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

Should you visit Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

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 Sukhothai. 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 remote, beautiful, and undiscovered island. Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Koh Tarutao travel costs.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a cultural, under-rated, and world class city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sukhothai than Koh Tarutao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sukhothai is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Koh Tarutao is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Sukhothai is more touristy than Koh Tarutao and is known for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam. Also, Sukhothai is famous for Wat Si Chom in the Sukhothai Historical Park. Koh Tarutao is well known for its secluded beauty and undiscovered paradise setting.

How is Koh Tarutao different from Sukhothai?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sukhothai. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

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 Sukhothai? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Sukhothai has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

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 Sukhothai Better for Nightlife?

Sukhothai is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sukhothai. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

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 Sukhothai Better for Resorts?

Koh Tarutao is not a good area for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

While Koh Tarutao is not known as a resort destination, there are some nice places to stay. 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.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai Better for Beaches?

Koh Tarutao is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tarutao is a very popular vacation 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.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Koh Tarutao does not have a historic old town.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai Better for Hiking?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Koh Tarutao. There are hiking trails through mangrove coves, inland through the dramatic vegetation, and up cliffs to impressive viewpoints.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

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 Sukhothai More Beautiful?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Koh Tarutao is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful undeveloped beaches and stunning natural environments make this a truly unique destination.

Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai Better for Families?

Both Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai are notable 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 Sukhothai. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Is Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai Better for Couples?

Koh Tarutao is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Koh Tarutao makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

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

Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

Sukhothai is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tarutao is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Sukhothai has some public transit options. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

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 Sukhothai a more walkable city?

Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai are respectable 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.

Sukhothai is generally not very walkable. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Sukhothai or Koh Tarutao?

How long in Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai. In our opinion, Sukhothai has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Sukhothai than Koh Tarutao. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Koh Tarutao than Sukhothai. 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 Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai.

One day in Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

You'll find around the island of Koh Tarutao. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the under-rated city of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Sukhothai?

You'll find around the beautiful destination of Koh Tarutao. 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 island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the under-rated destination of Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the undiscovered island of Koh Tarutao. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historical city of Sukhothai offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai?

Koh Tarutao is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sukhothai. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Thailand, The Best Cultural Tours in Thailand, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Thailand, and The Best Nightlife Tours in Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai, we can see that Koh Tarutao is more expensive. And not only is Sukhothai much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Sukhothai would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sukhothai 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 Sukhothai.

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 Sukhothai Expensive?.

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

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai in the Summer?

Both Sukhothai and Koh Tarutao are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tarutao throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. It's quite rainy in Koh Tarutao. In July, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Sukhothai. Koh Tarutao gets 269 mm (10.6 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Sukhothai. Typically, the summer temperatures in Koh Tarutao in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Sukhothai averages at about 29°C (84°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai in the Autumn?

Both Sukhothai and Koh Tarutao during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tarutao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round.

November to April is the dry season in Koh Tarutao. May and October is the rainy season in Koh Tarutao. October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. Sukhothai 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 October than Sukhothai. Koh Tarutao gets 281 mm (11.1 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Koh Tarutao is generally around the same temperature as Sukhothai. Daily temperatures in Koh Tarutao average around 27°C (81°F), and Sukhothai fluctuates around 28°C (83°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Koh Tarutao and Sukhothai. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tarutao year-round. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Koh Tarutao usually receives more rain than Sukhothai. Koh Tarutao gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Sukhothai in the winter. The daily temperature in Koh Tarutao averages around 27°C (80°F) in January, and Sukhothai fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

Should I visit Koh Tarutao or Sukhothai in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Koh Tarutao as well as Sukhothai. Koh Tarutao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year.

Also, November to April in Koh Tarutao is the dry season. May and October in Koh Tarutao is the rainy season. Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. Koh Tarutao receives a lot of rain in the spring. Koh Tarutao usually gets more rain in April than Sukhothai. Koh Tarutao gets 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain, while Sukhothai receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Sukhothai can become quite hot in the spring. In the spring, Koh Tarutao is around the same temperature as Sukhothai. Typically, the spring temperatures in Koh Tarutao in April average around 29°C (85°F), and Sukhothai averages at about 32°C (89°F).

Typical Weather for Sukhothai and Koh Tarutao