A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Seoul vs. Koh Pha Ngan for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Seoul and Koh Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Seoul

Seoul is a cultural, bustling, and modern city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Seoul travel costs.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a beautiful, backpacker-friendly, and tropical party island. The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and nightlife. See Koh Pha Ngan travel costs.

Seoul and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seoul. Although Seoul and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Seoul has more sights and attractions for tourists. Seoul is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Seoul and is known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. Seoul is famous for its shopping malls, colorful street markets, beautiful parks, and vibrant energy. It is also well known for Gyeongbokgung Palace.

How is Seoul different from Koh Pha Ngan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Seoul is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Seoul specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The museums and landmarks are diverse, with notable sights including N Seoul Tower, the Bukchon Hanok Traditional Village, and the National Museum of Korea.

While most people don't head to Koh Pha Ngan specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors come of the natural beauty, outdoor sports, and hardcore parties more than the sights and museums. Kuan Yin Temple is worth visiting, as is Wat Pho and Wat Phu Khao Noi.

Is the Food Better in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Seoul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Food is a cultural obsession here, and you'll find everything from world class street food to award winning restaurants. The dishes are so much more diverse than Korean barbecue and kimchi. Many dishes are very spicy, with popular local foods including gamjatang (pork and potato soup) and jeon (savory pancakes).

Koh Pha Ngan has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There is frequent turnover in the restaurant scene around town, but there are a few mainstay restaurants that offer consistent and reliable Thai or international cuisine. In general, the food is fresh and the typical Thai favorites are available most places. Also make sure you check out the Thong Sala Night Market, which offers unique snacks and local dishes.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The island's famous Full Moon Parties have landed it on many lists for top party destinations around the world. These parties are held every month on the night of the full moon, with the biggest crowds between November and March. The parties are traditionally held at the beach in Haad Rin. If you miss the Full Moon Party, you can check out the Half Moon Festival on Baan Ti. During other times, you'll find a variety of different parties that capitalize on the party reputation of the island, so whenever you visit, you can enjoy some level of festivities.

Seoul has a large number of nightlife venues. This is definitely a work hard/play hard city, with locals working long hours during the day and then partying hard late into the night. The nightlife scene is strong both during the week and on weekends. There are bars, clubs, and lounges that are frequented by locals and tourists alike.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Music?

Seoul is a world-class destination for live music. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not a live music destination.

Seoul is a world class music destination. K-pop has put the city on the map for music, but you'll actually find a wide range of genres here including rock music and electronic dance music.

Koh Pha Ngan is not a live music destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its resorts. However, Seoul is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. Much of the island caters to the backpacker crowd, but there are some luxury resorts to choose from as well. Many resorts take advantage of the beautiful nature on the island or intentionally prioritize a serene environment where you can relax by the pool.

Seoul is not a resort destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Koh Pha Ngan. The island has its share of dive shops and a nice underwater setting where you can see coral and a variety of marine life. The island doesn't draw the huge diving crowds like some of the other islands, but that isn't always a bad thing.

Seoul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for the beach. However, Seoul is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters make this island a truly beautiful destination. While most people think of beach parties and Full Moon Parties, the island also has some quieter beaches where you can relax in a peaceful paradise. The parties are mostly concentrated around Sunrise Beach in Haad Rin. This beach also has cheap bungalows that are popular with the backpacker crowd. For the quieter beaches, head to the northern side of the island around Hat Khuat and Hat Thian.

Seoul is not a beach destination.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is a popular spot for hiking. In its interior, the island has beautiful jungle and impressive hikes. Some of the best hikes are found in Than Sadet National Park, but come prepared because they can often be challenging. They usually end with a breathtaking viewpoint, secluded beach, or stunning waterfall though.

Seoul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Seoul is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Seoul is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. This bustling city offers traditional local items as well as Korean cosmetics and trendy fashion. Although shopping malls are spread throughout the city, some of the most popular shopping areas are found around Myeong-dong and Dongdaemun.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Pha Ngan has some nice offerings. Although shopping isn't particularly popular on the island, it does offer a unique opportunity to support individual shop owners as there are more independently owned vendors on this island than in many other areas. Head to the markets and you'll find the most independent shops to support.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan More Beautiful?

Koh Pha Ngan is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Koh Pha Ngan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The island is more than just Full Moon Parties. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as stunning beaches and eclectic yoga retreats.

Seoul is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Seoul is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Seoul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a wide range of kid-friendly activities, ranging from the easy choices like amusement parks and children's museums, to the less obvious like kid-friendly cafes and markets. There are many entertainment options packed into a small space, so kids and adults alike will stay entertained.

For families, Koh Pha Ngan is not always the best place to visit. Most people think of Full Moon Parties and backpacker crowds when they think of this island. There are actually some quieter areas on the eastern and northern sides of the island that are good for families. The activities are best suited for older kids and include hiking, windsurfing, yoga, and shopping.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Seoul is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Seoul frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy the beautiful viewpoints, outdoor parks, and diverse restaurants. There are also many beautiful luxury hotels where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy partying, yoga retreats, and outdoor exploration will find something for them on this island. There are beautiful hikes to waterfalls as well as nice beaches and, of course, the wild parties.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for backpackers. Also, Seoul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Pha Ngan. This island is synonymous with backpacker vibes and full moon parties. Head to the southern side of the island around Haad Rin and Ban Tai for the highest concentration of backpacker crowds. Like much of Thailand, there is frequent turnover in hostel ownership, so most reviews that you read online will be out of date. It's best to talk to people on the road to get the most up-to-date perspective.

It's common for backpackers to visit Seoul. The city isn't the most popular among backpackers, but those who visit will enjoy exploring a fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Because it's a large city, you'll find a diversity of accommodation options including some budget-friendly hostels and hotels.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

Seoul is well known for students. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Seoul is very popular with students. Many international students head to Seoul National University, which has an excellent academic reputation. The city is also fun and energetic, so everyone will be entertained.

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Seoul is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Seoul can get you around easily. The modern and clean transportation system includes both a subway and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Koh Pha Ngan. Your best bet for getting around the island without a private vehicle is Songthaew taxi, longtail boats, and rental mopeds.

Is Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Seoul is well known for its walkability. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Seoul is very walkable. Many neighborhoods are fun to explore on foot but do take note that parts of the city are very hilly and the weather can be bitter cold during the winter months.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible, and even enjoyable, to walk from place to place around the island but allow yourself a lot of time and bring water because temperatures can be very warm.

For even more information, also check out Is Seoul Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Seoul?

How long in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Seoul than Koh Pha Ngan because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Seoul, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Seoul 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 Pha Ngan.

One day in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this tropical destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This party island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Seoul is a fun place to experience. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Seoul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Koh Pha Ngan is a fun place to experience. In Koh Pha Ngan, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Seoul is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the party-oriented destination of Koh Pha Ngan. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to South Korea, The Best Adventure Tours to South Korea, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

Seoul has a larger population, and is about 870 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Seoul and Koh Pha Ngan, 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 Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Seoul and Koh Pha Ngan. The summer months attract visitors to Seoul because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In July, Seoul is generally around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Koh Pha Ngan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Seoul gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Seoul usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Seoul gets 369 mm (14.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Seoul as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Seoul this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

Seoul is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Seoul averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Seoul usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Seoul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season. October and November in Koh Pha Ngan is the rainy season.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Seoul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Seoul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Seoul. In the winter, Seoul is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Seoul in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In January, Seoul usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Seoul gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March.

Should I visit Seoul or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Seoul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Seoul in the spring for the activities around the city. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In April, Seoul is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Seoul average around 13°C (55°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Seoul usually gets more rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Seoul gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Seoul