A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Koh Tarutao vs. Beijing for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Koh Tarutao and Beijing. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Koh Tarutao

Koh Tarutao is a beautiful, undiscovered, and secluded island. With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Beijing

Beijing is a massive, jam-packed, and cultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Beijing offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Beijing travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Beijing: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beijing. Although Koh Tarutao and Beijing are popular destinations, Beijing has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beijing is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tarutao attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is popular for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Koh Tarutao is famous for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Beijing?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Beijing has many famous sights for visitors. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

Koh Tarutao offers a few options for museum-goers. This island is all about remote natural settings that will take your breath away, but you won't find anything in the form of temples or museums.

Is the Food Better in Koh Tarutao or Beijing? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Beijing, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

Koh Tarutao offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are three restaurants on the island that have limited hours so, if possible, it's best to arrive with some snacks. The food is simple and can get repetitive if you eat the same meals several days in a row.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Nightlife?

Beijing is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Beijing has a large number of nightlife venues. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Koh Tarutao. There's a good chance you'll have this island almost completely to yourself. The few restaurants on the island close early and you'll likely head to bed early after taking in the stunning night sky.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not so good for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Koh Tarutao offers a few options. You won't find luxury resorts (or any resorts) on the island. What you will find is simple bungalows, or tents available for rent at the ranger stations.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Koh Tarutao is considered to be a world-class beach destination. A true island paradise, you'll find isolated beaches here that are so remote that you'll likely have them to yourself for large parts of the day.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

Beijing is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Koh Tarutao has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There's a small shop at the visitor center where you can pick up simple drinks and snacks.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Koh Tarutao attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Beijing is a gorgeous place to visit. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Beijing are nice family-friendly destinations.

Koh Tarutao is a family-friendly island. For families who want seclusion, this beautiful island is the place to spend a night or two. There are great beaches, interesting hikes, and kayaks available to visitors.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Koh Tarutao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For a truly remote experience, couples will enjoy this often overlooked island. There are hikes and isolated beaches that offer romance in its most simple form.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Beijing is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Tarutao is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Beijing. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koh Tarutao. Most backpackers overlook this beautiful island for the more party-oriented destinations of Thailand, but those who spend a night or two here will be rewarded with a truly unique and authentic experience.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing Better for Students?

Beijing is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Koh Tarutao is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Beijing can get you to most places easily. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tarutao. There are shuttle taxis that travel around the island at fixed times. You can also rent a mountain bike at the ranger stations.

Is Koh Tarutao or Beijing a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao and Beijing are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Koh Tarutao is generally not a very walkable island. The island is quite large and difficult to explore on foot alone.

Beijing is generally not very walkable. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Koh Tarutao Worth Visiting? and Is Beijing Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beijing or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

Both Koh Tarutao and Beijing have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than in Koh Tarutao. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Koh Tarutao, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beijing.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beijing than Koh Tarutao 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 Beijing.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

In Koh Tarutao, you'll find . You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Beijing is a massive city where you can fill many days. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

In Koh Tarutao, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tarutao has to offer.

Beijing is a jam-packed big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

Koh Tarutao is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Beijing is a jam-packed city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tarutao. Many people enjoy the when visiting Koh Tarutao. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Beijing is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China.

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

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

When is the best time to visit Koh Tarutao or Beijing?

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

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Beijing in the Summer?

Both Beijing and Koh Tarutao during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Beijing in the summer. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Beijing fluctuates around 27°C (80°F).

Beijing gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Tarutao. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in July than Beijing. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Beijing in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Beijing. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Koh Tarutao in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Beijing averages at about 14°C (56°F).

Koh Tarutao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Beijing. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn. November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. Also, May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Beijing in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Beijing. In January, Koh Tarutao is generally much warmer than Beijing. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (80°F), and Beijing fluctuates around -4°C (26°F).

Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in January than Beijing. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Beijing in the Spring?

Both Beijing and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Also, many visitors come to Beijing in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Koh Tarutao is much warmer than Beijing in the spring. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 29°C (85°F) in April, and Beijing fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In April, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Beijing. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Beijing receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Tarutao is November to April. The rainy season in Koh Tarutao is May and October.

Typical Weather for Beijing and Koh Tarutao