A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Gili Trawangan for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

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 Sukhothai and Gili Trawangan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a cultural, under-rated, and world class city. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a tropical, idyllic, and laidback island. Gili Trawangan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Gili Trawangan travel costs.

Sukhothai and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Gili Trawangan. Although Sukhothai and Gili Trawangan are popular destinations, Gili Trawangan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Gili Trawangan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, historical sights, and shopping. Gili Trawangan is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving. It is also well known for beautiful beachfront setting. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

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

Many visitors head to Sukhothai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Gili Trawangan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Gili Trawangan can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sukhothai. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Gili Trawangan. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Nightlife?

Gili Trawangan is an amazing island to visit for nightlife. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Gili Trawangan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Sukhothai has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

Gili Trawangan is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Gili Trawangan has a handful of resorts to choose from. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gili Trawangan is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is not to be missed. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Gili Trawangan is a very popular vacation destination. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its old town. However, Gili Trawangan does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights 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.

Gili Trawangan does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

Sukhothai is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Sukhothai is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Gili Trawangan has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan More Beautiful?

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

Gili Trawangan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Families?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Gili Trawangan is a very family-friendly destination. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

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 Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Couples?

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

Gili Trawangan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

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 Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gili Trawangan is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Gili Trawangan. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Sukhothai and Gili Trawangan.

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

You'll find some public transit in Gili Trawangan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Is Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan a more walkable city?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. However, Sukhothai is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Gili Trawangan is very walkable. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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 Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gili Trawangan or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

It's fun to spend time in either Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Gili Trawangan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Sukhothai 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 Gili Trawangan.

One day in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

In Sukhothai, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Gili Trawangan. 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.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the tropical destination of Gili Trawangan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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.

Five days in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laidback island of Gili Trawangan. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sukhothai or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Sukhothai. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Gili Trawangan 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

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

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