A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hobart vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hobart and Koh Pha Ngan 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.

Hobart

Hobart is a charming, fascinating, and quaint city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Hobart travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a party-oriented, high energy, and funky party island. The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Hobart and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Hobart and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Hobart attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, and shopping. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Hobart and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Hobart is famous for its quaint historical center, fresh seafood, and nearby hiking and biking trails.

How is Hobart different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hobart is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Hobart specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The town has many landmarks and museums such as Port Arthur, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. A highlight of the city is Battery Point, which is like an open-air museum. Make sure you explore the Battery Point Sculpture Trail.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hobart is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hobart makes for a great culinary experience. The town has seen a surge in its culinary scene in recent years. Local chefs like to highlight the regional flavors and ingredients such as octopus, kingfish, abalone, and leatherwood honey.

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Hobart. While it's a smaller city, there is still a good mix of local bars, trendy lounges, and elegant wine bars. you'll also find some great venues for live music.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Hobart is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Hobart is not a resort destination.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Hobart is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Hobart is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for the beach. However, Hobart is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Hobart is not a beach destination.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Both Hobart and Koh Pha Ngan are destinations which offer superb hiking.

Many visitors go to Hobart for the hiking trails. The city is surrounded by bushland reserves as well as nearby Mount Wellington. The area offers many diverse hiking and walking trails and there are a wide range to choose from so whatever your hiking level, you'll find something of interest.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular spot for hiking. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Is the Shopping Better in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hobart is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Hobart is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It has some of the best shopping in Tasmania. You'll find a great shopping experience along Elizabeth Street, which is lined with boutiques and quirky shops. The city also has a couple of outdoor flea markets that offers a unique shopping experience.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Hobart is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Hobart is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Hobart is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Hobart is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who love animals will enjoy a visit to the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also fruit farms to visit and vineyards to explore in the area, as well as great hiking. For an interactive museum, head to the Tasmanian Transport Museum and the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has some toddler-friendly displays.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Hobart is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Hobart frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy exploring the waterfront and Sullivans Cove. There are also outdoor markets and breweries around town. Botanical gardens and quaint neighborhoods also make this a lovely town to visit.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hobart is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Pha Ngan is extremely popular for backpackers. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

Plenty of backpackers visit Hobart. There are a handful of hostels around town and many great hiking trails.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hobart is very good for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Hobart, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a public bus system and many of the buses leave from Elizabeth Street (between Macquarie and Collins Streets) or Franklin Square.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Hobart is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Hobart is very walkable. It has a compact city center that many people enjoy exploring on foot.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Hobart Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Hobart?

How long in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Hobart because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Hobart, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Hobart 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

In Hobart, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this quaint city offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hobart is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Pha Ngan is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Hobart. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hobart is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the backpacker-friendly destination of Koh Pha Ngan. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Australia, The Best Eco Tours in Australia, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

Hobart has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Hobart and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hobart as well as Koh Pha Ngan. Many visitors come to Hobart in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In January, Hobart is generally cooler than Koh Pha Nganin July. Daily temperatures in Hobart average around 17°C (63°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Hobart usually gets less rain in January than Koh Pha Nganin July. Hobart gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Hobart are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Hobart for the hiking trails and the shopping scene during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Hobart is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hobart averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. In April, Hobart usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Nganin October. Hobart gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan is October and November.

Should I visit Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Hobart during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Hobart because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In the winter, Hobart is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hobart in July average around 9°C (47°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F)in January.

Hobart usually gets more rain in July than Koh Pha Nganin January. Hobart gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan.

Should I visit Hobart or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hobart and Koh Pha Ngan. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In October, Hobart is generally much colder than Koh Pha Nganin April. Daily temperatures in Hobart average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

In October, Hobart usually receives around the same amount of rain as Koh Pha Nganin April. Hobart gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Hobart