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

Should you visit Hoi An or Paris?

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 Paris. 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. Hoi An is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches. See Hoi An travel costs.

Paris

Paris is a energetic, beautiful, and iconic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater. See Paris travel costs.

Hoi An and Paris: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Paris?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris. Although Hoi An and Paris are both popular with visitors, Paris has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paris is more popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, nightlife, music, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hoi An is known for its beaches and historical sights. Hoi An is popular for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. Paris is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Hoi An different from Paris?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paris 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 Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Paris Better for Theater?

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

Paris is considered to be a world-class theater destination. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Hoi An is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Hoi An and Paris.

Eat your way through Hoi An, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Is Hoi An or Paris Better for Nightlife?

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

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris Better for Music?

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

Paris is known as a music capital around the world. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Hoi An is not a live music destination.

Is Hoi An or Paris Better for Beaches?

Hoi An is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Hoi An is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Hoi An or Paris Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Paris?

Shoppers can find a variety of amazing stores in both Hoi An and Paris.

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 Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Is Hoi An or Paris More Beautiful?

Paris is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Paris is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.

The beauty of Hoi An is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

Is Hoi An or Paris Better for Families?

Paris 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, Paris is very family-friendly. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris Better for Couples?

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

Paris is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An and Paris are both amazing 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 Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Is Hoi An or Paris Better for Students?

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

Paris is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Hoi An is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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 Paris can take you anywhere. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris a more walkable city?

Hoi An is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Hoi An is a very easy town to get around on foot. 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.

Paris is a very walkable town. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Paris or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Paris?

Both Hoi An and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris 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 Paris.

One day in Hoi An or Paris?

In Hoi An, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this peaceful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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.

Paris 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 Paris?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hoi An. 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.

Paris 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 Paris?

Hoi An is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Hoi An. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paris. 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 Paris?

You'll find food and shopping around the peaceful destination of Hoi An. 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.

Paris 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 Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Hoi An or Paris?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hoi An. When comparing the sizes of Hoi An and Paris, 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 Paris?

Paris 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 Paris in the Summer?

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

Hoi An is a little warmer than Paris in the summer. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Paris fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In Hoi An, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Paris during summer. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Paris. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Paris receives 58 mm (2.3 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 Paris in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Hoi An is much warmer than Paris. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hoi An in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Paris averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than Paris. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 127 hours of full sun.

Hoi An receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Hoi An usually gets more rain in October than Paris. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hoi An or Paris in the Winter?

Both Paris 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, most visitors come to Paris for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Paris can be very cold during winter. In January, Hoi An is generally much warmer than Paris. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 22°C (71°F), and Paris fluctuates around 5°C (40°F).

Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than Paris during winter. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Paris receives 62 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Hoi An. In January, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Paris. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Paris receives 55 mm (2.2 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 Paris in the Spring?

Both Paris 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. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Paris because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Hoi An is much warmer than Paris in the spring. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Paris fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Hoi An. In the spring, Hoi An often gets more sunshine than Paris. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Paris receives 172 hours of full sun.

Hoi An usually gets less rain in April than Paris. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Paris receives 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Paris and Hoi An