A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Cesis 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 Cesis 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.

Cesis

Cesis is a traditional, quaint, and small town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Cesis 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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Cesis and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cesis or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Tao than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Tao is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cesis is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Koh Tao is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Also, Koh Tao is famous for Mango Bay Viewpoint. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Koh Tao is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Tao is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Koh Tao. 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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Koh Tao is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is well known for its resorts. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Tao is renowned for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is renowned for the beach. However, Cesis 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.

Cesis is not a beach destination.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Cesis is adequate for its old town. However, Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

You can check out the historic old town in Cesis. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is well known for its hiking experiences. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Cesis offers some nice hiking trails. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a island with good options for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Koh Tao offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cesis 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.

Cesis offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao Better for Families?

Both Cesis and Koh Tao are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cesis. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

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 Cesis or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Tao. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

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

Koh Tao is a island with a few options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Koh Tao is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Koh Tao is a very walkable island. 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.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Koh Tao?

Both Cesis 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 Cesis. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cesis, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

Families should spend more time in Koh Tao than Cesis. 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 Cesis. 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 Cesis 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 Cesis or Koh Tao?

Cesis is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Cesis or Koh Tao?

Cesis might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cesis has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Cesis or Koh Tao?

Cesis is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koh Tao is a fun place to experience. In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Cesis or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cesis. Since Cesis is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

In Koh Tao, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this laid back destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and Koh Tao, we can see that Cesis is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Cesis 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 Cesis would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cesis 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 Cesis Expensive? and Is Koh Tao Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cesis or Koh Tao?

Cesis has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Cesis 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 Cesis or Koh Tao?

Cesis 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 Cesis or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Cesis during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cesis for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Cesis is cooler than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Cesis usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cesis or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Koh Tao. The autumn months attract visitors to Cesis because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the autumn, Cesis is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 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 Cesis or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Koh Tao. The cuisine are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

It's quite cold in Cesis in the winter. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 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 Cesis or Koh Tao in the Spring?

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

Cesis is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 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 Cesis