer than Hanoi in the spring. The daily temperature in Similan Islands averages around 29°C (83°F) in April, and Hanoi fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Typical Weather for Hanoi and Similan Islands