A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hanoi vs. Porto for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hanoi or Porto?

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 Porto 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 high energy, colorful, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Hanoi travel costs.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Porto travel costs.

Hanoi and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hanoi or Porto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hanoi than Porto. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Hanoi is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Porto attracts visitors for its food and impressive beauty. Hanoi is famous for its impressive street food, historical museums, and bustling energy. It is also well known for Hoan Kiem Lake. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine.

How is Hanoi different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Porto 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 Porto?

Hanoi is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Hanoi from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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

Porto is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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.

Is Hanoi or Porto Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Hanoi and Porto.

Hanoi is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Porto for the nightlife scene. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Hanoi or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Hanoi is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is the Shopping Better in Hanoi or Porto?

Hanoi is very popular for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hanoi. 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Hanoi or Porto More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Porto is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city sits beautifully on the water and it has a charming atmosphere.

Hanoi is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hanoi or Porto Better for Families?

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

Porto is a very kid-friendly port city. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Porto frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

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 Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hanoi and Porto are amazing 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 Porto, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

Is Hanoi or Porto Better for Students?

Hanoi and Porto are superb places to visit for 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.

Many students visit Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

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

Porto is well known for its public transit. However, Hanoi is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Porto can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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

Is Hanoi or Porto a more walkable city?

Porto is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Hanoi is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Porto or Hanoi?

How long in Hanoi or Porto?

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

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

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

One day in Hanoi or Porto?

Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

In Porto, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cosmopolitan big city offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port city 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 Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hanoi. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Porto?

Hanoi is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Hanoi has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Porto is a fun place to experience. In Porto, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this big city destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Hanoi or Porto?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical big city of Hanoi. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the dynamic big city of Porto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hanoi and Porto, we can see that Porto 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 Porto is in Europe, 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 Porto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Porto 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 Porto Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hanoi or Porto?

Hanoi has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Porto. When comparing the sizes of Hanoi and Porto, 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 Hanoi or Porto?

Porto has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Hanoi experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto and Hanoi during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hanoi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, most visitors come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Hanoi is generally a little warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 29°C (84°F), and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hanoi. Hanoi usually gets more rain in July than Porto. Hanoi gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year. May to September is the rainy season in Hanoi.

Should I visit Hanoi or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hanoi and Porto. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hanoi year-round. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Porto because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Hanoi is a little warmer than Porto in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hanoi averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Porto fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hanoi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Porto. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Hanoi is the dry season.

Should I visit Hanoi or Porto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hanoi as well as Porto. Hanoi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In the winter, Hanoi is much warmer than Porto. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hanoi in January average around 17°C (63°F), and Porto averages at about 10°C (50°F).

It's quite rainy in Porto. Hanoi usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Hanoi gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hanoi or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Hanoi are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hanoi throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Hanoi is generally much warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Hanoi average around 24°C (75°F), and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. It's quite rainy in Hanoi. In April, Hanoi usually receives less rain than Porto. Hanoi gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Hanoi is November to April. The rainy season in Hanoi is May to September.

Typical Weather for Porto and Hanoi