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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Ho Chi Minh City and Acapulco de Juarez can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a colorful, busy, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and theater. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Acapulco de Juarez

Acapulco de Juarez is a vibrant, built-up, and well-known city. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Acapulco de Juarez travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Acapulco de Juarez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Acapulco de Juarez. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Acapulco de Juarez attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. It is also well known for the War Remnants Museum. Acapulco de Juarez is famous for its large hotels, golf courses, and lively bars and clubs.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Acapulco de Juarez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Acapulco de Juarez and Ho Chi Minh City. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Ho Chi Minh City on the map. 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.

While most people don't head to Acapulco de Juarez specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of history and cultural museums in the city that can be a nice way to spend a rainy day.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Acapulco de Juarez is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Acapulco de Juarez. The local cuisine is influenced by the area's indigenous cultures combined with Hispanic influences. Seafood is common as well.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is world-class in both Ho Chi Minh City and Acapulco de Juarez.

People head to Ho Chi Minh City just to party. 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.

The nightlife in Acapulco de Juarez is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene is part of what originally put this city on the map. Spring break is a prime time for partying and you'll find many bars along Costera Street, with the liveliest around Condesa Beach.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Resorts?

Acapulco de Juarez 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, Acapulco de Juarez is a perfect choice. You'll find no shortage of resorts in the city, most with large pools and beachfront views.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez. There are plenty of dive shops that offer snorkeling and scuba diving trips to premier spots.

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

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Beaches?

Acapulco de Juarez is great for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are well developed with restaurants, hotels and bars lining the long stretches of sand. You'll find all kinds of water sports and activities nearby and several of the most popular beaches include Condesa Beach, Caleta Beach, and Icacos Beach.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Ho Chi Minh City is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Acapulco de Juarez. You'll find tons of beachside shops where you can pick up any beach supplies you may need as well as souvenirs from your trip. The city also has retail outlets and shopping centers.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Acapulco de Juarez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Ho Chi Minh City is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Acapulco de Juarez is a very family-friendly destination. It may have been made famous by spring breakers, but families with kids will find plenty to do as well. There are water parks, playgrounds, museums and, of course, the beach.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Couples?

Acapulco de Juarez 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, Acapulco de Juarez has plenty to offer. Whether you're looking for an active nightlife scene, or romantic sunset walks, then this city has it all. The beach is active and beautiful, there are also botanical gardens and wonderful restaurants to experience.

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 Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Acapulco de Juarez is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Acapulco de Juarez is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are more hotels and resorts than hostels, so most backpackers head elsewhere. There is a young crowd during the spring break season.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place for students. However, Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

Ho Chi Minh City is popular with 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.

Acapulco de Juarez is not popular with students.

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

Acapulco de Juarez 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 Acapulco de Juarez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's an elaborate and fun bus system that travels around the city.

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 Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City and Acapulco de Juarez are nice when it comes to walkability.

Ho Chi Minh City is a somewhat walkable city. In certain neighborhoods it's fairly walkable, but you may have to dodge a motorbike here or there.

Acapulco de Juarez is somewhat walkable. The downtown and beachfront areas are the most walkable and many sights are within a short distance of each other.

For even more information, also check out Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting? and Is Acapulco de Juarez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez or Ho Chi Minh City?

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

In either Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Acapulco de Juarez than Ho Chi Minh City because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 3-5 days is enough time in Acapulco de Juarez.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Acapulco de Juarez. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ho Chi Minh City, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Acapulco de Juarez 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 Ho Chi Minh City.

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Ho Chi Minh City is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the vibrant destination of Acapulco de Juarez. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place to visit. Ho Chi Minh City is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant city of Acapulco de Juarez. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days 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.

Acapulco de Juarez is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Acapulco de Juarez is a great place to explore. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Vietnam, The Best 2-Week Tours in Mexico, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Mexico.

When comparing the travel costs between Ho Chi Minh City and Acapulco de Juarez, we can see that Acapulco de Juarez is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia and Acapulco de Juarez is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Acapulco de Juarez?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Acapulco de Juarez. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Acapulco de Juarez, 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.