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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

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 Bath can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a busy, diverse, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, theater, and nightlife. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Bath

Bath is a charming, historical, and beautiful spa town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Bath because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Bath travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Bath: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Bath. Ho Chi Minh City is bigger than Bath, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Bath is more popular for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ho Chi Minh City is well known for its motorbike-filled streets, bustling markets, world-class cuisine, and diverse shopping opportunities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is famous for the War Remnants Museum. Bath is well known for its world-renowned Roman built baths as well as its historical architecture and many museums.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Bath?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Bath and Ho Chi Minh City.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Ho Chi Minh City has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Bath that are not to be missed. The main draw to Bath is the rich history and most sights are focused on the area's spa city past. The Roman Baths are a highlight of a trip to the city, but other not to be missed places include Bath Abbey, the Royal Crescent, and Pulteney Bridge.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is very good for theatre. However, Bath is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows 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.

Bath is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ho Chi Minh City has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bath. Sample afternoon tea or try some local fish and chips. There are a diversity of restaurants to choose from so it's easy to find local favorites, vegetarian options, or international cuisine.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Bath has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Head to George Street, which is the liveliest part of the city at night. You'll find a mix of high end restaurants, pubs, and cocktail bars that keep the energy high. One of the most popular nightlife venues in Bath is Bath Komedia, which is a popular music and comedy club.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath Better for its Old Town?

Bath is great for its historic old town charm. However, Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bath. The Roman old town has charming streets and a vibrant environment. On pleasant weekends you'll find tourists and locals alike filling the restaurants and town squares, giving the city an energy and lively atmosphere.

Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

Bath is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Stall Street and Union Street for the most popular shopping streets in town. Many visitors pick up jewelry, glass, and fudge or other sweets while exploring the area.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath More Beautiful?

Bath is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Bath because of it's amazing beauty. Seeped in history, this city is one of the most beautiful in the region.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most popular family destinations. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bath. The city is all about history and architecture, so at times it can be challenging for the kids to stay entertained. For a change of pace, take a boat on the canal or explore one of the beautiful gardens.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath Better for Couples?

Bath 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, Bath has plenty to offer. With its beautiful architecture and fascinating history, this city is perfect for couples. Take a canal cruise or wander through the scenic areas to enjoy a romantic trip.

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 Bath Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bath is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Bath. You'll find a surprising number of hostels around town so it's not hard to meet other backpackers while you're in the area.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Bath Better for Students?

Bath is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Bath is very popular with students. The University of Bath offers a number of different programs so this is a popular city for local and international students.

Ho Chi Minh City is a good city to visit for 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.

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

Bath 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 Bath offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You likely won't need public transit because it's easy to walk most places, but there are buses around town.

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 Bath a more walkable city?

Bath is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Bath is a very easy spa town to get around on foot. It is a very walkable city with most sights and activities packed into a very compact area. There are also many pedestrian areas that are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Bath or Ho Chi Minh City?

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ho Chi Minh City and Bath. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than in Bath. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bath.

Families should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Bath. 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 Bath than Ho Chi Minh City. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bath 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 Bath 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 Bath?

Ho Chi Minh City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Bath. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This spa town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

Ho Chi Minh City is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the historical spa town of Bath. If you have a weekend, this spa town makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural big city of Ho Chi Minh City. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bath is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

A week in Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

The busy city of Ho Chi Minh City offers museums and theater. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Bath is a great place to explore. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the museums. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 10-Day Tours from London.

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

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 Bath Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Bath?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Bath. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Bath, 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.