A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antwerp vs. Koh Tao for Backpackers, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Antwerp or Koh Tao?

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 Antwerp and Koh Tao can help you decide which place is right for you.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a historical, youthful, and vibrant port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Antwerp travel costs.

Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a tropical, popular, and laid back island. The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Koh Tao travel costs.

Antwerp and Koh Tao: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antwerp than Koh Tao, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antwerp is better known for its museums and attractions, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Tao is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Tao is more touristy than Antwerp and is popular for its affordable scuba diving courses, laid-back island vibe, popularity with backpackers, and stunning island hikes. Antwerp is well known for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. Also, Antwerp is famous for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Antwerp different from Koh Tao?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

Antwerp is great for its historical sights. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Antwerp can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Koh Tao offers a few options for museum-goers. It's a small island that is all about beachfront beauty. Most visitors enjoy the island's outdoor paradise setting, but on those rainy afternoons, there really are very few indoor activities or temples to visit.

Is the Food Better in Antwerp or Koh Tao? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Antwerp and Koh Tao can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Antwerp. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Koh Tao has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a huge ex-pat community on the island, and with them they bring a variety of international cuisines. There are also local establishments that sell the typical Thai dishes with lots of seafood, curries, and noodle dishes. It's fun to enjoy a beachside restaurant that lets you sit right by the water looking off into a tropical paradise.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Antwerp and Koh Tao.

Antwerp is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Many people head to Koh Tao for the nightlife scene. While most people head for the island for its scuba diving, when the sun goes down everyone heads to the beach to party. The island has a very active nightlife scene with its own Full Moon Parties, dance clubs, beachside bars, and more. Head to Sairee Beach for the most active nightlife and entertainment options.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Resorts?

Koh Tao is well known for its resorts. However, Antwerp is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Tao. While it's mostly famous as a diving destination, there are also a diversity of resorts, from luxury to affordable, available on the island. The beaches are beautiful and many resorts offer scuba diving packages as well.

Antwerp is not a resort destination.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Tao is not to be missed. The island is one of Thailand's most famous scuba diving destinations because of its affordable certifications and prolific dive shops. There are a variety of dive sites near the island, but with fame and popularity come challenges. The coral and sealife is feeling the pressure of the high number of tourists, and the reefs show their damage. But the training you receive here is affordable and well-established.

Antwerp is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Beaches?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Antwerp is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Tao is a very popular vacation destination. The white sand beaches have a mellow vibe with beautiful blue waters. This is a true tropical paradise with beachside cafes, easy snorkeling, and warm water. The beaches range from quiet and isolated to high energy and vibrant.

Antwerp is not a beach destination.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for its Old Town?

Antwerp is great for its old town. However, Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Antwerp to see the historical old town. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Koh Tao does not have a historic old town.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Hiking?

Koh Tao is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Tao. Hiking is the best way to enjoy the inland beauty of the island. There are paths that take you through the jungle covered land to viewpoints and remote areas. Many paths are rustic and not always well maintained so it's helpful to ask a local for directions beforehand.

Antwerp is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

Antwerp is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koh Tao is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antwerp draws large crowds to its stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Many visitors go to Koh Tao to go shopping. The main beach areas of Mae Haad, Sairee, and Chalok Baan Kao have the highest concentration of clothing and dive equipment shops. Because it's an island with limited access, prices can be a bit high.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao More Beautiful?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Koh Tao is one of the main draws. The island is famous for its cheap diving scene and underwater beauty, but there are also stunning beaches with crystal blue waters as well as quiet bays.

Antwerp is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Antwerp or Koh Tao.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Antwerp. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Koh Tao offers lots of family activities. The island is popular for its affordable scuba diving certifications, so there are a number of options for families with older kids who'd like to get certified. It's also a more laid back and smaller island than some nearby places, so it's possible to find quiet beaches where your family can relax. Some of the quieter beaches include Sai Nuan and Ao Luek. You'll still find a large number of backpackers on the island, but there's a more chill atmosphere with most visitors focused on scuba diving and exploring.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Couples?

Koh Tao is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Koh Tao frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This laid back island offers a relaxing honeymoon destination for couples who want to learn to scuba dive and enjoy a bit of tropical paradise. There are beachside restaurants, beautiful blue waters, white sand, and everything you need for your own piece of paradise.

Antwerp is a good port city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Tao is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Koh Tao. The island is an oasis for backpackers who want to enjoy the mellow island life, learn to scuba dive cheaply, and have fun at a beachside party. There are plenty of affordable places to stay and countless opportunities to meet other backpackers. The island is also well connected to other nearby islands.

It's common for backpackers to visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao Better for Students?

Antwerp is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Koh Tao is not popular with students.

Antwerp is a great port city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Koh Tao is not popular with students.

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

Antwerp is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Koh Tao is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Public transit is generally limited in Koh Tao. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle to explore the island. There are also taxis and taxi boats available.

Is Antwerp or Koh Tao a more walkable city?

Antwerp and Koh Tao both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Antwerp is a very walkable port city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

Koh Tao is a very walkable destination. The island is smaller than many islands in Thailand, and the small towns are usually no more than 5 kilometers apart. It's also possible to walk around most of the small towns.

For even more information, also check out Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Tao Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Tao or Antwerp?

How long in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

Both Antwerp and Koh Tao have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Tao than in Antwerp. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Antwerp, and 2-7 days is enough time in Koh Tao.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Tao than Antwerp 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 Tao.

One day in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

In Antwerp, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. This port city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Koh Tao, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

In Antwerp, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Antwerp has to offer.

In Koh Tao, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer.

Five days in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

Antwerp is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Koh Tao is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Tao has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antwerp or Koh Tao?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Antwerp. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Tao. In Koh Tao, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels, The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand, and The Best Contiki Tours to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antwerp and Koh Tao, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. And not only is Koh Tao much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Antwerp is in Europe and Koh Tao is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Koh Tao would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Koh Tao 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 Antwerp would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antwerp than you might in Koh Tao.

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

Which is Bigger, Antwerp or Koh Tao?

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 330 times larger than the population of Koh Tao. When comparing the sizes of Antwerp and Koh Tao, 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 Antwerp or Koh Tao?

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

Should I visit Antwerp or Koh Tao in the Summer?

Both Koh Tao and Antwerp during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Tao year-round.

Antwerp is cooler than Koh Tao in the summer. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It's quite sunny in Antwerp. In the summer, Antwerp often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Tao. Antwerp gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 195 hours of full sun.

Koh Tao gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Antwerp usually gets less rain in July than Koh Tao. Antwerp gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antwerp or Koh Tao in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Antwerp and Koh Tao. Many travelers come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Koh Tao attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the autumn, Antwerp is much colder than Koh Tao. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Antwerp in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Koh Tao averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during autumn. Antwerp gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Koh Tao receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Antwerp gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 276 mm (10.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn. Also, October and November is the rainy season in Koh Tao.

Should I visit Antwerp or Koh Tao in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Antwerp as well as Koh Tao. Many visitors come to Antwerp in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Tao throughout the year.

Antwerp can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Antwerp is generally much colder than Koh Tao. Daily temperatures in Antwerp average around 3°C (38°F), and Koh Tao fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Tao. In the winter, Antwerp often gets less sunshine than Koh Tao. Antwerp gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Tao receives 255 hours of full sun.

Antwerp usually gets less rain in January than Koh Tao. Antwerp gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, February to June in Koh Tao is the dry season.

Should I visit Antwerp or Koh Tao in the Spring?

Both Koh Tao and Antwerp are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antwerp for the activities around the city during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Tao because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Antwerp is much colder than Koh Tao in the spring. The daily temperature in Antwerp averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Koh Tao fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Tao. Antwerp usually receives less sunshine than Koh Tao during spring. Antwerp gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Tao receives 239 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antwerp usually receives less rain than Koh Tao. Antwerp gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Tao receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in Koh Tao is February to June.

Typical Weather for Koh Tao and Antwerp