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

Should you visit Brussels or Koh Tao?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Brussels and Koh Tao. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Brussels

Brussels is a colorful, multicultural, and historic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Brussels travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a mellow, beautiful, and tropical island. The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Brussels and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Koh Tao?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Koh Tao are popular destinations, Brussels has more sights and attractions for tourists. Brussels is very popular for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Tao is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also well known for La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Brussels can be an interesting and educational experience. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Brussels or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Brussels and Koh Tao.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Koh Tao has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is well known for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Koh Tao is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is well known for its resorts. However, Brussels is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Tao to choose from. 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.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao. 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.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is renowned for its beaches. However, Brussels is not a beach destination.

Koh Tao offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Brussels is great for its old town. However, Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Brussels to see the historical old town. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Koh Tao?

Brussels is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Brussels is not a destination known for its 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.

Brussels is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Brussels is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Brussels is very family-friendly. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Koh Tao is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Brussels and Koh Tao both great destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Koh Tao is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Tao is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Brussels or Koh Tao Better for Students?

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

Brussels is a great city to visit as a student. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Brussels is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Brussels can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Brussels and Koh Tao both are great when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Koh Tao is a very walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Koh Tao?

Both Brussels and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Brussels. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tao than Brussels. 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Koh Tao?

Because Brussels is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The beautiful island of Koh Tao offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Koh Tao?

Because Brussels 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. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer.

Koh Tao is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brussels or Koh Tao?

Brussels is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Brussels has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Tao, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Brussels. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Brussels. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Belgium, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Belgium, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brussels and Koh Tao, we can see that Brussels is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brussels is in Europe and Koh Tao is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Brussels would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Koh Tao?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 740 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels or Koh Tao?

Brussels 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 Brussels or Koh Tao in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Brussels is cooler than Koh Tao. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

In the summer, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Brussels gets 186 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. Brussels usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Koh Tao. Most visitors come to Brussels for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Brussels is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Brussels gets 114 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, Brussels usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 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 Brussels or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Koh Tao. The winter months attract visitors to Brussels because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

The weather in Brussels can be very cold. Brussels is much colder than Koh Tao in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 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 Brussels or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the spring, Brussels is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 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 Brussels