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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Stockholm?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Stockholm? 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 laid back, beautiful, and tropical resort island. The famous beauty of Koh Samui is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Stockholm

Stockholm is a safe, expensive, and beautiful city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come to Stockholm because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Stockholm travel costs.

Koh Samui and Stockholm: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Stockholm?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Stockholm. Although Koh Samui and Stockholm are both popular with visitors, Stockholm has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Stockholm is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Samui is known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Koh Samui is more touristy than Stockholm and is popular for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Stockholm is popular for its many bridges and water culture, its open air museum, and its colorful old town. It is also home to Gamla Stan (the old town).

Gamla Stan (the old town)

How is Koh Samui different from Stockholm?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Stockholm is a great city for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

Stockholm offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights and museums include the Vasa Museum, the Skansen Open-Air Museum, and the Royal Palace.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Stockholm is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most famous for its Swedish meatballs, there is so much more to the food scene in this city. Although they're expensive, the restaurants often have a relaxed atmosphere with dishes that take advantage of local, fresh ingredients. Seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a world class party destination. 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.

Many people head to Stockholm for the nightlife scene. The city is a particularly fun place to visit during the summer months when clubs open outdoor areas and parties happen day and night.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Music?

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

Stockholm has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. The city has an amazing music scene that includes international groups and DJs, local venues, and popular festivals.

Koh Samui is not a live music destination.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Stockholm is not a resort destination.

Koh Samui is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Stockholm is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Stockholm is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Koh Samui is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Stockholm is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Stockholm is not a beach destination.

Koh Samui is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Stockholm is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for its Old Town?

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

Stockholm offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Right in the middle of the city is Gamla Stan. It's spread out over a hill and filled with character, cobblestone streets, cafes, and historical sights.

Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Samui. 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.

Stockholm is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Stockholm?

Stockholm 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 Stockholm. Right by Gamla Stan, you'll find the city's main shopping street of Drottninggatan. The city has great jewelry and artisan crafts.

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 Stockholm More Beautiful?

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

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 Stockholm as well. This is among the cleanest and most beautiful cities in Europe.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Families?

Stockholm is an amazing city 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, Stockholm is a very family-friendly destination. As cities go, this is among the most child-friendly in Europe. There are many unique activities like Junibacken, which is a Pippi Longstocking themed kid's museum. There's also Tom Tits Experiment, which is a hands on science and technology museum, the swimming pools at Eriksdalsbadet, and the amusement park Gröna Lund.

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 Stockholm Better for Couples?

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

Stockholm makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city is filled with romance, from wandering around Gamla Stan to taking a dinner cruise or exploring a rose garden. During the winter months, the Christmas markets and festive atmosphere bring the city to life.

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 Stockholm Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Samui is well known for backpackers. Also, Stockholm is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Samui is a great resort island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Stockholm. While the city has a lot to offer, many backpackers avoid the area because it is so expensive. There are some hostels, but in general food and entertainment are all going to cost a lot.

Is Koh Samui or Stockholm Better for Students?

Stockholm is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Samui is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Stockholm. The cost of the city scares off many international students, but those that come here will find a clean, safe, and fun city with excellent academics.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm is top-notch. The system is efficient with bus lines, metro, commuter rails, trams and ferries.

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 Stockholm a more walkable city?

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

Stockholm is a very easy city to get around on foot. The city has actively worked to create a walkable environment that is safe and pleasant. There are restrictions on vehicles as well as pedestrian-only areas.

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 Stockholm Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stockholm or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Stockholm?

Both Koh Samui and Stockholm have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Stockholm has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Stockholm 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 Stockholm.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Samui than Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the resort island of Koh Samui. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

People visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the tropical destination of Koh Samui. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Stockholm 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 Stockholm?

You'll find nightlife and food around the lush resort island of Koh Samui. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this resort island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer.

People visit Stockholm 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. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Koh Samui or Stockholm?

Koh Samui is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Koh Samui, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Stockholm 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 Stockholm, 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 Sweden, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Sweden.

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

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Stockholm?

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

Stockholm 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 Stockholm in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Koh Samui as well as Stockholm. Koh Samui attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, most visitors come to Stockholm for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Koh Samui is generally a little warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Koh Samui receives a lot of rain in the summer. Koh Samui usually gets more rain in July than Stockholm. Koh Samui gets 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Stockholm in the Autumn?

Both Stockholm and Koh Samui are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Samui throughout the year. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Stockholm because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Koh Samui is much warmer than Stockholm in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koh Samui averages around 24°C (75°F) in October, and Stockholm fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Samui. In October, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Koh Samui gets 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Koh Samui is December to February. The rainy season in Koh Samui is October to December.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Stockholm in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Stockholm in the winter. In the winter, Koh Samui is much warmer than Stockholm. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koh Samui in January average around 22°C (72°F), and Stockholm averages at about -3°C (27°F).

Koh Samui usually gets more rain in January than Stockholm. Koh Samui gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Koh Samui or Stockholm in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Samui and Stockholm. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Samui year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Stockholm for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Koh Samui is generally much warmer than Stockholm. Daily temperatures in Koh Samui average around 24°C (76°F), and Stockholm fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In April, Koh Samui usually receives more rain than Stockholm. Koh Samui gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Stockholm receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Stockholm and Koh Samui