1. Similarities between Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An
Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An? Both cities shine as safe, well-connected destinations with plenty of places to stay the night.
1.1. Easy transportation
Traveling to either Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An is convenient, as both are well-connected by multiple transportation options. Intercity coaches are the most popular option for tourists coming from other regions in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City provides extra options like ferries, high-speed boats, and trains.
Getting around these two cities is easy, with motorbikes rentals for flexibility and buses for budget-friendly travels. For a greener choice, eco-conscious tourists can opt for the service of Xanh SM - an electric taxi company. Meanwhile, Ho Chi Minh City adds extra variety with water buses and metro lines.
1.2. Diverse accommodations
Accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An are highly diverse, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly homestays. In Ho Chi Minh City, hotels and serviced apartments are widely available around Ben Thanh Market, Bui Vien Street, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and the airport. In Hoi An, there are many resorts along An Bang Beach or Cua Dai Beach, along with charming homestays nestled in peaceful corners. These homestays blend local character, unique architecture, and a lush garden setting.
To enhance your stay in Hoi An, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An is a perfect choice. This beachfront resort boasts elegant rooms, world-class amenities, and easy access to nearby attractions like VinWonders Nam Hoi An.
Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An
1.3. Safety
Hoi An was named among the world’s top 10 safest destinations for solo travelers by Smoky Mountains Magazine in March 2024, with a low crime rate of just 6.25%. Visitors can enjoy the city without worrying about pickpocketing, harassment, or other threats. Ho Chi Minh City also made it into the top 20 safest tourist cities in Southeast Asia, according to the statistics website Numbeo, with a safety index of 47.4.
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2. Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City vs Hoi An: Key differences
2.1. Weather
Which has better weather, Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An?
The weather in Ho Chi Minh City features a tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November. Thanks to warm temperatures, it remains a suitable destination year-round.
The weather in Hoi An reflects the hot, humid, and rainy conditions of Vietnam’s central coast, with a dry season from early in the year to July and a rainy season from August onward. The best time to visit Hoi An is from February to April.
2.2. Air connectivity
Ho Chi Minh City has a clear advantage in air connectivity compared to Hoi An. Tan Son Nhat International Airport is Vietnam’s largest and busiest airport. It offers numerous domestic flights, as well as international flights to Bangkok, Singapore, Seoul, Tokyo, Taipei, etc.
Meanwhile, Hoi An does not have an airport. For air travel, tourists must fly to Da Nang International Airport, which is about 30 km away from Hoi An. Then, tourists can go from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An by bus, taxi, or motorbike rental.
2.3. Environment and lifestyle
Both places are known for their welcoming locals. Ho Chi Minh City reflects the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis, where fast-paced lifestyle and advanced infrastructure go hand in hand. The traffic in Saigon is often dense and hectic, mirroring the city's constant motion. In contrast, Hoi An features a more peaceful lifestyle. The atmosphere is quieter with minimal traffic, scams, or disturbances.
2.4. Landscapes
Nature in Ho Chi Minh City is shaped by its rivers, mangrove forests, and islands. The Saigon River fosters vibrant waterways, while Can Gio’s mangrove ecosystem adds ecological charm. Attractions like Can Gio Beach and Monkey Island continue to draw nature lovers.
Hoi An lies where the Thu Bon River and Vu Gia River converge, creating a varied landscape of riverbanks, coastlines, and islands. It is in natural abundance, with fertile plains, rich forests, and vibrant marine ecosystems. Here, tourists can admire the serene beauty of the Thu Bon River, the Cham Islands, and Hoi An’s beaches like Cua Dai Beach or An Bang Beach.
2.5. History and culture
With over 300 years of history, Ho Chi Minh City is a cultural melting pot shaped by the Kinh, Chinese, Khmer, and Cham communities, along with strong French and American influences. Attractions like the Independence Palace, Saigon Central Post Office, Cu Chi Tunnels, Saigon’s Chinatown, Chantaransey Pagoda, Pothiwong Pagoda, and museums such as the War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City Museum, History Museum of Ho Chi Minh City vividly tell the city’s rich history.
Hoi An, once a bustling 16th-century trading port, showcases a unique East-West cultural fusion shaped by merchants from China, Japan, India, the Netherlands, Spain, etc. This heritage lives on through Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Bridge, Fujian Assembly Hall, Cantonese Assembly Hall, and craft villages like Tra Que Vegetable Village, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Kim Bong Carpentry Village.
While both Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City are rich in history and culture, their historical and cultural developments are quite different. Visiting museums is a great way to discover these unique aspects.
2.6. Entertainment
Whether it is in Saigon or Hoi An, entertainment activities are constantly evolving. From glowing walking streets, upscale shopping centers, and world-class amusement parks, these cities offer various experiences for tourists. In Ho Chi Minh City, Grand Park is a top-tier entertainment complex right in the heart of the city. Thrill-seekers can enjoy high-speed roller coasters, an expansive water park, and many lively festivals.
Meanwhile, Hoi An enchants tourists with its relaxed seaside fun. For those seeking a combination of thrill and cultural discovery, VinWonders Nam Hoi An is an unmissable destination, where traditional heritage meets modern entertainment.
Book tickets to VinWonders Nam Hoi An
2.7. Food
Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An are both culinary crossroads, where diverse influences come together.
The food in Ho Chi Minh City has bold flavors. Some popular dishes in Saigon are banh mi Saigon, Vietnamese broken rice, Vietnamese summer rolls, Vietnamese duck noodle soup, hu tieu, and pha lau.
Meanwhile, Hoi An embraces a more delicate approach to cuisine. Hoi An's street food is highlighted by dishes like Vietnamese pancake, mi Quang, cao lau, white rose dumplings, and Hoi An chicken rice.
2.8. Day trips
Day trips from Ho Chi Minh City open the door to many landscapes and experiences. Many tourists opt for the lush Mekong Delta, where life flows along winding rivers and floating markets. Others venture to Tay Ninh to explore Cao Dai Temple or hike up Ba Den Mountain. For a quick seaside escape, Vung Tau boasts sandy beaches and fresh seafood just a few hours away.
Meanwhile, day trips from Hoi An reveal the cultural richness of Central Vietnam. Tourists can head to Hue to admire imperial architecture or Da Nang to explore a mix of beaches and mountains. The sacred My Son Sanctuary invites history buffs to walk among the ruins of a once-thriving Cham civilization, while Tam Ky is perfect for those seeking local authenticity.
2.9. Nightlife
Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City comes alive with non-stop energy. You can enjoy stunning views from Landmark 81, soak up the vibes on Bui Vien Street and Nguyen Hue Walking Street. Night markets burst with colors and flavors. Bach Dang Wharf, Bitexco Financial Tower, and Saigon Opera House promise unique experiences that capture the city’s after-dark spirit.
In contrast, Hoi An nightlife presents a more serene charm. A perfect way to enjoy the nightlife here is by drifting along the Hoai River, browsing the lively Hoi An Night Market, or enjoying vibrant shows at VinWonders Nam Hoi An. For those who love the outdoors, camping under the stars at An Bang Beach offers a memorable night. The evening continues with cozy stops at quaint cafes, bars, and pubs for relaxation and connection.
2.10. Shopping
Both cities invite tourists to explore varied shopping experiences, from malls and markets to souvenir stores. Popular Ho Chi Minh City souvenirs and Hoi An souvenirs include conical hats, ao dai, silk, brocade, coffee, and tea. In Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market are must-visits. Meanwhile, Hoi An Market captures Hoi An’s unique charm. Notably, tailoring in Hoi An provides a special chance to create custom-made clothing.
2.11. Travel expenses
When it comes to travel expenses, Hoi An is more affordable. The UK’s Holiday Money Report 2024 named Hoi An the world’s cheapest travel destination. With low living costs, fast internet, and friendly locals, Hoi An also topped Freaking Nomads’ list of the best cities for digital nomads. In contrast, Ho Chi Minh City’s higher living costs reflect its status as a major economic hub, where higher incomes drive up prices.
>>> Read more: Is Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting? or Is Hoi An worth visiting?
3. Which city is better to travel to, Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An?
Tourists who enjoy a fast-paced lifestyle will feel at home in Ho Chi Minh City with its modern skyline and dynamic spirit. In contrast, Hoi An invites tourists to slow down and soak in its peaceful rhythm. Its preserved heritage and welcoming atmosphere make it a top choice for digital nomads seeking balance and inspiration.
For a deeper exploration of Vietnam, consider traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hoi An on a four-day trip or longer journey to enjoy the best of both worlds.
>>> Discover: Hoi An itinerary: How to explore the town in 1 to 5 days
Choosing Ho Chi Minh City or Hoi An depends not on which is better, but on what kind of experiences you seek. One pulses with energy, while the other whispers stories of the past. Each destination promises unforgettable experiences.
