A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. London for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Hoi An or London?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Hoi An and London. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a quaint, peaceful, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, Hoi An attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches. See Hoi An travel costs.

London

London is a international, historic, and diverse city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. London is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See London travel costs.

Hoi An and London: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or London?

Visitors will usually find more to do in London than Hoi An, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. London is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, christmas markets, and big city activities, while Hoi An is more popular for its food, beaches, and historical sights. Hoi An is well known for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. London is well known for its international reputation, its world-renowned theater productions, and its many different markets. Also, London is famous for Big Ben.

Big Ben

How is Hoi An different from London?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between London and Hoi An. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or London?

London is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit London from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city has so many iconic sights that we can't list them all, but some of the most famous include the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the British Museum. You can fill many days exploring the treasures found at each of the venues.

Hoi An offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Theater?

London is terrific for theatre. However, Hoi An is not a theatre destination.

London is considered to be a world-class theater destination. The West End theater district is where you'll find the most popular musicals. Famous theaters include Apollo Theatre, Palace Theatre, and Piccadilly Theatre. There are often Wednesday matinees that are a bit cheaper than the evening shows. You may also be able to get discounted last minute tickets if you're visiting during the less touristy times.

Hoi An is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Hoi An or London? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, London is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hoi An has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, London makes for a great culinary experience. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Nightlife?

London is terrific for nightlife. However, Hoi An is lacking in options for nightlife and partying.

London is a must-see party destination. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Music?

London is terrific for live music. However, Hoi An is not a live music destination.

London is known as a music capital around the world. Famous music venues include Dominion Theatre, the Roundhouse, and Dublin Castle.

Hoi An is not a live music destination.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is very good for the beach. However, London is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Hoi An to enjoy the beach. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

London is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or London Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is terrific for its historic old town charm. However, London does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

London does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or London?

Shoppers can find a variety of first-rate stores in both Hoi An and London.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hoi An. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

The abundance of shops in London make it a world-class shopping destination. With so much iconic shopping around town, it's hard to decide where to go. Head to Oxford Street, Regent Street, or Piccadilly Circus for a quintessential British shopping experience.

Is Hoi An or London More Beautiful?

Hoi An and London both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Hoi An is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

The beauty of London is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city has quaint neighborhoods and stunning architectural landmarks that are not to be missed.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Families?

London is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, London is very family-friendly. Whether you do a Harry Potter Tour, take a ride on the London Eye, or enjoy afternoon tea, there are plenty of activities for kids around town. The Harry Potter Studio Tour is fun for everyone, but should be booked well in advance as it sells out. Theatre enthusiasts will enjoy catching a musical in West End and sampling dim sum or a hot pot in Chinatown. There are often Wednesday matinee showings that are perfect for kids with early bedtimes.

Hoi An is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Couples?

London is terrific for romance. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

London is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. With every type of entertainment that you can imagine, this city is the ultimate couple's getaway. There are world class musicals, evening concerts, and restaurants of every style, cuisine, and budget. It's easy for couples to fill days in this vibrant city.

Couples visit Hoi An frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An and London are both first-rate destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit London. Although the city is very expensive, it has tons of hostels, affordable restaurant options, and great public transit. There's a huge backpacker network here and it's easy to meet other travelers. The nightlife scene is also second to none.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Students?

London is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Hoi An is not popular with students.

London is a very popular place to visit for students. The city has a number of universities and is a popular study abroad destination. It's also a very diverse city, so international students will feel right at home.

Hoi An is not popular with students.

Is Hoi An or London Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

London is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of London can take you anywhere. From the iconic double decker buses to the Tube, there are plenty of options throughout the city.

You'll find some public transit in Hoi An, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

Is Hoi An or London a more walkable city?

Hoi An and London are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hoi An. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

Getting around London on foot is easy. With many walkable areas, it is considered to be one of the world's most walkable major cities.

For even more information, also check out Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? and Is London Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in London or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or London?

Both Hoi An and London have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in London than in Hoi An. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hoi An, and 3-7 days is enough time in London.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in London than Hoi An 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 London.

One day in Hoi An or London?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

London is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hoi An or London?

Hoi An is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

London is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hoi An or London?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in London. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hoi An or London?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the traditional destination of Hoi An. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

London is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Vietnam, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.

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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hoi An Expensive? and Is London Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or London?

London has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and London, 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 Hoi An or London?

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

Should I visit Hoi An or London in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and London. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Also, many visitors come to London in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Hoi An is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 29°C (85°F), and London fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Hoi An, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than London during summer. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 195 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hoi An usually receives more rain than London. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while London receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. Also, September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An.

Should I visit Hoi An or London in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as London. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to London for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Hoi An is much warmer than London in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 25°C (78°F) in October, and London fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than London. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 107 hours of full sun.

Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An usually gets more rain in October than London. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while London receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or London in the Winter?

Both London and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Also, the winter months attract visitors to London because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in London can be very cold. In the winter, Hoi An is much warmer than London. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hoi An in January average around 22°C (71°F), and London averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than London during winter. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while London receives 52 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In January, Hoi An usually receives more rain than London. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while London receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Hoi An is February to July. The rainy season in Hoi An is September to January.

Should I visit Hoi An or London in the Spring?

Both London and Hoi An during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to London this time of year.

In April, Hoi An is generally much warmer than London. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 26°C (80°F), and London fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

It's quite sunny in Hoi An. In the spring, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than London. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while London receives 147 hours of full sun.

Hoi An usually gets less rain in April than London. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while London receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for London and Hoi An