A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Koh Tao for Food, Backpackers, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Beijing or Koh Tao?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Koh Tao can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Beijing is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Beijing travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a laid back, mellow, and beautiful island. The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Beijing and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing. Although Beijing and Koh Tao are both popular with visitors, Beijing has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Beijing is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Koh Tao and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also home to The Forbidden City. Koh Tao is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes.

How is Beijing different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Koh Tao and Beijing. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Beijing are world-renowned. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Dining out in Koh Tao is an experience not to be missed. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Beijing or Koh Tao has a better nightlife scene.

The people in Beijing know how to have a good time. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

The nightlife in Koh Tao has something for everybody. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is a great destination for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

In Koh Tao, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Tao is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is Thailand's most famous scuba diving destination for it's affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Koh Tao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Beijing is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Beijing is well-known for its shopping. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Both Beijing and Koh Tao are good to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Koh Tao offers lots of family activities. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Koh Tao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Beijing is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Beijing is a great city to visit as a student. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Beijing is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit in Beijing can get you to some places easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Beijing or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Both Beijing and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Koh Tao has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Koh Tao than Beijing. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Koh Tao than Beijing. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Koh Tao, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Beijing. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Tao that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Beijing 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 Koh Tao.

One day in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Koh Tao, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Koh Tao, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Koh Tao?

Beijing is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Beijing has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. Because Beijing is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Koh Tao, we can see that Beijing is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Beijing would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beijing than you might in Koh Tao.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beijing Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Koh Tao?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 5410 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Koh Tao, 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.

When is the best time to visit Beijing or Koh Tao?

Beijing has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Koh Tao experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Beijing during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

In July, Beijing is generally around the same temperature as Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the summer, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Koh Tao. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Koh Tao. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Koh Tao. The autumn months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Beijing is much colder than Koh Tao in the autumn. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Beijing usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Beijing or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Koh Tao. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

It's quite cold in Beijing in the winter. In the winter, Beijing is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beijing in January average around -4°C (26°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the winter, Beijing often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Beijing or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Beijing is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (57°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao during spring. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beijing usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Beijing