A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Samui vs. Katoomba for Nightlife, Hiking, Families, and Food

Should you visit Koh Samui or Katoomba?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Katoomba? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a beautiful, tropical, and rainforest-covered resort island. You'll find world class beauty in Koh Samui as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a breathtaking , stunning, and peaceful town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Katoomba because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Katoomba travel costs.

Koh Samui and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Koh Samui than Katoomba, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Koh Samui is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Katoomba is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, and small town charm. Koh Samui is more touristy than Katoomba and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Also, Koh Samui is famous for The Big Buddha Temple. Katoomba is well known for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains.

How is Koh Samui different from Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

Katoomba is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Katoomba. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Koh Samui or Katoomba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Samui makes for a great culinary experience. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Katoomba has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

People head to Koh Samui just to party. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Katoomba is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Koh Samui for its luxury resorts. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Katoomba is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

Katoomba is an amazing town to visit for hiking. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for the nearby hiking options.

People visit Katoomba specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Koh Samui is a popular spot for hiking. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Samui and Katoomba both offer plenty of notable spots.

Koh Samui has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Katoomba is a great destination for shopping. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of amazing scenery and beauty in both Koh Samui and Katoomba.

Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

You'll find world class beauty in Katoomba as well. It's a town surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to breathtaking views and impressive hikes through the Blue Mountains.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Families?

Katoomba is an amazing town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Katoomba is a very family-friendly destination. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

Koh Samui is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Koh Samui and Katoomba make for a superb place to visit.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

Katoomba is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Katoomba are superb places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

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

Koh Samui and Katoomba both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Koh Samui offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Katoomba has a few public transit options. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

Is Koh Samui or Katoomba a more walkable city?

Katoomba is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable town. The town itself is relatively walkable.

Koh Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Samui Worth Visiting? and Is Katoomba Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Samui or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Koh Samui due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-4 days is enough time in Katoomba.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Katoomba 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 Samui.

One day in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

The beautiful resort island of Koh Samui 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.

Even though Katoomba is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Katoomba is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. 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 town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

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

Katoomba is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Koh Samui or Katoomba?

Koh Samui 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 Samui has to offer. This resort island offers something for everyone.

Katoomba 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 Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Katoomba?

Koh Samui has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Katoomba. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Katoomba, 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 Koh Samui or Katoomba?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Katoomba in the Summer?

Both Katoomba and Koh Samui during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Koh Samui is around the same temperature as Katoomba. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Samui in July average around 24°C (76°F), and Katoomba averages at about 24°C (74°F)in January.

Katoomba gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in July than Katoombain January. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Katoomba in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Katoomba. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year.

In October, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Katoombain April. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (75°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Katoombain April. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season. Also, October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Katoomba in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Katoomba. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, many travelers come to Katoomba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Katoomba in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 22°C (72°F) in January, and Katoomba fluctuates around 11°C (51°F)in July.

Koh Samui usually gets more rain in January than Katoombain July. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Katoomba in the Spring?

Both Katoomba and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Katoomba in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Koh Samui is a little warmer than Katoomba. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Samui in April average around 24°C (76°F), and Katoomba averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

In April, Koh Samui usually receives less rain than Katoombain October. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Katoomba and Koh Samui