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

Should you visit Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Koh Pha Ngan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a cultural, fascinating, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a high energy, funky, and beautiful party island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Beijing and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beijing than Koh Pha Ngan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beijing is better known for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Pha Ngan is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Beijing is well known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. Also, Beijing is famous for The Forbidden City. Koh Pha Ngan is well known for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches.

How is Beijing 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 Beijing. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Beijing is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Beijing that are not to be missed. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing 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.

Beijing has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Koh Pha Ngan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its resorts. However, Beijing is not a resort destination.

Koh Pha Ngan has a few great resort options. 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.

Beijing is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Beijing is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Beijing is not a beach destination.

Koh Pha Ngan is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Beijing is not a beach destination.

Is Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beijing is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Koh Pha Ngan. 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.

Beijing is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Beijing is well known for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Beijing is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Beijing is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Beijing. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Both Beijing and Koh Pha Ngan are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Beijing is a good city for couples to visit. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Koh Pha Ngan is a nice destination for couples. 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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular party island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Students?

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

Beijing is very popular with students. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Koh Pha Ngan is not popular with students.

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

Beijing is well known for its public transit. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Koh Pha Ngan is a party island with good options for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable party island. 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.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

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

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

How long in Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan than Beijing 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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Beijing 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, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This party 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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Beijing 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.

In Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Each neighborhood in Beijing 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Koh Pha Ngan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Beijing 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Pha Ngan. Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting Koh Pha Ngan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Koh Pha Ngan, we can see that Beijing 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 Beijing would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Beijing 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 Beijing Expensive? and Is Koh Pha Ngan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 630 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Beijing 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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan?

Beijing 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 Beijing or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Beijing in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Pha Ngan because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Beijing is around the same temperature as Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the summer temperatures in Beijing in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Pha Ngan year-round.

In October, Beijing is generally much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around 14°C (56°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Koh Pha Ngan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Koh Pha Ngan. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. October and November is the rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan.

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Koh Pha Ngan. The winter months attract visitors to Beijing because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Koh Pha Ngan attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

The weather in Beijing can be very cold. Beijing is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan in the winter. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around -4°C (26°F) in January, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the winter. December to March in Koh Pha Ngan is the dry season.

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

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Koh Pha Ngan. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Pha Ngan throughout the year.

In the spring, Beijing is much colder than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the spring temperatures in Beijing in April average around 14°C (57°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 24°C (76°F).

Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Koh Pha Ngan. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 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 Beijing