HanoivsLuang Prabang
Can't decide between Hanoi and Luang Prabang? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Hanoi
Hanoi is a captivating capital where French colonial elegance meets vibrant Vietnamese culture. The city enchants with its chaotic Old Quarter, tranquil lakes, delicious pho, and a pace of life that moves to the rhythm of motorbikes and street vendors.
Known for
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is a serene UNESCO World Heritage town where saffron-robed monks collect alms at dawn, French colonial buildings blend with gilded temples, and the Mekong River flows peacefully past. This spiritual gem offers a slower pace of life and authentic Southeast Asian charm.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Hanoi offers Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, Temple of Literature
Luang Prabang offers Morning Alms Giving, Royal Palace Museum, Mount Phousi Sunset
Food & Dining
Hanoi is famous for its local dining scene
Luang Prabang is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Hanoi offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Luang Prabang offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
October to December, March to April
November to April
Weather
Summer: 33°C, Winter: 17°C
Summer: 32°C, Winter: 22°C
Top Attractions in Hanoi
- 1Old Quarter
- 2Hoan Kiem Lake
- 3Temple of Literature
- 4Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- 5Water Puppet Theatre
- 6Ha Long Bay Day Trip
Top Attractions in Luang Prabang
- 1Morning Alms Giving
- 2Royal Palace Museum
- 3Mount Phousi Sunset
- 4Kuang Si Waterfalls
- 5Night Market
- 6Mekong River Cruise
Hanoi is Popular With
Luang Prabang is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Hanoi
- 1
Long Bien Bridge
A historic French-colonial railway bridge spanning the Red River, still used by trains, motorbikes, and pedestrians.
- 2
Train Street
An extremely narrow residential street in the Old Quarter where trains pass just inches from homes twice daily.
Hidden Gems in Luang Prabang
- 1
Wat Pa Phon Phao
A forest meditation temple located 3km from town, known for its striking golden stupa and peaceful atmosphere.
- 2
Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center
A beautiful riverside weaving center where traditional Lao textiles are created using natural dyes.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem District & Old Quarter
The historic heart of Hanoi, where narrow streets organized by ancient trades (silver, herbs, silk) buzz with constant activity.
Ba Dinh District
The political and ceremonial center of Vietnam, characterized by wide boulevards, grand government buildings, and significant historical monuments.
Top Areas in Luang Prabang
Old Town (UNESCO Peninsula)
The historic heart of Luang Prabang, a peaceful peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers.
Ban Wat That
A quieter residential area east of the peninsula centered around the impressive Wat That temple complex.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Hanoi
Budget in Luang Prabang
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Hanoi
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Luang Prabang
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Hanoi
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Hanoi
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Find cheap transport to Luang Prabang
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Our Verdict
Both Hanoi and Luang Prabang are incredible destinations. Hanoi excels in pho and street food, while Luang Prabang stands out for alms giving and Buddhist temples.
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