A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hoi An vs. Koh Chang for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Hoi An or Koh Chang?

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 Hoi An and Koh Chang. 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.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a beautiful, traditional, and quaint town. Hoi An is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Hoi An travel costs.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a serene, tranquil, and scenic island. Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Hoi An and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hoi An or Koh Chang?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hoi An. Although Hoi An and Koh Chang are both popular with visitors, Hoi An has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hoi An is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Chang is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hoi An is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its peaceful and traditional old town, its unique culinary traditions, and its affordable custom made clothing. It is also home to the Fukian Assembly Hall. Koh Chang is popular for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Hoi An different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hoi An or Koh Chang?

Hoi An is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Hoi An can be an interesting and educational experience. The old town is like a living museum. It's pedestrian-friendly and filled with beautiful yellow buildings. Highlights of the town include the Phung Hung House, Fukian Assembly Hall, and the Hoi An Museum.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Hoi An or Koh Chang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hoi An is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hoi An is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The local cuisine is truly unique from the rest of Vietnam. It's considered to be a culinary city with interesting recipes that depend on local ingredients that can't be found outside of the region. Specialty dishes of the city include Cao Lầu (pork and rice noodles), Bánh Bao Bánh Vạc (white rose dumplings), and Cơm Gà Hoi An (Hoi An chicken rice).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

Koh Chang is a good destination for nightlife. However, Hoi An is lacking in options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Hoi An is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's definitely not your typical backpacker party town, and the city is quietly beautiful in the evening. Many of the bars in the old town close before midnight, but there are some places outside of the area if you're looking for something more lively.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Hoi An is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Koh Chang to choose from. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Hoi An is not a resort destination.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Hoi An is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is terrific for its beaches. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Koh Chang offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Hoi An is a good option for a beach vacation. There is a long stretch of sandy beach in the area, that can be broken into five different sections. Some areas are privately owned, but there is still plenty of public beach to choose from. An Bang Beach is the most developed and popular beach in the area. Coconut Beach is the most luxurious, and Ha My Beach is similar to An Bang, but smaller.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for its Old Town?

Hoi An is very popular for its historic old town. However, Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Hoi An has a world-famous historical area. The charming old town is recognizable for its striking yellow color and its many tailor shops. It feels like a living museum, and the evening hours are particularly special with the town's lanterns lighting the way.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Koh Chang has hiking trails if you want to get outside. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Hoi An is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hoi An or Koh Chang?

Hoi An is very popular for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hoi An. It is considered to be one of the best and most affordable cities in the world for tailor made clothing. Pop in a shop and have your measurements made. You can pick out a design and in a day or two return for your custom made outfit. It's a truly unique shopping experience.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Koh Chang is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

The beauty of Hoi An is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The city is beautiful during the day with its traditional architecture, as well as at night when it is lit with lanterns.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Families?

Both Hoi An and Koh Chang are great family-friendly destinations.

Hoi An is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will appreciate the thrill of a visit to Ba Na Hills, which is a theme park with roller coasters, zip lines, and more. Near the city you'll also find ancient ruins, outdoor activities, hands-on classes, and, of course, the impressive old town.

Koh Chang is a very kid-friendly town. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is terrific for romance. Also, Hoi An is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Koh Chang is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Couples visit Hoi An frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This charming city has a lot of character and some of Vietnam's best restaurants. The city is also known for its tailor made clothes, so make sure you do some shopping while you're in town.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hoi An is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Hoi An. It's solidly on the backpacker trail, and you'll find many visitors who come for the beautiful culture and fascinating setting.

Koh Chang is a great town to visit for backpackers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find good public transit in both Hoi An and Koh Chang.

Hoi An has some public transit options. Biking, taxis, and motorbikes are the most popular ways to explore the area.

You'll find some public transit in Koh Chang, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Is Hoi An or Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Hoi An is very popular for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hoi An. There are "walking hours" when motorized vehicles aren't allowed in the old town, and this is a particularly good time to explore on foot.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Hoi An Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Hoi An?

How long in Hoi An or Koh Chang?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hoi An than Koh Chang 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 Hoi An.

One day in Hoi An or Koh Chang?

You'll find shopping and museums around the town of Hoi An. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Chang. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Hoi An or Koh Chang?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful destination of Hoi An. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Koh Chang is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Hoi An or Koh Chang?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the traditional town of Hoi An. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Hoi An or Koh Chang?

Hoi An is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tranquil destination of Koh Chang. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in Vietnam, The Best Historical Tours in Vietnam, The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, and The Best Eco Tours in Thailand.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Hoi An or Koh Chang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Hoi An or Koh Chang in the Summer?

Both Koh Chang and Hoi An are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Hoi An throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Hoi An is February to July. The rainy season in Hoi An is September to January. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. In July, Hoi An usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Hoi An gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually receives more sunshine than Koh Chang during summer. Hoi An gets 242 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun in the summer.

Hoi An is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the summer. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 29°C (85°F) in July, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Hoi An or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

Both Koh Chang and Hoi An during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Hoi An because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round.

November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Hoi An. Hoi An usually gets more rain in October than Koh Chang. Hoi An gets 613 mm (24.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Koh Chang. Hoi An gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 193 hours of full sun.

In the autumn, Hoi An is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hoi An in October average around 25°C (78°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Hoi An or Koh Chang in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hoi An and Koh Chang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Hoi An year-round. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

February to July in Hoi An is the dry season. Also, September to January is the rainy season in Hoi An. November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. Hoi An gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Hoi An usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Hoi An gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Chang this time of the year. Hoi An usually receives less sunshine than Koh Chang during winter. Hoi An gets 136 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Hoi An is generally cooler than Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Hoi An average around 22°C (71°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Hoi An or Koh Chang in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hoi An as well as Koh Chang. Hoi An attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year.

June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Hoi An usually gets less rain in April than Koh Chang. Hoi An gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Chang. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hoi An this time of the year. In the spring, Hoi An often gets less sunshine than Koh Chang. Hoi An gets 210 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun.

Hoi An is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the spring. The daily temperature in Hoi An averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Hoi An