A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Can Tho vs. Koh Chang for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Can Tho or Koh Chang?

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 Can Tho and Koh Chang can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a friendly, cultural, and unique city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Can Tho travel costs.

Koh Chang

Koh Chang is a scenic, idyllic, and serene island. Many visitors also come to Koh Chang because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and nightlife. See Koh Chang travel costs.

Can Tho and Koh Chang: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Can Tho. Although Can Tho and Koh Chang are popular destinations, Can Tho has more sights and attractions for tourists. Can Tho is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, shopping, and big city activities, while Koh Chang attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Can Tho is more touristy than Koh Chang and is known for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. It is also well known for Cai Rang Floating Market. Koh Chang is famous for its natural setting, rugged jungles, and peaceful beaches.

How is Can Tho different from Koh Chang?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Can Tho can be an interesting and educational experience. The main attraction nearby is Cai Rang Floating Market, but visitors also enjoy seeing Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Ong pagoda, and Nam Nha Pagoda.

Koh Chang offers a few options for museum-goers. This is a beach paradise, but you won't find any temples or museums around the island.

Is the Food Better in Can Tho or Koh Chang? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Koh Chang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Can Tho. It's the largest city in the Mekong Delta, and there are many restaurants with rooftop views and lively atmospheres. The food is local and fresh. Grilled meats, noodle soup, and local produce are all popular. Many visitors come to Cantho specifically to experience the nearby floating markets. You really must sample the many dishes available at the markets, which are unique to the area and offer a whole new approach to street food.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Koh Chang. There's a good selection of restaurants that serve everything from international dishes to Thai favorites. You'll also find restaurants attached to many of the resorts, many with nice views.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Can Tho and Koh Chang.

If you're looking for night time activities Can Tho has a few options to choose from. The city is very beautiful at night with many colorful lights. There are a number of bars and places for tourists to hang out and socialize.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Koh Chang. It's Thailand, so there is plenty of partying, but there are quiet parts to the island as well. For the biggest party scenes head to Lonely Beach, White Sand Beach, and Kai Bae Beach. Lonely Beach is where you'll find the highest concentration of backpackers.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Resorts?

Koh Chang is great for its luxury resorts. However, Can Tho is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Koh Chang. The island has managed to maintain a natural atmosphere without the overdevelopment found at many Thai islands, yet it still has the amenities and comforts that you need like nice resorts.

Can Tho is not a resort destination.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Koh Chang is adequate for its diving and snorkeling. However, Can Tho is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Koh Chang. You can book a snorkeling or dive trip to the nearby islands for the best experience. The beaches on Koh Chang are sandy with very few rocks and coral, so walk in snorkeling is limited.

Can Tho is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Beaches?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Can Tho is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Koh Chang is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find the vast majority of the beaches on the west side of the island. The most developed beach is White Sand Beach, and most of the backpackers hang out at Lonely Beach. For a quiet and more upscale atmosphere check out Klong Prao Beach. Also make sure you keep an eye on high and low tides, because the difference is pretty extreme. You'll find large, sandy beaches at low tide, which disappear at high tide.

Can Tho is not a beach destination.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Hiking?

Koh Chang is adequate for hiking. However, Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Koh Chang. Very few people actually head inland to go hiking, but if you do it can be a rewarding experience. It's a challenge to hike on the island though, as there are no marked trails. You'll need to hire a guide for any trekking that you wish to do.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

Can Tho is very popular for shopping. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Can Tho. The city is large with malls and a central market, but most visitors come specifically for the nearby floating markets. These unique markets are best visited by boat. Goods and food are sold out of vendor boats and popular food dishes include noodle soup and local fruits. Each boat has a tall bamboo stick displaying the items that it sells.

If you're looking to go shopping, Koh Chang has some nice offerings. While this isn't the place to do any serious shopping, there are a few places where you can pick up essentials and souvenirs from your trip.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang More Beautiful?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Can Tho is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Koh Chang because of it's amazing beauty. This jungle-filled island offers stunning beauty without overdevelopment.

Can Tho is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Families?

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Can Tho or Koh Chang.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Can Tho is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the floating markets and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Most visitors use this growing city as a base for exploring the area, which has a fascinating culture and interesting sights.

Koh Chang is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The laid back vibe is perfect for families who want to get away from the party scene and overdevelopment that's found at many Thai islands. The island has kid-friendly beaches, great hiking, and resorts with pools and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Couples?

Koh Chang is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Koh Chang has plenty to offer. This beautiful island is a perfect destination for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are beautiful resorts that have the charm and character that is lost at many of the more developed parts of Thailand. There are also beaches that cater to every travel style, including upscale and idyllic gems.

Can Tho is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can take a romantic evening boat ride on the Mekong Delta. During the morning hours, the floating markets are one of Vietnam's most interesting destinations. You can sample local dishes and experience a completely different way of life.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Can Tho and Koh Chang are excellent places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Can Tho. This is a large city with a number of hostels and many backpackers who pass through during their trip to the floating markets and through the Mekong Delta.

Koh Chang is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. Most of the backpackers hang out around Lonely Beach, which also has a bit of a party vibe.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Koh Chang is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Can Tho is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Koh Chang offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a main road that goes around the outside of the island, with the exception of the southern tip. You can rent a motorbike or catch a ride on a Songthaew (pick-up truck taxi). Do note that the roads can be very steep and windy, which can be difficult to drive independently.

Public transit is generally limited in Can Tho. There are local buses, but many visitors come to this area as part of an organized tour because transportation can be a bit a tricky.

Is Can Tho or Koh Chang a more walkable city?

Can Tho is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Koh Chang is lacking in options for its high level of walkability.

Can Tho is somewhat walkable. The city center is relatively walkable.

Koh Chang is generally not very walkable. Your ability to walk around really depends on where you stay. Many of the resorts are located in quieter areas without easy access to restaurants or shopping.

For even more information, also check out Is Can Tho Worth Visiting? and Is Koh Chang Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koh Chang or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

In either Can Tho or Koh Chang, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Chang than Can Tho because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Can Tho, and 3-5 days is enough time in Koh Chang.

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

One day in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Can Tho. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Can Tho has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Koh Chang, you'll find nightlife and food. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. 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 Can Tho or Koh Chang?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Can Tho. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Koh Chang, you'll find food and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Can Tho. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Koh Chang 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 Chang has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Can Tho or Koh Chang?

Can Tho is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koh Chang. Many people enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting Koh Chang. One reason most visitors come is for the beaches. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi, The Best Adventure Tours to Thailand, and The Best Eco Tours in Thailand.

When comparing the travel costs between Can Tho and Koh Chang, we can see that Koh Chang is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

When is the best time to visit Can Tho or Koh Chang?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Chang in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Can Tho and Koh Chang. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round. Koh Chang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Koh Chang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Can Tho usually receives less rain than Koh Chang. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 440 mm (17.3 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Can Tho usually receives more sunshine than Koh Chang during summer. Can Tho gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 143 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Can Tho is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Chang in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Can Tho as well as Koh Chang. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Koh Chang throughout the year.

Also, December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. May to November in Can Tho is the rainy season. Also, November to February in Koh Chang is the dry season. June to October in Koh Chang is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Koh Chang. Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Can Tho usually gets more rain in October than Koh Chang. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 280 mm (11 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the autumn, Can Tho often gets less sunshine than Koh Chang. Can Tho gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 193 hours of full sun.

Can Tho is around the same temperature as Koh Chang in the autumn. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Koh Chang fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Chang in the Winter?

Both Koh Chang and Can Tho are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Koh Chang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

The dry season in Koh Chang is November to February. In January, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Koh Chang. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

It's quite sunny in Koh Chang. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually receives less sunshine than Koh Chang during winter. Can Tho gets 240 hours of sunny skies, while Koh Chang receives 282 hours of full sun in the winter.

In the winter, Can Tho is around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Typically, the winter temperatures in Can Tho in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Chang averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Chang in the Spring?

Both Koh Chang and Can Tho during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Koh Chang year-round.

December to April is the dry season in Can Tho. May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho. June to October is the rainy season in Koh Chang. Koh Chang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Koh Chang. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Koh Chang receives 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

In Koh Chang, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Can Tho. In the spring, Can Tho often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koh Chang. Can Tho gets 235 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koh Chang receives 247 hours of full sun.

In April, Can Tho is generally around the same temperature as Koh Chang. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Chang fluctuates around 29°C (84°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Chang and Can Tho