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

Should you visit Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham?

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

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a chaotic, vibrant, and colorful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a authentic, dynamic, and livable city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Nottingham travel costs.

Ho Chi Minh City and Nottingham: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Good music scene
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly


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

You'll generally find more things to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Nottingham. Ho Chi Minh City is bigger than Nottingham, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Nottingham is more popular for its music. Ho Chi Minh City is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular 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. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine.

How is Ho Chi Minh City different from Nottingham?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Ho Chi Minh City that are not to be missed. 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.

Nottingham offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is a city with good options for theatre. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not a theatre destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Nightlife?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Ho Chi Minh City is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Music?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Nottingham is very good for its music scene. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a live music destination.

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

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for shopping. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Ho Chi Minh City is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Nottingham is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Families?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Ho Chi Minh City is an extremely popular city to visit for families. 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.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.


Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Couples?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Ho Chi Minh City frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is very popular for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Ho Chi Minh City is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Ho Chi Minh City is a city with good options for students. However, Nottingham 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


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

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Nottingham is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a good destination for its public transit.

Nottingham offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

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 Nottingham a more walkable city?

Ho Chi Minh City
Nottingham

Nottingham is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Ho Chi Minh City is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Nottingham is a very walkable destination. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

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 Nottingham Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ho Chi Minh City than Nottingham because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Ho Chi Minh City, and 1-2 days is enough time in Nottingham.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ho Chi Minh City than Nottingham 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.


  • How many days in Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ho Chi Minh City 3-4 
    Nottingham 1-2

One day in Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham?

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Nottingham. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham?

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, people usually allow for lots of time. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the livable city of Nottingham. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Nottingham?

Ho Chi Minh City, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Nottingham is a popular choice for travelers. 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 Nottingham?

Ho Chi Minh City is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nottingham is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, and The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Nottingham or Ho Chi Minh City?

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

  • Ho Chi Minh City Prices
    Vietnam Prices
    Nottingham Prices
    UK Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Ho Chi Minh City $87
    Nottingham $195

The average daily cost (per person) in Ho Chi Minh City is $87, while the average daily cost in Nottingham is $195. 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 Ho Chi Minh City and Nottingham in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ho Chi Minh City $48
    Nottingham $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ho Chi Minh City $96
    Nottingham $174
Compare Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City and Nottingham

Looking for a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham? 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 Ho Chi Minh City


Hotels in Nottingham


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: Ho Chi Minh City Hotel Prices and Nottingham Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $14
    Nottingham $29
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Ho Chi Minh City:


  • Short Taxi Ride
    $1.33
  • Taxi From Airport
    $7.58
  • Cyclo Ride (One Hour)
    $1.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ho Chi Minh City

Also for Ho Chi Minh City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne Can Tho VungTau: $138
  • Airport Transfer (From Airport - Ho Chi Minh City (Private 16 Seats Car): $70
  • Airport Transfer (From Hotels in Ho Chi Minh to Airport) Private 4 Seats Car: $38
  • Airport Transfer (From Hotels in Ho Chi Minh to Airport) Private 7 Seats Car: $47
  • Airport Transfer From Hotel in Ho Chi Minh to Airport By 7 Seats Car: $41
  • Airport Transfers (Airport - Ho Chi Minh,Private 16 Seats Car): $52
  • Airport Transfers From Airport to Hotels in Ho Chi Minh City 7 seat Car: $46
  • CONVENIENT AIRPORT TRANSFER by PRIVATE CAR or SCOOTERS | KissTour: $28
  • Cam Ranh Riviera to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20
  • Comfort Van Transfer From Phong Nha or Dong Hoi to Hue : $14
  • From Phu My Port: Ho Chi Minh City Tour and Transfers: $143
  • Fusion Resort to Nha Trang - Private Transfer: $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $296
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $225
  • Private Transfer from Derby to Manchester Airport (MAN): $210
  • East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Loughborough - Round Trip Transfer: $167
  • East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Nottingham - Round-Trip Transfer: $127
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $110
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $87
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough - Arrival Transfer: $84
  • East Midlands Airport(EMA) to Nottingham-Arrival Private Transfer: $63
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham?

Prices for flights to both Nottingham and Ho Chi Minh City 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
    Ho Chi Minh City $23
    Nottingham $84
Typical Food Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Ho Chi Minh City:


  • Street Food Dinner (for Two)
    $4.06
  • Pizza
    $4.93
  • Sweet Rice
    $1.14
  • Pork Sandwich
    $0.57
  • Casual Lunch (for Two)
    $6.43
  • Western Lunch (for Two)
    $11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ho Chi Minh City

For Ho Chi Minh City, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Vietnamese Cooking and Craft Workshop by the Lake: $12
  • Saigon Food Tour & Culture Explore Ho Chi Minh City Walking Tour: $15
  • Mekong Delta 4 Islands, TukTuk, Boat, Try Khot Cake Local Cooking: $24
  • Saigon Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $25
  • Pu Luong Cooking Class at Traditional Stilt House: $25
  • Ho Chi Minh City Street Food Tour With Students: $27
  • Saigon - Tasty Food Tour By Scooters: $28
  • Private Half-Day Ho Chi Minh Food Tour with Local Students: $29
  • Ho Chi Minh Private Half Day Street Food Tour with Local Students: $29
  • Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour With Young Local (Safe & Authentic): $29
  • The Coolest Vegan Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $29
  • Super Niche Walking Street Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City: $29

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ho Chi Minh City $19
    Nottingham $38
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

For Ho Chi Minh City, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Massage
    $5.31

Tours and Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Ho Chi Minh City.

  • Highlights & Hidden Gems - Free Walking Tour: $0.74
  • Chinatown Hidden Treasures – Free Walking Tour: $0.74
  • All In One Saigon Walking Tour: $3.11
  • Saigon Local Sightseeing Free Walking Tour: $3.84
  • Commander Cave All-Inclusive Admission Ticket: $4.66
  • Ho Chi Minh city private tour guide: $5.00
  • Walking Tour: $5.00
  • Essential Ho Chi Minh City Free Walking Tour: All Must-see: $5.00
  • Vietnam Sun World Sam Son Water Park Fun Ticket: $6.37
  • Ho Chi Minh Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.98
  • Private Ho Chi Minh 30 minutes Experience by Electric Cart: $9.71
  • Bitexco Financial Tower: Saigon Skydeck General Admission Ticket: $10

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Little John's Big Tour of Nottingham: $29
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Adventure in Nottingham: $239
  • Abseil Experience - Millersdale Derbyshire Peak District: $48
  • Daily Nottingham City Centre Walking Tour (10:30am): $19
  • Great British Classic Car Driving Experience : $74
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $184
  • Maid Marian and Robin Hood Quest Experience in Nottingham: $7.16
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $323
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $20
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $177
  • City Walking Tour & Exploration Game: $35
  • Private City Walking Tour: $168

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ho Chi Minh City $7.57
    Nottingham $9.68
Typical Alcohol Prices in Ho Chi Minh City

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Ho Chi Minh City:


  • Beer
    $0.38

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • DropWorks Rum Tour - Largest Premium Rum Distillery in Europe!: $34
  • Revival Rum Distillery Tour: Tasting and Bottle Included: $105
  • Private Half Day Stamford Pub Tour: $158
  • Nottingham Private Historic Pub Tour with Drinks: $218


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


Which is Bigger, Ho Chi Minh City or Nottingham?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Ho Chi Minh City and Nottingham, 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.