When planning a trip to Vietnam, one of the biggest decisions to make is choosing between its two vibrant cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). You might wonder: Which city has more attractions to offer? Which is safer? Which has better connectivity and accommodation options? And much more! These are valid questions, as having answers to them enables you to plan your itinerary accordingly.

So, to assist you in making an informed decision before you apply for the Vietnam visa, we’ve compiled a comprehensive analysis of the Hanoi vs. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) debate. Whether you're curious about major landmarks, local cuisine, or essential aspects of safety and well-being in each city, this blog covers the many aspects affecting your Vietnam trip planning.

Tourism At A Glance: Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh

Following the nearly 40 million and 24 million tourists welcomed by Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in 2023, reports from the municipal tourism departments highlight impressive growth for 2024. In the first seven months alone, Hanoi received 16.44 million visitors, marking an 11.8% increase over the same period last year, while Ho Chi Minh City attracted over 23 million visitors, an impressive rise of over 30%!

Hanoi received the “Asia's Leading City Break Destination 2024”, and Ho Chi Minh City won the “Asia's Leading Business Travel Destination 2024” award announced by the World Travel Awards. Do you know both cities have won these respective awards for the third time in a row?

1. Places to Visit In Hanoi vs. Ho Chi Minh

Hanoi

Tracing its roots back to the 3rd century, Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, offers experiences that give travellers a deeper understanding of Vietnam's ancient philosophies, religious practices, and way of living. 

The city houses one of eight of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi, along with other historical landmarks, such as the Temple of Literature (Vietnam’s first university) and the famous Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (the resting place of Ho Chi Minh, the revered leader who unified the country). 

In terms of cultural attractions, Hanoi offers a deeper insight into the authentic local experiences, be it through the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (offering insight into the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam through its extensive collections and outdoor exhibitions of traditional houses), the Old Quarter (allowing visitors to experience the local culture firsthand) and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s artistic heritage.

Ho Chi Minh City

In contrast, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is where travellers can witness the evolution of Vietnam’s more recent history, particularly its colonial and modern eras. 

While the city may not host a UNESCO site, it still boasts significant historical landmarks, such as the War Remnants Museum and the Independence Palace. These tell the story of Vietnam's journey through colonialism and the Vietnam War and are also among the most visited sites in Vietnam!

Did you know that the War Remnants Museum has been ranked as the #1 most interesting museum in Asia and #10 among the top attractions in the region, according to TripAdvisor?

In terms of cultural attractions, HCMC also offers authentic local experiences but showcases a more recently evolving culture. For example, the Ben Thanh Market (offering a holistic peek into the country’s lifestyle) or the Nguyen Hue Walking Street, a perfect representation of the city's bustling, vibrant and modern lifestyle.

Key Takeaway? If you are seeking to explore the history and local culture at a slower pace, visit Hanoi, whereas for a mix of colonial history and bustling atmosphere, choose Ho Chi Minh City.

Ready to dive deeper? Check out our Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City travel guides for more insights, tips, and must-see spots to make the most of your journey!

2. Ease & Cost of Travel: Hanoi vs. Ho Chi Minh City

Another key factor in choosing between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is flight connectivity and the cost of exploring each city.

Luckily, both cities are well connected internationally and domestically. Both Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport and Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport receive flights from major Asian cities, as well as other international destinations. However, there lies a difference in the cost of travel, with Hanoi’s flight, on average, being comparatively cheaper than flights to Saigon.

See the pictures below comparing the price history for the last 60 days for a flight from Delhi (India) to Hanoi and HCMC:

Source: Google Flights

In addition to the cost of flying, there are a few key differences in terms of stays and food and entertainment costs in both cities. Here’s a tabular representation of the same:

Internal travel costs are mostly similar due to comparable ride charges. However, Hanoi is particularly popular for exploring on foot, thanks to its Hanoi Walking Street (a network of pedestrian-only streets) in the Old Quarter.

Key Takeaway? If you are looking for a more budget-friendly trip that doesn’t compromise on a rich cultural experience, Hanoi is an excellent choice. It offers affordable accommodations, local dining, and historical sights. On the other hand, if you’re seeking a more upscale experience with luxury hotels, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is ideal for you.

3. Crime & Tourist Safety

The New York-based international organisation Best Diplomats recently awarded Vietnam 8th rank in the top 10 safest countries in Asia in 2024. All credit to the country’s peace index of 1.745, signalling towards political stability, lower civil unrest and petty crimes. 

If we compare the two cities specifically, Hanoi has a higher safety index of 62.4 compared to HCMC's 47.5. One primary reason is the high number of cases of petty theft, especially pickpocketing, in the busy areas of HCMC, which only increases during Tet (Vietnam New Year). HCMC's District 1 is particularly a hotspot for theft! Moreover, Hanoi has put in extra security measures around its Old Quarter and other major tourist zones, making it a tad safer in terms of public security. 

Source: Numbeo

Key Takeaway? Statistics show that Hanoi is comparatively safer for tourists than HCMC. However, it is equally important to note that HCMC’s safety index has been steadily improving thanks to proactive measures by the local police department. There has been an increased security presence by police postings and surveillance cameras, ensuring that visitors can experience the city with greater peace of mind each year.

4. Air Quality & Pollution Levels

If we compare the air quality in Hanoi to that of Ho Chi Minh City, there are marked differences, primarily due to geographic and climatic factors. According to IQAir, Hanoi ranks 20th among the most polluted cities globally. This high pollution level is driven by industrial activities and winter weather patterns that trap pollutants close to the ground, particularly from October to March. During these colder months, Hanoi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently ranges between 150 and 200, placing it in the “unhealthy” range and posing health risks to tourists, especially those in sensitive groups.

Source: IQAir

In contrast, HCMC in the south benefits from a tropical climate, coastal proximity, and more consistent air circulation. These conditions help keep HCMC’s AQI lower, generally averaging between 80 and 120, which falls in the “moderate” range and offers a comparatively safer environment for people with respiratory sensitivities. 

Key Takeaway? For tourists sensitive to air quality, HCMC’s lower pollution levels provide a more comfortable experience. However, if you wish to explore Hanoi, consider visiting during spring or summer (April to September) when the air quality improves. Moreover, by taking preventive measures, such as wearing masks, you can enjoy both cities with greater comfort and fewer respiratory concerns.

5. Healthcare and Medical Facilities

According to the Health Index Score 2023 by Statista, Vietnam’s healthcare system ranks 44th out of 167 countries, reflecting a notable commitment to the country’s improving healthcare access and quality. 

If we talk specifically about Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, both cities offer international-standard healthcare options. The only slight difference is that notable facilities such as FV Hospital and Victoria Healthcare in HCMC are recognised for their advanced specialised medical technologies and better availability of English-speaking staff, making them more accessible for expatriates and tourists. 

Hanoi, on the other hand, also hosts reputable medical facilities, including the Hanoi French Hospital, which provides quality care. However, the overall comprehensiveness of healthcare services in Hanoi is slightly less robust than that of HCMC.

Source: Vietnam Tourism Authority

Key Takeaway? Generally, both cities are equipped to provide adequate medical assistance for tourists, ensuring that quality healthcare is readily available in case of emergencies. 

6. Which city has the better food scene, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

In addition to the five tourism aspects covered above, here are a few more comparison points, where both the cities are more similar than different. 

• Food Scene: Whether it’s the vegetarian delights at Hanoi’s Uu Dam Chay or the innovative dishes at HCMC’s Hum Restaurant, both cities offer a wide variety of dining experiences. If we talk about the street food scene, then both cities give each other equal competition. The only marginal difference that does exist is that Ho Chi Minh City presents a broader range of international cuisines, featuring high-end dining and fusion options, making it especially favourable for tourists from the West. 

• Nightlife: Although it seems that Hanoi has an older and quieter charm to it, the city does feature lively street bars in the Old Quarter and cultural experiences like traditional music performances, with popular spots like Bia Hoi for affordable local brews. Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, has a more vibrant and ‘chaotic’ nightlife scene, boasting rooftop bars, nightclubs, and live music venues in areas like Bui Vien Street (also known as the “Western Street” due to its popularity among tourists) and District 1.

• Shopping: When it comes to shopping, interestingly, the only difference that exists is that Hanoi’s markets, like Dong Xuan Market, are more dominated by handicrafts, textiles, and street food, while Ho Chi Minh City offers a mix of modern shopping malls and traditional markets.

Conclusion

From the above analysis, it is right to conclude that the choice between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City comes down to personal preference. Hanoi offers a rich historical experience with its ancient landmarks, charming streets and a more budget-friendly atmosphere. On the other hand, Ho Chi Minh City boasts a dynamic, modern vibe with diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife, which is ideal for travellers looking for a mix of new and old experiences. 

Both cities are also well-connected. So, whether you wander through Hanoi’s Old Quarter or explore HCMC’s bustling markets, each city will surely be memorable no matter your choice!

Ready to explore Vietnam? Before visiting, read our Beginner’s Guide to Exploring Vietnam for essential tips—handy Vietnamese phrases, where to get a SIM card and cash, cultural etiquette, and must-have apps for your trip.