A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Chang vs. Nara for Couples, Nightlife, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Koh Chang or Nara?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Koh Chang or Nara, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a idyllic, serene, and tranquil island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Chang as well. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and nightlife. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Nara

Nara is a natural, historic, and cultural city. Nara is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Nara travel costs.

Koh Chang and Nara: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Chang or Nara?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Nara. Although Koh Chang and Nara are popular destinations, Nara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Nara is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and shopping, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches. Nara is famous for its many temples and shrines, its beautiful natural areas, and its free roaming deer. It is also well known for Nara Park.

How is Koh Chang different from Nara?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Nara 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 Nara can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. There are many ancient temples such as Tōdai-ji Temple, Kofuku-ji Temple, Yakushi-ji Temple, and Tōshōdai-ji Temple. You can also visit the Nara National Museum as well as the many parks and gardens.

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 Koh Chang or Nara? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Koh Chang and Nara offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nara. The cuisine is simple and traditional with its roots in the history of the area. Many residents start their morning with a simple rice porridge. The area is also known for its persimmon leaf sushi and miwa somen (a thin, chewy noodle).

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Nightlife?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for nightlife. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Nara has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The town offers a serene and relaxed atmosphere at night. There are plenty of bars around town that are known for their friendly bartenders and you'll find many of the bars in Naramachi, which is the old town area.

Koh Chang has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is notable for its resorts. However, Nara is not a resort destination.

Koh Chang is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Nara is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is a moderate island for its diving and snorkeling. However, Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Snorkeling is an option 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.

Nara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Nara is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Koh Chang. 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.

Nara is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for its Old Town?

Nara is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Nara is a good destination for visiting its old town. Naramachi is the old town of Nara. This is the old merchant district and today you'll find several traditional residential buildings and warehouses that are open to the public.

Koh Chang does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Hiking?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Nara. The city is all about its surrounding nature. There are historic pilgrim routes that pass through the hills and mountains, taking you by sacred sights and ancient forests. In the area you'll find some of Japan's most ancient byways.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Chang or Nara?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Nara. Sanjo-dori is the main street through town. This is where you'll find many souvenir shops that sell local items and traditional food. Mochiido Center Town is the oldest shopping arcade in town and it is filled with history.

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 Koh Chang or Nara More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Koh Chang as well. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

Nara offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The city is filled with green space, parks, and natural areas. You'll find deer roaming freely and tranquil lawns where you can relax.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Families?

Koh Chang and Nara are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Koh Chang is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Nara is a very kid-friendly island. Head to Nara Park for a bit of nature in the city. Deer roam freely in the park, which is filled with pine trees and beautiful lawns. Kids will also appreciate a visit to Ikomasanjo Amusement Park or the NARAMACHI-KARAKURI Toy Museum. You can also take a ride on the Ikoma Cable Line or spend some time at the Tennenyamato Hot Spring Nara Kenko Land.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Koh Chang makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Nara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is smaller than you might expect, and it's filled with green space and parks. You can wander through Nara Park, see the deer, and soak up the romantic atmosphere. You can also visit one of the beautiful temples such as Todaiji Temple. Many couples also enjoy exploring Yoshikien Garden.

Is Koh Chang or Nara Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Chang is notable for backpackers. Also, Nara is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Nara is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers and the budget travel crowd.

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

Nara is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Nara. There are city buses that will take you through town and to the many tourist spots.

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 Koh Chang or Nara a more walkable city?

Nara is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Nara is very walkable. Many of the sights are within walking distance of each other, so many visitors enjoy exploring 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 Koh Chang Worth Visiting? and Is Nara Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nara or Koh Chang?

How long in Koh Chang or Nara?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Koh Chang or Nara to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Koh Chang than Nara because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Koh Chang, and 1-2 days is enough time in Nara.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nara 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 Nara.

One day in Koh Chang or Nara?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Chang. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Nara. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nara has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Koh Chang or Nara?

Koh Chang is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the beaches. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the tranquil destination of Nara. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Chang or Nara?

Visitors enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the serene destination of Koh Chang. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the tranquil city of Nara. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Chang or Nara?

The tranquil island of Koh Chang offers nightlife and food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Nara is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, The Best Eco Tours in Thailand, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan, and The Best Cultural Tours in Japan.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Chang or Nara?

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

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nara in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Chang as well as Nara. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, most visitors come to Nara for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Koh Chang is around the same temperature as Nara. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Chang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Nara averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In the summer, Koh Chang often gets less sunshine than Nara. Koh Chang gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 183 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Nara. Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Chang usually gets more rain in July than Nara. Koh Chang gets 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain, while Nara receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nara in the Autumn?

Both Nara and Koh Chang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Nara because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Koh Chang is generally much warmer than Nara. Daily temperatures in Koh Chang average around 27°C (81°F), and Nara fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Nara during autumn. Koh Chang gets 193 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nara. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. In October, Koh Chang usually receives more rain than Nara. Koh Chang gets 280 mm (11 in) of rain, while Nara receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. The rainy season in Koh Chang is June to October.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nara in the Winter?

Both Nara and Koh Chang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nara this time of year.

It's quite cold in Nara in the winter. Koh Chang is much warmer than Nara in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Chang averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Nara fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. In the winter, Koh Chang often gets more sunshine than Nara. Koh Chang gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nara receives 140 hours of full sun.

Koh Chang usually gets less rain in January than Nara. Koh Chang gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Nara receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. November to February is the dry season in Koh Chang.

Should I visit Koh Chang or Nara in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Chang and Nara. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round. Also, many travelers come to Nara for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Koh Chang is much warmer than Nara. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Chang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Nara averages at about 14°C (57°F).

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Koh Chang usually receives more sunshine than Nara during spring. Koh Chang gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Nara receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

Nara receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Koh Chang usually receives less rain than Nara. Koh Chang gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Nara receives 127 mm (5 in) of rain each month for the spring. Also, June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang.

Typical Weather for Nara and Koh Chang