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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Prague?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Prague? 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. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Prague

Prague is a beautiful, festive, and fun-filled city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come to Prague because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music. See Prague travel costs.

Koh Samui and Prague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Prague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Prague. Although Koh Samui and Prague are both popular with visitors, Prague has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Prague is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Samui is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Prague is popular for its world-famous old town, local beer, wild nightlife, historic landmarks, and the Charles Bridge. It is also home to The Prague Castle.

How is Koh Samui different from Prague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Prague 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 Prague?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Prague has many famous sights for visitors. Most of the city's historic sights are found in the Old Town. Famous landmarks include the Charles Bridge, the Prague Castle, and the National Museum. Throughout the Old Town you'll see the spires of the many churches which define the city's skyline. The Prague Castle is not to be missed as it's the largest castle complex in the world.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Koh Samui is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Prague is not a good city for its restaurants.

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

Prague may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The meals are hearty and filling. There's lots of stew and dumplings that make for a soothing meal on a cold winter day. Goulash is a favorite dish at most of the traditional restaurants around town.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Nightlife?

If the nightlife is your priority, you'll find amazing options in both Koh Samui and Prague.

Koh Samui has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Prague is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has long been famous as a beer drinking capital, and although prices are higher than they once were, the fun is the same. The nightlife vibe is great any night of the week, but weekends tend to be the most active.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Music?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Prague has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has a long history of classical music, but rock, pop, and almost any other genre is popular here as well. Many visitors specifically come just to experience the world class music scene.

Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Prague 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.

Prague is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Prague 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.

Prague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Prague 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.

Prague is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for its Old Town?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Prague offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Based around Old Town Square, this city has one of the most impressive old towns in the world. It truly feels like something out of a fairytale. Most of the tourists spend the majority of their time exploring the old town, and after a full day of wandering, you can cozy up with a strudel and a drink in one of the many cafes.

Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Prague is not a hiking destination.

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.

Prague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Prague?

Prague is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Prague. There are many brand name stores in New Town, particularly around Wenceslas Square. In Old Town, Czech porcelain and Bohemia Crystal are popular things to buy. You'll find tons of souvenir and trinket shops throughout the area.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Is Koh Samui or Prague More Beautiful?

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

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 Prague as well. The city is filled with beautiful historic architecture and stunning landmarks. It's a truly historic and impressive city.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Koh Samui or Prague.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Koh Samui. 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.

Prague is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun energy that appeals to adults and kids alike. Make sure you check out the Astronomical Clock and tour the famous Prague Castle. You'll also find the best playgrounds in town around Slavonic Island.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Couples?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for romance.

Prague makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're enjoy beautiful architecture, historical buildings, or a night out drinking, this city makes a great stop for a couple's vacation.

Koh Samui is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Prague is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Prague, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. It has its share of fun hostels that often have a social vibe that can't beat. The city is also a fun and affordable place to explore.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Koh Samui or Prague Better for Students?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Prague. If you're studying abroad and want a cultural city with a young and fun vibe, the this is among the best.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Prague is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for its public transit.

Public transit in Prague is top-notch. Metro lines, trams, and buses will take you smoothly through old and new town.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Koh Samui or Prague a more walkable city?

Prague is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Prague is a very easy city to get around on foot. The tourist area through old town is easily explored on foot. Walking around town is the best way to soak up the atmosphere.

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 Prague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Prague or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Prague?

Both Koh Samui and Prague have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Prague has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Prague than Koh Samui. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Koh Samui, and 2-7 days is enough time in Prague.

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

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

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

One day in Koh Samui or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Samui. 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.

People visit Prague because there is so much to do. 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.

A weekend in Koh Samui or Prague?

Koh Samui 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.

People visit Prague because there is so much to do. 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Koh Samui or Prague?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. 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.

People visit Prague because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Prague?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Samui. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Prague is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Prague, one week is sufficent for most. 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, The Best Budget Tours to Czech Republic, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Czech Republic.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Samui and Prague, we can see that Prague 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 Prague is in Europe, 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 Prague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Prague 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 Prague Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Prague?

Prague has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Prague, 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 Prague?

Prague 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 Prague in the Summer?

Both Prague 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 Prague because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Prague fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in July than Prague. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Prague receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Prague in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Prague. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Prague this time of year.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Prague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Prague fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Prague. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 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 Prague in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Prague. In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Prague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Prague averages at about 1°C (33°F).

Koh Samui usually gets more rain in January than Prague. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 42 mm (1.7 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 Prague in the Spring?

Both Prague 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 Prague in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Prague. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Prague fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In April, Koh Samui usually receives around the same amount of rain as Prague. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Prague receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Prague and Koh Samui