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

Should you visit Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

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 Pha Ngan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a vibrant, friendly, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koh Pha Ngan

Koh Pha Ngan is a party-oriented, high energy, and funky party island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Can Tho and Koh Pha Ngan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Koh Pha Ngan. Although Can Tho and Koh Pha Ngan are popular destinations, Koh Pha Ngan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Koh Pha Ngan is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Can Tho attracts visitors for its museums, food, shopping, and big city activities. Koh Pha Ngan is more touristy than Can Tho and is popular for its wild Full Moon Parties, large backpacker crowds, and strikingly beautiful beaches. It is also well known for the Full Moon Parties. Can Tho is famous for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways.

How is Can Tho 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 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 Pha Ngan?

Can Tho is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Can Tho specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Can Tho is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Can Tho makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Nightlife?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Koh Pha Ngan is a world class party destination. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Can Tho. 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.

Is Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Resorts?

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Can Tho is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Koh Pha Ngan makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Can Tho is not a resort destination.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Can Tho is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Can Tho is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Beaches?

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

With world-famous beaches, Koh Pha Ngan is a very popular vacation 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.

Can Tho is not a beach destination.

Is Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Hiking?

Koh Pha Ngan is great for hiking. However, Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Koh Pha Ngan for the hiking trails. 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.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

Can Tho is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Can Tho is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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 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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Families?

Can Tho is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koh Pha Ngan is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Can Tho is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Couples?

Can Tho is well known for romance. Also, Koh Pha Ngan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Can Tho frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Koh Pha Ngan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koh Pha Ngan is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Can Tho is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Koh Pha Ngan is extremely popular 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.

Can Tho is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

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

Can Tho and Koh Pha Ngan both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally 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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan a more walkable city?

Can Tho and Koh Pha Ngan are nice when it comes to walkability.

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

Koh Pha Ngan is a somewhat walkable city. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

In either Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Koh Pha Ngan 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 Pha Ngan.

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

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

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

In Can Tho, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

Can Tho is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the shopping. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the friendly destination of Can Tho. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

Can Tho is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. 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 Bicycle Tours in Vietnam, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Vietnam, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Thailand.

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

Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Koh Pha Ngan. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho 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 Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season. Although in the rainy season, it doesn't necessarily rain every day.

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan in the Summer?

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

It's quite rainy in Koh Pha Ngan. Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the summer. Can Tho usually gets more rain in July than Koh Pha Ngan. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 143 mm (5.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

In July, Can Tho is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 28°C (82°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan in the Autumn?

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

The dry season in Can Tho is December to April. The rainy season in Can Tho is May to November. The dry season in Koh Pha Ngan is December to March. The rainy season in Koh Pha Ngan is October and November. It rains a lot this time of the year in Koh Pha Ngan. It's quite rainy in Can Tho. In October, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 240 mm (9.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Can Tho is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan in the autumn. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 28°C (82°F) in October, and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan in the Winter?

Both Koh Pha Ngan and Can Tho during the winter 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 Pha Ngan year-round.

December to March is the dry season in Koh Pha Ngan. Can Tho usually gets less rain in January than Koh Pha Ngan. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

In the winter, Can Tho is a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Typically, the winter temperatures in Can Tho in January average around 26°C (78°F), and Koh Pha Ngan averages at about 22°C (72°F).

Should I visit Can Tho or Koh Pha Ngan in the Spring?

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

December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. Also, May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho. Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Koh Pha Ngan. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Koh Pha Ngan receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

In April, Can Tho is generally a little warmer than Koh Pha Ngan. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 29°C (84°F), and Koh Pha Ngan fluctuates around 24°C (76°F).

Typical Weather for Koh Pha Ngan and Can Tho