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

Should you visit Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

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

Should I visit Koh Samui or Yogyakarta? 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 tropical, rainforest-covered, and lush resort island. Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a youthful, cultural, and historical city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Yogyakarta travel costs.

Koh Samui and Yogyakarta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Koh Samui. Although Koh Samui and Yogyakarta are both popular with visitors, Koh Samui has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Koh Samui is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Yogyakarta is known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and shopping. Koh Samui is more touristy than Yogyakarta and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. It is also home to The Big Buddha Temple. Yogyakarta is popular for its beautiful temples, divine food, and lively dance shows.

How is Koh Samui different from Yogyakarta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Yogyakarta 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, Yogyakarta has many famous sights for visitors. The city is known for it's cultural sights and temples. Kraton Yogyakarta is the palace where the Sultan lives. You should also visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Prambanan Temple. But for many visitors, Yogyakarta is seen as the gateway to the famed Borobudur Temple. This is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It offers spectacular views and is best visited at sunrise.

Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Koh Samui and Yogyakarta can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Koh Samui has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Yogyakarta makes for a great culinary experience. It's filled with street food stalls and cheap eateries where you can fill up on local Indonesian classics for a cheap price. Gudeg (stewed jackfruit), Satay, and Bakmi Jawa (Javanese noodles) are just some of the dishes that you must try.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Nightlife?

Koh Samui is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Koh Samui is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Yogyakarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With a large student population, you'll find many bars and live music venues around town. You'll also find night markets and plenty of theaters and live shows that you can enjoy.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Resorts?

Koh Samui is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Koh Samui is a great choice. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Yogyakarta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Beaches?

Koh Samui is renowned for the beach. However, Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

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

Yogyakarta is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for its Old Town?

Yogyakarta is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Yogyakarta. Kota Gede is the city's old town. It's filled with silver shops, religious sites, and traditional architecture. You'll also find a traditional market in the heart of the old town where you can buy coconut, dry fish, and tofu, or simply browse the unique items.

Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Hiking?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Yogyakarta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

Yogyakarta is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for shopping.

Many people travel to Yogyakarta specifically to go shopping. The city is filled with craftsmen and a local art scene that makes it a wonderful shopping destination. There are countless markets and shops where you can pick up local handicrafts that highlight the city's culture.

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 Yogyakarta More Beautiful?

Koh Samui is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Samui is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Yogyakarta is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Families?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Koh Samui is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Yogyakarta. It's often overlooked by families, but the temples, culture, art scene, and friendly people all make this a surprisingly fun destination for those traveling with kids. You'll also find a number of adventure activities in the area as well.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Yogyakarta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Koh Samui makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Yogyakarta is a good resort island for couples to visit. The city is filled with fun activities for couples such as a visit to Taman Pelangi at night, taking a walk along Jalan Malioboro, and taking in a traditional dance performance.

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

For backpackers, both Koh Samui and Yogyakarta are high quality 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 Yogyakarta. Backpackers who want to experience Indonesia's culture and friendly population will love a visit to this lively city. There are plenty of hostels and other travelers to meet, but there's also a uniquely Indonesian vibe to the city.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta Better for Students?

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

It's common for students to visit Yogyakarta. There's a large number of students in the city, which makes this a fun place to study abroad.

Koh Samui is not popular with students.

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

Koh Samui is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Yogyakarta is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Yogyakarta. There's a public bus system known as Trans Jogja, which is used by both tourists and locals. You can also hire motorbikes, becak, or Ojek.

Is Koh Samui or Yogyakarta a more walkable city?

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

Yogyakarta is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the main sights are accessible on foot.

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 Yogyakarta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yogyakarta or Koh Samui?

How long in Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

It's fun to spend time in either Koh Samui or Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta.

Families should spend more time in Koh Samui than Yogyakarta. 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 Koh Samui than Yogyakarta. 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.

One day in Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

With shopping and nightlife around the lush resort island of Koh Samui, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Koh Samui, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Yogyakarta. 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 Yogyakarta?

Koh Samui, a popular resort island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this resort island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the youthful city of Yogyakarta. 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.

A week in Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

Koh Samui is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this resort island makes for a great vacation. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this resort island has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Yogyakarta 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, The Best Adventure Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Eco Tours in Indonesia.

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

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 Yogyakarta Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Koh Samui or Yogyakarta?

Yogyakarta has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Koh Samui and Yogyakarta, 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.