HanoivsSiem Reap
Can't decide between Hanoi and Siem Reap? 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
Siem Reap
Siem Reap is the gateway to the magnificent Angkor temples, one of the world's greatest archaeological wonders. Beyond the temples, this friendly town offers charming French colonial architecture, vibrant night markets, delicious Khmer cuisine, and a growing arts scene.
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
Siem Reap offers Angkor Wat Sunrise, Bayon Temple, Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple)
Food & Dining
Hanoi is famous for its local dining scene
Siem Reap is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Hanoi offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Siem Reap offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
October to December, March to April
November to February
Weather
Summer: 33°C, Winter: 17°C
Summer: 35°C, Winter: 28°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 Siem Reap
- 1Angkor Wat Sunrise
- 2Bayon Temple
- 3Ta Prohm (Tomb Raider Temple)
- 4Pub Street
- 5Floating Villages
- 6Khmer Cooking Classes
Hanoi is Popular With
Siem Reap 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 Siem Reap
- 1
Theam's House Gallery
The studio and gallery of renowned Cambodian artist Lim Muy Theam, set in a traditional wooden house.
- 2
Preah Dak Market (Red Earth Market)
A bustling local morning market about 15 minutes from Siem Reap, rarely visited by tourists.
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 Siem Reap
Old French Quarter & Psar Chas Area
The historic heart of Siem Reap, characterized by charming, tree-lined streets, preserved French colonial villas, and the bustling Old Market (Psar Chas).
Pub Street & Night Market Area
The epicenter of Siem Reap's nightlife and tourist energy.
Budget Comparison
Compare the cost of traveling in each city
Budget in Hanoi
Budget in Siem Reap
Book Activities
Find tours and experiences in both cities
Book Activities in Hanoi
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Book Activities in Siem Reap
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
Compare transport options to both destinations
Find cheap transport to Hanoi
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Hanoi
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Find cheap transport to Siem Reap
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Our Verdict
Both Hanoi and Siem Reap are incredible destinations. Hanoi excels in pho and street food, while Siem Reap stands out for Angkor temples and sunrise at Angkor Wat.
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