A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park 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.

Hanoi

Hanoi is a colorful, cultural, and historical 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 nightlife, food, and shopping. See Hanoi travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hanoi than Mount Aspiring National Park, 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 Mount Aspiring National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Hanoi is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. Also, Hanoi is famous for Hoan Kiem Lake. Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Hanoi different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi is very popular for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Hanoi are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hanoi. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

Hanoi offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi is very popular for its old town. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.

Hanoi has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Hanoi is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi is very popular for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

The abundance of shops in Hanoi make it a world-class shopping destination. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

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 Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Mount Aspiring National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Hanoi is a good city 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 Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park are first-rate places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hanoi. 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.

A large number of backpackers visit Mount Aspiring National Park, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.


Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Students?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi is a well-known place for students. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Hanoi is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not popular with students.

Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Hanoi
Mount Aspiring National Park

Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park both are notable when exploring on foot.

Hanoi is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable city. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Hanoi Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Hanoi has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Hanoi than Mount Aspiring National Park . In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Hanoi, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hanoi than Mount Aspiring National Park 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.


  • How many days in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Hanoi 3-5 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Hanoi is a big city with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this rugged destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park 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.

A weekend in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. 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.

Five days in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Hanoi is a fun place to experience. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hanoi has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a fun place to experience. In Mount Aspiring National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating city of Hanoi. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It offers something for everyone. 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.

You'll find around the rugged destination of Mount Aspiring National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Vietnam, The Best G Adventures Tours to Vietnam, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Hanoi?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Hanoi Prices
    Vietnam Prices
    Mount Aspiring National Park Prices
    New Zealand Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Hanoi $57
    Mount Aspiring National Park $122

The average daily cost (per person) in Hanoi is $57, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $122. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Hanoi $25
    Mount Aspiring National Park $58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Hanoi $50
    Mount Aspiring National Park $116
Compare Hotels in Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Hanoi


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hanoi Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Hanoi $6.54
    Mount Aspiring National Park $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Hanoi

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Hanoi:


  • Taxi to Bus Station
    $1.14
  • Shuttle Bus From Airport (for Two)
    $3.03
  • Local Bus Ride (for Two)
    $0.38
  • Short Taxi Ride
    $1.29
  • Short Motorbike Ride (10 Minutes)
    $0.76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hanoi

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hanoi:

  • Hanoi Private Transfer Taxi with Vietnam SIM Card & Internet: $6.90
  • Noi Bai Airport transfer to Hanoi Center and more: $8.00
  • Hanoi Private Departure Transfer: City Center Hotel to Airport: $8.00
  • Noi Bai Airport Transfer Service: $8.54
  • Private Hanoi Airport (HAN) Transfer to Hotel/Accommodation: $9.00
  • Hanoi Airport Departure Shared Transfer: $10
  • Hanoi to Halong Bay Limousine Bus Transfer: $11
  • Bus Transfer Hanoi to Halong Bay and Vice Versa : $11
  • Private Car Ha Noi Airport Transfer : $12
  • Hanoi Private Taxi Transfer Service: $13
  • Noi Bai airport to Ha Noi city transfer by private car: $13
  • Private Transfer Between Hanoi Airport (han) And Hanoi City Center: $13

Is it cheaper to fly into Hanoi or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Hanoi change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Hanoi $23
    Mount Aspiring National Park $32
Typical Food Prices in Hanoi

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Hanoi:


  • High End Dinner (for Two)
    $11
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $4.17
  • Bowl of Pho
    $0.76
  • Italian Dinner (for Food)
    $5.88

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hanoi

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hanoi.

  • (Group/Individual) HANOI STREET FOOD TOUR : $5.13
  • Hanoi Old Quarter Cooking Class Tour With Local Market Shopping : $9.71
  • Hanoi Walking Street Food Tour with Train-Street Visit: $18
  • Hanoi Cooking Class: Pho/Bun Cha/Banh Xeo...+Free Egg/Salt Coffee: $19
  • Hanoi local street food tour: $20
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour with Train Street Visit: $22
  • Hanoi food tour-Local street food tour (food&guide included): $22
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour: $23
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour with Experience Guide & Real Foodie: $24
  • Hanoi Street Food Tour with Local Delicacies (3 Hours): $24
  • Best Hanoi Day Street Food Tour with Real Foodie Tastings: $24
  • Hanoi Food Tours: $24

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Hanoi $8.07
    Mount Aspiring National Park $29
Typical Entertainment Prices in Hanoi

Here are a few typical costs in Hanoi for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Puppet Theater
    $1.52
  • The Hanoi Hilton Entrance
    $1.52
  • National History Museum
    $1.52
  • Puppet Theater Ticket
    $2.65

Tours and Activities in Hanoi

Here are a few actual costs in Hanoi for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Hanoi Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $4.52
  • Vietnam 7 Day 30GB Tourist SIM Rental: $4.66
  • Hanoi Old Quarter Street Food Experience: $5.00
  • Hanoi Old Quarter Private Daily Street Food Experience: $5.00
  • Private Walking City Tour in Hanoi : $5.00
  • Hanoi Old Quarter Half-day Private Walking Tour : $5.00
  • Hanoi Old Quarter Private Walking Tour Half Day: $5.00
  • Small-group Hanoi Highlights Weekend Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Half Day Hanoi Old Quarter Private Walking Tour in Vietnam: $5.00
  • Craft Village Tour (Quang Phu Cau, Bat Trang, Chuong Conical,...): $5.00
  • Hanoi Street Food Experience: $5.00
  • Half Day Hanoi Old Quarter Private Walking Tour : $5.00

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Hanoi $7.30
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.07


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hanoi and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Mount Aspiring National Park is more expensive. And not only is Hanoi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hanoi is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, 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 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 Mount Aspiring National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Hanoi Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.