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

Should you visit Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Paphos

Paphos is a overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Paphos travel costs.

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 theater, nightlife, and food. See Ho Chi Minh City travel costs.

Paphos and Ho Chi Minh City: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ho Chi Minh City than Paphos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ho Chi Minh City is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Paphos is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Paphos is well known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. 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.

How is Paphos different from Ho Chi Minh City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Both Paphos and Ho Chi Minh City have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paphos that are not to be missed. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

The museums and tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City are world-renowned. 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.

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Theater?

Ho Chi Minh City is a nice place to visit for theatre. However, Paphos 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.

Paphos is not a theatre destination.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Paphos and Ho Chi Minh City.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

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).

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Nightlife?

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

Ho Chi Minh City is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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 Paphos has a few options to choose from. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Resorts?

Paphos 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, Paphos is a perfect choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Paphos. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

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

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a world-class destination for the beach. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Ho Chi Minh City is not a beach destination.

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

Paphos is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Ho Chi Minh City does not have a historic old town.

Paphos has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings. The area was revitalized in 2017 and there are many historical sites. It's also fun to go shopping at Kennedy Square and Makariou Avenue.

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

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

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for shopping. Also, Paphos 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.

Paphos is well-known for its shopping. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City More Beautiful?

Paphos is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Ho Chi Minh City is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

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

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Families?

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

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paphos is very family-friendly. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Couples?

Paphos 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, Paphos has plenty to offer. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable 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 Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ho Chi Minh City is renowned for backpackers. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Many backpackers visit Paphos. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Is Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City Better for Students?

Ho Chi Minh City is a nice place to visit for students. However, Paphos 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.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos 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.

Paphos offers a very effecient public transportation network. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

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 Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City a more walkable city?

Paphos and Ho Chi Minh City both are notable when exploring on foot.

Paphos is somewhat walkable. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

Ho Chi Minh City is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Ho Chi Minh City Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

It's fun to spend time in either Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paphos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 3-4 days is enough time in Ho Chi Minh City.

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the overlooked destination of Paphos. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Ho Chi Minh City 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 Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

You'll find shopping and museums around the cultural town of Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Ho Chi Minh City 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 Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Paphos 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

A week in Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Paphos 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 find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant big city of Ho Chi Minh City. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best 2-Week Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Vietnam.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Ho Chi Minh City, we can see that Paphos is more expensive. And not only is Ho Chi Minh City much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Paphos is in Europe and Ho Chi Minh City is in Asia, 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 Paphos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paphos 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 Paphos Expensive? and Is Ho Chi Minh City Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Ho Chi Minh City?

Ho Chi Minh City has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Ho Chi Minh City, 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.