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

Should you visit Athens or Koh Samui?

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 Samui. 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. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Athens offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Athens travel costs.

Koh Samui

Koh Samui is a beautiful, tropical, and rainforest-covered resort island. Many visitors also come to Koh Samui because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Koh Samui travel costs.

Athens and Koh Samui: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Koh Samui?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Koh Samui are popular destinations, Athens has more sights and attractions for tourists. Athens is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Koh Samui attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Koh Samui is more touristy than Athens and is known for its ornate temples, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Koh Samui?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. However, Koh Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. 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 Samui does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Koh Samui makes for a great culinary experience. Food on the island is fresh and delicious. You'll find fine dining restaurants as well as hole-in-the-wall dives where you can enjoy local flavors. There are also international restaurants if you need a break from the curries. Beachfront restaurants offer a beautiful setting and sunset dinner cruises are a not-to-be-missed experience. Authentically local dishes usually include some form of coconut but there are also other common Thai dishes available almost anywhere like curries or Pad Thai.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is amazing in both Athens and Koh Samui.

The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Koh Samui is a world class party destination. All night beach parties, cheap bars, and lively dance clubs all give this island its party atmosphere. Young travelers from around the globe head here to enjoy music, cheap drinks, and world class fun. For the most active nightlife, head to Chaweng Beach, Lamai Beach or Bophut Beach.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers flock to Koh Samui for its luxury resorts. The island is filled with countless resorts, hotels, and private villas that you can rent. You can choose from beachfront properties or resorts that are located in the hills, which offer beautiful views. The resorts often have pools and range from five star all the way down to budget-friendly.

Athens is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Samui is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Koh Samui. It's easy to arrange snorkeling or scuba diving trips through hotels or travel companies, but it's also possible to snorkel right off the shore in places like Chaweng Beach. Due to the island's popularity, the coral isn't always the healthiest, but the water is clear and you'll likely see some interesting sea life just off the shore.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for Beaches?

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

Koh Samui offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The white sand beaches are lined with coconut trees and look out on crystal blue waters, making this a perfect tropical destination. There are lively activity-filled beaches as well as quiet retreats where you can enjoy a peaceful setting away from the crowds.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for its Old Town?

Athens is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Koh Samui does not have a historic old town.

Athens offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. 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 Samui does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for Hiking?

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

Many visitors go to Koh Samui for the hiking trails. Hikes will take you inland through the beautiful rainforest. There are hidden waterfalls as well as Buddha gardens and ridge trails with breathtaking views. Hikes range from easy to challenging, so make sure you understand the skill level required before you set out.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Koh Samui?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Koh Samui both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Koh Samui is a great destination for shopping. The resort areas have the most interesting shops and you'll find the most options around Chaweng. There are boutique shops as well as some malls. You can sometimes negotiate prices down in independently run stores, but some places advertise fixed prices.

Is Athens or Koh Samui More Beautiful?

Koh Samui 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 Samui because of it's amazing beauty. It's laid back vibe and quintessential beach setting make this a wonderful holiday destination. It's the second largest island in Thailand and there are resorts, hotels, and restaurants for everyone.

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 Samui Better for Families?

Both Athens and Koh Samui are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Koh Samui is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island is one of the slightly calmer, family-friendly options in Thailand. It has a number of activities that all ages can enjoy including water parks, water sports, and temples to explore. Snorkeling is also fun and there's an aquarium and zoo that you can check out.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for Couples?

Koh Samui is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Koh Samui is a great resort island if you're traveling as a couple. Dinner cruises, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets all make this island a romantic destination for couples. There are also spas, resorts, and fine dining restaurants that you can enjoy.

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 Samui Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Koh Samui is not as popular, but is still a nice resort island for backpackers.

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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Koh Samui. The island feels a bit more like a holiday destination than a backpacker destination, but it still has a lively nightlife and affordable accommodation around Lamai Beach. It's also a nice place to go for yoga or Muay Thai classes.

Is Athens or Koh Samui Better for Students?

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

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

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

The public transit in Athens can get you to most places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Koh Samui has a few public transit options. Songthaew, the Thai version of a bus, and taxis or motorbikes are the best ways to get around the island.

Is Athens or Koh Samui a more walkable city?

Athens is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Koh Samui is not known for its walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. 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 Samui is generally not very walkable. The roads have a good amount of traffic and generally aren't designed for walking.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Samui or Athens?

How long in Athens or Koh Samui?

Both Athens and Koh Samui have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Athens has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Athens than Koh Samui. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Koh Samui. 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 Samui than Athens. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Koh Samui 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 Samui 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 Samui?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Koh Samui. 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 Samui?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Koh Samui is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Koh Samui?

People visit Athens because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Samui. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Koh Samui?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Koh Samui. This resort island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, and The Best Budget Tours to Thailand.

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

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 Samui Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Koh Samui?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Koh Samui. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Koh Samui, 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 Samui?

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

Should I visit Athens or Koh Samui in the Summer?

Both Koh Samui 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 Samui because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Athens is a little warmer than Koh Samui in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Samui. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Koh Samui. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Koh Samui in the Autumn?

Both Koh Samui 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 Samui year-round.

In the autumn, Athens is cooler than Koh Samui. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Koh Samui averages at about 24°C (75°F).

Koh Samui gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Koh Samui. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to February is the dry season in Koh Samui. October to December is the rainy season in Koh Samui.

Should I visit Athens or Koh Samui in the Winter?

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

In January, Athens is generally much colder than Koh Samui. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Koh Samui fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Koh Samui. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to February in Koh Samui is the dry season.

Should I visit Athens or Koh Samui in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Koh Samui. 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 Samui throughout the year.

Athens is much colder than Koh Samui in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Koh Samui fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Koh Samui. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Koh Samui receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Koh Samui and Athens