A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Koh Phi Phi for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

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 Athens and Koh Phi Phi. 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.

Athens

Athens is a energetic, historic, and ancient city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Athens is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Athens travel costs.

Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a tropical, dramatic, and stunning island. Many visitors also come to Koh Phi Phi because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Koh Phi Phi travel costs.

Athens and Koh Phi Phi: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Koh Phi Phi are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Phi Phi is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Phi Phi is more touristy than Athens and is known for its stunningly beautiful beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and wild booze cruises. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Koh Phi Phi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens is renowned for its historical sights. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Athens are world-renowned. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Koh Phi Phi offers a few options for museum-goers. It's an island paradise with world class beaches and stunning natural beauty, but if you're looking for museums, temples, and culture, then you'll likely want to head farther north to Northern Thailand.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Koh Phi Phi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Koh Phi Phi area. Most dishes feature seafood, and you'll find the highest concentration of restaurants around Tonsai Village. There are also restaurants dotting the way to Long Beach. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, or a combination of an indoor/outdoor setting. Tropical fruit is also abundant on the island and adds to that tropical paradise atmosphere.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Koh Phi Phi has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Despite its smaller size, there is still a party vibe and tons of nightlife on the island. Backpackers have long flocked to this island, building on the reputation it earned from movies like "The Beach." Booze cruises and all night beach parties are the norm here, so it won't be hard to find a party that lasts until sunrise.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Resorts?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Koh Phi Phi for its luxury resorts. Despite it's popularity with backpackers and small size, this island also has some of Thailand's most luxurious resorts. Head to Long Beach or Laem Tong to appreciate the quieter side of the island.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Phi Phi. The dramatic limestone cliffs and colorful coral make this a top scuba diving and snorkeling destination in Thailand. There are countless vendors who offer scuba diving or snorkeling trips from the island. You might even see sharks, sea turtles, or seahorses during your trip. Head to the reef at dusk for the best chance of seeing black tip reef sharks.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Beaches?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Koh Phi Phi offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. This island has some of the most dramatic beauty in Thailand and the beaches will not disappoint. Although it's usually referred to as an island, Koh Phi Phi is actually a small archipelago with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Nearby Koh Phi Phi Leh is famous as the filming place of the movie "The Beach" (which you'll hear playing at hotels around the island every night). The beaches are beautiful with white sand and clear water. It truly is a tropical paradise.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for its Old Town?

Athens is renowned for its old town. However, Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Athens is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

Koh Phi Phi does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Hiking?

Koh Phi Phi is great for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Phi Phi for the hiking trails. With its dramatic cliffs, this area has beautiful, but challenging hikes that take you to stunning viewpoints. The dramatic photos that you see of the islands often require a hike, but the reward at the end is well worth it.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Athens. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Koh Phi Phi has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Shopping is limited on the island but you'll find a few souvenir shops with trinkets that you can purchase. Because it's an island, you can expect prices to be high.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi More Beautiful?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Phi Phi because of it's amazing beauty. While most people visit this island as a day trip, those who do spend a few days here will enjoy dramatic beauty, stunning landscapes, and excellent beaches. The island feels a bit more rustic and remote than some of the more developed islands, but the north side of the island offers a truly tropical paradise. During the day, crowds can be high as tourists flock to the area from nearby islands.

Athens is a gorgeous place to visit. With it's stunning archaeological sites, Athens is most beautiful at night, when things light up.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Families?

Athens is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Koh Phi Phi is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Athens is very family-friendly. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Koh Phi Phi is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is on the smaller side and it has a remote tropical island atmosphere. The best side of the island for families is the north end where you'll find the quietest and most beautiful beaches. It's best to avoid the area around Tonsai which has the highest concentration of backpackers and day trippers.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Couples?

Koh Phi Phi is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Koh Phi Phi is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Stunning beaches, dramatic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and scuba diving, and a remote tropical atmosphere make this is a great place for couples and honeymooners. Head to the quieter north side of the island where you'll find the better resorts and less backpackers, as well as the best beaches.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Athens and Koh Phi Phi are amazing places to visit.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Koh Phi Phi is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Most people visit this island as a day trip, but for those who linger, they'll be rewarded with dramatic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Most backpackers hang out around Tonsai where things are the cheapest, but the quality can also be very poor.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi Better for Students?

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

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Koh Phi Phi is not popular with students.

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

Athens is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.

Athens has some very good public transit options. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Koh Phi Phi has a few public transit options. There are water taxis and private boats that you can hire.

Is Athens or Koh Phi Phi a more walkable city?

Athens is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Koh Phi Phi is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Koh Phi Phi is a somewhat walkable city. You can't walk all of the way around the island because of the cliffs, but you can walk from Tonsai to Long Beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Phi Phi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Phi Phi or Athens?

How long in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Koh Phi Phi. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Koh Phi Phi. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-3 days is enough time in Koh Phi Phi.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Koh Phi Phi 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens is a ancient city where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Koh Phi Phi. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens is a historic big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Koh Phi Phi is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Phi Phi. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens 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. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the tropical destination of Koh Phi Phi. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Thailand, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Thailand.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 730 times larger than the population of Koh Phi Phi. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Koh Phi Phi, 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 Athens or Koh Phi Phi?

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

Should I visit Athens or Koh Phi Phi in the Summer?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Phi Phi because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In July, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Koh Phi Phi. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 206 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Koh Phi Phi. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Koh Phi Phi in the Autumn?

Both Koh Phi Phi and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Phi Phi year-round.

Athens is cooler than Koh Phi Phi in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 181 hours of full sun.

Koh Phi Phi gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Koh Phi Phi. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 304 mm (12 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Phi Phi. May to November is the rainy season in Koh Phi Phi.

Should I visit Athens or Koh Phi Phi in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Koh Phi Phi. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Koh Phi Phi attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the winter, Athens is much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Koh Phi Phi averages at about 28°C (82°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Koh Phi Phi this time of the year. Athens usually receives less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Phi Phi receives 287 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives more rain than Koh Phi Phi. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Phi Phi is the dry season.

Should I visit Athens or Koh Phi Phi in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Koh Phi Phi. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Phi Phi throughout the year.

In April, Athens is generally much colder than Koh Phi Phi. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Koh Phi Phi fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Koh Phi Phi. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the spring, Athens often gets less sunshine than Koh Phi Phi. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Phi Phi receives 249 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Koh Phi Phi. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Koh Phi Phi. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Phi Phi receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November in Koh Phi Phi is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Koh Phi Phi and Athens